PHILADELPHIA, PA — More Pennsylvanians with disabilities are moving into competitive jobs that pay standard wages through a state-backed employment initiative that the Shapiro administration is seeking to expand with additional funding next year.
What This Means for You
- The state’s InVEST program helps workers with disabilities transition from subminimum-wage jobs into competitive employment.
- The School District of Philadelphia has hired 14 former students through the program since September 2025.
- Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2026-27 budget includes an additional $1 million to expand vocational rehabilitation services statewide.
First Lady Lori Shapiro and Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker highlighted the Integrated Vocational Engagement & Support Team, or InVEST, program during an event Tuesday at Drexel University. The program, operated through the state’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), is designed to help individuals with disabilities secure jobs in integrated workplaces alongside other employees while earning competitive wages.
State officials said the initiative supports Pennsylvania’s Employment First policy, which promotes competitive employment as the preferred outcome for individuals with disabilities.
Philadelphia School District Highlights Program Results
The event focused on the School District of Philadelphia, which became one of seven major Pennsylvania employers participating in the InVEST program. Since September 2025, the district has hired 14 former students through the initiative.
Those employees now work in a variety of positions, including facility management, special education support, food service, and administrative support roles.
“Josh and I believe every Pennsylvanian deserves the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed; programs like InVEST help make that possible,” First Lady Shapiro said. “Their success shows that when we remove barriers and create real pathways to good jobs, workers, employers, and communities all benefit.”
How the Program Works
Under InVEST, participating employers receive substantial support when hiring workers through the program.
The School District of Philadelphia receives 100% wage reimbursement during an employee’s first year through an on-the-job training agreement with OVR. The program also provides employment support services funded through the initiative.
The district partnered with KenCrest, Community Integrated Services, and Drexel University to implement the program.
Secretary Walker said the initiative helps connect employers with an often-overlooked workforce.
“Through OVR and InVEST, the Shapiro Administration continues to connect Pennsylvanians with disabilities to jobs that recognize their skills and support their independence,” Walker said. “Programs like InVEST are how we keep building an inclusive workforce that reflects all of Pennsylvania.”
State Seeks Additional Funding
The event also highlighted the administration’s proposed investment in vocational rehabilitation services.
Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2026-27 budget includes an additional $1 million for OVR to expand services such as assistive technology, transition support for students, and specialized services for Pennsylvanians who are DeafBlind and others with disabilities.
According to the department, OVR has supported approximately 76,000 Pennsylvanians since 2023 through employment assistance, transition services, job placement programs, and workforce partnerships.
More Employers Joining the Initiative
State officials said participation in InVEST continues to grow.
In addition to the School District of Philadelphia, employers participating in the program include Sheetz, Cintas, Giant Eagle, VF Corporation, Grandpa Joe’s Candy Company, and Charley Family Shop ‘n’ Save Grocery Stores. Additional partnerships are being developed, according to the department.
Pennsylvania is one of 14 states receiving federal funding through the Subminimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment demonstration project, which seeks to help workers with disabilities transition into competitive employment opportunities.
Next Steps
State officials said they will continue expanding employer participation in InVEST while seeking approval of the proposed funding increase for OVR as part of Pennsylvania’s 2026-27 budget process. Employers and individuals interested in learning more about the program can find additional information through the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry.
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