Vocational Employment Training
The Arnold Center offers skill-building assistance activities that help individuals with disabilities increase their economic self-sufficiency and take part in meaningful activities, such as school, work and volunteering. Along with strengthening readiness for employment, these activities encourage independence, inclusion and productivity for all participants.
Skill-building Assistance at the Arnold Center
Occurs in
community-based
settings
alongside
Happens
individuals without disabilities
knowledge & skill development
Provides
individual goals
Furthers
Leads to greater opportunities for
independence, inclusion, participation & productivity
Participants learn the following skills:
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Communication with supervisors, co-workers and customers
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Conduct including acceptable workplace conduct and dress
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Teamwork such as following directions, accomplishing tasks and working with others
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Problem-solving to encourage independence in the workplace
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Workplace safety to ensure everyone in the workplace is safe and productive
Work Preparatory Program
In our Work Preparatory program, individuals acquire and improve skills, including self-help and socialization, so they can become valuable employees. This work pathway also helps individuals attain paid employment in the community. Jobs are matched to the individual’s interests, strengths, priorities and abilities.
EMPLOYMENT READY
Individuals who are ready to earn a wage and further develop their skills can join the Employment Ready program. Offered within Arnold Center’s social enterprise businesses and industrial services, individuals earn minimum wage and receive benefits. Participants also hone their workplace skills, including communication, attention to tasks, safety and problem solving.
When participants reach 75% productivity and meet their employment goals, they will have the opportunity to become permanent employees of the Arnold Center (depending on available positions) or move into our placement services.
Individual Employment Services
Through our Individual Employment Services, the Arnold Center staff helps participants prepare for and find employment in the community. Along with personalized support, Individual Employment Services include career planning, job placement, self-employment, benefits planning and job coaching.
Group Employment Services
Group Employment services provide individuals with job opportunities to work alongside others who do not have disabilities. Participants may be employed by local partner companies or the Arnold Center’s own social enterprises, including WeServe janitorial services, fabrication and assembly operations, WeCycle recycling, WeGrow hydroponic garden and Good Kitchen food service.
Volunteer
Groups of participants from the Arnold Center volunteer at businesses throughout the community, helping build skills that lead to greater employability. Participants can volunteer at the hospital, library, senior centers, schools or other nonprofits.