Family/Friend
Supporting Your Loved One's Journey to Meaningful Employment
At The Employment Network, we understand that finding meaningful employment for a loved one with an intellectual disability can be a challenging and often overwhelming process. Our employment advisors work closely with your loved one to understand their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. By providing personalized guidance and support, we help them navigate the job market, identify suitable opportunities, and develop the necessary skills to succeed. Through tailored coaching and on-site job training, we empower them to become self-sufficient and thrive in their chosen career path.
How You Can Help
As a caregiver, you play a crucial role in supporting their journey. Here are some tips to help you navigate this process:
Tip 1: Understand Your Loved One's Abilities and Interests
Take the time to understand your loved one's unique strengths, skills, and interests. It’s important to encourage self-efficacy in their decisions to allow them to create their own job goals.
Tip 2: Be Aware of Expectations and Help Build Their Resiliency
Your loved one will be assigned an employment advisor who will help define the education and habits needed to transition into the workplace. Encourage them to actively participate and learn. Help them build mental toughness when routines become hard or encourage them to find accommodations with their advisor.
Tip 3: Celebrate Achievements and Growth
Celebrate each milestone and achievement along the way. Recognize and acknowledge the progress your loved one makes in their career journey, regardless of the pace. Celebrate their successes, no matter how big or small, and encourage them to embrace their abilities and accomplishments.
Remember, every individual's journey is unique, and the steps may vary depending on circumstances. As a caregiver, your love, patience, and support are invaluable in helping your loved one thrive in the workplace.
Services
Caregiver Coaching
Take an educational workshop to understand the expectations of your loved ones during this transition and gain some more skills on how you can help.
Phone: 705-253-1700 Ext 3005
Volunteer
We are in need of individuals who want to help create a community of support for people with intellectual disabilities to thrive in the workplace. You can help by providing transportation, coaching or assisting with administrative tasks. Please contact us to learn how you can be a part of our community of support!
What Families and Support Networks Say About Us
"I have a deep appreciation for the transformative impact of this program, particularly for the invaluable support it has provided to my son, Ryan. This program has proven to be a catalyst for his personal and professional growth, equipping him with essential skills and bolstering his confidence."
Giselle, Family Member
"This enriching experience has not only instilled a strong work ethic in my students but has also imbued our youth with an unwavering belief in their capabilities."
Scott, Lifeskills Special Education Resource Teacher, White Pines Collegiate & Vocational School
"This job really helped him on his journey to maturity. He enjoyed the experience, especially working on a team with his coworkers. Thank you for being responsive when the little bumps in the road needed to be worked out."
Joan, Family Member