A Brief History of Employment for People with Developmental Disabilities in Wyoming 

Understanding the progress that shaped today’s employment opportunities. 

The path to meaningful employment for people with developmental disabilities in Wyoming has been shaped by more than a century of change, advocacy, and growing recognition of the value that every individual brings to the workforce.

Institutionalization and Isolation (Late 1800s – Mid-1900s)

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 independent living were not priorities. Residents often performed unpaid labor intended to make the institutions self-reliant while being separated from their communities. Discriminatory laws and harmful beliefs during this era further limited opportunity and reinforced isolation.

The Shift Toward Community Supports (1960s – 1970s)

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.

Expanding Integrated Employment (1990s – Early 2000s)

From the 1990s into the early 21st century, efforts moved away from sheltered workshops toward supported employment in community settings. The Employment First movement reinforced the idea that competitive, integrated employment should be the expectation—not the exception—for people with disabilities.

Progress and Opportunity Today

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 wages that fall short of a sustainable living income. Moving forward means expanding 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 sections below to learn more about Wyoming’s employment journey, the goals guiding future progress, and the resources and partnerships helping expand opportunity across our state.