Bridges to Work
Bridges to Work
Friendship Home’s Bridges to Work employment program empowers people with developmental disabilities to explore their career plans, set goals and build the necessary skills to attain and retain a job. Our 30 Employment Partners include a variety of businesses throughout the South Shore and beyond that welcome our committed, responsible workers into their workforce.
- job and skill development
- application/interview support
- job fair preparation
- on-the-job skills training with job coaches until he/she can work independently
- regular follow-up and assessment
Friendship Home’s professional and caring staff members meet with program participants and their family members to provide support and guidance, to discuss community service and group training projects, and to design a vocational plan uniquely tailored to meeting each individual’s personal career goals, as outlined in the Individual Vocational Plan. Our Job Developer approaches employers in the community to find the right job that suits the skills and desires of the participant. When the Job Developer is able to match the participant with an appropriate position, a job coach is assigned to accompany the participant on the job site with the goal of eventually having him/her work independently. Transportation is provided between Friendship Home and all job sites.
In addition to job placement, the BTW program offers a diverse curriculum that enables participants to choose courses that meets their interests and needs. BTW participants are encouraged to volunteer and participate in local events, thereby raising awareness and recognition for the gifts that they bring to our communities.
Application Process
The popular program is heavily demanded since many individuals need services at the age of 22 when they can no longer attend public high school. Interested applicants must participate in an in-take process and meet with the Director before he/she can be accepted into the program.
“It’s hard for me to find the words to express how happy my daughter is at Friendship Home. She loves Bridges to Work, the Gourmet Cooking Club, outings and theme parties. She wants to do it all. … She is a changed person, matured and caring, with a smile on her face all the time.
Thank you, Friendship Home!”
Friendship Home mother