Situational Assessments

For individuals with disabilities or minimal to no work history, situational assessments are beneficial in discovering ones strengths in the workforce. They provide an opportunity for individuals to experience work in a variety of situations and work settings.

The purpose of the Situational Assessment is to assist individuals in identifying any potential “barriers to employability” and to develop plans for overcoming those barriers. In addition, this assessment allows for the identification of strengths and interests that can lead to career development.

Participants will get an opportunity to work in five different departments. A referral is made upon completion of the program based on feedback given by the supervisor in each work area.

Who is appropriate for the Situational Assessment Program?

The individuals who will benefit most from this program are those with a documented disability, minimal to no work history, or individuals who may have been absent from the work force for a substantial length of time.

What is the duration of this program?

The program is either three days or three weeks in length. Individuals typically work from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. each day, but schedules can be adjusted as needed.

Who provides transportation to and from the program?

Program participants are responsible for their own transportation. Goodwill encourages participants to utilize their most independent means of transportation followed with a back-up mode in the event of inclement weather or any other unforeseen circumstances. Bus transportation is available through Goodwill on a fee-for-service basis.

What do participants do while in this program?

Participants will work in each of the following areas: clerical, commercial contracts, custodial, production and retail. The participants will experience work in each of these 5 areas. These assignments include both high and low interest areas for the participant.

The referral source will provide the trainer with questions they would like answered upon completion of the assessment. This helps guide the process and clarifies what the participant and referral source hope to learn and accomplish.

Are participants paid for work completed in this program?

Participants are not paid during the assessment period. Any future work at Goodwill beyond the assessment period will be paid work.

How is the participant’s progress monitored?

The supervisor in each of the work areas provides feedback about the participant’s performance to the participant and his/her trainer. The trainer conducts timed studies in each work area to determine the participant’s productivity. A staffing is held following the assessment to discuss the participant’s strengths, productivity and areas for improvement and give recommendations for further programming.

Situational Assessment General Admission Criteria

• Must have an identifiable and documented vocational disadvantaging condition.
• Must be 16 years of age or older (unless special authorization is provided).
• Must be able to independently care for personal needs (with or without the support of a physical care attendant).
• Must be motivated to comply with the program to which admission is being requested.
• Any maladaptive social behavior must be under reasonable control to prevent interference with program/agency operations.
• No evidence of violent activity within the last 90 days.
• Must have living and transportation accommodations established prior to enrollment.
• IQ in excess of 36.