Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)

Easterseals' Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) are offered to students with disabilities between the ages of 14–21 (up to their 22nd birthday) enrolled in the various high school and/or post-secondary education/certificate training programs in the Springfield and Worcester areas. Students will gain valuable employment and transition skills that will assist them in their journey to adulthood.

The five components of our services are:

1. Job Exploration Counseling: Seminars or workshops on careers and required skills, career ladders, and interest inventory
2. Self-Advocacy and Mentoring: Peer mentoring, development of individual advocacy skills, and rights and responsibilities
3. Workplace Readiness Training: Development of transferable work skills that may include resume writing, interview skills, and professionalism
4. Counseling on Post-Secondary Education or Training Programs: Counseling and guidance about options upon exiting high school that may include academic or vocational programs
5. Work-Based Learning Experiences: Opportunities to job shadow, complete informational interviews, volunteer opportunities, and paid internships

Other topics include internet safety, handling disclosure on the job, financial management, and benefit transitioning. Students may choose the components in which they would like to participate. Component topics are offered seasonally.

Eligibility

Students are referred to Pre-ETS by their schools or the local MassAbility.

For more information, please contact us at pre-ets@eastersealsma.org. If you have already completed the referral paperwork, please email it to us.

Internship Program

Students with disabilities that experience employment opportunities are more likely to have and keep a job after high school. Work experience through internships provides students the opportunity to explore careers, build social and employment skills, and create a professional network. Internships may turn into employment opportunities, which is a benefit to both the intern and the employer.

The Pre-ETS Internship Program serves the Worcester, Springfield, Holyoke, and Greenfield areas.

To participate in Pre-ETS internships, students must:

• Have taken part in the Easterseals Massachusetts Pre-ETS program.
• Have the ability to work independently.
• Be eligible to work.
• Be able to provide their own transportation to the location.

Employers in the areas we serve can participate in the Internship Program to host an intern.

Getting Started

Students are referred to Pre-ETS by their schools or MassAbility. ESMA Pre-ETS Coordinators work to find internships at businesses that meet the interests, skills, and needs of each student while also keeping in mind the needs of the employers.

For more information, please contact us at pre-ets@eastersealsma.org.