Vocational Services & Internships

Integrated Employment Services (IES)

We assist job seekers in finding and keeping meaningful jobs in the community. Our program offers paid internships — at no cost to employers — and ongoing support once someone is hired. We also help individuals explore their interests and turn them into careers. Together, we're creating a more inclusive and supportive workplace for everyone.

TERI's Integrated Employment Services program is built on three core components:

Job Preparedness
Guide and empower person-centered career plans that lead to living wage jobs.

Vocational Internships

6 to 12-month paid work experience within a supportive, personal coach model.

Long-Term Employment Support

Individual coaching to help neurodivergent workers excel in the modern workforce.

Our Employment Services in Detail

TERI’s Job Preparedness Services provide individualized, one-on-one support through Tailored Day Services (TDS) to help individuals build the skills and confidence needed to move toward meaningful employment. Services are customized to each person’s strengths, interests, and employment goals and may include career planning and exploration, workplace skill development, resume preparation, interviewing skills, job-search strategies, and other areas that support employment readiness. Our goal is to identify and address barriers while creating a clear, person-centered pathway toward a paid internship or Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE).

The TERI Internship Vocational Program (VIP) is designed to provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while exploring various career paths. Through paid internships, participants can develop essential workplace skills in a supportive and integrated environment. Key features of the program include:

No Cost to Employers: Internships are fully funded, allowing employers to participate at no financial cost.

Job Coaching: Each participant receives personalized support from a job coach to help them succeed. Coaches offer guidance on job tasks, workplace expectations, and professional development.

Career Exploration: Participants have the chance to explore different job roles and industries, helping them identify their interests and strengths.

Pathway to Employment: Experience gained during the internships can lead to permanent job opportunities, either with the same employer or in other sectors. Overall, the TERI VIP helps participants build independence while equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to transition into competitive employment.

Available Internships:

Administrative Assistant
Barista
Culinary
Facility Care
Microgreens and Urban Farming
Therapeutic Equestrian

We are currently seeking individuals who are clients of the San Diego Regional Center (SDRC) and are over the age of 18. Internships last for 8 months, are 5 days a week, and pay industry-standard wages.

Supported employment focuses on providing personalized support—such as job coaching, ongoing assistance, and building natural workplace supports—to help individuals succeed on the job. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to thrive in integrated, competitive employment where they can earn a meaningful income and actively contribute to their communities.

Here are the key components of supported employment:

Individualized Employment Support

Each person with an intellectual disability receives tailored support based on their unique needs, skills, and interests. This begins with a detailed assessment to match the individual's abilities with potential job opportunities. The goal is to ensure that the job aligns with the person’s preferences, strengths, and vocational aspirations.

Job Coaching

One of the most important aspects of supported employment is the provision of job coaching. A trained job coach works closely with the individual to provide hands-on support in the workplace, helping them learn specific job tasks, build appropriate workplace behaviors, and understand job expectations. Over time, the level of support is gradually reduced as the individual gains independence.

Ongoing Support

Supported employment provides long-term follow-up services. This support may continue indefinitely to ensure job retention and success. Ongoing assistance might include periodic check-ins, workplace adjustments, and continued advocacy on behalf of the employee.

Paid Internships & Trial Work

Many supported employment programs begin with paid internships or trial work experiences. These opportunities allow individuals with ID to explore different jobs in real-world settings without the pressure of long-term commitments, while employers can assess the individual's fit for the role.

Tailored Day Services

Tailored Day Services (TDS) is the funding source for this service at TERI.

Employer Collaboration

Partnerships with employers are essential to the success of supported employment programs. Employers are encouraged to provide an inclusive work environment, offer appropriate accommodations, and engage in open communication with job coaches and service providers to promote employee success. Many employers benefit from the loyalty, dedication, and unique perspectives that individuals with intellectual disabilities bring to the workplace.

Benefits to Employers Diversity and Inclusion

Supported employment helps create a more diverse workforce.

Improved Employee Retention

Studies show that employees with disabilities tend to have higher retention rates.

Access to a Broader Talent Pool

Employers can tap into a new pool of qualified and motivated workers.

Supported employment fosters independence, builds self-esteem, and enables individuals with intellectual disabilities to be active, contributing members of society. Through individualized support, job coaching, and ongoing assistance, these individuals can succeed in competitive, integrated workplaces. At the same time, employers benefit from a dedicated workforce and contribute to a more inclusive community.

Success Story: Cesar's Journey

Success Story: Heather's Journey

Success Story: Will's Journey

Want more information?

Contact

Meredith McDermott

Director of Integrated Employment Services

Call

Phone