Imagine having a program that helps young people with disabilities land jobs, learn skills, and build confidence—but almost no one knows it exists. That’s the reality for hundreds of thousands of eligible students across the U.S., especially in New Jersey, where the program’s usage is the lowest in the country.

Every year, the federal and state governments pour about half a billion dollars into services designed to help students with disabilities transition into the workforce. These programs teach essential skills like resume writing, time management, and workplace communication. Some students even secure internships and ongoing job support. For example, one student in New Jersey trained at a school cafeteria and has been employed there for five years. Another, who has autism, now manages the opening shift at a local Walgreens after participating in the program.

Yet, despite its potential, the program is a well-kept secret. Many parents and even some school officials are unaware it exists. In 2023, New Jersey helped just 2% of eligible students, the lowest rate nationwide. Advocates point to a tangled web of bureaucracy and the state’s decentralized school system as major roadblocks.

Linda Mauriello, who runs the program in Boonton, N.J., has seen firsthand how transformative it can be. “My students have really benefited from it,” she said. But for every success story, there are countless others who miss out. Families often stumble upon the program by accident, likening it to a “secret society.”

The lack of awareness isn’t just a New Jersey issue—it’s a nationwide problem. Experts say clearer communication and better outreach are needed to ensure these vital services reach the students who need them most. For now, the challenge remains: How do we make sure this hidden resource gets into the hands of those it’s meant to help?