The person-centered vocational profile is an innovative service offered by the Specialized Support Services (SSS) department. It uses person-centered, individualized evaluation instead of standardized tests. The evaluator spends time with family, friends, staff and the individual being evaluated in a variety of environments. The process is cooperative, optimistic, inclusive and empowering to the person involved. Each profile will:

• Identify contributions an individual can offer an employer
• Identify present and future employment possibilities
• Describe ideal work setting
• Provide direction/recommendations for vocational programming

Recommendations generated from the profile are highly individualized and include a variety of ways to increase a person’s vocational experiences. Examples of recommendations include:

• Volunteer opportunities for individuals resulting in increased integration and work experience
• Referral to VESID for supported employment
• Programs for individuals to pursue their interests/job aptitudes such as computer training or General Education Diploma (GED) classes
• Link individuals to community activities (art classes, special interest groups)
• Pursue self-employment
• Assistance in planning a varied week of work, volunteering and education toward achieving work education