The Career and Employment Network
The Career and Employment Network (CEN) is the supported employment division of Liberty Enterprises. There are several models of supported employment offered based upon the needs and desires of the individuals referred to the program. Basic criteria for employment requires that the person work in a setting where they have regular contact with non-disabled co-workers, work a schedule of at least 20 hours per week and are paid at minimum wage or better. Individuals must have a documented disability to be eligible for services and have VESID sponsorship,(Vocational Education Services for Individuals with Disabilities, a program of the New York State Education Department). The only exception to these criteria is the TEP** and School-to-Careers programs which are outlined below.
**Traditional Employment Program
Individual Job Placements:
Individuals receive assistance in obtaining community employment and are paid by an employer. A job search is conducted with the individual, in conjunction with an employment training specialist, based on the person’s interest and skills. The employment training specialist helps the individual learn the job and then gradually reduces his/her support.
Enclaves:
 A group of 8-10 individuals with disabilities work at a community-based site with a supervisor employed by Liberty. The participants are paid by Liberty. Current enclave sites are: Amsterdam Print Company and the Recorder. This program is seen as a stepping stone, teaching necessary skills which enable participants to move on to competitive employment.
Transitional Employment Program (TEP):
This program is designed to meet the needs of individuals diagnosed with a mental health illness. The jobs are temporary in nature and short term, usually around 6 months. The worker has the opportunity to gain work experience, self confidence, job awareness, and an understanding of what accommodations are needed to be able to work successfully in the community. Our current TEP sites include: Liberty Enterprises, grounds crew work at a local cemetery, Rosito’s Bakery, Amsterdam Free Library, Handy Up’s and Down’ and the YMCA.
School-to-Careers Program:
This program assists students with disabilities in transitioning from high school through activities such as career exploration, job shadowing, tours of area businesses and colleges, and work study experiences. Students who participate in work-studies in the community are paid a stipend to go to “work” as part of their school day. The goal of the program is a seamless transition from high school to either employment or post- secondary education.
The services provided by CEN include:
-job development
-job preparation training
-assistance preparing and writing resumes and cover letters
-career development and exploration
-job coaching
-employer support
-incentives for employers
-transportation assistance
-benefits counseling and advocacy
-counseling
-VESID eligibility assistance
Incentives for Employers:
There are two major incentive programs for employers
- Work Try Out reimburses all of the wages that an employer pays to an individual up to 160 hours. There is no obligation to hire the employee after the 160 hour period has expired.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit offers the employer an opportunity to apply for a tax deduction at the end of the year for hiring the individuals referred by CEN.
The Career & Employment Network also provides employers with information regarding the Americans the Disabilities Act (ADA).
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