MCKEESPORT, PA (July 30, 2008) – Supported Employment, a program made possible through Vocational Services at Mon Yough Community Services, is ahead of the curve for a pilot program launched by Allegheny County called The Allegheny County Supported Employment Transformation Project. The Supported Employment Program at Mon Yough was designed to assist individuals with a history of mental illness find and retain jobs in their chosen profession.

MYCS Employment Specialists help consumers on a variety of levels, and assist them with various tasks and problem-solving issues in their professional lives. Employment Specialists help consumers build and send resumes, search for employment opportunities, practice interviewing and professional skills, and research benefit planning. If requested, the Employment Specialist can even provide on-the-job support.  They also have relationships with existing employers, and seek relationships with new employers for job-seeking consumers.

Allegheny County’s pilot program encourages Supported Employment programs to employ a methodology of evidence-based practices versus best practices. Evidence-based practices focus on the importance of finding a job that suits the individual’s needs, talents and desires. Evidence-based practices also tailor job searches to the consumer’s abilities rather than using generic search and support methods that do not accurately meet consumer needs.

“Employment Specialists at Mon Yough have been moving towards this for many years. It’s not new to our organization, but we’re glad to be a part of it,” said Jim Wyler, Manager of the Vocational Services Department at MYCS. Judy Hubans, Supervisor of Vocational Services, also believes in the success of evidence-based practices. She echoes Wyler’s enthusiasm, “We’re excited about the pilot program because it complements the services we’ve been providing our consumers with for a long time.”

“We are currently providing support to 47 individuals seeking employment. Within the past two years, we’ve assisted 17 individuals in securing meaningful employment,” said Hubans. MYCS Employment Specialists have helped individuals earn work as cashiers, dishwashers, nursing services, peer specialists, food service employees, warehouse laborer and more. They also help consumers renew licenses and manage the everyday obstacles and aspects of their professional lives.

For more information, contact Judy Hubans of MYCS at 412-672-3400.


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