T.I.G.E.R.S. (Transition Interagency Group Envisioning the Realization of Self), in collaboration with the School to Work Alliance Program (SWAP), SLV BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services), Blue Peaks Developmental Services, The Work Force Center, The Training Advantage Program, TSJC, Energy Resource Center, ASU, Center towards Self-Reliance, and the Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), recognized three San Luis Valley businesses employing persons with disabilities. Each was presented with a plaque recognizing their efforts.
Conejos County EMS statement-
“Cheyenne has been a huge asset to the agency and communities Conejos County EMS provides to. She shows true dedication, hard work, and the passion of a seasoned EMT. Cheyenne always has a smile on her face, compassion in her heart, and is always willing to learn about the profession. Conejos County EMS looks forward to continuing to work with and alongside Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), School to Work Alliance Program (SWAP) and Cheyenne Quintana!
Student’s statement-
“The Paid Work Experience at Conejos County EMS and Ernest have shown me the value of a job in one’s life. This work has been a huge part of my life, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity. I will use what I’ve learned as I prepare for graduation and my future profession.
Ft. Garland Museum’s statement-
“As a non-profit that relies heavily on volunteers and temporary employees for day-to-day operations, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and School to Work Alliance Program (SWAP) has been a tremendous resource. Not only does SWAP provide participants with critical work experience, it allows organizations like ours to provide better service to our guests. It was a pleasure to work with your student and we’re grateful that he was part of the team.
Centennial School District-
“Having students employed through this program-SWAP, was beneficial to us in countless ways. First, students developed valuable career readiness skills, had opportunities to try out potential career options, and make connections between in school learning and their futures. However, the rewards for us as an employer were even greater. The school is often the center of the community and this is very true in San Luis. It was magical to have students see themselves in positions here. See the system from an adult level and learn from their insights and creativity as students. They are our future and it is I powerful for them to see their futures here.
Student’s statement-
“The Paid Work Experience at Centennial School District gave me the opportunity to learn how to interact with others and to be more social. I learned office skills and cleaning skills. I am very grateful for the opportunity and I really enjoyed working at the Centennial School District.”
Each of the placements means that another person has potential for long-term employment and the benefits that go along with having a job. Those benefits include the ability to live a fuller life and achieve dreams and goals. The positive impact extends beyond the student and the employer to family, friends and community. T.I.G.E.R.S. salutes the programs and employers who recognize the needs of students and extend themselves to those students.
The Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation is a state agency that provides a variety of services to persons in the San Luis Valley seeking employment and who need support to overcome disabilities and other issues. For more information, call 589-5158.
SWAP is a joint project of DVR and the San Luis Valley Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES). They provide similar support for persons aged 15-24. For more information about SWAP or T.I.G.E.R.S. (an organization that works with youths transitioning to adulthood), contact Amy Raya of SWAP at 719-587-5410.
Blue Peaks Developmental Services is the local CCB-Community Center Board which provides support to persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the San Luis Valley in achieving their fullest potential for integrated and responsible living and working in the community. For more information, call 589-5135.
