Employment Program

The BACS Employment Program helps people with mental illness find meaningful work. In partnership with the State Department of Rehabilitation, we provide job development, placement, coaching and follow-up services.

Each week, our employment groups meet at the Creative Living Centers to help clients explore employment options and develop effective job seeking skills. Using interview role-playing, clients practice answering questions with clarity and enthusiasm. We encouraged them to talk about their illnesses in ways an employer can understand, focusing on their strengths. Our Employment Program staff work with individuals on a one-on-one basis, identifying and overcoming real or perceived barriers to employment.

Many of our clients work in our Meals on Wheels and Social Enterprise Kitchen programs, preparing and delivering meals.

But BACS also builds relationships with local employers, helping to reduce the stigma of mental illness in our community. Many businesses have had very positive experiences hiring BACS clients, and repeatedly come to us for employee referrals.

With BACS’ encouragement and support, many of our clients find part- or full-time positions that are a lasting match to their abilities. We continue our supportive work as they grow in their jobs. We also help our clients understand how to maintain disability benefits, including medical care and housing, while they cultivate employment skills.

With meaningful work, our clients enjoy a little more income and much more fulfilling lives.

For more information, please contact the Employment Program.