Employment First

BCS is a non-profit agency which has been proudly serving individuals with developmental disabilities since 1977. Centrally based in Jackson, Ohio, we provide an array of residential services in seven southeastern Ohio counties. In addition, our ADS programs provide community integration, vocational development, supported employment, and adult day support services throughout southeastern Ohio.

In December, 2014, BCS further expanded by becoming a provider for the Employment First Initiative partnership between Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) and the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD). The partnership provides an array of community employment services to consumers to assist in securing and maintaining employment in their communities. Since that time, BCS Employment Specialists have developed relationships with local employers and successfully helped a number of consumers find and adjust to a variety of jobs.

In 2017, BCS successfully obtained accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) for its community employment programs. This allows us to extend a broader range of community employment services to an even greater number of consumers.

Job Development—A BCS Employment Specialist will work with local employers to find the right job for you. Together, you and the Job Developer will develop a plan that works for you to build a resume and/or complete applications for employment based on the type of work you want to do. The JD will keep you updated on the status of your submissions and help you prepare for interviews.

Career Exploration—If you’re not sure exactly what kind of job you want, then Career Exploration may be a way to help you decide. You will travel with an Employment Specialist to visit a variety of job sites to see exactly what the job looks like and listen to employees talk about what it’s like to work there. After exploration is over, you will have a better understanding of specific jobs, and that can help you decide which type of work is for you.

Job Coaching—The first few days at a new job can be stressful and overwhelming. BCS can help you adjust to your new job and learn how to complete your job tasks on your own. The JC will communicate with your supervisors about expectations and make sure you get the job done right

Community Based Assessment—If you’re not sure whether or not you want to work in the greater community, then Community Based Assessment may be able to help. A Specialist will find an employer, or employers, who will allow you to come into the workplace and perform job tasks like other employees. You and your Specialist will talk about which skills you have and which ones to work on before you decide if community work is right for you. The best part is that you are paid for the work you do… just like everyone else!

Job Retention—After you have learned how to perform your job tasks independently, the Specialist will maintain contact with you and your new employer to make sure your transition into your new job is successful and you are happy with your job. It is our job to make sure you have all the tools you need to be a valuable employee.

Adjustment Services—Sometimes, people have specific skills they would like to gain in order to be more independent on the job. In the past, Employment Specialists have helped people gain those skills, such as preparing for the Ohio Driver’s Permit Test. Talk to your Counselor to see if this would be helpful to you.