The Arc San Francisco

The Arc of San Francisco takes a holistic approach toward generating the right match between the client and the employer, and basic skills evaluation and training is core to our methodology. Through Employment Services, The Arc of San Francisco provides a continuum of offerings to suit various individual needs that include the following:
·        *Situational Assessment identifies level of functioning, strengths, limitations, and provides information to assist with placement potential, using a variety of work environments in the community.

·        *Vocational Assessment involves a combination of written and hands-on short-term assessments to evaluate basic skills in academics, office services, computer, telephone and technology.

·        *Job Exploration assists clients with identifying work interests by visiting and observing specific job sites and job functions.

·        *Personal and Social Adjustment are services that work with the clients to address identified barriers to employment, such as grooming and hygiene, and social skills. Time-limited, individualized training is provided in the most appropriate environment.

·        *Employment Preparation includes intake and screening, identification of employment goals, development of an individualized service plan, and participation in job seeking skills training. Staff members and volunteers from the business community assist with developing a resume, filling out applications, providing interview preparations and mock interviews, and consulting with the client's support system (family or siblings) to assist with the placement planning.

·        *Job Placement services identify specific job opening(s) that is/are appropriate for each client based on his/her identified strengths and weaknesses, and assists him/her in becoming employable. These services include: interface with technology such as telephone and computer; job search; arranging and attending interviews with the client; discussion and negotiation with employers; coordination of placement activities; completing all paperwork; and ensuring appropriate short-term transition.

·        *Job Coaching assists clients with integrating into a specific work culture and environment -- both on a social and professional level. Job Coaching also involves educating co-workers and supervisors about effective ways to work with a person with a disability. Staff from The Arc will train with the client on-site, for as long as necessary or until the individual acquires skills to do the job independently. Follow-up will occur at anywhere from two times per month to several times per week subsequent to initial training.

The work that clients of The Arc can perform well includes simple and repetitive tasks such as collating, shredding, recycling, or photocopying. These are not "make-work" jobs. They involve many of the mundane but necessary activities that needlessly occupy the time of more highly paid employees. These tasks typically have to be "carved out" from existing job activities. By identifying these tasks and delegating them to our clients, businesses can realize significant time and payroll savings, improve the efficiency and morale of the general workforce, and perform a vital community service that brings inspiration to everyone in the workplace.