A Program for People with Disabilities
What does innovative workplace inclusion for people with disabilities look like? The Transitional Learning Center (TLC) at our Worldport facility is a game-changing, cooperative effort between UPS and the Coalition for Workforce Diversity (via Options Unlimited, Inc.). Here, people with disabilities can experience UPS jobs through hands-on training. TLC offers a two-week, pre-employment paid training with classroom training and a simulated work environment to teach participants about job responsibilities, safety procedures, and soft skills. The program is operated by UPS training supervisors as well as Options Unlimited job coaches.
Our Culture
At Worldport, our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork and integrity. At UPS, all team members are supported and celebrated—so people with disabilities are poised for success. TLC has been instrumental in continuing to grow our welcoming culture, thanks to practices that help people with disabilities feel valued and empowered.
A Typical Four-Hour Day in TLC Includes:
- Team building exercises
- Safe work methods
- Proper training for all procedures and tasks that will be required of the job
- Daily soft skills discussions and hands-on practice of available jobs
How It Works
Options Unlimited receives referrals from the Kentucky Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, Social Security Ticket to Work, and Department for the Blind to provide these services at no cost to the clients. They provide a variety of services and supports to individuals so that they may achieve their desired vocational goals.
Individuals would begin the Supported Employee process at the assessment and planning stage. During this time they will look at the individual’s interests and skills and match them to a potential employer through job development. On-the-job training and coaching is a support that is offered to ensure the success of the individuals in the Supported Employee Program.
If the Employment Specialist felt like UPS would be a good fit for their client, they would help the client complete an application, prepare for the interview, and attend the job interview with the client. UPS would complete the steps of the interview which could include running a background, submitting fingerprints, and submitting a drug screen. If the client was hired, they would be given a start date.
During the first two weeks of training, the employee would complete both classroom and hands-on experience. UPS has created a full simulation of Worldport to teach participants about job responsibilities, safety procedures, and soft skills.
Once the two-week training concludes, there is a seamless transition into the operation. Staff members continue to support TLC graduates as they transition into the workplace by providing information to the graduates’ new supervisors on learning needs and working style. Just as importantly, TLC graduates are able to return to future TLC classes to share their experiences and become mentors to current TLC participants.
Visit the Options Unlimited website for more information.
Options Unlimited Employment Specialist & UPS TLC Training Coordinator: Libby Gootee
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