M.A.S.E. Services
We at M.A.S.E. share in the belief
that individuals with significant disabilities have the ability to work in
integrated work places and the right to supported services with the goal to
enable them to become fully participating citizens in their community. We believe
that work will promote dignity and independence of said individuals.
Anthony currently works as a dining area attendant at Krystal's restaurant.
We are dedicated to the development of jobs, job training, and job support. We
also offer long term on going support, and help to advance in the work
environment. We believe in the right of the individual to have a choice in their
placement according to their interest. We help to overcome the obstacles in
joining the work force. The following are some of the goals we attempt with each
placement:
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Our agency is dedicated to placing individuals in the appropriate job markets in which they show an interest.
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Consumers are provided the opportunity to excel in their chosen field, develop work skills, overcome obstacles, earn a decent wage, and feel the self worth of being a part of the working society in a safe environment.
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We seek to maximize how much an individual can achieve in their job placements.
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We offer long term support to ensure that both the consumer and/or employer is satisfied in all aspects of the placement.
Number Served in 2005
The M.A.S.E. (Madison Area Supported Employment) program worked with 60 adults during this past year.
Services Provided
This is the sixth year for the Milestone Program through the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS). This is a fee-for-service based program. This four-step program is geared toward successful employment for the clients referred to us by the ADRS. The fee is based solely on outcome. The four steps are as follows:
1. Assessments—To assess clients’ capabilities, interests, needs,
and realistic career goals, 16 consumers completed this step.
2. Job Placements—To locate and secure an actual job in the work
force in the community, 17 consumers completed this step.
3. Job Coaching—To provide on-site training, assist with specialized
needs, and help to solve any problems that might arise in order
for a client to work, 14 consumers completed this step.
4. Closure— The client will have worked for three months without a
job coach present. At that time the extended service part of the
program goes into effect, 10 consumers completed this step.
Clients have specific needs that are unique to them. For this reason, the M.A.S.E. staff has to be open to diversified placements. M.A.S.E. helps in work readiness, job interviews, job leads, transportation arrangements, the interview process, and any other issue that may be needed for employment. The extended service part of the program is to stay in contact with the client and employer to ensure long-term job satisfaction. There are currently 41 consumers in the extended service stage.
Goals
The goal of the M.A.S.E. Program is to assist people with developmental disabilities in becoming an effective part of the community work force. The staff strives to help clients gain a well-deserved sense of importance as independent, tax paying members of our community.
Growth/Future Expansion
There is a nationwide initiative to effectively place individuals with disabilities into the community workforce. The Arc strives to prepare these individuals who would otherwise have difficulty finding and maintaining employment for the work force. Because of these efforts, people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities can achieve their goals.
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