Hickok-to-Work Program

Meeting Individuals' Pre-Employment Needs

Hickok To Work is a one-year pre-employment program designed specifically for individuals with brain injury. The objective of this program is to prepare individuals with the tools to successfully achieve employment In a small group setting, a focused “course-like” workshop is conducted to assist members in developing well-defined employment/volunteer goals and improving their skills to increase awareness related to employment. Members are able to complete the program with a comprehensive competitive employment portfolio.

Some members may aspire to increasing their social capital and community citizenship, and may direct their Hickok To Work program toward volunteer opportunities.

The Five Sessions of Hickok To Work

SESSION 1 – Work History Research
• Research
        - Employment and education history
        - Interest
        - Perform assessments
• Time management and organizational skill development
• Resumé building

SESSION 2 – Interactive Curriculum
• Insight into interpersonal skills/self presentation
• Understanding strengths and limitations
• Working with a team in an employment setting

SESSION 3 – Finding the Right Employment
• Employment research techniques training
• Interview preparation
• Site visits to prospective employers
• Advice interviewing with a variety of employers

SESSION 4 – Pre-Employment Simulation Training
• Interview preparation and video taping
• Employment site simulation
• Volunteering for experience
• Employment related speakers sharing the “Employers’ Point-of-View”

SESSION 5 – Pre-Employment Portfolio
• Resumé completion
• Obtaining letters of reference
• Creative lists of target employers and contacts
• Obtaining/completing applications in employment interest field
• Assistance with other employment options

After completing the Hickok To Work program, members may also qualify for extended employment services, based on their individual strengths, employment goals and the current workforce needs. Such services enable them to be placed in competitive employment and receive the necessary job coaching to ensure a successful long-term work experience.