MillarRich Supported Employment

At MillarRich, we believe every individual deserves the chance to find meaningful work and thrive in their community. Our Supported Employment department helps people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) build confidence, learn new skills, and establish lasting careers.

We believe that individuals are not defined by their disabilities, but by their strengths. Our goal is to empower individuals to achieve greater independence through employment while helping employers discover qualified, motivated employees.

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About Us

Supported Employment is staffed by experienced, certified Job Coaches and Job Developers dedicated to helping individuals succeed at work. Our Job Coaches provide hands-on support, helping people learn job skills, understand workplace culture, and build confidence on the job. Our Job Developers connect individuals with employers, identify strong job matches, and create opportunities that align with each person’s strengths and goals.

Together, our team walks alongside each person, before, during, and after job placement to ensure ongoing success and growth.

We utilize a Three-Phase Employment Process

  • How It Works

    Supported Employment is built around three connected phases that guide each person from exploration to independence.

    Pre-Employment: We start by helping individuals explore career options, identify their strengths, and gain experience through activities like job shadowing, volunteer work, and workplace tours.

    Job Placement: Once goals are clear, we partner with employers to find or create the right opportunity. We assist with applications, interview preparation, and job onboarding—helping individuals start strong and feel supported.

    Ongoing Supports: After employment begins, we continue to check in and provide guidance as individuals adjust to their new roles. Supports may include help with training, communication, and adapting to new routines. Over time, our goal is to fade formal supports so each person can grow in independence and confidence at work.

  • Funding

    MillarRich provides Supported Employment services through several state and community funding programs. These partnerships allow individuals to access employment services that match their needs, goals, and stage of life.

    Department of Disability and Aging (DDA) – Employment services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities seeking competitive, integrated work in their communities.

    Employment and Community First CHOICES (ECF CHOICES) – Career exploration, job development, and ongoing support for individuals pursuing community-based employment.

    CHOICES – Employment supports for eligible adults who want to work while receiving long-term services and supports.

    Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) – Short-term employment services that prepare individuals for job placement and career success.

    Medicaid Alternative Pathways to Independence (MAPs) – Employment-focused services that promote greater independence and self-sufficiency.

    Through these partnerships, we coordinate multiple funding streams to ensure each person receives the support they need at every stage of their employment journey.

  • Specialized Youth Programs

    In addition to our core Supported Employment services, MillarRich also offers specialized programs designed for students and young adults preparing to enter the workforce. These programs give youth an early start in exploring work and building confidence for life after school.

    Project SEARCH – A transition-to-work program offering hands-on training through internships at Gaylord Opryland. Participants gain practical job skills and real workplace experience that prepare them for competitive employment.

    Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) – Designed for high school students and recent graduates, this program focuses on career exploration, workplace readiness, and self-advocacy to prepare for future employment or education.

    GLYDE – A virtual classroom program for youth ages 14–18 that teaches pre-employment and independent living skills through interactive lessons and digital learning tools.

    Together, these programs help young people bridge the gap between education and employment, setting them up for success in the workforce.

  • Community Partners

    Our community partners are employers who recognize the value that a diverse workforce brings to their businesses. By offering meaningful job opportunities, they help individuals develop skills, confidence, and independence, while strengthening their own teams with dedicated, capable employees. These partnerships create workplaces where everyone benefits and where inclusion becomes part of everyday, successful business practices.

    Advance Auto Parts
    Amazon
    AMC Theatres
    Barney’s Sweet Shop
    Chicken Salad Chick
    Chuck E. Cheese
    Demos’
    Dollar General
    Dollar Tree
    Dunkin Donuts
    Goodwill Industries

  • Hammer & Stain
    Hands of Hope Food Pantry
    Hands On Nashville
    Harmony at Bellevue
    Holiday Inn
    Jason’s Deli
    Jiffy Lube
    Just Love Coffee Café
    Kroger
    Life Time Fitness
    Lowe’s
    Maple Street Biscuit Company
    McDonald’s
    Mercy Chefs
    Milk & Honey Food Co.
    Murfreesboro Strike & Spare
    Nashville Zoo
    New Leash on Life Animal Rescue
    Nissan
    Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary
    Panera Bread
    Pet Supermarket
    Pizza Hut
    Pleasant View Skincare
    Portland Public Library
    Publix
    Regal Cinemas

  • Ross Dress for Less
    Sprouts
    Substrate Cafe
    Taziki’s Mediterranean Café
    The Home Depot
    The Lodge at Natchez Trace
    ThriftSmart
    Totally Mushrooms
    TNKids Nutrition
    True Rescue
    Walgreens
    Walmart
    YMCA of Middle Tennessee

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