When people have the support they need to connect and contribute to their community, we are all better off. This is a key part of the Supported Employment program, that matches qualified job candidates with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) to employment opportunities within King County.  

The Supported Employment program at the City of Seattle officially launched in 1998 and has employed nearly 100 people since then. This program ensures that all supported employees receive job coaching to assist with the application process, onboarding, training, retention and ongoing career growth. By doing so, the program enriches the workforce and connects people in the program with a career path that meets their goals.  

We will be sharing the stories of five different employees with the program in a series highlighting this program and its impact.   

Krista Leimbacher has been a dedicated employee of the City of Seattle in the Mayor’s Office since September 1997.

Her work includes shredding, refilling paper, and resetting conference rooms. For over 27 years, Krista has found stability and growth through her job.  

“It’s given me a paycheck, but more than that, it’s given me connections and a place to belong,” she says, reflecting on how work has helped her overcome experiences of bullying in the past. “I feel safe and supported here.” 

Her job has not only provided her with a sense of security but also personal and professional development.

“I’ve liked all the people I’ve worked for. Personally, it’s a good challenge, yeah, and I’m part of a developmental disability program for supported employees… And then I came here and I made a lot of friends.” Krista shares. 

Outside of work, Krista enjoys watching movies, solving puzzles, coloring, and spending time at Starbucks. Her hobbies bring her joy, but it’s the sense of community at work that makes her feel truly fulfilled. She feels fortunate to have a job coach, colleagues and supervisors who supported her every step of the way,

Krista’s work has become a vital part of her life, offering purpose, friendships, and a place where she feels valued. 

At the 35th annual Developmental Disabilities and Delays Legislative Forum Nov. 21, one of the legislative priorities touched on the importance of programs like Supported Employment.

Employment and Inclusion: Protect opportunities for employment and meaningful inclusion in the community through increasing provider payments to strengthen staffing that would help avoid delays or interruptions in service access.

Read more about the priorities here.