Career Services
The League’s Vocational Services Program provides a wide range of services designed to prepare individuals with disabilities for return to productive employment in the community. Utilizing a supported employment philosophy, we promote the achievement of independence for each of our participants. Through the use of technology, individual support and person-centered planning, our program has placed individuals in a wide array of successful employment opportunities. Services offered include Career Assessment, Employee Development Services, and Employment Services including Job Development, Job Placement, Job Coaching and On-Going Supports.
1) Career Assessment is a resource offered at The League to assist individuals with disabilities in identifying skills, interests and abilities. The information gathered as a result of the assessment can be used for future vocational planning. As with all services offered by The League, emphasis is placed on the individual’s abilities and preferences. Often, career assessments uncover aptitudes and interests, previously overlooked or unknown. These often become the keys to vocational success.
The League’s Vocational Evaluator works closely with referring agencies and organizations in providing assessments that meet set standards. There are five assessment types provided.
- Itemized – An assessment using an individual tool or method to answer a very specific question such as “What is the person’s typing speed?.”
- Focused – An assessment to determine the feasibility of a specific chosen career area as a career goal.
- Exploratory – An assessment using career exploration resources and/or methods designed to provide information on the next step in long range career planning for the individual.
- Community Based – A holistic assessment of an individual’s interests, needs and abilities in a job/worksite setting located in the community.
- Comprehensive – A broad-based intensive process, grounded in the use of real or simulated work. This individualized assessment is used to answer questions that could not be addressed by any other career assessment option. This assessment is used for individuals facing the most severe vocational barriers or challenges.
The League is unique in its career assessment services in that it provides one-on-one evaluations, flexibility in scheduling, and timely provision of services rarely found elsewhere. The program is dynamic, growing and continually seeks to discover new and innovative ways of assisting individuals in realizing their potential.
- A paid work experience that provides specific skills training offered in the area of the individual's interest
- Job Readiness Skills Training which includes instruction in self-esteem, decision making, goal setting, personal skills for success, job search techniques, employment application completion, resume development and interviewing skills training
- Individual counseling
- Fitness training to build physical work stamina and endurance in our fully accessible Wellness Center
- Employment retention skills
3) Employment Services are provided with a supported employment philosophy. Job Development is performed to meet each individual’s specific need. The League offers both long-term and short-term job coaching, on and off site, to ensure successful transition into the workplace.
Job Development is a process used in working with employers to identify various tasks and needs within their business that could be modified and combined to create a job for a specific individual. This process of job carving and modification involves the individual, agency staff members, family and friends. Generally placements occur within 90 days following completion of Employee Development Services.
Once a job has been found, the individual receives details of the job either in written form or verbally. Once they accept the employment offer, on-the-job training begins. This will include company information, benefits and transportation information. The job coach will be present during the first weeks of employment to assist in orientations and training. After that period of time, the individual, employer and job coach work together to ensure training and progress continues. Job Coaching fades gradually until independence is achieved. For some, on-site assistance will always be necessary to maintain employment and will be provided.
Ongoing supports continue for as long as a person is employed. On and off site visits continue to encourage personal development and success. Follow up services include assistance in managing a personal budget, ensuring work transportation, and providing additional training. We also teach employment retention skills, which includes instruction in problem solving, communication skills, attitudes in the workplace, time management, listening skills, appropriate work habits, workplace rules and conflict management.
Yearly Review
The Career Center has a Benefits Counselor on staff to assist with questions related to the impact that working may have for those receiving SSI or SSDI benefits as this is a very critical part of career decision making for individuals with disabilities. Individuals receiving this service will receive a personalized review of their benefits situation along with a report summarizing the impact that working will have on their benefits.
Services for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing
Vocational Services at The League teaches individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing the fundamental pre-employment skills to prepare them for competitive employment in the community. Moreover, The League offers employee development services, referral, placement and retention services for individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
We provide qualified staff who are proficient in American Sign Language (ASL) and competent in the issues concerning the Deaf community. Additionally, The League provides accommodations such as TTY access, visual emergency alarms and captioned TV.
For more information about the program please contact Rickey Colen, Career Services Manager at 443-279-6900 ext 408 or TTY 711. Rickey may also be reached at rcolen@leagueforpeople.org
FAQ’s Vocational Services Program
1. Do I have to pay for services?
No, services will be paid for by the Division of Rehabilitation Services or Developmental Disabilities Administration. League staff can assist in setting up an appointment with representatives of either of these agencies to pursue funding if you have not already applied.
2. What does a job coach do?
A job coach is assigned to assist you in learning your job at your job site. The coach will work with you and assist you in learning your job and developing the speed and accuracy your employer desires.
3. What are Employee Development Services?
Employee Development Services (EDS) consist of classes and work experiences designed to assist you in your goal of obtaining and maintaining employment. Classes include Interviewing Techniques, Application Completion, Employer Expectations, Problem Solving, Interpersonal Skills and Conflict Resolution. Each individual receiving EDS Services also has access to the Wellness Center.
4. Do I have to come to The League every day?
Yes, while attending EDS and Assessment Services. Following successful completion of the courses, you need not come to The League each day. You will have scheduled appointments with your Job Developer and/or Job Coach.
5. Does The League provide transportation?
No, The League does not provide transportation at this time. However, we are able to assist you by working with you to use Mobility and/or MTA Services. Staff is available to train you on using these services.
6. I don’t want to work full time. Do I have to?
No, it is acceptable to seek part-time employment.
Vanessa Taylor
Director, Career Services
443.279.6900 x406
vtaylor@leagueforpeople.org