|
How can I experience a job and try something I like? What do I want to do after school? What makes me a good worker? How do I talk to my boss? What do I wear? What transportation is available to get me to work? These are just a few questions that participants of the Mentoring Grant get answered when they contact Arc BRIDGES and become a participant of the mentoring program.
This grant was designed to assist individuals experience what it is like to work, and how to apply for other services and benefits for someone with a disability. After a meeting to establish an individual’s preference and skills, he/she is accompanied to a pre-arranged business site to be trained in specific tasks. A staff from Arc BRIDGES transports the person to the site and remains there while he/she is actively in training, then returns them to their home or school. The mentoring is not a paid position, but the individual gains valuable experience for future paid employment. Another benefit is learning what type of work may be a good choice for the individual. After trying 1 to 3 different environments and positions, each person finds out what they like and don’t like about working and are better equipped to make decisions about employment for themselves. .
Over 200 individuals have been served through 80 area businesses since September of 2006. Many have gone on to Vocational Rehabilitation Services that offer help in finding and keeping a job. Some people have even received a job offer from the site where they are being trained and are currently getting paid for working at something they love.
Another feature the grant offers, is the guidance needed for each individual to apply for other services and benefits for someone with a disability. It makes it a little easier to navigate the system and learn what is necessary to move forward.
This program is available to any person with any type of disability, in Lake and Porter Counties, by contacting Margo Love-Surprise/Job Development Coordinator at (219) 884-1138.
|
