A Brief History of Employment for People with Developmental Disabilities in Wyoming
Employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in Wyoming has evolved significantly over the last 135 years.
In the late 1800s and continuing through the mid-1900s, many individuals with developmental disabilities were segregated from society and placed in institutions. In these institutions employment and living an independent life was not a priority. Instead, residents often performed unpaid labor to make the institutions self-reliant while being shunned and forced to live apart from their communities. Discriminatory laws and harmful beliefs during this era further limited opportunity and reinforced isolation.
Change began in the 1960s and 1970s with federal legislation that shifted the focus from institutional care to community-based services and vocational support. The Developmental Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act helped lay the groundwork for more inclusive employment opportunities in Wyoming.
From the 1990s until the beginning of the 21st century, efforts moved from sheltered workshops toward supported, integrated employment in community settings. The Employment First movement further emphasized that competitive, integrated employment should be the expectation — not the exception.
Wyoming has made meaningful strides in advancing employment for people with disabilities, consistently ranking among the top 10 states nationwide. Yet progress is not the finish line. Many individuals continue to work part-time or earn pay that falls short of a sustainable living wage. Moving forward means increasing access to full-time, competitive employment that supports independence, stability, and long-term opportunity.
Wyoming has come a long way — and the work continues. Through collaboration and shared commitment, we are building a future where meaningful employment is accessible to all.
Explore the Employment Virtual Library to learn more about the resources and partnerships shaping that future.
