The Vocational Program

It is widely acknowledged that individuals who have neurobehavioral difficulties often learn best by "doing." The Vocational Program offers such a forum in which a person has the opportunity to learn, practice, and integrate appropriate work behaviors with marketable skills. Targeted outcomes, which are individually determined, drive the vocational program for each participant.

Services offered

The many facets of the Vocational Program at Touchstone are designed to implement goals and objectives that are appropriate based on an individual's history, needs, and targeted outcome. The program includes the following components:

• Vocational assessment

  Vocational assessments blend standardized testing, situational assessments and behavioral observation to determine an individual’s vocational interests, abilities, and aptitudes. Assessment data serve as a basis for developing each individual’s vocational plan.

   

• Silk screening print shop

  The silk screening projects in the print shop are provided by outside customers. The participants in the print shop conduct their own marketing and sales to generate the business. They silk screen designs on T-shirts, tote bags, bandannas, towels, aprons and other items. Residents in this area are also paid according to the Department of Labor standards.

   

• Horticulture program

  This area provides the vocational program with a fully equipped greenhouse and garden. This is a self-contained business which is client-driven. This business creates a real-life setting for individuals to develop or improve work skills, habits, and attitudes while exploring other interests and abilities. The horticulture participants also follow the Department of Labor Standards and receive bi-monthly pay checks.

   

• Job readiness training group and job placement

  This group is provided for individuals three times a week. For many individuals, the targeted outcome includes community job placement. Training is provided in the area of job-exploration, interviewing, resume preparation, and other job- seeking skills. When actual job placement occurs, professional assistance is available to train, educate and monitor the job situation, as well as to facilitate any necessary modifications to ensure a successful outcome.