Supported Employment Services

Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Overview

Alliance, Inc.'s Vocational Rehabilitation Services Division (VRS) works primarily with individuals with disabilities in achieving independence through competitive employment, with programs funded primarily by the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), and the Mental Health Administration (MHA). We work with a variety of individuals with disabilities, including those with developmental, mental health, physical, hearing, and visual impairments. Van transportation may be provided for individuals unable to access our services through the MTA or other means.

The VRS Division supports consumer choice, empowerment, and self determination, and our services are highly individualized. All individuals supported through VRS develop an Individual Plan (IP), which is based on one's values and preferences. IPs and services for each individual are monitored by an internal Case Coordinator. This internal advocacy and quality assurance mechanism facilitates timely and effective services for all.

Preparatory Services

Career Assessments help individuals explore career options based on their aptitudes, abilities, temperament, and work values. These assessments, conducted by our Vocational Evaluator, can be Comprehensive, Focused, or Exploratory. Situational assessments and trial work experiences, conducted in work settings at Alliance, Inc. or in the community, are often used. Vocational counseling is provided during the assessment period and throughout one's services at Alliance, Inc. 

Work Adjustment Training helps individuals prepare for employment. Individuals develop work tolerance and job-readiness, while learning specific job skills. Options include food service, horticulture, landscaping, and custodial services training. Program length depends on individual need. Upon successful completion of training, trainees may be referred to Job Placement Services for assistance with locating employment.

Employment Services

Supported Employment offers MHA or DDA funded individuals competitive employment in the community with a high level of support. Individuals are placed into a wide variety of jobs based on their preferences, provided job coaching to ensure a successful transition, then provided with ongoing follow-up and support for the duration of their employment.

The Mental Health Services are provided under an evidence-based practice model to ensure the highest level of outcomes. Each individual is assigned to an Employment Specialist, who provides ongoing vocational counseling and is responsible for placement and retention.

Job Development, Placement, and Retention (JDPR) is a DORS-funded service, providing placement and time-limited retention services for those individuals not eligible for supported employment. Job coaching can also be provided in some cases, based on individual need.

Vocational Services Day Program
DDA funded individuals needing daily vocational activity have the choice of participating in our Vocational Services Program. A variety of different experiences are offered, including volunteer or paid work activity (either at our facilities or in the community), computer lab, work adjustment training, mobility training, community integration and social activities, and job readiness, placement, and retention groups. The program focuses mainly on work activities, with the emphasis on preparing most individuals for eventual community employment. Individuals may have a plan which combines both supported employment and vocational services.

Transitioning Youth
Alliance, Inc. is a provider under the Governor's Transitioning Youth Initiative (GTYI) program, providing vocational services and supported employment for students aging out of the public school system. In addition, we have the capability of working with students well before graduation, including those in certificate and diploma programs, providing career assessment, work adjustment training, and employment services.

SSA Ticket to Work
Alliance, Inc. is a designated Employer Network under the Social Security Administration's Ticket to Work program. The intake staff can connect the ticket holder with DORS, the DDA, or MHA for funding our preparatory and/or employment services. Individuals are also provided benefits counseling, ensuring knowledge of all work incentives and benefit changes resulting from participation and employment. This includes Plans for Achieving Self-Support (PASS).

Community Support Services

Through the Community Support Services program, VRS supports individuals with Developmental Disabilities in achieving independence in their homes and community.  There are 3 services within Community Support Services:  Two of them serve adults and families by providing a qualified support counselor of choice  to work on desired goals.  The other provides low level financial assistance to adults and children for items such as home modifications, respite, therapies, and medical expenses.