Warsaw, Ind. — Cardinal Services, part of Easterseals Northeast Indiana Fort Wayne, recently received exciting news: the Dekko Foundation will match $1 for every $1 raised, up to $25,000, in support of the Cardinal Pre-ETS (Pre-Employment Transition Services) program.
This initiative is a significant step forward for workforce readiness in northern Indiana. Cardinal Pre-ETS serves students ages 14 to 22 with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Kosciusko, Steuben, DeKalb, and Whitley counties. As part of the Easterseals Northern Indiana alliance, Cardinal Services is committed to preparing students for meaningful employment and greater independence.
The grant will allow Easterseals Northeast Indiana Fort Wayne and Cardinal Services to serve up to 300 students, helping them develop both soft and hard skills needed for workplace success. Students will identify their strengths, build job-specific abilities, and receive training in social skills, communication, and self-advocacy.
The Cardinal Pre-ETS services include:
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Work-based learning experiences
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Job exploration and shadowing
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Post-secondary counseling
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Self-advocacy training
Additionally, the program provides counseling and support not only for students but also for caregivers, schools, employers, and other community partners.
A standout feature of the project is the use of Transfr, an innovative platform offering virtual job training simulations in a wide variety of career fields. This provides students with immersive, hands-on experiences even before stepping into the workforce.
“Working with students for these years prior to their leaving school will give them the jump start they need to launch into a successful life,” said Cardinal Services Executive Director Vickie Lootens. “It will also benefit our community, providing a pool of young employees who are skilled and ready to work.”
About Cardinal Services
Cardinal Services offers a wide range of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and families with young children in need. Since 1954, the organization has championed equity, access, and inclusion, supporting individuals to live lives of dignity, growth, and opportunity.
Learn more at: www.cardinalservices.org