Supported Employment

The Barber National Institute has been providing an array of supported employment services since 1986.

Since that time, the Supported Employment Program has made more than 1,000 job placements for more than 600 people with approximately 400 businesses in Erie County. The Employment Specialists, or "job coaches," are highly trained and professional. They strive to provide high quality services appropriate to the needs of the individuals and employers they serve. The goal for each supported employee is that he or she will successfully and independently maintain employment in the community.

• Services to the Supported Employee
• Services to the Employer
• Employer Testimonials

Services to the Supported Employee Include:

• Community Based Work Assessment
  Establishes job readiness, targets appropriate job matches, and recommends supports necessary to secure and maintain employment in the community. 

• Job Development
  Provides training and assistance in all phases of the job search including: creating a resume, completing job applications, developing interviewing skills, contacting potential employers, analyzing potential employment sites, and reviewing specific job responsibilities prior to placement.

• Job Coaching
  On site job training including intensive training (100% on-site support), fading (gradual reduction of on-site support), follow-along (periodic visits to monitor progress), and re-intervention (additional training for new tasks or to improve skills). Off site training for continued development of work-related skills, social skills, money management, and transportation training is also available.

Services to the Employer Include:

• Preliminary screening and referral of potential employees

• On-site training and follow-along services

• Consultation on effective strategies for supervising and working with supported employees

• Assistance with Work Opportunity Tax Credit paperwork

• All services at no cost

Employer Testimonials

Local businesses have found that people with disabilities can become dedicated, responsible workers when given the chance. Here's what some of them have to say about Supported Employment:

• "The Barber Institute has a wonderful job coaching program that helps individuals gain their independence and become successful Wal-Mart Associates." Lori - Wal-Mart, Human Resources Office.

• "[The individual placed is a] conscientious employee that appreciates his job. Richard – Girard Dinor, Owner.

• "I wanted to take a second to let you know how valuable your services are to our organization. Our employee that you have coached and trained is second to none . . . I would also strongly encourage any of my peers and colleagues to take advantage of the supported employment services offered by the Barber National Institute. They definitely won't be disappointed!" Janet – Forestview Nursing Home, Dining Supervisor.

The Supported Employment Program is located at 1358 East 12th Street. The office hours are from 8:30a.m.-4:30p.m., Monday through Friday.

For questions or more information please contact :  
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