Employment Planning Services (EPS) helps individuals explore career paths and choose employment goals based on their preferences, strengths, abilities/skills and needs. EPS is designed to help individuals learn about employment opportunities within the community and to make informed decisions. Community-based assessments, facility-based assessments and/or job shadowing may be used.

Welfare to Work, the JobWorks program, provides placement and intensive support services for Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) recipients who are having a difficult time re-entering the job market. JobWorks Specialists assist MFIP recipients in finding and maintaining employment through one-on-one mentoring. Follow-up services are provided to recipients for 90 days after obtaining employment, or longer if necessary, and the specialist may serve as a liaison between the employer, Social Services, WorkForce Centers and the recipient as needed. The goal is to help the individual overcome any barriers to employment so they can be successful at maintaining long-term employment.

Together, the JobWorks Specialist and the MFIP recipient develop a coordinated Service/Employment Plan, which includes, but is not limited to: recognizing strengths and limitations, developing a resume, filling out applications, targeting employers and job interests, enhancing interviewing skills, solving transportation and child care limitations, overcoming poor work habits and facing any other limitation or problems that need to be addressed before the recipient is employable.

JobWorks, through the ODC, is able to offer assessment and work experience sites as needed. Once employment is obtained, JobWorks can provide on-the-job support and follow-up services to help develop a successful employment relationship.

Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program is the centerpiece of legislation signed by Former President Clinton on December 17, 1999 under the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. It is a nationwide initiative designed to bring major positive change to the lives of individuals with disabilities.

This comprehensive national initiative is also designed to assist people with the training and support they need to go to work by increasing their choices. SSA beneficiaries with disabilities can find employment, vocational rehabilitation (VR) and other support services from public and private providers called Employment Networks.

The ODC is an Employment Network offering:
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills)
Career Strategies (skills assess & develop, job coaching)
Case management
Employment (Hiring Of Beneficiary To Work For EN)
Employment-Supported
Habilitation Services (Indp. Living Training, Assist in support of work)
Job Accomodations
Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement Assist)
Job Training
Peer Mentoring Services
Post-Employment Support (Job/Emplymt Retention Services)
Referral to Services/Support from Local MH or DD Providers
School to Work Transition Services
Situational Assessment
Transitional Employment Program
Transportation Assistance
Work Incentives Counseling

Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Blind/Visually Impaired, Deaf and/or loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Endocrine System and Obesity, Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions, Psychiatric Disorders (incl. eating disorders), Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke

The ODC offers help in returning to work or going to work for the first time. We offer a wide range of services that are provided at no cost to the ticket holder, and we have experienced staff ready to listen and respond to individual needs.