TERI INTEGRATED EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
We are committed to empowering jobseekers by helping them secure and sustain competitive, integrated employment. Our services include offering paid internships at no cost to employers and providing ongoing support to ensure success when candidates are hired into Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE). Additionally, our Coordinated Career Pathways (CCP) program guides jobseekers in discovering and pursuing their passions. Together, let's build a diverse and inclusive workforce!
COORDINATED CAREER PATHWAYS (CCP)
Coordinated Career Pathways (CCP) is a new service designed for individuals exiting work activity programs, subminimum wage settings, or within two years of exiting secondary education to achieve or advance in competitive Integrated employment (CIE). Two new services are available through CCP, a Career Pathway Navigator (CPN) and a Customized Employment Specialist (CES). Services are time-limited to 18 months but can be extended to a maximum of 24 months.
Career Pathway Navigator
All individuals using this service will first develop a Person-Centered Career Plan (PCCP) with a Career Pathway Navigator (CPN). The plan includes the individuals career goal or interests, strengths, challenges and barriers, regional center and generic services and supports, short term milestones, action steps, and timeline. The CPN will provide direct assistance in the implementation of the plan including, guidance and information, and direct assistance accessing regional center and generic services. Monthly monitoring of progress occurs, allowing for necessary adjustments to be made to the PCCP as required. The PCCP may include, but is not limited to, the following activities and services: • career exploration • community engagement and integration • postsecondary education, vocational training • internships and or other work experiences (volunteering, temporary work, part time paid work) • supported employment (job preparation, search, placement, coaching) • customized employment • technology assistance • self-employment or microbusiness launch • benefits education and analysis (SSI, food assistance, housing) • transportation • financial empowerment and savings
Customized Employment Specialist
The recommendation for CE services and/or other RC services to meet individual needs to achieve CIE will be a part of the Person-Centered Career Plan. Customized Employment (CE) is an employment service that is designed for any person who wants to work, regardless of the severity of their disability, limited exposure to community and work experience, or support needs. CE is carried out through discovery, job search planning, job development and negotiation, placement support and post-employment support. CE results in CIE through a customized, negotiated job that matches the interests, skills, abilities, and work conditions of the individual to the business needs of an employer.
TERI VOCATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM (VIP)
The TERI Vocational Internship Program (VIP) is designed to provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while exploring various career paths. Through paid internships, participants can develop essential workplace skills in a supportive and integrated environment.
Key features of the program include:
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No Cost to Employers: Internships are fully funded, allowing employers to participate at no financial cost.
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Job Coaching: Each participant receives personalized support from a job coach to help them succeed. Coaches offer guidance on job tasks, workplace expectations, and professional development.
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Career Exploration: Participants have the chance to explore different job roles and industries, helping them identify their interests and strengths.
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Pathway to Employment: Experience gained during the internships can lead to permanent job opportunities, either with the same employer or in other sectors.
Overall, the TERI VIP helps participants build independence while equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to transition into competitive employment.
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Available Internships:
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Barista
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Therapeutic Equestrian
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Culinary
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Administrative Assistant
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Microgreens and Urban Farming
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Facility Care
We are currently seeking individuals who are clients of the San Diego Regional Center (SDRC) and are over the age of 18. Internships last for 8 months, are 5 days a week, and pay industry-standard wages.
SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT
Supported employment is a critical service designed to assist neurodivergent individuals in finding and maintaining meaningful, competitive, and integrated employment. It focuses on empowering people with disabilities to work in regular job setting earning equal pay and benefits for their work. This model promotes inclusivity and helps individuals with ID to develop independence, self-confidence, and social integration.
Here are the key components of supported employment:
1. Individualized Employment Support
Each person with an intellectual disability receives tailored support based on their unique needs, skills, and interests. This begins with a detailed assessment to match the individual's abilities with potential job opportunities. The goal is to ensure that the job aligns with the person’s preferences, strengths, and vocational aspirations.
2. Job Coaching
One of the most important aspects of supported employment is the provision of job coaching. A trained job coach works closely with the individual to provide hands-on support in the workplace, helping them learn specific job tasks, build appropriate workplace behaviors, and understand job expectations. Over time, the level of support is gradually reduced as the individual gains independence.
3. Ongoing Support
Supported employment provides long-term follow-up services. This support may continue indefinitely to ensure job retention and success. Ongoing assistance might include periodic check-ins, workplace adjustments, and continued advocacy on behalf of the employee.
4. Paid Internships & Trial Work
Many supported employment programs begin with paid internships or trial work experiences. These opportunities allow individuals with ID to explore different jobs in real-world settings without the pressure of long-term commitments, while employers can assess the individual's fit for the role.
5. Tailored Day Services
Tailored Day Services (TDS) is the funding source for this service at TERI.
6. Employer Collaboration
Partnerships with employers are essential to the success of supported employment programs. Employers are encouraged to provide an inclusive work environment, offer appropriate accommodations, and engage in open communication with job coaches and service providers to promote employee success. Many employers benefit from the loyalty, dedication, and unique perspectives that individuals with intellectual disabilities bring to the workplace.
7. Benefits to Employers
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Diversity and Inclusion: Supported employment helps create a more diverse workforce.
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Improved Employee Retention: Studies show that employees with disabilities tend to have higher retention rates.
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Access to a Broader Talent Pool: Employers can tap into a new pool of qualified and motivated workers.
Supported employment fosters independence, builds self-esteem, and enables individuals with intellectual disabilities to be active, contributing members of society. Through individualized support, job coaching, and ongoing assistance, these individuals can succeed in competitive, integrated workplaces. At the same time, employers benefit from a dedicated workforce and contribute to a more inclusive community.
For more information contact:
Meredith McDermott at meredithm@teriinc.org or call 760.473.0066​
