QWE Practice Guideline: 311 – Develop relationships with local organizations and the business community to provide opportunities for enhancing skills development and employment

Target group: Any organization the employees and/or supports individuals with disabilities

Practice Description

Training is offered through a local community college to provide a variety of skills needed for successful employment.

Resources Needed

Subject matter experts/trainers

• Staff with networking knowledge and experience to build connections with local community colleges and high schools

Labor hours

• Potentially time may be needed for staff to attend classes and/or practice what they have learned in the workplace

Implementation

Process

• Build a collaboration with a local community college
• Establish the types of skills training that is needed
  • Basic academic skills: reading, writing, math
  • Soft skills: communication, networking, interviewing, teamwork
  • Financial management
• Training also prepares individuals for employment and functioning within an integrated setting
• Participation on the local high school committee helps bring in students as they transition from high school to employment
  • Provides employers a chance to meet and interact with individuals in advance of employment
  • Parents/guardians are informed of higher education opportunities and benefits
  • Employment opportunities are shared
• Individuals attend classes based on their need and interest
• Based on scheduling needs, individuals can attend classes during the day or evening

Documentation

• SOPs
  • Policies and procedures for the implementation and management of the program

Outcomes/Results

• Increase in competitive integrated employment
• Increase in employee productivity

NPA: Coastal Enterprises, Inc.
Location: Brunswick, ME
Date Submitted: 2013
Website: https://www.ceimaine.org/

Resources: Quality Work Environment Workbook