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Subminimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment (SWTCIE)

The Subminimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment (SWTCIE) program is a direct result of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.  This program is funded through the Department of Education and is a collaborative effort through ACCES-VR and Independent Living Centers. SWTCIE is designed to offer a transitional pathway for individuals currently engaged in 14c workshops who are earning less than minimum wage.

 

SWTCIE has been created to empower participants by

  • Providing customized employment services that aim to enhance vocational skills.

  • Securing sustainable and fulfilling employment opportunities that go beyond the conventional 14c workshop framework.

  • Ensuring that every individual has the support and resources necessary to pursue their career aspirations in inclusive, competitive, and rewarding work environments.

 

 

Key Components of the SWTCIE Program:

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Customized Employment Services:

These services are:

  • Identify and match the unique strengths, needs, and interests of each participant with appropriate employment opportunities.

  • Personalized job coaching, vocational training, and continuous support to facilitate successful job placement and retention. 

  • Seek employers in the community who have job opportunities that cater to the strengths of the individual. 

  • Benefits Advisement for questions concerning SSI/SSDI and expertise guidance for OPWDD benefits approval

 

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Collaboration with ACCES-VR: Working closely with ACCES-VR, we aim to leverage a network of resources, expertise, and support systems to enhance the employability and skills of our participants. This partnership will ensure a cohesive strategy to maximize the impact of the services provided.

 

 

Independent Living Services: A critical component of the SWTCIE program is the focus on independent living services.

  • supporting participants to achieve a higher degree of independence and an improved quality of life.

  • provide access to a range of resources, including life skills training, financial literacy, community integration and benefits advisement.   

 

 

 

The SWTCIE program is not just a vocational initiative; it is a commitment to fostering independence, dignity, and meaningful employment for individuals who have historically been marginalized in the workforce. By integrating employment services with independent living support, we are setting a new standard for what is possible in achieving a truly inclusive community- aiming for nationwide adoption.  

We are enthusiastic about the potential of the SWTCIE program to make a significant difference in the lives of its participants and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

 

 

Self-advocacy

  • Involves expressing thoughts, feelings, and beliefs

  • Understanding of individual rights and responsibilities       

  • Accountability for decisions made

  • Making efforts to improve life situations
     

Self-advocacy skills for employment

  • Career exploration

  • Understanding various job opportunities

  • Recognizing personal strengths and talents

  • Understanding of accommodation needs related to disabilities, disclosing disabilities, understanding employment rights under the ADA, and requesting accommodations when necessary.

Program Director

Gregory Runfola

Email 

Call

(631) 880-7929 Ext. 151

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