EMPLOYMENT

Introduction

Transitional Employment

Supported Employment

Independent Employment

Advantage of Employment Program

• Due to mental illness, members do not usually have a regular work history when they come to Phoenix Clubhouse. Work, however, is an important factor in transitioning them back into a normal life pattern.
  
• Almost every member in Phoenix Clubhouse works, either in the Clubhouse or in the community. As they regain self-confidence from the Clubhouse work-ordered day, they will then take the initiative to look for paid employment in the community.
  
• Transitional Employment, Supported Employment and Independent Employment are three clubhouse services for vocational rehabilitation. These Employment Programs help members find and keep paid jobs in the community.
  
• Because we believe in the importance of work in the full recovery of our members, the majority of our staff are involved in these programs.
  
• Members receive unlimited individual or group support from the Clubhouse in these programs, one example of which is the Employment Dinner.

It is a unique collaboration between Phoenix Clubhouse and the business community.

* The clubhouse member (program participant) enrolls with the employer’s personnel department as an hourly employee and gets paid competitive wages directly from the employer as a part-time worker. A benefits package is therefore not required.

* The clubhouse staff trains the member at the job site until the staff, the member and the company’s supervisors all agree that the particular member is ready to work independently.

*The member returns to the clubhouse during non-working hours as a part of his/her support system that also prepares him/her for future independent work.

* The clubhouse guarantees absence coverage, either with the help of trained clubhouse members or by one of the clubhouse staff;

* If a member needs to be absent from work, the clubhouse guarantees absentee coverage so his/her duties will be completed covered. Either a trained clubhouse member or one of the clubhouse staff will fill in for the absentee.

* Should a member prove to be unsuited for the job, he/she will promptly be replaced with another member.

*TE jobs are held in trust for the clubhouse. Every six to nine months, the working member moves on to a new TE while a new member rotates in. Everyone can take up as many TEs as he/she would like. When a member is ready, he/she is encouraged to seek independent work or attend school with our support.

* Entry-level positions

* Part-time, 15-20 hours per week

* Regular, predictable work schedule

* Routine, repetitive tasks

Advantage of Employment Program to Members

Advantage of Employment Program to Employers

• Mental illness can be very isolating. Going to work enables members to return to society where their abilities are recognized and made use of. This gives them a great sense of accomplishment and raises their self-esteem and confidence.
  

• Through the program, they can develop new relationships and resume societal contacts. The financial gain from the job can supplement their limited government benefits.

• Employers gain reliable, enthusiastic, and competent employees who then become less dependent on government subsidy.
  

• As an hourly employee, members do not require a benefits package. This translates into less expenditure for employers.
  

• Time spent by Phoenix Clubhouse Staff training the members, covering members’ absences, and supporting members on their jobs is provided without cost to the employer.