Pre-ETS addresses five core services:
- Job exploration counseling, which includes discussing students’ vocational interests, reviewing local labor market and in-demand industries and occupations, exploring non-traditional employment options and identifying career pathways of interest.
- Work-based learning experiences such as apprenticeships and job shadowing, paid and non-paid internships and/or work experiences, informational interviews and volunteer opportunities.
- Counseling on postsecondary opportunities, which includes discussing career pathways, attending college fairs and tours, and accessing disability services and supports.
- Workplace readiness training, which helps students develop communication, problem solving and other specific social and interpersonal skills, as well as independent living skills.
- Instruction in self-advocacy, including building self-awareness, disclosure of disability and knowing individual rights and responsibilities.
Easterseals serves schools throughout northeast Indiana, including schools in Adams, Allen, LaGrange, Wells and Whitley counties.
Eligibility
Any student age 14 to 22 with an IEP, 504 plan or other disability documentation is eligible for Pre-Employment Transition Services.
Application
Sign up for Pre-Employment Transition Services here
Summer 2025 Programming Recap
Easterseals Pre-Employment Transition Services provided Work-Based Learning Experiences to over 65 students across our coverage area this summer.
Volunteer Experience
Students previewed future employment by working in small groups with a Transition Consultant to explore volunteer opportunities, identify strengths and barriers, and develop transferable skills. This program was ideal for students beginning to explore career interests.
Some volunteer locations included:
Students shared these reflections about their experience:
“I really liked the employees, learning how to fill orders, and helping the community.”
“I liked helping people.”
“I liked stocking the shelves—it was fun.”
“Visit Fort Wayne was my favorite volunteer site.”
“I really liked doing inventory and using the maps.”
“The people are really nice there and I liked working with them.”
Volunteer sites also shared their gratitude:
“Thank you for coming—it has been amazing working with you guys.”
“Thank you so much for passing this along! I will be forwarding to the staff. Always nice to hear ‘the ending.’”
“It was a true pleasure to have you! We hope to see you again next year.”
Internships
Students gained paid, real-world workplace training, working with a Transition Consultant to build transferable skills, enhance their resumes, and explore career options. This program was designed for students ready to take the next steps in their employment journey.
Some internship sites included:
Students and staff shared these reflections:
“I liked helping the residents with their ice and water and other housekeeping tasks.”
“I liked showing children how to be polite, helping the counselors and teens, ensuring the safety of the kids.”
Each day, students showed up eager to learn more, and the experience truly challenged them in many different ways—from problem-solving and communication to fine motor skills and workplace expectations. Families also shared positive feedback, expressing pride and excitement about their students’ growth. One parent noted that their child’s time at PHD was both valuable and memorable.
