Adult Programs

Work Options
The MDS Vocational Program, SPEC-TRA Enterprises, offers persons who have developmental disabilities and are at least 21 years old a wide variety of employment opportunities and support services. Services are customized to the needs and capabilities of the individual with an emphasis on integration with non-handicapped workers in community workplace settings.

Community Employment, which is individual job placements, assists job seekers in becoming employees of local businesses. Currently, 65 local businesses employ workers through SPEC-TRA. Typical types of work include service, retail, clerical, care giver aid, and manufacturing. Workers receive staff support and on-the-job-training according to individual needs. As the worker becomes more competent in his/her job, such supports fade.

Production Activity programs promote basic work skills such as staying on task, using correct behaviors and improving productivity. Collating, sorting, assembling, shredding, and packing services are offered to businesses on a contract basis. Workers are paid on a piece rate basis.

Community Work Crews engage in competitive commercial janitorial services and lawn and grounds maintenance on a contract basis.

The SPEC-TRA Wood Shop, a woodworking and retail sales outlet, is also operated by a crew. Crew supervisors work with up to six individuals offering supervision, training and quality assurance. Wages for all work programs are based on Department of Labor guidelines. All workers, whether paid by the employer or by SPEC-TRA, receive no less than minimum wage. This holds true for hourly or piece rate workers.