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)