Opportunity Village Celebrates 22 Years of the Job Discovery Program with first for-profit training site
LAS VEGAS (February 5, 2025) – Through the Job Discovery Program and a partnership with the Clark County School District, Opportunity Village has been helping make the transition from high school to the workforce more attainable for students with disabilities for 22 years.
Students aged 18-22 years old are eligible for the program that takes them through a series of work experiences at community partner sites such as the Mob Museum, Crocs, and Heritage Senior Center. Students learn social and job skills through different work scenarios with oversight from a job coach. When a participant demonstrates job readiness, Opportunity Village facilitates next steps and provides guidance throughout the participant’s professional career. Without the Job Discovery Program, students with disabilities may have a tough time transitioning from the high school environment to the workforce or other services.
“The Crocs/HEYDUDES distribution center warehouse is JDP’s first for-profit training site, and we are so excited that this program continues to grow. The Job Discovery Program is at the core of what we do at Opportunity Village,” said Bob Brown, president and CEO of Opportunity Village. “Helping young adults learn what it takes to be successful in the workforce are crucial skills that they learn while participating in the program.”
On average, 50-100 students are served each year across 11 community training sites. During the 2023-2024 academic year, 11 students secured competitive employment in community-based jobs. On May 23, Opportunity Village will host a celebration for students aging out of the program or who have found employment and will be ending their participation in JDP.
About Opportunity Village
Since 1954, Opportunity Village has been dedicated to helping people with disabilities find the very best version of themselves. Through workforce development, community employment, day services, inclusive housing, arts and social recreation, they are able to find new friends, realize future career paths, seek independence and community integration, and unleash creative passions. Opportunity Village thrives with the funding from our social enterprises, signature events and the generous philanthropy of our donors and community partners. Together, we are successfully empowering, employing, and serving people with disabilities – positively impacting lives. For more information on Opportunity Village, visit www.opportunityvillage.org.
MEDIA CONTACT
Laura Foster, Opportunity Village
702-268-8658 or Fosterl@opportunityvillage.org
