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Project AdvanceProject Advance - Outline Of Services Project Advance is a private, non-profit career placement program designed to meet the needs of adults whose work lives or careers have been interrupted or delayed by personal setbacks. The Range of Services provided includes weekly vocational counseling, employment readiness assessment, skills assessment, stress management training, resume development, interviewing techniques, and on-the-job support. Additionally, placement assistance and coordination of professional and natural supports are offered to the individual, to assist in the adjustment to the work process. Candidates experience and education range from entry-level to college graduates, and candidates have demonstrated an interest in job placement or resumption of their careers. Project Advance services are provided in three phases: Assessment Phase, Job Search Phase, and Placement Phase. The Assessment Phase is designed to assess work history and work skills, address personal and situational barriers to employment, identify job or career options, enhance resume and interviewing skills, develop a job search plan, build professional and natural supports, and provide benefits counseling. Participants also attend weekly support group, which continues through each phase of the program. The second phase, or Job Search Phase, varies in length for each client, and ends when employment is obtained. Activities during this phase include weekly coordination of job search efforts and planning with PA staff, interviewing, networking, negotiating disclosure, and individual vocational counseling. Weekly groups include Support Group, Job Development, and Interviewing. An Employment Advisory Board, created in the spring of 1991, assists staff in locating appropriate jobs. Representatives from MetroWest companies volunteer their time on this board to help set goals, make job matches and identify job leads. They also conduct trial interviews and hire program clients. The third and final phase, the Placement Phase, begins with the first day of employment and varies in length. Project Advance staff provide active support to clients to help address any problems during initial employment (two months). When needed, support can be extended beyond the two-month period. If the client has disclosed, staff also consult actively with employers, and facilitate accommodations as needed. When the company and client are satisfied that placement is going well, program services end, and the client is considered permanently placed in the new job. Project Advance Staff remain available should any problems develop thereafter. Referrals to Project Advance come from varied sources, including the Mass Rehab Commission, social service organizations, mental health outpatient clinics, private hospitals, and private therapists. Recruitment of candidates is handled through mailings, postings, telemarketing and presentations by staff to local agencies and organizations. The program serves, but is not limited to, cities and towns in the MetroWest area. Project Advance is operated by Programs For People, Inc. It is reimbursed by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission and supported by local foundations. Outline of Services
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