Starting Out

When consumers choose Work Opportunities Unlimited’s multi-faceted, career placement program, they select a partner that believes in:

·         Choice

·         Quality matching of worker and job

·         Support systems on and off the job

·         Building and nurturing relationships among all participants, from employer to consumer

Employment Preparation

Consumers link up with direct support professionals—Career Resource Specialists (CRS)—who lay the groundwork for successful employment. Together, consumers and the Work Opportunities Unlimited team create a customized program that will capitalize on the consumer’s existing skills and develop new ones. The program components may be selected from a menu of services that may include resume writing, completing job applications, learning how to interview, job shadows, work assessments, and others. The goal of this segment is to help the individual prepare for the world of work.

Securing Employment

The next critical step is job-matching, finding a job that is well-suited to the consumer. The consumer has learned about what it means to work, how to interview for a job, the responsibilities of holding a job, and how to interact with fellow workers. The ultimate goal of all Work Opportunities Unlimited programs is successful employment for consumers and we often do this through teamwork. Usually the consumer’s primary CRS works with their CRS team to review the consumer’s strengths and job goal so as to best match them to positions offered by our partner/employers. The CRS will ensure that the employer, supervisors, and co-workers are trained to tune into the consumer’s unique needs, providing the all-important “natural” supports on the job.

On the Job

Once the consumer is on the job, Work Opportunities Unlimited and the employer coordinate whatever supervision and support are necessary. Some consumers require daily supervision; others less frequent attention. The Work Opportunities Unlimited CRS team is cross-trained and is prepared to continue daily monitoring when either a CRS is ill, on vacation, or if a position becomes vacant.

Progress is monitored in a number of ways:

·         Work Activity Logs, to track daily activities

·         Progress Notes, to track objectives for success on a weekly basis

·         Progress Reports, to document joint progress toward the consumer's main program goal

Work is just part of a well-rounded day. Often Work Opportunities Unlimited will help consumers complement their employment with volunteer activities, at local SPCAs, hospitals, and community service organization.

The Rewards

The end results of a successful program are significant:

·         A sense of accomplishment for a job well done

·         Being on a career path

·         A valuable contribution to society, because work is a respected activity

·         A paycheck

·         Opportunities to socialize with co-workers

·         The independence that comes with self-reliance

·         Connections with the community at large

·         Personal satisfaction