EDUCATION/TRANSITION
Contact Stacey Trowbridge, Mentoring Program Director stacey@dnlakeshore.org
Disability Network offers several programs geared toward preparing teens and their parents for employment, independence, and community connections. These programs include:
Mentoring
Teens with hidden, physical, sensory, and/or health related impairments can explore transition options with the help of an adult mentor through our BRIGHTfutures program. BRIGHTfutures is a community-based mentoring program where youths aged 14-18 are matched with an adult volunteer for one year. Participating youth are required to identify at least two transition-related goals to work on with the help of their mentor. Mentors are screened using an FBI criminal check along with other local background inquiries, and receive seven hours of training prior to being matched with a youth. Those participating in a match receive free/low cost activities, discounts from local businesses, and support from our staff throughout their relationship.
Annual Youth Employment Summit
YES gives 14-18 year olds the opportunity to learn how to get and keep a job. Twice a week for three weeks, youth focus on career choices and preparation, interview skills, and worker responsibilities. Contact lucia@dnlakeshore.org to apply.
Transition Presentations
Offered to high school students in a classroom setting and through community forums for parents and professionals, these presentations cover topics such as careers, life skills, and self-advocacy.
Education/Transition Links:
U.S. Department of Labor
NWREL’s National Mentoring Center
America’s Career Resource Network
Council for Exceptional Children
Job Accommodation Network
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition |