Project Spark is a new program within NCDHHS designed to help people working in sheltered work programs transition into competitive integrated employment.
It gives people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the support they need so they can work in the kinds of jobs they want. Although the program is in its early stages, hopes are high that its methods of wrap-around services and supports will help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) become successful in their careers selected. From transportation to training and job coaching, Sparks services are free to NCDHHS participants.
Spark is a pilot project with three locations in North Carolina. It all started in 2022 when NCDHHS’ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services received a $13.84 million disability innovation grant from the Federal Rehabilitation Services Administration.
What makes Project Spark different from other CIE initiatives is that its funding means Spark can provide the types of employment and wrap-around services people need to be successful at work at no cost to job seekers. The grant supports staff who assist participants with technology, career counseling, transportation and other necessary assistance that participants need to be successful.
The three Project Spark sites are Chatham Trades in Siler City, with a focus on green energy jobs, Wake Enterprises in Raleigh, with a focus on travel and tourism jobs, and Tri-County Industries in Rocky Mount, with a focus on labor . for essential workers.
Project Spark supports disabled people as they take part in everyday activities and encourages them to take on the same work roles as their non-disabled peers, ensuring that the right policies, practices and support are in place .
We were excited about the opportunity to help people with I/DD who are interested in transitioning from minimum wage jobs to career opportunities in the community where they can earn competitive wages working alongside people with and without disabilities, said Bridget Hassan, Director of the Spark Project. with NCDHHS Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services. What makes Project Spark different is the level of funding, which allows us to provide ongoing services and support enabling participants to have long-term success in the community.
Spark is not about eliminating choice and is not the answer for everyone with I/DD. It is for those interested in CIE to have the opportunities and support they need to obtain integrated community-based employment.
Spark relies on a team approach to hiring. Transportation is integrated into the services customers receive, and each customer receives true person-centered job retention services based on need. Technical assistance is provided as well as a key to engaging the Sparks community.
Each of Sparks’ clients will be supported by a team that includes a navigator, a peer mentor, employment specialists, a benefits adviser, a vocational rehabilitation adviser and client carers.
Even the biggest fire starts with a small Spark, Hassan said. This potential is within all of us. It’s time to find your Spark and light up the world.
You can learn more about Project Spark on the NCDHHS website or contact Bridget Hassan at 919-855-3619 or bridget.hassan@dhhs.nc.gov for more information.
#Promotion #competitive #integrated #employment
Image Source : www.ncdhhs.gov