Employment Services

Did You Know?

Working can boost self-esteem and increase independence. People who work feel like part of the community. Even so, many people with disabilities are afraid of going to work. This is often due to the fear of losing benefits. Many people spend months and even years trying to get on Social Security and don't want to risk losing it.

Did you know that Social Security offers programs to assist people in going to work? Ticket to Work gives people a chance to “try out” working without risk of losing their benefits. In addition, AHCCCS offers the Freedom to Work program. Freedom to Work allows people with disabilities the chance to work and keep their AHCCCS benefits. There are also programs that help people figure out what kind of work is best for them, like Voc Rehab.

See the links below for more information.

Centers of Rehabilitative Excellence 

CORE graphic (1)

CORE Programs provide exceptional employment services to our members. They are selected based on their services and outcomes. These providers help members get jobs quickly. They focus their services on the whole person and go above and beyond! Check out their websites below and see how they may be able to help you find the job you’ve been looking for. 

Achieve
Lucia Wilson
lwilson@achievehs.org
(928) 341-4147
(928) 581-8412

Coyote TaskForce
Joanna Keyl, Intake/Admissions Coordinator
referrals@ctftucson.org
(520) 884-5553

La Frontera Center
Miranda Callahan-Gould, Clinical Coordinator of Employment & Specialty Services
Miranda.Callahan@lafrontera.org
Office: (520) 258-5042
Cell: (520) 262-1727

ValleyLife
Lesli Stern,Program Manager, Vocational Services
lstern@valleylifeaz.org
(602) 216-6344

Copa Health
Joy Mullins,Program Director
Joy.Mullins@copahealth.org
(480) 969-3800 x1335

Janey Durham, Vice President
Janey.Durham@copahealth.org
(480) 969-3800 x278

Job Search During COVID-19

Looking for a job can be hard. With the extra stress during COVID-19, it can be even more difficult. Below are some things to keep in mind when looking for a job during these times:

  • Use this time to work on your resume.
  • Make a new professional email address.
  • Reach out and network with those you know who work in the field you’re looking to enter.
  • Re-work your resume to highlight remote work. Many companies need remote workers during this time.
  • Become familiar with what companies are hiring.
  • In Arizona check out Indeed.com and Arizona at Work. Many companies are hiring for temporary positions. This is helpful if you’ve been laid off but expect to be going back to your old job.
  • Think positively about what jobs are out there. Industries still hiring:  
    • Health care
    • Grocery
    • Delivery
    • Warehouse
    • Manufacturing 

Online Interviews

Online or virtual interviews via phone or video platforms are popular. Be ready for this just as you would an in-person interview. Keep in mind some things related to technology.

  • Check your internet connection, microphone, and camera are all working well.
  • Pick an area in your house for your interview. Choose one that is clean and clutter free.
  • Be sure it is quiet:
    • Turn off the TV.
    • Turn your cell phone off.
    • Close open windows.
    • Let others in the house know that you will be on an interview.
  • If you know what platform you will be using (ZOOM, Skype, Facetime, etc.) practice with it. Set something up with someone you know to test for audio quality, lighting, etc.
  • Avoid using the internet or your device while in your interview. It will be distracting to you and your interviewer.
  • Wear professional clothing – even though you are at home, you should still appear professional.
    • Wear solid colored, collared shirts.
    • Avoid wearing distracting jewelry or accessories.
    • Comb or brush your hair.

Employment Resources

Please select one of the counties below to view employment resources.

Resources have been updated as of September 2019.