by Kenda Curativo, BCI Director of Competitive Employment, Missouri
BCI is passionate about empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve meaningful employment and to participate more fully in their communities. In 2011, when community jobs were hard to come by, we dove headfirst into providing competitive employment services. We even launched our own commercial cleaning company to create opportunities that didn’t yet exist!
Today, competitive employment is a significant part of our mission: offering transformative support for job seekers and creating pathways for businesses to tap into a broader, talented workforce. Here’s what competitive employment means and how it’s changing lives.
FAQs about Competitive Integrated Employment:
● “What is competitive employment?”
Competitive employment is an inclusive workforce model where individuals of all abilities are offered equal opportunities. Employees earn at least the federal minimum wage, work in integrated settings, and have access to promotions and pay raises based on their skills, experience, and performance. These jobs require candidates to meet the employer’s expectations, with or without accommodations, ensuring a level playing field for everyone.
● “Why are competitive employment services important?”
For individuals with disabilities, navigating the job market can be daunting. Competitive employment services help bridge the gap by providing support for those with little to no work history or those who are uncertain about their skills. These services also offer guidance for individuals who are unsure of suitable job opportunities or who have challenging past employment experiences.
Through these services, clients gain the confidence and tools to secure employment that fits their needs and abilities.
● “Who benefits from integrated employment opportunities?”
Competitive employment services are exclusively available to adults, catering to individuals at different stages of their career journey. These services can support those who have graduated from high school and are ready to secure their first jobs or older adults seeking a career change or new opportunities.
Competitive employment offers more than a paycheck — it provides independence, community, and a sense of accomplishment. Our clients enhance their social and professional lives, make meaningful contributions to their homes and communities, and gain a profound sense of belonging and achievement.
● “How do businesses benefit from integrated employment?”
Companies that support competitive employment gain advantages that drive business success and contribute to a more inclusive society. Employers who hire individuals with disabilities experience:
○ Increased employee loyalty and lower turnover.
○ Enhanced community reputation for promoting diversity.
○ Access to a broader talent pool and improved employee morale.
○ Tax incentives and compliance with legal standards.
● “What can I do to support job opportunities for adults with disabilities?”
Communities can support competitive employment by patronizing local businesses that create inclusive workplaces and advocating for state budgets to sustain these essential services. Together, we can make sure everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the workforce.
What Sets BCI Apart from Traditional Employment Services
At BCI, we believe in the power of employment to transform lives and strengthen communities. By breaking down barriers and building bridges between individuals and businesses, our Competitive Employment Services pave the way for brighter, more inclusive futures.
BCI goes beyond traditional employment services, offering professional job recruiters to connect clients with opportunities — along with job readiness training to build essential skills, on-the-job coaching, and continuous support throughout employment (eligibility-based).
Our strong employer partnerships and tailored training programs ensure swift and successful placements for our clients. At BCI, we don’t just prepare individuals for jobs. We also prepare the businesses to welcome and value diverse talent. With training and collaborative service delivery for all stakeholders, we empower companies to embrace the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities.
BCI Helps Secure Employment for Adults with Disabilities in Missouri and Illinois
BCI and its talented and passionate employment advisors deliver competitive employment services across St. Charles, Lincoln, and St. Louis counties in mid-east Missouri and Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair counties in metro-east Illinois. BCI also operates as Imagine Technical Institute in southwest Missouri, providing competitive employment services in Christian and Taney counties.
If you or someone you know lives with a disability and desires to work in the competitive job market, please read about our competitive employment opportunities. To discuss any questions you may have, contact me at kcurativo@boonecenter.com.