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Custom Employment Services | New Mexico

Personalized Job Development That Promotes Independence and Community Inclusion

At Ability First, we provide Custom Employment Services in New Mexico designed to help adults with developmental disabilities build meaningful careers and participate fully in community life.

Employment is more than a job. It is opportunity, independence, inclusion, and purpose. Through customized employment and vocational rehabilitation partnerships, we support individuals in identifying their strengths, developing skills, and securing employment that aligns with their interests and long-term goals.

When Individuals Want to Work - But Need the Right Support

Turning Employment Goals Into Sustainable Opportunities

Many adults with developmental disabilities want to work, contribute, and earn income. However, barriers may include:

Without structured employment services, individuals may struggle to secure or retain work – even when they have strong motivation and ability.

Our Custom Employment Services exist to remove those barriers.

Customized Employment Built Around the Individual

Employment Designed Through Person-Centered Planning

Our Custom Employment Services at Ability First are built on person-centered planning and individualized development.

We begin by helping each person:

  • Identify their strengths, interests, and preferences
  • Explore employment options within their community
  • Complete evaluations and skills assessments
  • Develop a structured job search plan

From there, our team provides:

  • Job development and employer outreach
  • Technical assistance for businesses
  • Interview preparation
  • Job coaching and on-site support
  • Ongoing job retention services
  • Assistance navigating vocational rehabilitation (DVR)
  • Coordination with Medicaid waiver services when applicable
Our approach ensures each employment match is intentional, sustainable, and aligned with both employer and employee expectations.

Partnering with Employers Across New Mexico

We work closely with local businesses, agencies, and community partners throughout New Mexico to create inclusive job opportunities for people with disabilities.
Logo with blue and green hands
Our team assists employers by:

We believe inclusive hiring strengthens businesses and communities alike.

Supporting Long-Term Job Stability

Employment success is not just about placement – it is about retention and growth.

At Ability First, we provide ongoing support to ensure:

  • Job stability
  • Continued skill development
  • Workplace problem-solving
  • Adaptation to evolving responsibilities
  • Communication between employer and employee

By focusing on long-term success, we help individuals achieve greater independence and financial stability.

Who Is Eligible?

Ability First operates multiple locations across New Mexico, ensuring adults with disabilities have access to comprehensive, coordinated support close to home.

Our mission is to deliver high-quality developmental disability services that:

Eligibility is determined through assessment and coordination with appropriate agencies.

If you are unsure whether you or your family member qualifies, contact our team for guidance.

Why Families Choose Ability First

Ability First has served New Mexico communities since 2004. Families trust us because we:

  • Prioritize individualized employment matches
  • Maintain strong employer relationships
  • Provide structured coaching and support
  • Emphasize dignity, inclusion, and independence
  • Deliver services aligned with state and federal guidelines
We are committed to helping adults with disabilities achieve meaningful work – not just temporary placement.

Career Opportunities with Ability First

We are always seeking dedicated professionals who believe in inclusion, job coaching, and community integration.

If you are passionate about helping individuals develop skills and achieve employment success, we invite you to explore career opportunities with us.

The Complete Range of Services We Provide

Custom Employment Services are part of our broader continuum of community-based services at Ability First.

Supported Living Services (or Group Homes)

Community-based residential support that promotes independence while ensuring safety and structured oversight.

Family Living

A home-based living option where individuals reside with approved caregivers in a stable, relationship-centered environment.

Respite Care

Short-term support that provides relief for primary caregivers while maintaining continuity of care.

In-Home Community Support

Personalized assistance delivered in an individual’s own home to strengthen daily living skills and community participation.

Custom Employment Services

Employment services designed to help individuals secure, retain, and succeed in meaningful jobs within their community.

Day Programs

Engaging community day programs that cultivate essential skills, foster relationships, and encourage active participation in daily life.

Adult Nursing Services

Professional nursing oversight that supports health-related needs and promotes safe, independent living.

Together, these services ensure individuals receive comprehensive support at every stage of life.

Service Areas in New Mexico

We provides Custom Employment Services in:
We continue expanding thoughtfully while maintaining our commitment to quality and person-centered service delivery.

Get Started with Custom Employment Services

If you are seeking employment services for adults with disabilities in New Mexico – or if you are an employer interested in partnering with Ability First – we are ready to assist.

We are committed to helping individuals find meaningful work, strengthen their independence, and contribute to their communities.

Two overlapping hands, blue and green