Focus on Working
If a resident wants to work, our employment program is ready to help.
Our employment and volunteer program works with each resident to learn interests, strengths, and weaknesses. Together we identify the skills the resident will need for volunteering or employment through:
One-on-one coaching
Community volunteer service work
Job-readiness classes
Prevocational skill development
Short-term job assessments
Some residents want a job, others want to help the community.
Working creates a life with meaning
We hear from families that residents’ happiness and confidence surge when they land a job. “It’s all about the job,” they say.
We think that’s true.
We are always looking for opportunities for our residents to learn to make a difference in the world. Volunteer opportunities are a great way for those who’ve never had a job, want to add more experience to their resume or who want to try another job to explore careers. Some places we’ve volunteered include: Napa Food Bank, the Napa Farmer’s Market, the Napa library , also animal rescue sites.
From the Residents
“I like being busy and earning so I can support myself.”
— Elaine
“I like earning money and really like my coworkers. My supervisor is the best I’ve ever had.”
— Jake
“Employment is important to me because it helps me and is lot’s of fun.”
— Hannah
Succeeding in a competitive job
To be ready to work in a competitive job, a resident needs to learn specific skills. Social skills are required. Knowing how to communicate appropriately is a required skill.
We know how to teach and support related skills; our residents learn they need to be on time, get organized for their job, be able to make decisions, and learn to be flexible. Although challenging, this is what what is expected to keep and maintain a competitive job.
Our staff is patient and encouraging. It can take years to find a job that works for the resident -- they'll be learning the needed skills as they pass through jobs that are NOT right for them, almost right for them, and finally, a job will be comfortable for them.
Once found, the job will magnify their confidence, their financial independence, and provide a group of colleagues for regular social interactions. Our residents are so proud of their first paycheck!
From the Residents
“I love being challenged, especially since I got my dream job.”
— Ellen
“I like working to make connections with others.”
— Bobby
“It makes me feel independent, and I like to earn my own money.”
— Rachel
Vocational opportunities for adults with disabilities
Moving Forward has been in the Napa community for 23 years. Over the years our residents have worked in numerous vocational sites: hospitality, retail, restaurants, and other job sites. We provided job class, job exploration, situational and work adjustments, resume building skills, job coaching, support, self-advocacy, and job placement services.
Places where our residents have worked and volunteered
