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Vocational Services

Hope Network Developmental and Community Services operates a number of specialized vocational programs in West Michigan.

We’re proud to offer individuals the opportunity to learn vocational skills and participate in supported employment. Our program includes a range of options focused on building employment skills, where well-trained staff respect and value each individual for their unique abilities.

Skill Building

In classrooms, work centers, and community settings, individuals work on personal goals including vocational training, work-for-pay opportunities, and skill-building activities. Services are available at sites in Kent, Mecosta, Monroe, Osceola, and Wexford Counties, Michigan.

What we offer
  • Work readiness activities
  • Work character development
  • Work safety skill development
  • Workplace expectations training
  • Employment Solution Academy (ESA)
  • Temporary Work Experience (TWEs)
  • Community job exploration
  • Leadership skill development
  • Community volunteer opportunities

STEPS Program

Skills Training for Employment Preparation Support

STEPS is structured, in many ways, just like a job. It’s an intensive training, helping individuals plan their employment options, prepare and search for jobs, improve interviewing skills, and acquire and maintain employment.

Instructors work with four to eight individuals, exploring and enhancing skills for community jobs, volunteering, and community living, and making choices toward a vocational future.

STEPS

What does STEPS training provide?

Through the course, staff will work closely with individuals to help them identify strengths and challenges, and work toward self-imposed goals.

  • A focus on teamwork, resume writing, and proper interview etiquette.
  • Increasing employability and self-sufficiency skills.
  • A comprehensive approach to job preparation, job placement, and job retention.
  • Individualized job readiness training and evaluations.
  • Opportunities for enhancing skills, career development, resume building, and Internet/computer learning.
  • Breakout sessions in all areas of employment goals to help support working and non-working participants.
Supported Employment

Supported Employment

Hope Network Supported Employment provides community-based employment for people with disabilities, mental illness, or other challenges to employment.

Our specialized team makes connections between employers and job candidates, and provides assistance with seeking, finding, and maintaining that job. Our Employment Training Specialists (ETS) provide the tools and connections so individuals can attain greater independence through employment and community involvement.

Supported Employment
Person-centered planning is a key component in helping individuals compare their abilities with career choices, and discover their strengths and interests.

Our team makes recommendations after observing participants in a variety of situations in the home and community, and talking with family members and others in their support network. This ensures the placement is a good fit for the individual and meets the needs of the employer.

Services
  • Enclave Group at Integrated Community Business
  • Individual job development
  • Job analysis and on-the-job evaluation
  • Recruitment and interview assistance
  • Job shadowing
  • Individual job placement and training assistance

Services are available at sites in Kent, Mecosta, Monroe, Osceola, and Wexford Counties, Michigan.

Hope Network Developmental and Community Services - Grand Rapids Center and Administration
755-795 36th Street
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49548
Hope Network Developmental and Community Services - Cadillac Center
1610 Corwin Street
Cadillac, Michigan 49601
Hope Network Developmental and Community Services - Paris Center
21645 Northland Drive
Paris, Michigan 49338
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Call our vocational team, and let us help get you or your loved one back to work.