- MRC develops and pays for training to help individuals with disabilities become qualified for the jobs they want. This may include college classes, up to a Bachelor’s Degree level.
- MRC has two programs that may reimburse an employer for hiring an employee on a trial basis. The goal of both programs is to lead to permanent placement of the employee while ensuring that the needs of the position and the employer are met and that employee and employer are a good match.
- MRC has a unique program that helps save recruitment and advertising dollars. Employers contact MRC to connect with a network of pre-screened qualified individuals that are ready, willing, and able to begin work.
On Friday May 4, 2012, a delegate from the New England Industry Liaison Group attended the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission’s 15th Annual Awards Breakfast. This year, the keynote speakers were Oswald “Oz” Mondejar and Colleen Moran, leaders of the “Working Partners” program partnership between Partners Continuing Care (PCC), Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Network (SRHN), and the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC).
Since February 14, 2011, this partnership has resulted in the placement of 20 previously unemployed individuals with disabilities referred from MRC. A representative from MRC, Dan Craven, works with the Human Resource Department and hiring manager to determine their needs. This information is evaluated by the MRC team, which is comprises a Placement Specialist and Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, to propose the most qualified individual for the job.
With the onsite support, the candidate begins working with a sponsor doing the tasks and duties of the job for which they are applying. If challenges arise, a conversation takes place regarding whether accommodations will help, and what kinds of accommodations may be available. At the end of the On-The-Job Evaluation, the candidate and hiring manager make their decisions and the candidate either becomes an employee or awaits the next opportunity that meets their skills and needs.
For more information about becoming part of these programs, please contact:
Director, Statewide Job Placement Services
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
