What We Do

Transition to Work Program

Variety supports the healthy transition of youth with both physical and developmental disabilities from high school to work.

We partner with PYN to match young peoples’ abilities with paid positions at Jefferson Hospital at Methodist, Library for the Blind & Physically Handicapped, Philabundance, Shop-Rite (Colligas Family Markets, LLP), Ummie’s Kiddie Kottage Daycare & Learning Center, several High School buildings, churches and other community partners.

The program also provides sensitivity training and support to the managers who hire them as well as working with parents to provide support, training and information as their child with a special needs to successfully transition from school to work.

Young people who attend one of our site-based After School Programs will receive pre-vocational training (including job coaching, shadowing and on-going support) designed to develop and enhance the following skills necessary for employment:

Basic job skills: sorting, alphabetizing, task completion, punctuality, appropriate work behavior and appropriate dress
Social skills: problem solving, team building, initiating conversation, maintaining eye contact, seeking help and asking questions
Complex job skills: resume writing, interviewing, portfolio development, accessing public transportation and on-the-job safety
Leadership skills: Promote youth to have an effective professional voice and through role playing, group discuss and problem solving