why host a work experience?

Work experiences are used for various reasons, but the main purpose is to help an individual find out what kind of job they are interested in and what types of work they are satisfied doing.  Work experiences are typically used for the following purposes:

Assessments - Provide the participant, employer and DVR counselor with an opportunity to evaluate the participant’s interest, suitability, job accommodation needs, productivity and other worker traits in a real work environment.  Often called “On-the-Job Evaluation” or “Work Trial”. 

Career Exploration - Learning about an occupational area or work environment of interest. 

Work Adjustment - Learn about basic work behavior and workplace requirements regardless of the specific job goal. 

Skill Enhancement - Develop skills in a specific occupation or brush up on existing skills and talents.

Reference Development - Obtain a current positive employment record and a record of individuals to use as references when  applying for new jobs and opportunities.

Job Try Out - Many DVR participants, particularly those who have had significant setbacks, need to approach working with as little stress as possible.  These people  often benefit from a limited commitment to the employer.  Also, some employers may not be ready to commit or able to  accommodate to a permanent hire, but are willing to offer temporary employment on a trial basis.  It is a way to give back to the community when other ways of giving are not feasible or financially available.

things to know about liability

When you are hosting an individual for a work experience you are not liable for any of the following:

 - wages

 - unemployment compensation

 - workman’s compensation

 - injuries or lawsuits

The client is being paid through an employment agency (temp service) and all of the liability is taken on by that agency.  It is just like hiring a temp employee.  You are not liable for any mishaps or problems.  We do not place individuals into jobs they are not capable of performing.  Our clients are work-ready and 100% qualified and approved to begin an assignment. At some work experiences a representative (job coach) will be there working with the individual assisting with the duties.  You are just providing an adequate work environment (ie. work lab) for us to use as a means to meet the needs of our consumers. 

Your help is crucial to making sure we can help these individuals succeed and reach their vocational potential.  It is this support system that is absolutely paramount in their success and we thank you very much for giving this wonderful gift to an individual who is rebuilding their life and gaining the skills needed to meet their goals and make their dreams come true.  Just like all of us, these individuals seek gainful employment that provides self-sufficiency, self-esteem, financial stability, and the means to pursue a better life for themselves and their families. You can be a part of this wonderful opportunity.

rewards

It can be a very rewarding  experience to help an individual reach their goal of gainful employment!  You can be part of that by agreeing to host a work experience for an individual who is qualified and ready to arrive with a solid work ethic, our support, and a willingness to learn and grow.

A work experience can last from 2 weeks up to 12 weeks.  The hours per week can range from 2 to 40.  The options are flexible and are arranged to meet the needs of the DVR participants.