COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM IN ITS 10th YEAR
Since 1995, the Community Employment Program at Ottawa Friendship House has connected many people with jobs of their choosing in the community. The concept of the program is simple, people with disabilities are as capable and willing to enter the employment field as any others.
As part of the development of each person’s annual plan, the caseworker reviews with the person if they are interested in community employment, and what type of work they would like. Each person is prepared for the job by weekly classes held at Friendship House, which cover such areas as the interview, proper dress, and appropriate worker – supervisor relationships. Also, prospective employees are taken to various places of employment to get a feel for different types of jobs and work environments that are available locally.
The program maintains relationships with many employers in town, and has been successful at placing employees at a variety of jobs. Once a person has been placed on the job, a job coach will assist both the employer and employee. Job coaching will be provided if necessary to help the employee learn the new duties. The program can also assist the employer with any needed job accommodations and information needed to assist the new employee.
On an ongoing basis, the program maintains contact with both the employee and the employer, and are available to address any problems that may arise.
The program is funded in part by the State of Illinois Department of Human Services, LaSalle County 708, and the United Way of Eastern LaSalle County.
Further information about the program can be obtained from Marty Sampson at 434-0737. At this time, 18 persons are employed at the following locations.
Arby's of Ottawa
Easter Seals of LaSalle & Bureau County
First National Bank of Ottawa
Help at Home
HR Imaging
Kroger's North
Seattle Sutton Healthy Eating
Value City
Taco Bell of Ottawa
Walmart
Wendy's of Ottawa
Youth Service Bureau
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