Sector Based Training Programs

LinkAbilities works with businesses to develop sector-based training programs for individuals with disabilities in various industries. All programs are designed with the input of employers and are based on their hiring-needs. Programs are also created so that they are sustainable and can be replicated in other regions with the assistance of LinkAbilities. Some of these programs include:

St. Joseph Hospital Project SEARCH

Developed over 15 years ago at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, this school-to-work program trains young adults with disabilities to work in the healthcare field. Students spend the school-year working and training in various internships within St. Joseph Hospital, before seeking competitive employment upon graduation. St. Joseph Hospital pioneered Project SEARCH in New Hampshire in 2009. Since that time, LinkAbilities has assisted several regions in replicating the program, including Manchester, Concord, Keene, and Lebanon. To find out more about this program, please visit www.projectsearchnh.org.

STRIDE (Sodexo Training & Recruitment for Individuals with Disabilities)

STRIDE is a training program for adults with disabilities developed in partnership with Sodexo, Lowell General Hospital, and The PLUS Company. STRIDE is a 20-week internship program set at Lowell General Hospital and is currently in the pilot phase. Students learn skills and intern in various departments overseen by Sodexo Managers, including Environmental Services, Dining Services, Grounds and Maintenance, and more. The goal is for each graduate to use the skills they have learned to seek employment once the program is completed.

The InCOME Program

The InCOME Program is being developed in partnership with the New Hampshire Association of Insurance Agents and Eaton & Berube for adults with disabilities. Students in this program will learn the basics of the insurance industry, along with a wealth of customer-service skills in a classroom setting. After learning the curriculum, students will then be given the opportunity to intern at various insurance agencies. This program is expected to begin in September 2011.

LinkAbilities is working hard to develop even more sector-based programming, so please check back for updates. If you are interested in receiving technical assistance to replicate any of these programs, please contact us to learn what contract-based services we provide.