WORK FOR INDEPENDENCE

As part of the Work for Independence program, students, ages 16 and older, have the opportunity to work at various sites in the community on a volunteer basis. This experience helps students to gain responsibilities and job skills. Currently students go to work Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and every third Friday.

Students are matched with their transitional goals on their IP's,and have the choice of working at one of the following six sites: Animal Rescue League of Berks County where the student grooms, walks and feeds the different animals; The Reading Hospital and Medical Center where their job varies from clerical work to sorting and packaging materials; Unique Desserts where students wash and put away dishes as well as occasionally assist with food preparation; Columbia Cottage where students are engaged in food service; Boone Area Library, where students reshelve books and other media; and Mifflin Court where students set tables for residential lunchtime dining.

A job coach from John Paul II accompanies the students to the site for assistance, guidance and support.

If a student is unhappy with a particular job or if they would like to explore other areas, they have the freedom to choose a new work site.