It's time for the latest NENA E-News!
Your source for news, resources, and advocacy
for your Employment Network (EN).
Conference Update: Calling all Speakers!
Next year's NENA Conference is earlier than usual so please mark your calendars so you don't miss out on the fun!
Do you have a great idea for a breakout session for the NENA Conference? Keep an eye on your email. NENA will be accepting RFPs in the beginning of 2026. |
Building Momentum in 2026: Supporting Job Seekers Through Connection, Confidence, and Opportunity |
By Lisa Purdy As we step into a new year, Employment Networks across the country continue to play a critical role in empowering job seekers with disabilities to reach their employment goals through the Social Security Ticket to Work Program. January offers a natural reset point — a time when many people are motivated to explore new possibilities, update career goals, or take their first step toward work after years of uncertainty. As ENs, we have the privilege of walking beside them during that process. The job market continues to evolve, and so do the barriers and opportunities our participants face. Technology-based hiring systems, hybrid workplaces, and changing expectations from employers mean that job seekers need more than a résumé — they need guidance, confidence, and community support. Our work in helping individuals build strong résumés, navigate job search platforms, identify training opportunities, and prepare for interviews is often the bridge between job searching and job securing. Resources such as American Job Centers, state Vocational Rehabilitation agencies, Goodwill, community colleges, and workforce development programs continue to expand training options and career pathways. Volunteering also remains a powerful tool for individuals reentering the workforce after a long break by helping build new skills, boost confidence, and strengthen résumés. One of the most meaningful parts of our work is helping beneficiaries understand how employment affects their benefits. Clear and consistent guidance about reporting wages, work incentives, and available supports ensures that individuals feel empowered — not afraid — to pursue employment. As we begin 2026, let’s continue to lead with encouragement, empathy, and actionable tools. Every résumé review, mock interview, resource referral, and benefits explanation matters. Together, we are helping people turn possibilities into progress, and progress into lasting employment success. Here’s to a year of growth, collaboration, and meaningful outcomes — one job seeker at a time. |
New Member Spotlight NENA was pleased to welcome 53 new members during the 2025 year, including: 15 Full Members Here is to a great new year! |
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Work Incentives Training Interested in learning more about Work Incentives Planning? Opportunities are available! | Help Wanted Job Board Does your member organization have an internal position available within your organization that you would like to post in the NENA E-News? As a member courtesy, we will post your opening in our next E-News update one time. Posting requirements: • The posting must be for a specific, EN-related position within your organization (i.e., career specialist, career services provider) • Email admin@nenaticket.org to submit your post • Include the title, location, a brief description (25 words) and contact information on the form. *Those interested in applying should contact the EN directly. NENA will have no further information about any posted positions. |
