Supported Employment

Many of our participants are eager to employ the vocational training they’ve received at Portal with local businesses. Our Supported Employment Program is designed to give these energetic and highly motivated workers the kind of personal supports and on–going supervision they need to be successful working in the "real world." The employer provides the work and a suitable environment and Portal provides the support in the form of training, job coaching and employment counseling. In 2006, 80 participants were involved with our Supported Employment Program — some working just a few hours a week and some working full–time, with benefits. Others were somewhere in between. This program carefully matches an employer’s need for workers with the supported employee's capabilities and desire to work. We try to avoid rushing this matchmaking process as our goal is to create a successful "marriage" between worker and employer…not just a casual acquaintance. This process can take a little time but as experience has taught us, it tends to pay off in the long run with satisfied employers dealing with satisfied and contented workers.

In 2006, our 80 Supported Employees collectively earned over $400,000 in wages. This is money they earned and had to spend on transportation, rent, food, entertainment, recreation and personal items. It has been estimated that individuals in our Supported Employment Program make up as much as 60% of the riders using the Ozaukee County Shared–Ride Taxi Service. Consequently, virtually all of the wages earned get reinvested into the Ozaukee County economy.

If you have an unmet need for workers, give our Supported Employment Office a call and let's discuss your needs. Odds are we can match one or more people to fulfill your needs.

Learn More About Specific Programs

• Work Services
• Supported Employment
• Adult Day Services
• Alternative Day Services
• Transportation
• Recreation

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