Employment Training Program

Program Description

The Employment Training Program (ETP) is an OPWDD employment program that provides individuals with developmental disabilities an opportunity to gain paid, hands-on work experience in a community business while developing the skills needed for long-term employment.

CVES works with each participant to identify their interests, strengths, employment goals, and support needs and then helps develop an internship opportunity with a local employer that provides a meaningful employment experience.

During the internship, participants receive individualized support from CVES employment staff while learning job responsibilities, workplace expectations, communication skills, and the routines necessary to become increasingly independent on the job.

Program Highlights

ETP provides participants with an opportunity to:

• • • Participate in a paid community-based internship
    • Explore employment based on individual interests and strengths
    • Gain real-world experience with a local employer
    • Develop job-specific and transferable workplace skills
    • Build a resume and employment history
    • Strengthen communication, time management, and workplace readiness skills
    • Receive individualized job coaching and support
    • Increase independence as skills develop
    • Work toward competitive, integrated employment

A key goal of ETP is to create a successful match between the participant and employer that can build toward long-term employment whenever possible.

How to Access Services

ETP is an OPWDD-funded employment service. Individuals interested in participating must meet OPWDD eligibility requirements and be appropriately authorized for the service.

CVES can work with individuals, families, Care Managers, and Self-Direction teams to discuss whether ETP may be an appropriate employment option and assist with next steps in the referral process.

For information about ETP or making a referral, contact CVES Transition & Employment Services.

Contact Information & Office Location

Champlain Valley Educational Services
RISE Center for Success Plattsburgh, New York

Transition Services Office
Phone: 518-561-0100
Email: robinson_tonya@cves.org

Resources & Links

Additional information about the Employment Training Program, OPWDD employment services, eligibility, and employment supports is available through the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).

ETP Program Flyer

Benefits for Employers

Partnering with ETP gives local businesses an opportunity to develop potential employees while supporting an inclusive workforce.

Employer partners may benefit from:

• • • Motivated individuals interested in learning and working
    • Support in identifying appropriate job duties and developing a successful job match
    • Assistance with training and onboarding
    • Ongoing communication with CVES employment staff
    • Job coaching and workplace support for the participant
    • An opportunity to evaluate an individual’s skills and fit within the workplace through a structured internship
    • Support with problem-solving and developing greater workplace independence

CVES works closely with both the participant and employer throughout the experience. Our goal is to develop partnerships that meet real business needs while creating meaningful pathways to competitive employment for individuals with disabilities.