Employment Services with SIL
Employment is an important part of community involvement and self-sufficiency for people with disabilities.
Employment in integrated settings at competitive wages offers a direct pathway to greater independence and self-sufficiency for youth and adults with disabilities. For youth with disabilities, this transition starts in high school. A smooth transition from education to employment is essential but has often been particularly difficult for them and their families. For adults with disabilities, there has been a historical low labor force participation rate that limits their opportunities to fully contribute as colleagues.
At SIL, we aim to break down these barriers by making strategic investments within our community as well as collaborating with other community stake holders across Columbia, MO to create more opportunities for competitive, integrated employment for people with disabilities.
OUR GOALS:
• Supporting individuals with disabilities in navigating a pathway to employment in
integrated settings at competitive wages to achieve greater independence and self-
sufficiency.
• Supporting employers in recognizing the benefits of having a more diverse workforce by
hiring people with disabilities.
• Supporting communities in recognizing the value of inclusive community living, including
employment, for people with disabilities.
Employment in integrated settings at competitive wages offers a direct pathway to greater independence and self-sufficiency for youth and adults with disabilities. For youth with disabilities, this transition starts in high school. A smooth transition from education to employment is essential but has often been particularly difficult for them and their families. For adults with disabilities, there has been a historical low labor force participation rate that limits their opportunities to fully contribute as colleagues.
At SIL, we aim to break down these barriers by making strategic investments within our community as well as collaborating with other community stake holders across Columbia, MO to create more opportunities for competitive, integrated employment for people with disabilities.
OUR GOALS:
• Supporting individuals with disabilities in navigating a pathway to employment in
integrated settings at competitive wages to achieve greater independence and self-
sufficiency.
• Supporting employers in recognizing the benefits of having a more diverse workforce by
hiring people with disabilities.
• Supporting communities in recognizing the value of inclusive community living, including
employment, for people with disabilities.
Pre-Employment Services (Preparation and Assessment)
• Vocational assessments to identify skills, interests, and support needs.
• Job readiness training, such as resume writing, interview skills, time management, and workplace etiquette.
• Work-based learning or job shadowing to explore various careers.
• Job readiness training, such as resume writing, interview skills, time management, and workplace etiquette.
• Work-based learning or job shadowing to explore various careers.
Job Development and Placement
• Job development involves identifying and approaching potential employers on behalf of the individual.
• Job matching ensures that the individual's abilities and interests align with the job role.
• Job matching ensures that the individual's abilities and interests align with the job role.
Job Coaching and On-the-Job Support
• Job coaching provides one-on-one training and support at the job site.
• Fading support gradually reduces the job coach’s presence as the individual becomes more independent.
• Fading support gradually reduces the job coach’s presence as the individual becomes more independent.
Ongoing Support and Follow-Along Services
• Follow-up services help address any challenges or changes in the job role.
•Advocacy and mediation may be necessary if workplace issues arise.
•Advocacy and mediation may be necessary if workplace issues arise.
