LH Works
Employment training program for young adults with diverse abilities
LH Works provides social and vocational experiences for job seekers who currently do not reach the benchmarks for competitive employment. By identifying the interests and vocational readiness of job seekers, LH Works empowers individuals to create their own pathways to employment and independent living.
WHO WE SERVE
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high school and transition age students
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Individuals with diverse abilities and unique needs
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Job seekers who have not yet mastered the vocational and soft skills necessary for competitive employment
OUR PROGRAM
LH Works provides hands-on learning and work-based experiences to equip job seekers with the skills necessary to be active and competitively employed members of the workforce. Participants have continuous opportunities to explore a variety of career options, while trained professionals systematically build on each person's skills and knowledge.
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In addition to skills training, job seekers will continuously work to develop soft skills through workshops, social sessions, and instruction related to decision making and communication skills. Through a well-balanced, multifaceted approach to job training, job seekers are able to achieve success. The ultimate goal for LH Works participants is to develop a sustainable path for employment and independent living that lasts well beyond their time with us.
FARM TO TABLE
agriculture
From seed to crop, job seekers learn how to grow and tend plants, as well as gain an understanding of proper techniques in commercial applications.
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culinary
In local restaurants/cafeterias, and our own commercial kitchen, job seekers learn the basics of food safety, preparation, and culinary operations, gradually working their way to creating finished products. Course work is created and adapted by local chefs.
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food services
Job seekers receive instruction on safe storage and serving of food, point of sale (POS) systems and cash handling, customer service, and workplace safety. Graduates of this track receive nationally-recognized ServSafe certification by the National Restaurant Association.
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THE TRADES
facility operations
From effective techniques for cleaning to stripping and waxing floors, job seekers will learn numerous maintenance and custodial tasks. They will gain a well-rounded knowledge of small and large tasks in order to maintain a spotless facility.
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maintenance and repair
Job seekers will be taught a wealth of information in order to properly maintain, repair, and improve a variety of residential, commercial, and industrial facilities. From the correct ways to paint and repair minor defects to completing work orders, and assessing for health and safety, they will be provided with the skills necessary to effectively maintain the day-to-day operations of a commercial building.
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landscaping
Not just limited to lawn care, job seekers will work with local businesses and with the LH Works Landscaping Team, to safely and correctly use motorized machinery, perform routine grounds keeping, and follow proper lawn care and other gardening techniques. By the end of programming, they will be able to competently care for and maintain a variety of outdoor spaces.
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CULTURE AND TOURISM
arts and entertainment
The arts and entertainment sector gives job seekers work experience in art galleries, museums, and entertainment venues. They will learn everything from basic roles such as ushering at performance venues to more technical skills such as operating lighting systems rigging and event set up and planning.
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hospitality
Our region hosts millions of visitors each year in the heart of the Connecticut tourism industry: Mystic, casinos, and other local area attractions. These visitors fuel the need for employee's work in lodging, attractions, and recreation venues. In this track, job seekers will be introduced to a broad array of hospitality and guest services including work in our own Airbnb.
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retail/customer service
As the field of retail continues to evolve, job seekers will focus their efforts on developing strong customer service skills and learning technology such as POS systems and inventory scanners. Job seekers will explore a host of roles in the back-of-house functions including inventory management, visual merchandising, as well as receiving, stocking, and delivery.
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Standard Program Structure
IN YEAR ONE, JOB SEEKERS...
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Gain an understanding of multiple industries through hands-on instruction in all three tracks
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Develop fundamental vocational skills in potential careers
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Learn basic job roles and employer expectations
IN YEAR TWO, JOB SEEKERS...
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Select a vocational track to specialize in
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Increase ability for completing complex and autonomous tasks
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Expand understanding of the industry, research, and explore work opportunities
IN YEAR THREE, JOB SEEKERS...
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Participate in job shadowing, work evaluations, and internships
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Receive tailored support to ensure job readiness
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Practice interview skills and develop a resume
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Work with a job developer to obtain employment
Accelerated Programming Available
Thank you to
OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS
