The expectation is employment.
The outcome is empowerment.
At UCP Central PA (UCP), we understand that every person has unique strengths, talents interests, abilities, and experiences to draw upon. We also recognize that competitive employment provides more than a paycheck… it provides a purpose. That’s why we support individuals who have the desire and the ability to work, by helping them find a position in an industry in which they wish to pursue their career.
We currently offer a wide range of employment supports to more than 50 individuals who we’ve assisted in securing a variety of positions, including: teacher’s aide, bakery associate, cook, hostess, custodian, childcare worker, warehouse associate, retail sales associate, and more.
No matter the nature of the job, these individuals are doing more than making a living. They are building a meaningful life.
UCP of CENTRAL PA’S EMPLOYMENT SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE IN: CUMBERLAND/PERRY, DAUPHIN, AND HUNTINGDON/MIFFLIN/JUNIATA COUNTIES
Employment First
As an Employment First State, Pennsylvania is working to transform the historical practices and workplace perceptions related to employing individuals with disabilities.
The primary goals for the Employment First initiative are:
• Inclusion: which must be achieved not only in the community but also in the workplace.
• Support: through education, training and resources so individuals with disabilities can have the tools they need to be successful in the workplace.
• Collaboration: with various stakeholders to identify community partners for potential employment opportunities.
UCP has aligned with these Employment 1st principles to take significant steps to improve employment outcomes for people with disabilities. We partner each employment candidate with a UCP Employment Specialist who conducts a work assessment to determine which tools and resources will benefit the potential employee the most. In addition to the assessment, we provide the following support:
• Resume Development
• Interview Prep
• Job Coaching and Placement
• Job Mentoring
• Assistive Technology Exploration and Accessibility
• Retention and Career Enrichment
Additionally, through development and implementation of a Strategic Partnership initiative, which included the creation of a Strategic Relationship Specialist position, UCP is championing the benefits of hiring people with disabilities to community stakeholders.
As employers come to understand the many benefits that derive from inclusive hiring, the more they value the individuals they have brought on board, and the culture they have helped create. Studies have shown that people with disabilities:
- Take less absent days and stay on the job longer
- Promote an inclusive culture that appeals to an attractive talent pool
- Are consistently ranked high regarding motivation, work quality and engagement
We wish to acknowledge the forward-thinking businesses partners and leaders who are working with UCP’s Employment Services to invest in our shared communities by creating meaningful inclusive employment opportunities.
For more information about UCP’s Employment Services, or to inquire about an intake:
Call locally: 717.737.3477
Call toll-free: 800.998.4827
Email: Referrals@ucpcentralpa.org
Online: via our referral form