Gabby Fischer
The Impact Center was created to help individuals of all abilities build the skills and independence they need to succeed in the workplace. It’s not just a classroom; it’s a hands-on space designed to feel like a real work environment, so while they are learning it, they’re also doing it.
The center is newly renovated and gives individuals a realistic experience while they learn about their interests, goals, strengths, etc. With support and coaching from trained professionals, the impact center is personalized to help each person grow and learn at their own pace.
Adding to that, the Impact Center follows a multi-step approach to employment:
It begins with Phase 1: Day and Prevocational Services. This is where individuals explore their interests, find their strengths, and build skills through a personalized plan. In Phase 2: Building a Career Path, individuals receive help with resumes, interviewing, and networking through local partnerships so that they can take the next step into pursuing a career. Lastly, Phase 3: Supported Employment, brings focus to long term success and employment. Coaching continues for the individuals so that they learn skill development and have guidance as they grow in their roles for their long-term goals.
Although we haven’t had the official grand opening yet, we currently have 55 participants. There are 28 individuals (Westchester – 13, Putnam – 13, Dutchess- 2) participating at the Impact Learning Center Prevocational Skill Classes coming in person to the impact center. Separately, there are 8 individuals from Dutchess and 19 from Peekskill in these classes working from their own locations instead of in person.
“The Impact Center provides Individuals with disabilities with a valuable and transformative learning experience, equipping them with the core building blocks necessary for future employment. They are enthusiastic to learn the curriculum and their growth and development have been significant!”
Lastly, another important part of the Impact Center is the structured curriculum. The OPWDD curriculum is made up of six modules, each including two parts which are PowerPoints and interactive activities.
This module focuses on helping individuals understand themselves – their strengths, interests, goals, etc. so that they can start planning what their future looks like.
This module encourages individuals to build connections, learn how work will impact their life, and explore potential workplaces by using computers
This introduces what it really is like being in a workplace, being professional, the importance of communication, and the written and unwritten rules.
This is where the individuals shift their focus to preparing. This includes preparing a resume, applications, interviews, and self-advocacy.
This module focuses on what happens once someone starts working. It covers building work relationships, developing customer skills, and handling unexpected situations.
This is the final module; it’s about growth over time. It teaches individuals how to be a team player, manage stress, improve time management, decision-making skills, etc.
Overall, the Impact Center is more than just a program; it’s a place where individuals of all abilities are given opportunities to grow, learn, and build a future for themselves. Through lessons and hands-on experiences, these individuals are able to gain not just job skills, but independence and confidence.
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