Vermont Business Magazine Howard Center recently received $5,000 from Key Bank for Career Connections, a supported employment program for Chittenden County adults (ages 18 years and older) who live with a severe mental health challenge and have a desire to pursue employment.“As a company that is committed to helping our communities thrive, we’re excited to be partnering with the Howard Center in working toward a stronger and more inclusive workforce by investing in projects such as Career Connections,” says Don Baker, Market President of KeyBank in Vermont.Career Connections focuses on client strengths while helping each client obtain competitive employment in jobs that they choose. The program provides support as needed, including employment assessment and pre- and post-employment support. Additional help is offered through other Howard Center clinical and case management programs as needed.
Program Director Marlene Williamson says, “Given recent state cuts in funding for our program, this award is especially important for the clients we serve as they take steps toward employment and becoming more independent.”
Last year, Career Connections provided employment support to 148 individuals, including 55 new job placements.
Howard Center offers life-saving professional crisis and counseling services to children and adults; supportive services to individuals with autism and developmental disabilities who need help with education, employment, and life maintenance skills; counseling and medical services for those struggling with substance use disorders, and intensive interventions and supports for adults with serious and persistent mental health challenges. Last year we helped more than 16,000 people. Howard Center is a funded agency of the United Way of Chittenden County.