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Learn and Earn Program

October 2007

The Henry Kessler Foundation recently awarded Abilities, Inc. with a $483,000 grant over two years to replicate a college support program for students with disabilities in New Jersey. The Learn and Earn program at Abilities, Inc. was established over a decade ago in two New York community colleges to assist students with disabilities pursue a community college education. Recognizing that capable students with disabilities are often disadvantaged by poor educational preparation, low self esteem and lack of supports, the Learn and Earn program is a supportive transitional program that has three primary components: career counseling, prevocational instruction and placement. Services are provided via classroom instruction and through individualized or group counseling sessions and workshops. The program is individualized and supports the colleges’ Office of Supportive Services (OSS) or Disabled Student Services (DSS). The Kessler Foundation grant will allow the Learn and Earn program to provide pre-vocational instruction, career counseling and evaluation during the first two semesters of a degree or certificate program.  Students will then receive more intensified career and placement services during their final year prior to graduation. This design will allow students to receive the supports needed at the time students need them most. By structuring the program in this manner, students with disabilities will receive a comprehensive array of vocational, counseling, evaluation and placement services that will better support their academic and vocational successes.  Additional services will be provided to include parent workshops and guest presentations through our relationship with the National Business and Disability Council.

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