Easterseals Northeast Indiana Expands Easterseals Transition Services with $30,000 Grant

Fort Wayne, Ind. — Lincoln Financial Foundation has awarded a $30,000 grant to Easterseals Northeast Indiana to enhance employability and independence for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the coming year.

Expanding Employment and Independence Opportunities

Easterseals Northeast Indiana will provide Easterseals Transition Services that include assessment, training, internships, education, placement, and ongoing support. These services connect individuals to meaningful jobs and training opportunities that match their skills and interests.

Participants will receive paid work stipends while completing internships and on-the-job training, helping them gain valuable real-world experience while working toward long-term employment goals. By expanding Easterseals Transition Services, the organization can serve more individuals seeking the skills and confidence needed for success.

Specialized Programs for Adults and Students

Easterseals Northeast Indiana offers a wide range of employment-focused programs as part of Easterseals Transition Services. The Transitions day program integrates employment skills with training on new technologies, alongside daily activities that promote community integration.

The Employment Readiness Academies provide eight weeks of hands-on job training at partnering employers, giving participants the confidence and skills to succeed in the workforce.

For younger participants, Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) are available at several area schools. Pre-ETS includes:

• Job exploration

• Work-based learning experiences

• Workplace readiness training

• Self-advocacy development

• Education and career counseling

Partnering with Employers for Inclusive Workplaces

Through the neurodiversity workforce training initiative, Easterseals Northeast Indiana partners with area employers to create more inclusive workplaces. Employers learn how to effectively integrate and support neurodiverse employees, building a stronger, more diverse workforce. These partnerships are an essential part of the long-term success of Easterseals Transition Services.