 | Stephanie Webb, for more information about Host Homes, or if you would like to become a Host Home provider, please contact Stephanie Webb, Community Relations Manager at Mosaic, either by email, Stephanie.Webb@Mosaicinfo.org or phone, 620-231-5590. Visit us online at; mosaicinsoutheastkansas.org.
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Community Events
2012-06-01 14:58:53
Employment for the developmentally disabled
Q: My 20-year old son is developmentally disabled and looking for work. Unfortunately, with the economy, getting a job, any job is harder than ever. Times are so very hard even people with higher education are spending nights working second jobs wherever they can find work. What can I do to help my son have a competitive chance at getting in the workplace?
A: Very good question and this is a question we are hearing often. First, might I say, jobs are hard to find now with the economy in the situation it is in currently, but resources for individuals with developmental disabilities are higher than ever before. The positive effect a job has on a person with developmental disabilities is remarkable. It changes their life considerably for the better. It is also a well known fact that individuals with developmental disabilities are hard working, reliable, ethical, and perfectionists.
If your son is receiving any kind of services through agencies like Mosaic, Class LTD, or New Hope then your son has a huge support base to assist with a job search. First thing he needs to do is express his desire for employment. Your son’s Direct Support Manager will assist in searching for the precise job match with skills and personality. The Direct Support Manager as well as your son’s Case Manager will work together until this correct match is found. Sometimes it takes awhile because of setting your son up for success.
Now if your son does not receive services through a local agency, my advice to you as parents is to take him to Vocational Rehab, or Kansas Work Center. They are both extremely helpful in assisting individuals with developmental disabilities find a job. Again, this does not happen overnight, because the right job match must be found for a successful outcome for both your son and his new employer. Your son will need to follow up with his application and the staff at both of the above organizations. Showing persistence shows desire. For all of us looking for a job we must follow up often.
My last bit of advice for you as a parent, get to know your community. Visit your Chamber events and other local gatherings, such as church events, community social events, and local job fairs. You and your son should get to know your community and become involved. The participation alone will show your son’s ability and desire to work. While volunteering in the community you will get to know many people with businesses. This is a way to reach out to people who will reach out to others to assist in your son’s job search.
Best of luck to you and your son in his job search. I hope these tips will be helpful.
