The Subminimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment for Illinoisans with Disabilities (SWTCIE Illinois) Model Demonstration Project (U.S.
Department of Education Disability Innovation Fund, 84.421D) is a new initiative that addresses the need to expand opportunities for Illinoisans with disabilities to obtain high-quality customized integrated employment (CIE) that leads to economic security and assists and encourages employers in Illinois to fully include youth and adults with disabilities in their workforce. SWTCIE Illinois will i
06/05/2026
Meet Phillip, SWTCIE client and proud Culver's employee.
Phillip is proactive, dedicated, and hardworking.
Watch the video below to learn more about why Phillip's boss describes him as just the type of employee they look for.
SWTCIE STORIES | Phillip Meet SWTCIE participant Joel and learn about the dedication and energy he brings to his job at Culvers.
05/29/2026
Joel grew up eating at Salamandra with his family, and now he’s an essential part of their team.
Joel's presence does more than keep operations running smoothly—it’s actively shifting perceptions.
Not only is he an active, contributing member of his community, but his coworkers also learn from his dedication every day, proving that integrated employment benefits everyone: the individual, the business, and the community.
SWTCIE STORIES | Joel Meet SWTCIE participant Joel as he works at one of his favorite hometown restaurants.
05/22/2026
When Hunter began his job search, he desire for a quiet environment made a libary job seem like a perfect fit. But during the discovery process, we realized he actually wanted a role that kept him active and moving!
Finding the right environment changes everything. Today, Hunter is thriving on the night shift at Walgreens, where a supportive team and a steady routine let his strengths truly shine.
Take a few minutes to watch Hunter’s inspiring journey and see how the right match makes all the difference. ✨
SWTCIE STORIES | Hunter Meet SWTCIE participant Hunter and hear about his award winning work at Walgreens.
05/08/2026
Meet SWTCIE participant Emily as she brings her energy and dedication to the Chestnut Mountain Resort.
SWTCIE STORIES | Emily Meet SWTCIE participant Emily and as she brings her energy and dedication to the Chestnut Mountain Resort.
Meet SWTCIE participant Daniel and learn about his journey to meaningful employment.
For the full video, visit our youtube channel: https://lnkd.in/gSGbAGFh
03/25/2026
When local businesses like Target Dubuque lean into Competitive Integrated Employment, everyone wins. Employees find fulfilling roles where they can lead and grow, and businesses gain dedicated, skilled team members. Congratulations to Ivan on nearly two years as a Guest Advocate! We appreciate the Target team for their incredible support and for seeing the immense value our participants bring to the workforce.
At The Workshop, we strongly value the many partnerships with businesses and organizations who see what people are able to do and build on their strengths. Currently, over 25 people who joined our Competitive Integrated Employment Program are working at their community jobs in and around Jo Daviess County – these individuals continue to show reliability, dedication, and success at work. The Workshop staff greatly appreciates ongoing support from employers!
February 2026 Employer Spotlight: Target Dubuque
Over a year and a half ago, Ivan decided to look for work in Dubuque, IA, which is close to Ivan’s home in East Dubuque. He considered a job at Target, so we planned a visit to get a feel for Target and the work environment. April, who works in Human Resources, gave Ivan a tour and introduced him to the staff. Ivan immediately felt welcome and comfortable. He left with a good feeling and decided to pursue a job at Target. Ivan was officially hired as a Guest Advocate at Target on July 4, 2024, and he’s nearing his 2-year anniversary! “I really appreciate the amount of support I get around Target,” Ivan explained. He appreciates his team leads, coworkers, and the human resources department for the guidance they provide him.
The Target team has shown incredible support and kindness to Ivan. As a Guest Advocate and member of the Tech Team, as well, Ivan strengthened his skills, stepped out of his comfort zone, and feels like an important part of their team. The Workshop is super thankful to have such a great partnership.
Thank you, Target in Dubuque!
: Meet SWTCIE participant, Shawn, and learn more about his job as a clerk at Schnucks!
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/WlmjsTHRvfQ
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: Meet SWTCIE participant, Darryl, and learn more about his job as a cook at Girl in the Park!
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/LWcIbsrlh_I
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: Meet SWTCIE participant, Tim, and learn more about his job at McDonald's!
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/nPh8KzTjCMI
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: Meet SWTCIE participant, Susan, and learn more about her job at Mountain Dew Park!
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/zsxWjPw-Bc0
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