Vocational programs for adults with disabilities near me

CHICAGO (WLS) -- For 24-year-old Marquez Jones and his mother, it's a bridge to a brighter future.

"It's life-changing. It's life-changing to be able to give him the skills that he needs to be, to feel like he's actually a member of society," said Jones' mother, Kisha.

Marquez is part of the welcoming class of the "After 22 Project," which aims to connect adults with developmental disabilities to continued education, job training and employment.

"I thank God," Jones said. "Thank you, and I couldn't do it without you."

It's called the After 22 Project because that's the age when students with intellectual challenges traditionally age out of the public education system, leaving them with few options to further their learning.

"Now, we have a plan for Chicago's young adults with disabilities to step out of high school and directly into opportunity," said Rebecca Clark, president and CEO of Anixter Center.

Funding is provided by Special Olympics' Special Children's Charities, as well as the Anixter Center and Richard J. Daley College, where students in the program will attend classes.

"We set out to create a college experience for people with disabilities," said Alderman Matt O'Shea, 19th Ward. "But more than that, we wanted to create opportunities that would allow them to eventually use their skills."

"It is our hope that we can expand the After 22 Program to include more students every year and that this program will be a model that other organizations will emulate throughout the world," said Carolyn Daley, president of Special Olympics Chicago.

For Jones, he hopes to one day become a chef.

"It makes me feel like there is hope for him. There's a future for him, for him to get a job, transition," Kisha said.

JVS Human Services helps adults and youth with disabilities achieve long-term success and fulfillment in work and life by helping them become independent and integrated into their communities.

Long-Term Vocational Services

Individuals are offered the option to work or volunteer in their community with ongoing support from JVS staff.

• Skill Building – Individuals build their skills and become more integrated into the community through meaningful volunteer work at local non-profits.
• Supported Employment – Individuals are assisted in successfully finding and maintaining a job that meets their skills, interests and abilities with on-going job coaching support.

For more information:

• Oakland County – Ted Goewey, or (248) 233-4334
  • Access OCHN Services (LINK)
• Wayne County – Tamaria White,  or (313) 446-8023
  • JVS Human Services / Wayne County Services Customer Service Brochure (PDF)
  • DWIHN Member Handbook (PDF)
  • DWIHN Member Brochures & Handouts (LINK)

Short-Term Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Individuals who are more independent benefit from trial work experiences, internships, work training and job placement services. Individuals receiving Rehabilitation Services are generally referred for and funded by Michigan Rehabilitation Services. Click Here to learn how to apply for services with Michigan Rehabilitation Services and the office nearest you.

• Adult Services – Individuals receive support to identify their employment strengths, interests, and conditions needed to get and keep a job. Rehabilitation Services include:
  • Customized Employment & Discovery
  • Work Experience/Internships
  • Assessment & Training: Computers, Clerical, Cashiering, Customer Service, Warehousing
  • Workshops: Career Exploration, Empowerment, Job Seeking Skills, Networking
  • Job Placement Negotiation
  • Job Coaching & Retention
  • Rehabilitation Services Brochure»
• Youth Services/Pre-Employment Transition Services – School to Work/Transition programs help young adults successfully transition from school to work or post-secondary training. More info »
• Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program – Offers career development services for people with disabilities receiving SSDI who want to work. The program is free, voluntary and helps people with disabilities progress toward financial independence. More info » 

For more information:

• Macomb and Oakland Counties – Rene Dell, or (248) 233-4448
• Wayne County – Danita Love-Carter, or (313) 446-8013

Choices Programs (Non-Vocational)

Individuals with disabilities engage in enriching activities to keep them active and engaged in the community.

• Activities and Enrichment Programs – Individuals participate in engaging facility-based and community activities in order to remain active and involved in their communities.
• Caring Companions – Adults with disabilities and dementia engage in stimulating activities in a safe, secure and caring environment to maintain their dignity and highest level of functioning.

For more information:

• Susan Silva, or (248) 233-4331

Supports Coordination

The JVS LIFE & Bridges program helps people pursue their interests, live more independently and make important decisions by linking them with needed services in Oakland and Wayne Counties.  This may include medical, social, vocational, educational and community support services as well as assistance in obtaining legal representation, transportation and respite care.

For more information:

• Leigh Wayna, or call (248) 233-4244

Success Story