STEP – Steps Toward Employment Program

Utilizing our on-site retail store, the Steps Towards Employment Program (STEP) assists people with disabilities in developing behaviors and job skills that will lead to paid, entry-level employment in vocational areas including, but not limited to, retailing and hospitality.

The program length, generally four to five months, varies based upon an individual’s needs and progress. It runs Monday thru Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Working individually, and in small groups, individuals focus on:

• Interpersonal Skills – getting along with co-workers and supervisors
• Communication Skills – listening, speaking clearly, following directions
• Developing Flexibility – working on different tasks and in varied work teams
• Productivity – working quickly and accurately, meeting deadlines
• Organizational Skills – setting priorities, completing work as assigned
• Problem Solving – making decisions, taking responsibility
• Personal Appearance – hygiene and appropriate work attire
• Attendance and Punctuality – arriving each day on time and maintaining consistent attendance

Students who successfully complete the training program are referred to Employment Services and assigned to one of our Placement Specialists. The Placement Specialist will work with them on perfecting job seeking skills, assist with job development and provide guidance through 90 days of successful employment.

All of our training programs are built upon the expertise of a Business Advisory Council, a group of local employers who are experts in the related training area. The advisors are involved in curriculum development, practice interviews, workshops, resume building and when possible, employment of the program participants.