All the supportive employment services you need, all in one place.
SIRS partners with the Indiana Office of Vocational Rehabilitation to provide employment services that help individuals prepare for, obtain, and succeed in competitive, integrated employment. Services may provide funding and support for job development, training, and initial job coaching as you begin your new career.
An Employment Coordinator will support you throughout every step of your employment journey. Whether you’re looking for your first job, returning to the workforce, or exploring a new career path, we’re here to help you achieve your employment goals. We will work with you to identify your strengths, interests, and career goals while providing individualized support that may include:
- Creating or updating your résumé
- Completing job applications
- Preparing for interviews
- Developing workplace and job-search skills
- Identifying employment opportunities that match your interests and abilities
- Contacting local employers to help connect you with available positions
SIRS is available to continue to support your long-term success. Through Indiana’s Medicaid Home and Community Based Waivers: Extended Services, ongoing job coaching and employment supports are available to help you maintain employment, build confidence, strengthen workplace skills, and continue growing in your career. Our Employment Coordinators remain available to provide guidance and assistance as your needs change, helping you achieve lasting employment and greater independence.
Vocational Rehabilitation Employment Services
Pre-Employment Transition Services (preETS)
SIRS partners with the Indiana Office of Vocational Rehabilitation to provide pre-employment transition services to eligible students with disabilities in Warrick, Perry, and Spencer Counties. Pre-ETS helps students ages 14 through 22 prepare for life after high school by building the skills, confidence, and experiences needed for future employment, education, and greater independence. These services supplement the transition planning and support students receive through their schools.
Our experienced Employment Coordinator works with each student to explore career interests and develop a personalized plan for success. Pre-ETS services include:
- Job exploration counseling
- Work-based learning experiences
- Counseling on post-secondary education and training opportunities
- Workplace readiness training, including communication, teamwork, and independent living skills
- Instruction in self-advocacy so students can confidently make informed decisions about their future
Through group instruction with hands-on experiences, community partnerships, and individualized support, students gain valuable skills that prepare them for competitive, integrated employment and successful transitions to college, vocational training, or the workforce. Our goal is to help every student discover their strengths, explore meaningful career opportunities, and take the next step toward an independent and fulfilling future.
Transition to Work: Project SEARCH
Our Deaconess Project SEARCH is modeled on a nationally recognized program developed at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Project SEARCH provides transition age students with disabilities employability skills training through unpaid internship experiences in preparation for competitive employment in the community. Through Project SEARCH Indiana, students in transition who are in their last year of high school or recent graduates can experience innovative employment and career development opportunities.
Deaconess Project SEARCH is a successful partnership between SIRS, Deaconess Hospital, Warrick County School Corporation, and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. At this time, SIRS provides this service to students in Warrick County.
SIRS Employment Coordinators, Warrick County School Corporation Special Education Department staff, and Deaconess Hospital staff work collaboratively so that Project SEARCH student interns can develop a variety of employment skills. If interested, please contact the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation or the student’s Teacher of Record.
