Illinois Institute for Rehabilitation and Employment Research

09/08/2026

Paul Wehman, PhD is the Director of the Rehabilitation and Research and Training Center at VCU.

Dr. Wehman joins us on the final day of the 2026 Integrated Employment Symposium as a Friday's keynote speaker.
Click here for additional information and to register for the symposium: https://iirer.ahs.illinois.edu/2026-integrated-employment-symposium/

We look forward to hosting you!

09/02/2026

Join us in Urbana the 2026 Integrated Employment Symposium, hosted by the Illinois Institute for Rehabilitation and Employment Research (IIRER).

Whether you’re a business owner, HR leader, or community partner, this high-energy, two-day event is packed with actionable tools to help you build a stronger, more inclusive, and competitive workforce.

Stay Ahead: Get expert guidance on navigating key legislation like the Dignity in Pay Act.

Practical Toolkits: Walk away with proven, customized hiring and retention strategies you can use immediately.

Networking: Connect with industry leaders, regional employers, and experts during our featured evening reception.

Click here for additional information including a link to register.

https://iirer.ahs.illinois.edu/2026-integrated-employment-symposium/

We look forward to hosting you!

08/24/2026

Join us for the inaugural Integrated Employment Symposium. This two-day event brings together providers, researchers, and community leaders to share practical ways to help individuals with disabilities move toward long-term competitive employment.

We are holding the symposium October 15 & 16 at the Hotel Royer in Urbana, IL.

Registration is just $75 per person and includes lunch, snacks, and an evening reception.

Space is limited, so be sure to secure your spot early.

To learn more and register, click the link below:

2026 Integrated Employment Symposium October 15 & October 16, 2026 Hotel Royer Urbana210 S Race St, Urbana, IL 61801 Cost | $75/personRegistration Deadline | August 30, 2026Space is limited. REGISTER TODAY Join the IIRER’s inaugural Integrated Employment Symposium-Breakout session topics will incl...

07/13/2026

Meet Candace, a cat lover whose cheerful personality creates a welc...

07/06/2026

Looking to strengthen your team and build a better workplace culture?

Join us on Tuesday, July 14, for a straightforward discussion on the business benefits of inclusive hiring.

When: Tuesday, July 14 | 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: 34W002 Cherry Ln., Geneva, IL (Cherry Willow / Kane County Cougars)

What We'll Discuss:
How inclusive hiring improves employee retention.
Actionable strategies for a stronger company culture.
Ways to expand your talent pipeline.
How AID supports local employers through the entire process.

Space is limited for this event.

You can RSVP directly at tinyurl.com/AID-COUGARS26.

06/24/2026

Earlier this month, staff from the Center for Independent Living (CIL) joined us in Champaign for Summer EDventure.

Over the course of three days, the community support specialist (CSS) team led six interactive sessions that provided practical strategies for classroom instruction and management, effective lesson planning, and building strong, meaningful partnerships with employers. Participants also attended a Wellness for Providers presentation facilitated by our Illinois Tech partners.

Throughout the event, attendees enjoyed learning alongside one another, sharing experiences from the field, and strengthening connections during a group dinner after the day's sessions.

We are excited to see CIL staff put their new knowledge into practice during Part II of EDventure, where teams will present an original lesson and receive valuable feedback from their peers and doctoral students in special education.

06/12/2026

Meet SWTCIE participant Joel and learn about his journey to meaning...

06/10/2026

Join Alex Swedberg and Christina Muri Irland at the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, June 16th (12:00–1:00 pm) for Improving Ability and Performance in the Workplace.

This interactive session provides business leaders and HR professionals with practical strategies to optimize workforce productivity, improve hiring and team development, and implement effective practices that support sustainable growth and business success.

Attendees will also learn how to access no-cost organizational resources through RAMP and the Illinois Pathways to Partnerships Project to support inclusive workforce development.

Cost: $25 (Attendees are welcome to bring their lunch)
To Register: go.illinois.edu/ImprovingAbilityandPerformanceintheWorkplace

05/29/2026

Meet SWTCIE participant Joel as he works at one of his favorite hometown restaurants.

05/29/2026

Join Alex Swedberg and Christina Muri Irland at the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, June 16th (12:00–1:00 pm) for Improving Ability and Performance in the Workplace.

This interactive session provides business leaders and HR professionals with evidence-based strategies to optimize recruitment, reduce turnover costs, and build a reliable workforce pipeline. Attendees will also learn how to access no-cost organizational resources through RAMP and the Illinois Pathways to Partnerships Project to support inclusive workforce development.

Cost: $25 (Attendees are welcome to bring their lunch)
To Register: go.illinois.edu/ImprovingAbilityandPerformanceintheWorkplace

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