Developmental Services Of Northwest Kansas, Inc.

Supported Employment Services are directed toward individuals with disabilities for whom Competitive Employment has not traditionally occurred. Supported Employment provides a wide range of opportunities. The number of hours worked, environments, and skills needed on the job are as varied as the individual employment goals.

Enclaves consist of no more than eight individuals placed in an industrial or commercial setting with on-site supports. The work is supervised by an agency trained person (working supervisor) or by an employee of the business. The business pays the agency for the work produced, and the agency pays the workers following all Federal Wage and Hour requirements. The enclave may be a good opportunity for some workers to eventually move into full or part-time individual supported employment.

Work crews consist of no more than five individuals with a working supervisor moving from location to location performing a particular service. Examples include: yard or lawn maintenance and janitorial services. The receiver of services pays the agency and the agency pays the workers. Work crews also provide a good opportunity for some workers to eventually move into full or part-time individual supported employment.

An individual placement is when the person becomes an employee of the business, is paid by the business and is eligible for any employee benefits offered. The individuals placed in this type of setting need on going supports to maintain their employment status.

The persons served in Supported Employment are assigned a Employment Specialist who participate with all core team members to ensure employment goals of the individual are met. The Employment Specialist is also responsible to provide or assist in on going training and support for the individual at the job site and other job related skills.