Employment Services

The Arc of Union County offers a wide range employment services for adults with disabilities. Programs include transition services, job training, job placement, and on- and off-site employment opportunities for individuals with a wide range of abilities.

Transportation:
The Arc provides comprehensive transportation services to meet the needs of the the individuals we serve. Although our transportation services are not available for general public use and are not for hire, curb to curb transportation services are provided to individuals served by The Arc of Union County including adults who are using walkers, need personal assistance, are in wheelchairs and need wide isles. Individuals served are transported to and from day and residential programs, medical appointments, week-end activities, emergencies and community activities. For more information on our Transportation Department services please contact the Arc at 973-315-0000 or by email: info@arcunion.org

School-to-Career Transition Services

The Arc's School-to-Career Transition Program helps prepare students with special needs for post-graduation employment. Transition students explore career opportunities through interest testing, tours of local businesses, job sampling and meaningful work experiences.

For more information, please contact Yvonne Nelson at (973) 315-0081 or ynelson@arcunion.org.

DVR/Vocational Evaluation

The Arc of Union County is an approved agency of the NJ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVRS). In accordance with DVR guidelines, The Arc can provide evaluation, training and placement services for adults with intellectual and developmental and/or other disabilities.

An adult with disabilities who is interested in working may receive a vocational evaluation to identify his or her abilities, skills, training needs, and interests in order to guide him or her to suitable employment options. Assessments and training are provided in-house at our Vocational Training Center, or referrals to other resources can be provided. Please contact Yvonne Nelson at (973) 315-0081 or ynelson@arcunion.org.

Job Training

For extended employment and adult training program participants, all production work is fully supervised by skilled staff to ensure all workers have the necessary skills and are able to complete tasks according to job guidelines and quality standards. All individuals are paid for work completed according to Department of Labor guidelines

The Arc maintains four work programs at three sites located in Springfield, Cranford, and Scotch Plains. Each work center is supervised by trained staff and is a safe and collegial environment for all participants. Emphasis is on the workers' abilities and interests rather than their disabilities.

In addition to providing safe and structured day programming, our work centers provide an opportunity for each individual to learn new skills, perform meaningful tasks, earn his or her own paycheck, and be part of a work team and community. Our many program participants are enthusiastic about their experiences, and some have shared their opinions in testimonials.

At our work centers, Arc staff teach participants job related skills while reinforcing social skills and daily living skills.

Supported Employment

Skilled employment specialists (or "Job Coaches") ensure a smooth transition into a competitive job in the community for qualified adults. Job coaches identify and develop job placements in the community and provide initial training, on-going support, follow up, and/or consultation.

Some individuals are employed in the community in individual job placements and receive support or training from an Arc Job Coach as needed. Others who need continued support and/or supervision to maintain a job in the community, may work in group placements with the constant presence, support and supervision of an Arc Job Coach. We strive to match individuals with appropriate jobs and employers. Since 1977, The Arc has offered training and ongoing support to ensure employee success and employer satisfaction.

For more information about Supported Employment, please contact Linda Muhammad at (973)315-0083 or lmuhammad@arcunion.org.

Green Sports NJ

The Arc of Union County has embarked on a new venture. Green Sports NJ, located at 100 N. Union Ave in Cranford, NJ is a store that sells donated new and used sports equipment. Individuals with disabilities are employed in all aspects of this small business. Customers support The Arc, help the environment and get a great deal on their purchases of sports equipment. We welcome everyone to visit our store for your sports needs and to donate your outgrown or unneeded sports equipment to Green Sports NJ.

"It is so nice to know that we now have a partner who can handle this task (labeling) in a convenient, cost efficient manner."
E. Wilson, Sensory Spectrum