ODJFS: Workforce Development
Another important agency partner for employment support is the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), Workforce Development. This agency can provide support and service to more people that the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) or Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD). While DODD and OOD only serve people with disabilities, ODJFS can assist people that have a variety of barriers to employment. Traditionally, ODJFS Workforce Development services may not have been seen by some as specialized to the needs of individuals with complex needs. However, no assumptions should be made before determining the individual’s needs and preferences. It is quite possible ODJFS is the best agency to support an individual. In some cases, individuals with disabilities may not qualify for services from DODD and/or OOD. When this occurs, ODJFS may be the primary service agency to consider for employment support.
Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS)
Workforce Development
What Does the Agency Do?
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services offers a wide range of assistance, including workforce development, unemployment compensation, cash assistance, food assistance, child and adult protective services, child care, adoption, and child support.
Who is eligible
There are multiple programs administered by ODJFS for a variety of targeted populations and needs. Not all programs or services have the same eligibility requirements. Eligibility for specific services may depend on some of the following: Level of Income, Disability, Type of Need and Age.
What Does the Agency Do to Support Employment?
Workforce development services are available to any Ohioan planning for or seeking employment, including students, youth, adults, displaced workers and people with disabilities. Some services are designed for people with specific needs or situations. Priority of service is given to U.S. veterans
Where can more information on ODJFS employment programs and services be located?
Access to Ohio’s workforce development resources and services is available in person at local OhioMeansJobs Centers and at OhioMeansJobs.com
OhioMeansJobs.com offers free online career development and employment tools Examples include:
- A K-12 portal targeting middle and high school students
- Career interest and job skills assessments
- Training to help with specific subjects and classes
- A budget calculator, Information about in-demand jobs
- A career planner to help set and reach career goals
- Information about training, apprenticeships, co-ops, internships and scholarships
- Help with job searching, resume writing and interviewing
- Video modeling interviewing for a variety of positions
Are employment services available (other than online tools and resources)?
The Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program (CCMEP) provides career services to eligible 14- to 24-year-olds to help them build career paths and find employment.
Who is eligible for the CCMEP?
CCMEP eligibility is based on a comprehensive assessment of employment and training needs, as well as a basic skills assessment. Low income is required for eligibility, however in some situations only the youth’s income is considered (not the family). Youth with disabilities could be found eligible for CCMEP services.
How could the CCMEP assist a person to be successful in employment?
CCMEP provides services to support goals outlined in their individual opportunity plan (IOP), which may include support to obtain a high school diploma, job placement, work experience, and other supportive services. These include a variety of services such as:
- Assessments, career guidance and planning, and job market information
- Financial literacy education and budgeting
- Education and workforce preparation
- Pre-employment and occupational skills training
- Paid and unpaid work experiences, including job shadowing, summer jobs and pre-apprenticeships
- Supportive services, including transportation and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities
- Job matching, placement and support
How do I learn more about CCMEP in my county?
Each County has a specific CCMEP contact. The contact list is located here. Or email CCMEPQNA@jfs.ohio.gov.
Can a person be eligible for and receive OMJ/CCMEP services at the same time as other agency services (example: OOD and CBDD)?
Yes. A person may be eligible for multiple agency services at the same time and could receive support from more than one agency. However, the agencies should plan together as a team in order to:
- Coordinate the service and support
- Avoid duplication in service
- Assure the most appropriate services for the individual are provided
- Organize the services to compliment and maximize the value of each
What types of services can be offered to youth in the transition years?
CCMEP by definition is focused solely on transition youth. The wide variety of services potentially available through the CCMEP targets youth ages 14-24. The priority is out-of-school youth, however a certain percent of the program funds are available to assist in-school youth.
Where can additional information be found?
