Supported Employment
The Supported Employment Program enables adults with developmental disabilities to work and contribute to society. The program focuses on a person's abilities and provides the supports the individual needs to be successful on a long-term basis. The emphasis is on finding out what each person wants to do and where his or her talents lie. The person is then introduced to an employment opportunity that matches his or her work profile.The Supported Employment Program provides the following supports:
ASSESSMENT:
This step consists of one-on-one job exploration and invididual readiness for employment. The staff member works with potential employees on appropriate dress, basic hygiene skills, and employer/employee relationships and expectations. During this time, the potential employee is matched with the community's available employment opportunities that compliment his or her interests and skills.
JOB DEVELOPMENT:
During this time, staff assists the applicant with completing job applications and provides any support needed during the interview process. Staff also assists with the completion of all employment related paperwork and assures that the individual obtains all pre-employment screenings and permits. When indicated, staff also works in collaboration with Missouri's Vocational Rehabilitation program. Staff provides an on-site job analysis and consultation and recemmendations for work-site and job modifications and customized employment, when appropriate.
ONE-ON-ONE JOB COACHING:
Once the person is hired, staff assists with the individual's orientation and training if needed or desired. Employment staff provides additional one-on-one training with the individual to assure that he/she learns the job tasks to meet the employer's expectations. Staff provides, as needed, onsite-consultation, uses coworker mentors, transfers training and supports to natural supports, and decreases the staff's presence at the job site. Staff promotes and facilitates integration at the work site through social interactions, physical proximity, and participation in social activities available to all employeess.
FOLLOW ALONG SUPPORT:
Once the individual is able to meet expectations, staff support fades and natural supports are maintained. Staff follows up with the employer and employee on a regular basis or as desired by the employer and/or employee. If job duties change or additional supports are needed, the employer just needs to let the agency know and staff is more than happy to provide the necessary support for the employee to be successful.
All supported employment staff members have experience and training in working with people with developmental disabilities. Additionally the Coordinator has a Bachelor's degree and is certified in Employment Services through the University of Missouri-Columbia. Other staff members have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. All staff have had background checks through the Missouri Highway Patrol and Msissouri Family Care Registry and hold certificates in First Aid and CPR.
Staff members are typically available during normal business hours on weekdays.
Funding for supported employment services is primarily through contracts with the Division of Developmental Disabilities and the Home and Community Based Waiver.
The Supported Employment Program is accredited by CARF in the area of Employment Services.
To obtain information about supported employment services or to apply for admission for this program, please contact Betty Krah at 816-891-0990 or betty.krah@pcbsdd.org.
