Columbus Connects digital brochure

HELPING STUDENTS CONNECT TO WHAT COMES NEXT

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Columbus Connects Program The Columbus Connects program provides pre-employment transition services to students with disabilities, ages 14-21. Every program participant will work with a Columbus Connects Pre-Employment Transition Specialist who will guide the student and parent/guardian through a 5-module program that will include the following topics: Job exploration counseling Work-based learning experiences Counseling on postsecondary educational opportunities Columbus Connects is located at the Hub of Opportunity and housed with the NextWork Program to create a seamless service from one program to the next.

3848 S. West Temple Suite 107 South Salt Lake City, UT 84115

Workplace readiness training Training in self-advocacy Upon successful completion of the program, students and parents will be better informed of the transition services and resources available to help students successfully transition out of the school system and into adulthood.

Employment and Education Exploration Columbus Connects participants will explore various career opportunities through site visits across multiple industries at local businesses in the community. During these visits, they will explore jobs and learn what type of training or education is required for that particular position.

Program participants will be introduced to postsecondary educational opportunities through colleges, universities, and technical/trade schools in the area. Site visits will include campus tours and information regarding programs and courses.

Students will be provided an application and information for programs of interest if this is the avenue they want to pursue.

Government & Community Resources One of the greatest challenges for families with a student with a disability is navigating post-secondary services. The Columbus Connects program will help students and parents navigate a variety of government and community support systems, including: Utah State Office of Rehabilitation/ Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VR) Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD) Department of Workforce Services (DWS) Social Security Administration SSI/SSDI benefits Utah Work Incentive Planning Services (UWIPS) Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Affordable housing options Referrals to resources including disabilityadvocacy groups, social and recreational organizations, and community agencies

Strengths-Based Thinking & Assessments Connections with other Community Organizations Navigation of Government Support Systems Introduction to Self-Advocacy Employment Exploration Post-Secondary Education Exploration Job Site Visits Transition Planning Social Skills Development Guidance for Families

For questions or more information about the Columbus Connects program, please contact:

Lori Ransom Columbus Connects Director Cell phone: 801-232-5605 Office phone: 385-715-5382 3848 South West Temple Suite 107 Salt Lake City, UT 84115 Visit our website: www.columbusserves.org

Serving Individuals with Disabilities since 1968