Career Connection
Career Connection offers a continuum of services for transition students (ages 18-22) and adults with disabilities, and for employers who are interested in hiring individuals who experience a disability. Sherwood Community Services provides a menu of services that can be tailored to individual need.
Career Connection Services
We use the Wide Range Interest-Occupation Test 2 (WRIOT2) to assess job type interests and aptitudes. The results are shared and the individual may be referred for a community based assessment or direct placement.
For people who are more computer savvy, we use the O*Net online. This assessment delves more deeply into occupational demands, educational requirements and employment trends.
A Career Path Plan will be developed identifying occupation of interest and goal(s) toward achieving employment.
A community based assessment is a time limited period of training and assessment in the occupational interest cluster(s) identified by the job seeker or through assessments. The individual will have the opportunity to work at a job site that meets their interests to give them an understanding of what that job is like.
During this assessment period, skills, abilities, barriers to employment, communication and learning style, preferences and necessary accommodations are evaluated.
Information gathered from the assessment(s) will identify skills, technology and training needs and job readiness. This information is used in developing holistic employment opportunities.
Sherwood offers a computer restoration training program. Interested job seekers request the three part training program, culminating in a six month internship for qualified individuals. Job placement follows certification.
Services are provided that include:
- Review of assessment results to identify employment goals and target suitable job matches.
- Accessing resources that aid in the job search, such as computers, flash drives, books, videos, and employment symposiums
- Develop resumes, profiles and/or portfolios.
- Contact community employers to identify employment opportunities.
- Transportation training and assistance.
- Analysis of potential work site.
- Gather and complete job applications.
- Interview preparation, including mock interviews.
- Set-up oral and/or working interviews.
- Negotiate conditions of employment and job accommodations, as necessary
Job coaching offers 1:1 support and training at the work site and includes any or all of the following:
- Orientation with supervisor and co-workers to talk about how to work effectively with the supported employee to ensure success and a smooth transition.
- 1:1 job training, followed by gradual fading of job coach support once the new employee has demonstrated the ability to complete job tasks independently.
- Assist in the development of natural supports in the work place.
- Training of non-task related "soft skills" such as work place culture and guidelines, safety and appropriate socialization.
- Assisting individual in attendance of employer required trainings to ensure an understanding of the information.
- Support to obtain necessary permits or certifications.
- Assistance and training with appropriate work attire, grooming, work attitude, problem solving.
- Development of tools to aid in independence, such as schedules or checklists.
Job seekers, guardians or other stakeholders may request a referral to the TechSTEP program to evaluate technology and communication needs. Therapeutic needs, training, adaptive devices, services and cost information will be provided at the conclusion of the assessment period.
A training plan will be developed with the client and stakeholders. Training and support may occur 1:1 or in small group settings.
- Retention is long term support to assure continued satisfaction and successful performance of job skills. These services are for individuals who need intensive and continuous support.
- Stabilization is short term follow up and support to assure the successful transition into employment. Once stabilization is achieved, no further supports are provided.
- Follow-up services to assist in maintaining employment. This includes ongoing communication with the individual, the employer and home support to ensure that work skills are sustained and that problems are handled appropriately. Additional training and re-training, will be provided as needed.
Social Enterprises:
A line of all natural pet treats is produced and marketed under the name It's ALL Good for Pets. Job seekers are paid minimum wage while they learn to prepare, package and market products under the brand label. Additional products and services are currently under consideration.
Career Connection Photo Gallery
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| Career Connection |
Employment Blog:
A blog has been created for job seekers and employers. It offers support and tips on all topics related to employment, offers a discussion and response page and is updated regularly. Visit www.sherwoodcareerconnection.wordpress.com.
