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.   

Since 2013, David Lentz has been working for Seattle Department of Transportation, initially in data entry before moving into his current role as a shredding specialist. David manages paperwork and operates a specialized shredder.  

“I just like it. It gets me out of the house,” he said.  

David takes pride in his contributions to the workplace and his family’s legacy. Both his mom and dad used to work downtown, so it’s meaningful for him to be part of that tradition.  For David, work isn’t just about earning a paycheck—it’s about maintaining independence, contributing to his community, and upholding family traditions. David is proud of the routine and purpose his work provides. 

David values the flexibility and independence of his role, but what he enjoys most is the chance to meet new people.  Supported by his coworker Karen, who preps the paperwork, David performs his tasks with minimal assistance, using Access transportation to commute to work. He appreciates his job coach who checks in once a week.  

 A devoted sports fan, David regularly attends Washington Huskies football games and enjoys watching baseball.    

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.