What steps are involved for me to obtain employment?
- You will meet with a member of the employment staff for intake and orientation to discuss your interests, skills, and abilities.
- You may be referred to the Job Readiness Group and/or a Customer Service Training Program to enhance your skills and better prepare you for a job.
- You will be assigned to an Employment Specialist, who will help you develop a resume and/or job seeker profile.
- Job development will begin. We can assist you in looking for a job, contacting employers, and completing applications. Many applications are filled out online. You or your family may also have employer contacts or job leads we can pursue – it’s a team effort!
- You will have the opportunity to improve your interviewing skills and practice a mock interview before meeting with an employer. You can also receive assistance in identifying options for travel training so that you know how to use transportation to get to and from a worksite.
- When you are hired, your Employment Specialist will provide assistance throughout the hiring process so you are comfortable in your new job. Additional supports, such a job coaching, may also be provided to assist you in keeping your job.
Do you help with locating and assisting with volunteer activities?
Volunteer activities help you gain experience for employment by being in the community, following a set schedule, and working with others. The Employment Connection can help you find volunteer opportunities in your local community that allow you to work on tasks and perform activities that you enjoy, based on your interests and abilities.
Volunteering can improve your skills and help you gain experience that will help you while you look for a job. Or, volunteering can be your main goal. It can offer you more choices and a great opportunity to help your community!
Will I lose my Social Security benefits or Medicaid if I get a job?
You can work and still receive Social Security benefits and Medicaid as long as you follow Social Security Administration (SSA) guidelines. Special rules make it possible for people with disabilities receiving Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income to work and still receive monthly payments and Medicare or Medicaid. Social Security calls these rules “work incentives.”
In addition, New York State participates in the Medicaid Buy-In program. Individuals with disabilities who would be ineligible for Medicaid because of earnings can work and access the services and supports they need. For more information, go to www.ssa.gov/disabilityresearch/workincentives.htm.
Is there a fee for services? Who pays for your services?
Generally our services are free to individuals with disabilities as long as they receive sponsorship. Sponsors include New York State Adult Career and Continuing Education Services (ACCES-VR), Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), local school districts, the SSA Ticket to Work Program, and other sponsoring agencies. We also can accept fee for service if there is no sponsorship available for services, or if sponsorship is not your choice.
How can I receive services from your agency?
If you are receiving services from any state agency, you can request a referral to receive employment services through The Employment Connection. If not, feel free to call us or contact us through our website and we can assist you to find the right source of sponsorship for services.
For more information, click here to contact us, or call 1-631-232-0976.
