Inspired by Ability

A paid job training program to assist youth with disabilities secure and retain competitive employment

Inspired by Ability is a paid job training program for individuals with disabilities between the ages of 18 to 24 who have exited school. This program is funded by LWIA 6 (DuPage county) the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in the United States Department of Labor. This program targets individuals with disabilities who have exited the school system, are unemployed, and encounter barriers to employment. Participants served through this program are provided classroom instruction for two hours a week, where they will learn job readiness and employability skills. Participants simultaneously participate in paid work experiences within the community allowing them to explore different career paths. Upon completion of their job training experiences Inspired by Ability staff focus on gainful competitive, integrated employment.Competitive, integrated employment means working in the community with everyone else.

Program Eligibility:

Must be 18-24
Must have accepted their high school diploma
Individuals residing in DuPage County or near by surrounding counties
Must have proof of disability (IEP/DRS paperwork/doctor’s note or records)
Must have a desire to work competitively and develop strong work ethics
Ability to pass a drug screen and background check
Participants is expected to play an active role
Have independent hygiene and grooming skills
Be able to access public transportation (travel training provided by program)

Our Program Partners

Monarch Landing

Wyndemere Senior Living

UFC Gym

Chartwell's

DuPage County

PetPeople

Aperion Care

Tabor Hills

Inspired by Ability Info Video

The PAEP staff for our Inspired by Ability program created a presentation to showcase the program, so interested families and participants can get an overview of the program, explains eligibility requirements, and provides details on the application and selection process.

Career Academy Alliance Program

Our Career Academy Alliance program offers an alternative to our Inspired by Ability program. In partnership with Parents Alliance Employment Project and Aspire, this inclusive job skills training initiative is designed for individuals with disabilities, ages 18 to 24, who are out of school. The program combines job skills training with simulated skill-building experiences, providing participants with hands-on opportunities to develop the abilities needed to be successful.

Learn More

IBA Program Application

To apply for the Inspired by Ability program you can:

Download and complete the application below

Send the application to Klira@parents-alliance.org

Also, attach additional files needed:

Proof of disability (IEP or IPE)

High School diploma or equivalent

Resume

Please download the application and save it before typing on it. Then re-save often and when complete before sending it back.

For more information on the Inspired by Ability program, please contact Program Manager, Kiersten Lira at Klira@parents-alliance.org or 630-449-2707.

Download Application

Inspired by Ability Questions/Inquiries

Please place any questions or inquiries about the Inspired by Ability/Career Academy Alliance program here. Please allow at least 24 hours for a response.

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