CGS Supported Employment Program

(Intensive & Extended Services)

Some consumers with learning and developmental disabilities are unable to work independently in a competitive work environment because of the severity of their disabilities. The Supported Employment program allows these severely disabled individuals to work in a variety of positions in an integrated work setting. The service provides active employment experiences and ongoing, intensive coaching to maintain part-time or full-tine paid work status.

An individual job coach guides the new employee through those crucial first few days and weeks of a new job while guaranteeing to the employer that the assigned work will be completed. Job coaches are highly trained professionals who work closely with employers and employees to insure success in the workplace. Other support services may include assessment, counseling, case management, social / behavior training, skills instructions, job modification, advocacy and individualized interventions.

Jobs appropriate for supported employment level workers are those that require routine, repetitive manual activities with a minimum of task variation from day to day. Successful employment has been achieved in job positions such as messenger, laundry attendant, kitchen/utility worker, hand assembler, stock assistant, porter maintenance and retail associate. These entry-level jobs provide rewarding opportunities for severely disabled adults who learn to identify themselves as members of a productive working community.

Once the consumer becomes stabilized on the job, the job coach will gradually "fade away" and decrease the time involvement. The consumer is then considered to be in the extended phase of supported employment. The job coach will continue to provide stabilization support services as long as necessary.