Abstract
The problem this author identified was that there is a lack of formal training dedicated to serving PRIDE Industries job developers. Because job developers are not required to hold a specific certificate or university degree the variety of experience, education, and backgrounds these professional have can vary greatly. Therefore, there is a need for training as new job developers are hired and for experienced job developers to stay current with rehabilitation practices. In order to provide a solution for this problem the author recognized a purpose. The purpose of this project is to develop an electronic resource website for Employment support professional’s (ESP’s) including PRIDE Industries job developers in the Sacramento County and surrounding areas. This project is needed because there is currently no electronic resource that ESP’s can gain access to while in the office or when in the field. Other than accessibility, this website would serve as convenient tool. As ESP’s become consumed with larger caseloads due to turnover rate, greater demand from DOR counselors, or just as a result of the current economy, they can gain information of current rehabilitation literature, practices, disabilities, and key term definitions on one website and avoid the hassle of a web search. In addition vi ESP’s will be able to access web trainings and seminars (PRIDE training) if unable to participate in person. After this author confirmed there was no other PRIDE affiliated electronic resource web site currently being utilized, he began the process of locating relevant materials and resources. In addition to gaining ample information from the PRIDE Industries job developers, this author visited the Sacramento State career center and Services for Students with Disabilities (SSWD). The author was able gain the following information from the Sacramento State campus including, employment, mental health, physical health, education, and information for individuals with disabilities. The author then contacted and visited Los Rios Community College campus career centers, One Stop Career Center/Sacramento Works and the local Social Security office and collected the agencies information (i.e. pamphlets, handouts, business cards, etc.). Information from other agencies was collected through conversation by phone, through email, in person through informational interviews and through web searches. With all of the data and resources collected, this author assembled the materials and resource and created the electronic resource website.