School to Work Alliance Program

Working together with young adults and the community to build career pathways.

What is SWAP?

The School to Work Alliance Program (SWAP) assists young adults with mild to moderate needs in employment to become competitively employed and to achieve successful community outcomes.

SWAP is a collaborative initiative between:

Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
Local school districts and Boards of
Cooperative Education Services Colorado Department of Education
Area Businesses
Young adults wanting to participate in today’s workforce

Counselor talking with a student who is holding a notebook

Is SWAP Right for Me?

If you have asked yourself:

What is next?
What do I want to do with my life?
What is the right career for me?
What jobs match my skills, interest and abilities?
Who can help me get ready for a job and find employment?
What tools will help me to be successfully employed?
Why do I have difficulties keeping a job?
Do I need additional training?

And you are:

Between the ages of 15 and 24
Working with or interested in working with DVR

Then you have a desire to begin taking responsibility for your future!

SWAP and DVR can help you begin that journey!

Older student in a classroom working on a laptop, and the banner includes the words "School to Work Alliance Program"

What Can I Expect?

While in high school:

Career awareness, exploration and preparation
Work readiness skills training
Self-advocacy training
Guidance and counseling on career training and education
Work experiences

After exiting high school:

Job-seeking skills training
Job-search activities
Job placement
Assistance with workplace accommodations
Job coaching
On-the-job training
Job retention skills training

What Do We Help With?

The School to Work Alliance Program (SWAP) helps with:

While in High School: Career Awareness, Exploration and Preparation, Work Readiness Skills Training, Self-Advocacy, Guidance in Career Training and Education, Work Experiences, and Summer Job Club.
After High School: Job Seeking Skills, Job Search Activities, Job Placement, Assistance in Workplace Accommodations, Job Coaching, On the Job Training, Post-Secondary Education Guidance and Job Retention Skills.

Testimonies

"In over 10 years of working with SWAP I have seen them develop skills and create opportunities that enable students to reach their career goals. They are willing to work with a diverse population of students with different needs and strengths. A valuable program that students can benefit from for the rest of their lives. "

-Kathy Chane
ESS Teacher
Hinkley High School

"The SWAP program was not only a stepping stone for my career but a continued support as I plan on progressing in my career. "

-Gabriel Amos
SWAP Participant

"As a parent who’s son was in the SWAP program it is wonderful. They have continued to help us with resources. My son uses many of the job skills he learned each day. The staff is outstanding understanding and caring!"

-Sue Keiss
Parent of SWAP Participant

“Much of today’s young talent does not know exactly what their career choice may be at a high school level. Choosing a major for college can be a daunting task for many of these individuals. Apprenticeship programs are a great way to “test drive” a particular career path and see what it is that excites you the most about the field you are considering. SWAP is a great program to work with to help with that Apprenticeship and connecting with the right company!”

-Gabe Wenaas
REATA Manager

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