Vocational support coordinator, Yvonne Rentschler and site supervisor, Alaina Richards have both recently earned their Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators certification in Supported Employment—a significant achievement that strengthens our ability to serve individuals in our community. And we have more staff members enrolled and working toward this same achievement as well!

The certification required approximately 100 hours of coursework over 14 weeks, covering key areas such as customized employment, person-centered planning, job development, systematic instruction, and understanding Social Security work incentives. This specialized training equips staff to better support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in securing and maintaining competitive, integrated employment.

According to their supervisor, Cristy Harris, this accomplishment is especially noteworthy. In her 25 years with Futures, only one other staff member has previously held this certification. “True supported employment is a specialized service,” she shared. “It’s not something you can simply step into—it takes dedication and a lot of work.”

These certifications, and the ones in progress, have been made possible by two grants we received from KDADS. It’s building our capacity to enhance our supported employment program and to prepare for changes in the state of Kansas (waiver modernization efforts).

With two certified staff now on the team, Futures is expanding its capacity to deliver high-quality supported employment services—helping individuals achieve greater independence, meaningful employment, and long-term success in the workforce.