The Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) is the only national organization focused exclusively on Employment First to facilitate the full inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace and community.

APSE members recognize that everyone has abilities to contribute and their work should be recognized and rewarded with fair pay, creating inclusive workplaces. Employment enriches and adds meaning to every life, and workplaces and communities are enhanced when they embrace differences.

  • Vision

    All people with disabilities have competitive employment in an inclusive workforce.

  • Mission

    To advance employment equity for people with disabilities.

  • Values

    We believe that everyone can and should work, and have the dignity of determining their career path.

What is Employment First?

Employment First means that employment in the general workforce should be the first and preferred option for individuals with disabilities receiving assistance from publicly-funded systems. 

Simply put, Employment First means real jobs for real wages. 

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People. Contact Us

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Checkmark. Become Certified

Learn about the Certified Employment Support Professional™ credential.

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Tag. Become a Member

Learn more about our work and the benefits of membership.

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People. Contact Us

Click on the magnifying glass in the lower right corner, or click to reach our: National Team,  National BoardState Contacts, or Committees

Read More
APSE State Chapters
Certified Employment Support Professionals™
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