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RetainWorks Program

If you have experienced a recent injury or illness that has impacted your ability to work, the RETAINWORKS program might be able to assist you with strategies and coordinated services to help you stay at work or return to work quicker!  RETAINWORKS is a part of the national Retaining Employment and Talent After Injury/Illness Network (RETAIN). The program promotes stay-at-work/return-to-work strategies by delivering a coordinated set of practices between medical systems, workforce systems and employers to provide continual employment, or accelerate a safe return-to-work for individuals suffering from debilitating injury or illness.  Specific training and accommodation solutions are also provided for individuals as needed. Workforce Partnership operates the RETAINWORKS program in partnership with the Kansas Department of Commerce, The University of Kansas Health System and local employers.

Individual Eligibility:

Individuals with recent musculoskeletal injuries, mental health disorders and chronic diseases that prevent them from returning to work right away without intervention. The conditions must be new, or an existing condition that has become worse, within the past 6 months. Individuals with all levels of illness or injury will be considered, including long-haul COVID sufferers.  Qualifying individuals must:

  • Be currently employed or seeking employment

  • Live or work in Kansas and have a valid social security card

  • Be between the ages of 18 and 65

  • Not be receiving Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income, nor have a pending application

Employer Participation:

Employers are eligible to participate in the RETAINWORKS program if the employer is located in Kansas or they employ an injured or ill employee who lives or works in Kansas.  As part of RETAINWORKS, Employers can:

  • Utilize on-the-job training (OJT) with wage reimbursement for eligible participants

  • Reduce workers’ compensation and lower insurance cost

  • Reduce turnover costs, emphasizing employee retention versus hiring a replacement

  • Enhance employee morale and create a supportive and inclusive environment

Primary Contact

Shellie Sharp
Employer Coordinator for RETAINWORKS
913-577-5957
shelliel@workforcepartnership.com

Primary Contact

Caitlyn Dice
Workforce Coordinator for RETAINWORKS
913-577-5915
caitlynd@workforcepartnership.com