Employment

All PLI consumers are encouraged to consider employment as a means of increasing income and self esteem. Vocational programming is of utmost importance in assisting our residents in realizing their full potential. The in-house Magic Touch Maintenance Program provides opportunities for current residents and graduates of Project Live.

On-the-job training and coaching/support are vital components of MTM. It aims to instill a sense of responsibility, ownership and pride in one’s work. The employee is paid for his/her duration of time in MTM, throughout the training and development phases.

Those individuals interested in employment will work with the Facilities Manager (the MTM Supervisor)  to develop employment goals.  These may range from acquiring specific job skills to writing a resume or preparing for an interview.  Support Staff will also help individuals interested in returning to school set up educational goals (e.g., complete a GED, explore financial aid, obtain information on varied educational programs, etc.) as well as help locate volunteer employment for individuals not able to work competitively.  Employed consumers are asked to share their success stories and encourage others to follow in their footsteps.

Each employee develops a vocational track based on their interests and skills. Consumers who want to obtain employment, volunteer work, or training will be introduced to community resources (for example, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Jewish Vocational Services, Mayor’s Office of Employment and Training and other vocational/educational programs) to assist them in attaining their goals.

Consumer employees who have completed the program are often hired for permanent positions within the agency.

Magic Touch Maintenance

Project Live created its own maintenance business, Magic Touch Maintenance in 1994. Magic Touch Maintenance provides maintenance services such as repairs, cleaning, lawn care, painting, floor buffing and more, to all Project Live properties.

Magic Touch Maintenance currently employs over a dozen PLI consumers. They learn new skills and achieve greater independence. Several of these consumers have gone on to become employees for Project Live.

This program was recognized by Consumer Connections and Project Live won Employer of the Year in 2000!