NORTHEASTERN CENTER CHOSEN TO PROVIDE NEW PREMIER EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM FOR THOSE LIVING WITH SEVERE MENTAL ILLNESS.
The Northeastern Center is one of four providers in the state chosen by IPS Employment Center to offer a new employment program to Northeast Indiana. This ‘Individual Placement & Support’ Program is an accelerated employment service designed to assist men and women living with mental health concerns find competitive jobs based on their strengths and skillsets. The goal is that these new IPS Services will positively impact employment opportunities for individuals and businesses in our communities.
The IPS Program uses evidence-based practices for supported employment. It is based on 8 principles: competitive employment, systematic job development, rapid job search, integrated services, benefits planning, zero exclusion, time-unlimited supports, and worker preferences. People who have a disability that interferes with their ability to work and those with felonies are eligible for the program. Close communication between treatment teams and the client’s supervisors is another essential part of the program to ensure the relationship is beneficial to both the client and employer.
Dottie Fuentes, Chief Clinical Officer at the Northeastern Center is excited for all of the benefits this new program will bring: “NEC is excited to help fill local job openings throughout our region. We recognize that many employers struggle to find reliable employees and we have a work force that is ready and able to meet the demands!”
“It’s a great honor to have the Northeastern Center Employment team chosen as one of four providers state wide to offer this Individual Placement and Support service. This is our opportunity to help men and women struggling with mental health concerns move forward in their recovery. It is so rewarding to see how returning to paid employment impacts a person life. Employment services such as this, will support adults and local businesses in Northeast Indiana. We all benefit!” says Bambee Lehman, supervisor for the Northeastern Center Employment Team.
If employers are interested in learning more about how Employment Services at Northeastern Center can help to meet their employment challenges please call: 260-242-6888.
