Training Opportunities and Community Resources
A compiled range of free resources to help you get started and guide you along the way to finding a rewarding career at a company that is inclusive of all abilities.
Unemployment information
https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-unemployment-benefits
If you need to file an unemployment claim please contact (887)626-6800
Social Security for Jobseekers
https://choosework.ssa.gov/about/get-started-today/index.html
https://choosework.ssa.gov/index.html
Access to Employment Support Services for Social Security Disability Beneficiaries Who Want to Work
WISE Webinars (Work Incentive Seminar Events)
WISE webinars are online events held for people who are age 18 through 64 and receive Social Security Disability benefits. You’ll learn about the Ticket to Work Program and available Work Incentives through accessible learning opportunities. WISE webinars are generally held on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Register here for the October 21 Webinar: https://choosework.ssa.gov/wise?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
The Red Book serves
https://www.ssa.gov/redbook/index.html
As a general reference source about the employment-related provisions of the Social Security Disability for educators, advocates, rehabilitation professionals, and counselors who serve people with disabilities
Social Security online
https://www.ssa.gov/onlineservices/
Online services to give you freedom and control when conducting business with Social Security.
American Disability Act.
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/initiatives/ndeam
The ADA, the Civil Rights Division has been at the forefront of enforcing its protections and vindicating the rights of people with disabilities across the country.
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-rehabilitation-commission
The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) helps individuals with disabilities to live and work independently. MRC is responsible for Vocational Rehabilitation, Community Living and eligibility determination for the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) federal benefits programs.
Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-commission-for-the-blind
MCB provides the highest quality rehabilitation and social services to Massachusetts residents who are blind, leading to their independence and full community participation.
The Department of Developmental Services
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-developmental-services
The Department of Developmental Services provides supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to enhance opportunities to become fully engaged members of their community.
The Department of Mental Health
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-mental-health
The Department of Mental Health, as the State Mental Health Authority, assures and provides access to services and supports to meet the mental health needs of individuals of all ages; enabling them to live, work and participate in their communities.
Food Bank of Western Massachusetts
Find food pantry or free meal during COVID-19 crisis
Resume review tips
https://blog.gettinghired.com/2019/6/how-to-customize-a-resume-to-get-more-interviews
Seven seconds. According to a 2018 Eye-Tracking Study, that’s the average amount of time a job recruiter spends reviewing a resume.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
https://www.mass.gov/snap-benefits-formerly-food-stamps
You may be eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP provides a monthly benefit to buy nutritious foods.
Massachusetts Government Services
https://www.mass.gov/topics/health-social-services
Massachusetts offers services and resources to keep you and your loved ones healthy, safe, and happy. Find out how we can support you.
Mass.gov
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-updates-and-information
Information about testing sites in Massachusetts – please find the link below. The majority of these are permanent sites. Most require call-ahead scheduling and insurance information. The website provides information for each site on hours of operation, insurance accepted, phone #, etc.
Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI) COVID-19 product and resource page: https://covid19.communityinclusion.org/
Work Without Limits (WWL) on COVID-19 and public benefits:
https://workwithoutlimits.org/resources/covid-19-related-resources/
Peer and family support options, mental health treatment resources, state and federal guidance, and more. Find it here
Mary McClintock – I coordinate the Look4Help Public Resource Directory, https://www.look4help.org/ … make sure you check out our COVID-19 Updates to Resources section: https://www.look4help.org/guided-search/covid-19-updates-to-resources/
National Disability Institute – We offer resources and assistance to help those with disabilities and chronic health conditions navigate financially through the COVID-19 crisis. https://www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org/financial-resilience-center/
Department of Education
http://www.doe.mass.edu/covid19/on-desktop.html
The Ultimate COVID Job Resource Stack: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1bbGCingPw5rnUTyC1WFcPq167rKR4ZaAEzm67ozjbds/edit#gid=1484275757
EEC’s website that provides information on child care options for remote and hybrid learning: https://eeclead.force.com/apex/EEC_ChildCareEmergencyHybridLearning
