Supported employment is an alternative to traditional sheltered and competitive employment approaches. Sheltered employment programs look at those specific needs of individuals with severe disabilities. The GIA approach assumes that every willing individual, regardless of their disability, will have the opportunity to work in the community and support themselves. Thus, internal job coaches work with participants to make sure they are work ready, while placement staff find job opportunities that match the need with the participant’s ability and availability to work.
External job coaches work with participants after they are placed in meaningful jobs and assist them with support to be successful while on the job. After the necessary period of support, the individual will work independently at his or her job, and GIA staff act only as liaisons between employer and employee to encourage job retention. With proper supports, individuals with even the most severe disabilities can be successful in competitive employment settings.
We know that with proper, individualized supports, persons with even the most severe disabilities can successfully hold jobs in the community. GIA is working to provide more in depth supported employment opportunities through various vocational services, including:
- In Store Enclaves
- Contract Job Crews
- Small Businesses and Entrepreneurship
- Individual Placements