Transition Services
The move from high school to adult life can be difficult for many individuals with disabilities. The PLUS Company seeks to ease that transition through cutting-edge, innovative programming, including an after school program focusing on the skills necessary to find and keep employment, summer camps that allow for exploration of social and self-advocacy skills, school-to-work programs, and a teen group that assists with relationship building. The PLUS Company is committed to creating comprehensive programs that will allow well-rounded individuals to succeed as they move into the adult world.
After School Program
The PLUS Company’s After School Program gives teens the opportunity to take part in activities to discover what the world of work is all about. Funded by a grant from the State of New Hampshire through the Gateways Community Services Family Support Council, this eight week session focuses on creating excitement and interest in working, along with teaching skills necessary for successful employment. Topics covered include learning styles, career planning, post-secondary options, the job search, and social skills at work. Students also have the opportunity to visit a variety of companies and observe different work environments, as well as create a work portfolio of their experiences.
Summer Camp Program/Teen Group
For individuals with disabilities, ages 16 and up, The PLUS Company offers a summer camp program that explores a variety of skills. In the past, summer camp has allowed young people with disabilities to explore the world of work, through tours of local businesses, mock interviews, help with resumes and job applications, and practicing the necessary social skills for interacting within the workplace. Participants also have the opportunity to learn independent living skills, including cooking, money-management, and safety skills, as well as learning self-advocacy and leadership skills. Those who wish to extend their learning experiences throughout the school year may chose to participate in Teen Group, which is open to teens eligible for Gateways Community Services and meets once per month. The Teen Group continues the focus on social skills and relationship building, through fun activities and trips.
St. Joseph Hospital Project SEARCH
The PLUS Company is also a participant and one of the major forces behind the St. Joseph Hospital Project SEARCH program. This school-to-work program for students with disabilities in their final year of high school is set entirely within St. Joseph Hospital. By offering total workplace immersion, Project SEARCH facilitates a seamless combination of classroom instruction, career exploration and on-the-job training and support. Project SEARCH provides real-life work experience combined with training in employability and independent living skills. The goal for each student is competitive employment within the community, thanks to the skills they acquire during Project SEARCH. For more information on Project SEARCH, including eligibility requirements, please visit http://www.linkabilities.org/initiatives.projectsearch.php .