Employment

“Work is essential… it is the glue that binds us to society.” - Bob Harvey, Founding Director

Work gives us purpose and connects us to those around us. It builds community and gives meaning to our lives. But for people with mental illnesses, it is difficult to find and keep a good job. Self-doubt and low self-esteem can be compounded by the terrible feelings that come with unemployment. Because of this, employment is one of the fundamental building blocks of the Clubhouse. Independence Center strives to give every person who wants it a chance to work at a real job.

We know members can and do want to work – they prove it over and over. To help them,

Independence Center provides:

• Instruction in resume preparation
• Interview training
• Assistance with individualized job searches
• Employment workshops
• Job Development
• Job placement services
• On-the-job training and supports
• Ongoing follow-up for both the employee and the employer
• Lifetime job retention and upgrading services

Through a network of supporters and businesses in the St. Louis community, the Center continually seeks new opportunities to place members in Transitional Employment and Independent Employment.

Transitional Employment (TE)

One of a series of steps that enables members to build confidence and momentum in pursuing real work, TE:

• Is a part-time, temporary placement intended to re-integrate a member into a real work situation.
• Is chosen based on the idea that each job should require skills that each member already possesses (this is not a career move, but simply a chance to get acclimated to a workplace and the discipline and resources necessary to have a job).
• Usually lasts six months and can be anywhere from 10-20 hours a week
• Is supported by staff “on-the-job” – meaning staff cultivate the relationship with the employer and actually spend some time on that job, learning it so they can assist members once they take over. Staff make sure the job is appropriate for the member, that he or she has transportation and assist with any issues that may arise, etc.

Independent Employment (IE)

The ultimate goal of Independence Center’s employment programs is to assist members in achieving Independent Employment. IE:

• Is either full-or part-time, but is intended to be a long-term placement versus the temporary nature of TE.
• Can be opportunities the Center finds, or more often, they are opportunities members seek out and find on their own.
• Is supported by staff who assist members off-the-job – providing benefits consultation, transportation guidance, etc. In IE, the relationship with the employer is directly with the member.
• Is intended to incorporate more of the career path a member wishes to take. It takes into consideration members’ specialized skills and career aspirations.
• Is supported by the EDGE Program – a weeklong training program that prepares members to enter a higher-level, more permanent and independent job.

If your company is interested in providing employment opportunities for members of Independence Center, please call Amy Clinton at 314-880-5407.