PIP - Paid Internship Program

What is PIP?

Employment First Policy 

• It was the policy of the state that opportunities for integrated, competitive employment should be given the highest priority for working-age individuals with developmental disabilities, regardless of the severity of their disabilities. WIC Sect. 4869(a)(1)

Our Approach

• We listen to clients (students) when asking them “What do you want to do?”

• Shifting our focus to the individual’s Strengths and away from the ‘easy placements’

• There is a place for everyone, somewhere out there

What is the Paid Internship Program (PIP)?

• A paid internship program is available to job seekers 18+ served by San Andreas Regional Center who want to work full or part-time. 

• Builds social and vocational skills 

• Job and career exploration

• Customized Employment opportunities

• Resume and interview skills building

Main Requirements for PIP

• • Total number of hours may not exceed 1,040 in a 12-month period. The rate must include all wages and payroll costs.

  • Competitive Wages- at least minimum wage and similar to what others earn doing the same job

  • Integrated setting- Must be a real position in the community, not any other special environment and individuals should interact with individuals without disabilities

  • An internship should result in the intern getting hired or developing skills that will lead to future employment

Who Should Participate?

• Anyone over 18 years old served by SARC

• Wants to work!

• Is legally able to work in California

• Has detailed employment goal in the IPP

• Has the PIP in their IPP

Ensure that Internship:

• Pays a competitive wage

• It is in an integrated setting

• Does not conflict with any local, state, or federal laws

• The internship position aligns with the individual's employment goal in the addendum

What Does An Internship Look Like?

• Traditional internships in business settings 

• Apprenticeships where a specific trade, craft, or skills are learned from a licensed or certified professional (plumber, carpenter, other building trades, etc.)

• Intern with a small business owner to learn how to start a similar business or Microenterprise 

• Examples of possible Internships: 

  • Retail

  • Warehouse

  • Glass Blowing and Artistry 

  • Media Production 

  • Janitorial

  • Child Care / Caregiver

  • Bicycle Maintenance 

  • Dental Assistant 

  • Sales Associate 

  • Office worker (to list a few)