VOCATIONAL TRAINING & LIFE SKILLS

Work-based experiences are your key to having a successful school-to-work transition. Career exploration includes the following: job shadowing, internships, unpaid volunteer experiences and paid employment.

There can be a job for everyone who wants one – regardless of the nature of disability, need for workplace accommodation or economic conditions in the community. In addition, effective job development is highly individualized and person-centered, based on youth skills, interests and need for support. Aspirations, skills and positive attributes of the job seeker must match the needs, expectations and workplace culture of the employer.

To help prepare for the work world, do the following: get to know the business community by researching and networking with employers; create an individualized job search plan; and enroll in a vocational program.

For more information, head over to our section on Employment.

“Greet all people with a smile.”

Ethics of the Fathers 3:16

Maryland Resources

In Baltimore Jewish Community Services (JCS) offers a full spectrum of employment assistance, including career assessments, SSA benefits counseling, work readiness training, job development and job coaching. JCS is a designated DORS, DDA and MHA provider for Supported Employment.

VSP of Sinai Hospital provides vocational services, for both youth and adults with disabilities. VSP assists individuals in achieving both employment goals and long-term self-sufficiency through a range of training and employment opportunities at VSP’s Seton Business Par facility or within 30-plus Life Bridge Health Departments.  Employees provide digital, wide-format printing and mailing services at Seton Business Park headquarters, and janitorial services at four federal and state government sites in the Baltimore area.

Another option is to volunteer to gain experience through programs like Jewish Volunteer Connection.

There are also a number of mentoring programs in Maryland that incorporate job-preparedness training and career exploration. Many of these programs focus on specific areas and populations, so be sure to check out their participation requirements. If you do not meet their requirements or they do not serve your area of Maryland, they may have additional resources for you to access.

Quick Links
Maryland State Department of Education Division of Rehabilitation Services
Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
Department of Labor
What happens in a vocational rehabilitation program?

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