OPWDD FUNDED SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT (SEMP)

Supported Employment is a program designed for participants who are on an independent job track. Over time, these individuals need minimal supports and are visited onsite twice per month. Our trained staff works closely with supervisors, managers and the employed individual to assist them various techniques and approaches to acquire new skills, enhance their current skill level and maintain their position. Our Job Coaches help reinforce the tasks and encourage learning to make them more proficient. It is our goal to provide each Individual with the appropriate supports that is tailored to their specific needs in order to help partcipants become successful on both a personal and professional level.

ADULT CAREER AND CONTINUING EDUCATION SERVICES – VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION (ACCES-VR)

Through ACCES-VR we offer two types of Employment Services. The 3-Tier Placement Process enables individuals to work with us over a period of time. Part 1 of this service provides for the development of a resume, job exploration and practicing of interview techniques. Part 2 is placement in a community-based position with job coaching to assist with integration into the work force and training of required job duties. Part 3 provides for a gradual reduction of job coach support within 90 days of placement. We also provide direct placement services for individuals that need assistance with basic job searching and short-term job coaching in community-based employment. Both of these services are designed to provide the individual with a solid foundation in community employment while minimizing transition concerns.

JOB COACHING

Cerebral Palsy of Westchester provides trained Job Coaches to work with participants in the Vocational Services Program on individual community based job sites. Support is provided until the person achieves independence. Job Coaches also provide job readiness skills which include: resume preparation, learning to adjust to workplace demands, facilitating effective communication with supervisors and co-workers, assisting with learning assigned tasks, expanding knowledge of learned skills and maintaining the current job position. These services are provided through OPWDD Supported Employment (SEMP), and ACCES-VR programs.

JOB DEVELOPMENT

Our trained Job Coaches establish relationships with local business in order to obtain job opportunites for our participants. The working relationship that is established between managers and our vocational staff provides an environment that encourages learning and assists with individual training. Some businesses that have employed our participants include: CVS, Westchester Bird House, Target, The Salvation Army, Stop and Shop, Somnia, The United Pre-School Center and United Artists. Competitive employment is our ultimate goal; however we do support our participants in the community for internships, work try-outs and volunteer positions.