Cascade will become the Provider of the Group Supported Employment Program at the Jefferson County Transfer Station on April 1st, 2022.
Group Supported Employment (GSE) is a service that provides participants the opportunity to work in a group environment with job coaching support. The service assists participants in developing skills, abilities and behaviors that will enable them to most fully realize their vocational aspirations and support their transition into a more independent employment setting if they desire, and helps participants maintain positive work related habits, as well as assists participants to become a part of the workforce.
According to Cascade Founder and Director, Taylor Webster, “Cascade is excited to continue on as a partner in this legacy program and continue the incredible work and service that Skookum has provided for so many years. We are currently focused on a smooth transition for all employees. In the future, we plan to expand duties based on the County’s needs and introduce a vocational based curriculum for the employees to learn transferable on-the-job skills, create video resumes for all employees, and introduce a rotating internship position for students graduating high school transition programs looking for work experience.”
Duties at the Jefferson County Transfer Station currently include:
- Litter Pick-Up: Protecting the environment from stray litter to ensure a clean, sanitary, and safe environment.
- Building and Equipment Cleaning/Maintenance: Keeping buildings/equipment clean and safe for staff.
- Grounds Maintenance: Beautifying the Transfer Station and surrounding areas for staff and customers.
“In the future, we plan to expand duties based on the County’s needs and introduce a vocational based curriculum for the employees to learn transferable on-the-job skills, create video resumes for all employees, and introduce a rotating internship position for students graduating high school transition programs looking for work experience.”
Taylor Webster, Cascade Community Connections Founder & Director
From Jefferson County Public Works, “Jefferson County Public Works has maintained employment opportunities for community members with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) for over 30 years through its
service agreements for recycling services. Public Works will continue to support I/DD employment through a stand-alone service agreement that advances the social responsibility element of the solid waste program.
Public Works’ goal is to maintain a safe, dignified work environment that improves the quality of life for our community members with I/DD.”
