SeeWhat's Happening at STEP!

The Value of Collaboration

BY AIMEE SZABO, VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES MANAGER AT SERVICES TO ENHANCE POTENTIAL

FOR MANY PEOPLE, summer is the perfect time to get a job, or try out a summer work opportunity. WorkBased Learning Experiences (WBLEs) and Trial Work Experiences are a terrific way to explore a career pathway and to gain experience working in the community. It is also an excellent way to earn some money.

All year long, the Employment and Training Services (ETS) Department at STEP (Services to Enhance Potential) has been hard at work staying connected with our employer partners who know the value of providing work opportunities to our members, and searching for new businesses who are interested in finding out more about collaborating with STEP. Employers are always on the hunt to find highly qualified, motivated, and skilled employees, and STEP can help them find that perfect match. These employer partnerships go far beyond summer work too. Many of our employer partners continue to work with the ETS Department beyond the summer months to offer competitive employment opportunities to our members.

Most recently, STEP has partnered with LaFontaine Automotive Group in Dearborn and Livonia to offer clerical and auto detailing internships at three different dealerships. We are so excited to work with them and demonstrate just how well-prepared and professional our members are. STEP is also happy to announce that we are working with the Grotto in Trenton. The pizzeria’s owner, Rob, is a supportive and inclusive employer who recognizes the value our members bring to the table (pun intended). One of our Project SEARCH interns hosts at the Grotto after school and on weekends and is one of Rob’s most trusted employees. Rob has commented on the tenacity of our member and the level of motivation they demonstrate when it comes to work, Rob is always impressed that they “consistently show up and are always on time!”

Small and large businesses alike recognize the benefits of hiring STEP members. Recently, our interns have gained community employment at Meijer, Taco Bell, Capuchin Soup Kitchen, McDonald’s, KFC, and Detroit Metro Airport, just to mention a few! These jobs not only provide income, but perhaps more importantly, they provide purpose, direction, and promote increased independence for our members. Learning how to budget an income from a job and manage one’s own personal finances can lead to a more independent lifestyle and the freedom to pursue other goals such as getting a driver’s license, buying a car, saving for the future, or taking a vacation.

You have probably heard the saying “It takes a village...” and usually that phrase ends with “to raise a child.” Well, I am here to tell you that it also takes a village to get a job. Employment is a collaborative effort here at STEP, and our members are fully supported on their individual journey. The Employment and Training Services Department prides itself on its ability to provide quality training, make meaningful job matches, and provide follow-along support to ensure our members can maintain their jobs. We are even more proud of the effort our members make day after day to overcome barriers and master all the skills necessary for work. Because while we can teach them all the skills in the world, motivation comes from within. Finally, we are grateful to our employer partners who recognize and appreciate the value of an inclusive and diverse workforce. This collective commitment to continuous growth and opportunity makes our community a village we can all be proud to live and work in.

For more information on how to become a STEP business partner, please contact Aimee Szabo at aszabo@stepcentral.org or 734-389-5411.