Success in Navigating Transition to Employment: Lessons Learned from a Parent of a Youth Receiving Supplemental Security Income

Background The Wisconsin Promoting the Readiness of Minors in Supplemental Security Income (WI PROMISE) project, was a 5-year federally funded demonstration project aimed at improving post-secondary outcomes for youth with disabilities receiving SSI. Objective This study explored the experiences of a parent of a former WI PROMISE youth to better understand their experiences in the program along with barriers and supports in their youth's successful transition-to-work journey. Method A qualitative single case study was employed, and data was collected via a 60-min semi-structured interview with the parent. Results Five themes were identified: (1) It Takes a Network: Collaborative Supports Shaping Employment Pathways; (2) Navigating the Gaps in the System; (3) Empowering Youth and Families Through Collaborative Support in Transition; (4) Creating Spaces of Belonging: Importance of Inclusive Community Engagement, and (5) Improving Transition Services: Supporting Youth's Readiness and Community Participation. Conclusion This study underscores the need for earlier service provision, expanded community-based learning opportunities, and increased collaboration among schools, VR agencies, and families. Implications for practice are discussed in the context of enhancing transition services and promoting competitive integrated employment for youth with SSI.