JVS is seeking metropolitan Detroit companies who will consider serving as internship sites as part of a new initiative to help people with disabilities develop work skills and gain employment. The Pathways to Careers (Pathways) initiative covers the costs of the internship wages for participants.

“Through the Pathways program, our focus is on maximizing the likelihood of a good job fit,” says Bill Hielscher, JVS employer relations specialist. “The program provides resources and incentives for employers, and interns receive support from JVS to help ensure success.”
Pathways participants will undergo a discovery process to identify their skills, interests and abilities. Individuals will then be matched with an employer for an 8-12 week internship at no cost to the employer.

“Becoming a Pathways employer is an exciting opportunity for local companies to meet their business needs while helping to shape a better future for individuals with disabilities,” says Hielscher. “Permanent employment is the ultimate goal, and Pathways offers a great way match interns to potential employment opportunities and make sure it’s a good fit for everyone.”

JVS is one of four agencies in the country to receive funding from SourceAmerica to implement Pathways, which is based upon a successful model launched in Utah. SourceAmerica is a national organization dedicated to providing job opportunities for people with significant disabilities.

Employers interested in serving as internship sites may call Bill Hielscher at (248) 795-8943 or email him at whielscher@jvsdet.org.