The Coelho Center continues to serve as a partner in the California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) and America's Job Centers of California (AJCC) Collaboration Project, which will continue through mid-2027. This statewide initiative is designed to strengthen collaboration between DOR and AJCC partners to improve employment services, workforce training, and career opportunities for Californians with disabilities. By fostering stronger partnerships, shared learning, and more coordinated service delivery, the project aims to create a more accessible and effective workforce system across the state.
As part of this work, the Coelho Center participated in the project's Community of Practice convening this spring. Monique Lemus represented the Center, serving as a panelist and providing introductory remarks for a session focused on education and workforce development. The Center also facilitated a statewide learning session on Consent, Assent, and Client-Centered Choice, equipping workforce professionals with practical strategies for supporting individuals with disabilities through person-centered decision-making.
A key component of the Coelho Center's role is providing professional development for DOR and AJCC teams that deepens understanding of the lived disability experience and promotes empathy, disability awareness, and inclusive practices. The Center has also partnered with LMU Extension to develop a new Disability Leadership Certificate. The inaugural two cohorts will begin in mid-July, preparing professionals with the knowledge and leadership skills needed to advance disability inclusion across California's workforce system.