Over the past two years, our Disability Services Career Pathway Training program has trained 72 individuals for careers supporting people with disabilities. In that time, 48 participants have secured employment in roles such as registered behavior technician, transportation provider, resource coordinator, and teaching assistant.
This six-week virtual training focused on:
- What does it mean to have a disability?
- What supports and professional opportunities exist in the field?
- What are best practices for working in this field?
- How can I be successful in seeking, obtaining, and maintaining employment?
Hear From Our Participants
"This class was a great blend of learning about people with disabilities, their lived experiences, and how best to support them, combined with practical assistance on acquiring a job in the human services field. Independent of work skills, this training deepened my patience, kindness, and empathy skills, skills that I can apply all the time."
"The Polus Center Disability Supports Professional Training Program sharpened my knowledge of concepts and positions within the Human Services field. It was instrumental in pivoting my career into this field. The presentations gave such a great sampling of all different types of areas within Human Services. Thank you, Polus Center!"
"Showed up for job training, accidentally leveled up as a human. Would absolutely respawn here again. 10/10."
"The best decision I made was to join this class. I learned so much and gained the confidence that was needed to move forward in my career of choice"
"Participating in the Disability Services Career Pathway course was an incredibly valuable and empowering experience. The curriculum was thoughtfully designed, offering a comprehensive overview of the disability services field while also providing practical tools and real-world insights.
The facilitators, especially Katie, created a welcoming and inclusive learning environment where open dialogue and diverse perspectives were encouraged. I felt safe and supported in sharing my ideas, asking questions, and engaging in meaningful discussions with both the instructors and my peers."
"I love to help people but don’t always know how to. The Polus Center helped me to better understand myself and I’ve learned more about exciting opportunities to serve my community. I’m so grateful for this program! Thank you team"
"This program was outstanding. My class was filled with a variety of people coming from a variety of different backgrounds. I learned so much from each presenter about myself, and about how to provide meaningful care, and the importance of meaningful care. By the time class was done I had interviewed at 4 different places, finished my resume, wrote my cover letter, and it felt so easy. They set you up for pure success!!"
A Thank You To Our Funders
This project is funded by the Senator Kenneth J. Donnelly Workforce Success Grant (Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund FY’24-26 Appropriation) through the Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and is administered by Commonwealth Corporation.
Without their generous support, this program would not be possible, so we extend out sincerest thank you to them!