Everyone participating in the vocational program takes part in an assessment designed to identify their current skills and goals. This provides a structure from which to develop individualized objectives in the following areas:

Vocational Training

For participants who have a goal of becoming more qualified as an applicant in the labor market we offer direct, non-paid training in job skills. This includes broad skills such as time management, staying focused, and following directions. This also includes more specific skills such as stocking shelves, filing, organizing, and cleaning.  Participants are encouraged to work toward specific and measurable skills that can be applied to many work prospects.

Example: If an individual has a goal of working in an office and the vocational assessment found that they were unable to alphabetize or stay on task for more than 10 minutes, we would work with them to learn how to alphabetize and increase their ability to stay on task.

Job Supports

Some participants are employed through one of our many job contracts. These participants work a regular schedule at their job site where they receive on-going training to increase their productivity and independence.

For those who want to participate in the workforce but who do not currently have the skills necessary for competitive employment, CIWP partners with the Department of Labor to obtain work permits through which workers receive an adjusted wage.  This allows for ongoing development of their abilities to obtain competitive employment.

Example: CIWP has a contract with a local store to assist with go-backs, shelving, and customer service. Participants work at the store several days each week; receiving on-the-job training, on-going reviews of productivity, and wage-adjustments as they work toward increased productivity.

Alternative Models

As the economy changes, more and more people are pursuing alternative work models and self-employment. This is a growing trend and CIWP is making sure our participants are able to follow this path if they choose.

Participant Owned Business “Nano Enterprises”

CIWP is proud to offer the exciting, new, vocational alternative of business owning.  With our assistance, program participants will learn the process of developing and ultimately owning their own business. This program develops a concept and business model based on individual interests and skills.  It also incorporates an assessment of the need for the business’s goods or services in the market place. When necessary, CIWP works with participants to partner with their peers to take on larger business ventures. Once the concept and plan are in place, participants seek out the necessary resources and put their plan into action.  Job Coaches aid each participant with on-going supports.

Example: Through a discussion with participants wanting to pursue an alternative work model, CIWP found that people were unhappy with the lack of a healthier variety of vending services. This led a group of participants to begin our first consumer-owned vending machine business. With the assistance of CIWP, participants purchased their vending machines and have taken on the responsibility of restocking and maintaining the machines in exchange for the revenue produced by their nano business. Since this time several businesses are being developed at CIWP programs.