Summary (Employment / Educational Support)

Did you know that mental illness is the leading cause of work-related disability in the United States? Many people want to work, and want to be more independent. They just need a little more help. The Gainesville Opportunity Center has three classifications of employment supports: Transitional, Supported, and Independent. The GOC also offers support for those seeing Educational opportunities such as GED, vocational, and college credits.

If you have the ability to offer job opportunities to our membership, please call the GOC (352-224-5523). You can be part of the solution, helping people live meaningful and independent lives.

Transitional Employment

Clubhouses offer a unique employment partnership called Transitional Employment (“TE”). As part of an agreement with an employer, staff from the GOC train with a selected Member, and the GOC staff will cover for the Member if they have to miss work. This guarantees to the employer that the position will be filled every day. Members will work in a TE position for 6-9 months, and then a new Member will rotate into the TE. Afterwards, the GOC support individuals to seek permanent employment. The GOC has Transitional Employment positions at Culver’s and with Alachua County.

Supported Employment

For individuals who may need advocacy on their behalf by the clubhouse, or additional assistance for overcoming barriers while working, Supported Employment is an option. The GOC will maintain a relationship with the employer, getting involved as much or as little as needed by a Member. The GOC will facilitate communication between the employer and employee, as needed, so both parties are accommodated.

Independent Employment

Even if a Member gets a job on their own and may not need the clubhouse to get in touch with their employer, they will continue to benefit from the clubhouse. Although the employment may be considered independent, the GOC will provide support such as building resumes, assistance with searches for jobs, assistance with interview skills, and assistance with conflict resolution or other skills necessary for successful employment. The GOC also has monthly employment dinners for those who are working or seeking employment, social activities, wellness activities, and confidence building by still helping run the clubhouse. Even just the connection to the community the GOC by staying an active Member will help an individual keep working.