Tennesseans with disabilities can now apply for long-term services and supports through a new TennCare program called Employment and Community First CHOICES. (ECF) The program offers support for families caring for a person with an intellectual or developmental disability. Its goal is to help people achieve employment and independent living goals.
The program is also for people who need more support to live in the community and require residential and other day services to help them reach their community living goals. There are many benefits to the program, including an array of employment services and supports designed to facilitate employment and sustain people in their choices. Wrap around services to support community integration are also a feature of the program.
There are three benefit groups: 1) Essential Family Supports (including employment services), 2) Essential Supports for Employment and Independent Living and 3) Comprehensive Supports for Employment and Community Living.
ECF CHOICES employment supports target a “pathway” to employment and career planning, focusing on services that meet people wherever they are on their career path: from exploring their interests and skills, to on-the-job supports for career advancement. New self-advocacy supports will empower individuals and families toward independence and integration. SRVS Community Based Services provide meaningful, person-centered activities in community settings that include recreational opportunities with employment themes, such as volunteer opportunities and job searches. For more information, contact Alyson Edwards, Director of Care Management, at 901-312-6803 or email alyson.edwards@srvs.org.
SRVS ECF CHOICES SERVICES
Employment Services/Supports
· Exploration
· Discovery
· Situational Observation and Assessment
· Job Development Plan or Self-Employment Plan
· Job Development Start Up
· Self-Employment Start Up
· Job Coaching Integrated Comp Emp
· Job Coaching for Self-Employment
· Co-Worker Supports
· Supported Employment - Small Group
· Career Advancement
· Supported Employment. Small Group Mobile Work Crew
· Integrated Employment Path Services
Other Long Term Services & Supports
· Independent Living Skills Training
· Personal Assistance
· Community Living Supports
· Community Living Support-Family Model
· Supportive Home Care
· Respite
· Community Integrated Support Services
· Community Transportation
