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The Institute for Community Inclusion at UMass Boston supports the rights of children and adults with disabilities to participate in all aspects of society. As practitioners, researchers, and teachers, we form partnerships with individuals, families, and service agencies. Together we advocate for personal choice, self-determination, and social and economic justice.
We are dedicated to advancing the full inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of life. Our work encompasses research, program evaluation, training, consultation, education, policy analysis, and service delivery across four main areas of emphasis: Employment, Education, Community Life, and Health Care.
We have three national hubs: ExploreVR and ThinkWork, which focus on inclusive employment, and ThinkCollege, which focuses on inclusive higher education.
Projects
Our projects involve conducting state and national employment research, increasing access to higher education, supporting children with disabilities to plan for a fulfilling future, and much more.
Services
From expert consultation and technical assistance to online training for employment professionals, our services help agency leaders and disability staff to excel and thrive in their work.
Publications
Online Learning

Employment First Florida

In 2011, ICI entered into a partnership with the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council to develop an Employment First Initiative in Florida. In 2016, the Employment First Florida Act was passed. Since then, the project has developed and implemented a systems change framework based upon the High Performing States Model. It guides collaborative partners in transformation of service delivery.

Employment First Florida engages with the wider community through online presentations and a blog-based website featuring Explore Work, a curriculum for self-advocates.