Navigating Maryland’s disability employment landscape can feel complicated, especially when several organizations handle different pieces of the puzzle. The good news: Maryland has a coordinated network built to help both employers and job seekers succeed—and as the statewide association at the center of that network, we’re often asked to explain how the pieces fit together. Here’s a clear map of the key players and what each one does.
Maryland Works is a statewide membership association of non-profit community agencies expanding employment opportunities for all people with disabilities. Our members include non-profit community-based organizations and workforce development professionals committed to creating competitive integrated employment and economic opportunities for thousands of Marylanders with disabilities. Our work centers on three areas:
We also coordinate the Employment Works Program, which connects contracting activity between the State of Maryland, Community Service Providers, and Disability-Owned Businesses under the State Finance and Procurement Article—creating a pipeline of competitive, integrated employment opportunities tied directly to state purchasing.
In short, Maryland Works is the hub that strengthens and connects the providers, employers, and advocates working toward one goal: a Maryland where all people have equal access to employment, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity. Learn more about our Provider Network or explore the Employment Works Program.
DORS serves as Maryland’s primary vocational rehabilitation agency. Its core services include career counseling, job placement, assistive technology, and skills training. DORS also guides recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) as they transition into the workforce, including helping individuals understand how earnings may affect their benefits, so they can pursue employment with confidence and clarity.
The DDA focuses on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It funds supported employment and coordinates long-term services tailored to each person’s goals. DDA funding flows to provider agencies that deliver individualized, hands-on support, ensuring participants receive consistent assistance throughout their employment journey.
Provider agencies are the frontline organizations that translate funding and referrals into real results. Many of them are members of our Provider Network. They deliver day-to-day services such as job coaching, on-site support, skills development, and employer partnerships. By operationalizing resources from both DORS and DDA, these agencies make sustained employment achievable and practical.
Each organization plays a distinct, complementary role in Maryland’s disability employment ecosystem. Maryland Works builds the statewide network and drives policy and training, DORS leads vocational rehabilitation, DDA funds long-term support, and provider agencies deliver services directly. When you understand who does what, you can find the right entry point for your needs quickly and confidently.
If you’re a community service provider, learn more about our Provider Network. If you’re an employer looking to build inclusive hiring practices or a disability-owned business interested in state contracting opportunities, reach out to our team.