Ohio Beginning in 1999, Ohio SOS has attempted to replicate the statewide approach in Alabama.  In contrast to university and hospital single employer models in large urban areas, the statewide model seeks partnerships with multiple employers in small communities.  For example, in a rural town in the southeastern corner of the state, the first Ohio SOS internships included an auto body shop, a farm market, a feed and equipment store and computer assisted design support for a heating seal company. As in Alabama, the program operates under the leadership of the Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities.  With the high Ohio unemployment rate, the Executive Secretary saw SOS as a way to help young people with disabilities get a head start on their careers.  Other program partners include Worthington schools, the Brooks-Yates Center, and Cerebral Palsy Association of Ohio. Ohio SOS currently provides 20 paid internships per year.  Depending on the site, each internship lasts six to 10 weeks.  Multiple employers have included Health Care Logistics and Swiminc.  Funding sources include employer contributions and the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council.   "With the unemployment rate so high among people with disabilities, SOS is a way to help young people with disabilities get a head start on their livelihood." Executive Secretary, Ohio Governor's Council on People with Disabilities     Home | Mission | Program Elements | Locations | Contact Alabama | Baltimore | Connecticut | Ohio | Philadelphia | Pittsburgh