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Empower Through Employment

We support individuals with disabilities in securing meaningful employment by providing personalized plans and accommodating their needs. Our dedicated team is committed to assisting clients both in the community and office settings, ensuring a smooth transition into the workforce.

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Disability is a Matter of Perception

At Changing Perceptions, we’re more than just a service, we’re a movement toward understanding, inclusion, and empowerment. Coming from a background in disability and behavioral health, our mission is personal. We’ve seen firsthand the incredible strengths, talents, and potential that individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce. This organization was created with one clear goal: to help our community see people with disabilities through a different lens one that recognizes ability, not limitation. We want employers, coworkers, and neighbors to better understand how to work with and support individuals with disabilities in meaningful ways. When we take the time to learn from each other, everyone benefits. Barriers are broken, workplaces grow stronger, and communities become more connected. Together, through awareness and collaboration, we can build a future where everyone has a place and a purpose. Thank you for being a part of the change.

Key Services:

Job Development & Retention: We assist individuals in securing competitive employment and provide ongoing support to ensure long-term job success.

Work Adjustment Training: This service focuses on developing the interpersonal, professional, and practical skills necessary to thrive in the workplace.

Trial Work Experience: Participants explore various job environments to assess their abilities and determine suitable vocational paths.

Hire with Impact

Hiring individuals with disabilities brings unique strengths to your workplace, including reliability, problem-solving skills, and diverse perspectives. Inclusive hiring not only builds a more equitable community but also enhances workplace culture and productivity.

Employers may also be eligible for federal and state tax incentives, such as the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) and ADA-related deductions, for making accommodations or hiring individuals referred through vocational programs. By partnering with Changing Perceptions, you gain access to a pool of qualified candidates and receive support with onboarding, training, and long-term retention—making the process smooth and mutually beneficial.

Services

Our services are designed to support every step of the journey from preparation to placement with personalized guidance and ongoing support to ensure long-term success in the workplace.

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1

TWE

Trial Work Experience (TWE) provides an opportunity to evaluate a VR client’s ability and capacity to perform job duties in a realistic, integrated work setting. It is designed for clients who need additional assessment to help determine their eligibility for VR services.

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2

WAT

Work Adjustment Training (WAT) is designed for VR clients who need significant preparation to enter the workforce. It focuses on developing the essential basic skills required for success on the job. These work readiness skills—also referred to as soft skills, employability skills, or job readiness skills—help individuals adapt to the demands of the workplace.

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3

JDR

Job Development and Retention (JDR) supports Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) clients—individuals with disabilities—in securing and keeping competitive employment in integrated work settings. The assistance provided aligns with each client’s chosen vocational goal, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice.

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What is VR

Start your Journey

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a state and federally funded program through the Arizona Department of Economic Security that helps individuals with disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment. To receive services from organizations like ours, you must first be enrolled in VR. To apply, you'll need to: Be a U.S. citizen or legally authorized to work in the U.S. Provide your Social Security card and proof of identity Complete the VR Referral Form Once you're connected with a VR counselor, ask them to send a referral to Changing Perceptions, and we’ll be happy to support you on your employment journey!

Referral Form