CARES Chicago's Supported Employment Program (SEP) serves individuals who need extensive support services to obtain and retain employment.  The program serves Department of Human Services/Division of Rehabilitation Services clientele who have significant barriers to employment and are referred directly by their counselors.  Participants are individually placed with a permanent job coach.  The program creates a strong working relationship with the employer to assure a long-term, successful placement.

Services Include:

Job Readiness Training

Dressing for success, interviewing skills, job matching, employer expectations, and employee rights.

Job Development

Through site visits and job analysis, CARES Chicago's professional staff provides consultation to employers interested in hiring qualified individuals with disabilities.

Transportation Training

Training that teaches participants how to access public transit in both a classroom setting and as well as on the buses and trains used between home and work.

Job Coaching Services

A professionally trained individual is available for long-term support, on and off the job site, as needed to provide evaluation and supervision to the trainee/new employee.

Job Retention Counseling

SEP staff meets regularly with the client and their DHS/ORS counselor to review progress, identify obstacles and set new goals.