Building ‘Bridges to Transition’ for Young Adults 

   In the past, when a student with a developmental disability started the transition from school to work, jobs in the community were limited. Most, if not all, were simply referred to a sheltered work setting, because that was the only option available to them. Thankfully, times have changed, and a new project is providing new opportunities for them to discover their talents and explore the world of work.

   “Bridges to Transition” is a grant-funded, statewide initiative offered through the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC) and participating County Boards of Developmental Disabilities. The project is managed by the Ohio Association of County Boards (OACB). The Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities is participating and now working with local school districts to help students achieve their employment goals.

   The overall goal of Bridges is to enhance career exploration and increase employment outcomes of youth with developmental disabilities by bringing everyone together for this common purpose.

   Bridges to Transition helps young adults with disabilities find work within their community and gives them and their families a fresh look at what the future can hold.

   Once eligibility is established, the vocational rehabilitation coordinator works to help students with vocational exploration, career development skills and job placement.

   For more information, contact Kara Shutler, Vocational Rehabilitation Coordinator at the Belmont County Board of DD at 740-695-0407, ext. 353, or Adam Nicholoff, Transition Specialist, at ext. 352.

   For more information, click here for the Bridges to Transition brochure.