Supported Employment for Individuals with Disabilities

Support for Careers

Welcome to Support for Careers (S4C) a service of Children and Families of Iowa, established in 2020. We are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to access and sustain meaningful employment. Our firm belief is that lives are enriched through purposeful work, and often, resilient individuals who’ve faced challenges bring unique perspectives that positively impact both organizational culture and the economic landscape.

 

Benefits of Supported Employment for Individuals with Disabilities

Connections to Local Employers

On-the-job training

Employment

Paid and unpaid work experience, job shadowing, internships, apprenticeships, and labor market information.

Training

Exploration of college and training opportunities

We are dedicated to not only fostering careers but nurturing empowerment, inclusion, and transformation. Join us on this journey towards a more inclusive workforce and a brighter future for all.

Supported Employment

Supported employment is at the core of our mission, facilitating the inclusion of individuals with significant disabilities into the national workforce. Traditionally reserved for those whose disabilities have posed severe barriers to work, this approach pairs individuals with job coaches, colleagues, business supervisors, and mentors to provide comprehensive support throughout their employment journey.

Exceptional Expertise

S4C takes pride in being home to one of approximately 15 Certified Brain Injury Specialist Trainers in Iowa. This specialized training equips us to serve a frequently misunderstood segment of the disability community. Individuals who’ve experienced brain injuries or are affiliated with other Children & Families of Iowa programs receive preferential placement on our waitlist.

Customized Discovery and Employment

Our offerings extend to a tailored service designed for individuals receiving services from Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS). Customized Discovery understands that traditional assessments or even seasoned professionals’ observations don’t always predict an individual’s full potential. By engaging with individuals in their homes, we uncover their skills, interests, capacities, and motivations. This serves as the foundation for identifying vocational themes that drive personalized job development. Our goal is to help you find the most fitting community-based employment based on a deep understanding of your unique strengths.

Joe* confirmed that having a job, responsibilities, and purpose made him feel a lot better about himself. This work restores hope, builds futures, and changes lives.

Diane Hernandez
Support 4 Careers Director
Supported Employment for Individuals with Disabilities
*Name has been changed to protect client confidentiality.
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