They will increase their knowledge about expectations of workers by employers, work practices, and work related behaviors as well as how to access community services for employment. The goal of this service is to place individuals in employment in the community according to individual strengths, needs, and preferences. This type of employment offers the individual full community integration as well as social and economic empowerment. In this supported employment service, the Melwood Employment Specialists develop positions with local businesses based upon specific job goals and outcomes prepared for each individual. After a suitable position has been secured, the supported employment staff provides job training, employment supervision and support services at or away from the work site which are necessary to assure satisfactory job performance.
Individuals receive one of one intensive job training and supervision following job placement.
These support services are gradually reduced as the individual becomes more skilled and productive in the job routine, the frequency and type of subsequent employment support is based on individual need. The Employment Assistance Program's goals are similar to the Community Placement portion of Community Employment. The individuals who are provided services through this program require a lower level of initial training and support. In order to secure and maintain employment, an Employment Specialists works with the individual to maintain employment. The primary goal for the Employment Specialist as in Community Placement, is to build natural supports in the work environment and to foster independence.