If I fill out the survey application does that mean I am accepted into the Employment Network?
The survey application is an interest form that our Employment Network team reviews to determine if you may be a good fit for the Employment Network based on specific criteria. You may move forward in the process by continuing on to an intake meeting or it may be determined that the Employment Network cannot accept you at this time.
Is the Employment Network a Day Program?

No, the Employment Network is not a day habilitation program. 

Is the Employment Network the same as the SCALE Program?

No, SCALE is a program for participants that is DDD funded and uses both community based supports and behavior supports. Participants in the SCALE program receive services weekdays 9am-3pm. 

Is the Employment Network an ABA program?

The Employment Network is not a program that is based in Applied Behavior Analysis. The Employment Specialists have master degrees in social work, psychology or related fields. The kind of support they provide is case management and counseling like guidance. The Employment Network does not offer behavior supports and does not offer ABA services. 

Is this the Employment Network a group program?

All services through the Employment Network are delivered 1:1. You may have co workers who are also a part of the Employment Network but everyone will be receiving their own 1:1 individualized services.

What kind of jobs can you help me find?

Our Employment Specialists have a range of established employment partners at Rutgers but also in the local community (Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Union, or Somerset Counties) that offer a wide range of jobs. Some of our established employment partners include the Rutgers Dining Services where you could work in the kitchen or in the main dining room, the Rutgers Golf Course where you could assist on the field or in the golf store and Rutgers Postal Service where you would sort and deliver mail. We also have connections with local businesses like the RWJ hospital and Thomas Sweets Ice Cream Store. Our Employment Specialists will look at both the RCAAS Employment Partners and other jobs when working with you to decide where you would like to work.

I have a college degree, are you able to find me higher skilled jobs?

The Employment Specialist will work with you to find something that fits your skill set and if possible is related to your field of study.

Is there a fee for employment network services like job coaching and use of the employment specialist?

There are no fees if you are part of the Ticket to Work program. 

What if I am not on SSI or SSDI but want to use the Employment Services?

You must be recieiving SSI and/or SSDI to participate in our program.

If I get off of SSI or SSDI will I lose my Medicaid?

There are ways to maintain Medicaid eligibility once off SSI / SSDI. This issue can be brought up with your TTW Employment Specialist.

What staff from the RCAAS will be working with me?

The Employment Specialists are the staff at the RCAAS that will work directly with you as a case manager. 

What if I am having concerns about my job or isn't working out?

The Employment Network services are completely voluntary to join. You may stop utilizing our services at any time. We encourage you to talk with your Employment Specialist if you have any concerns about your job or are considering withdrawing from the services.

Is Transportation available?

No, you would need to be able to get to the RCAAS to meet with your Employment Specialist and be able to get to your place of work on your own. We can provide resources for general transportation options like Access Link, Middlesex Ride or if working on Rutgers campus you can utilize the free Rutgers bus system.

How much support will I receive and how long will the support last?

The Employment Specialist will work more frequently with you at the beginning of you looking for jobs and when you start your new job but they will continue to check in until you mare making enough to no longer need SSI/SSDI. If you have DDD and need more intensive follow along services you can access the Supported Employment part of your budget.

What if I need more support?

The RCAAS also has mental health therapists you could access through our Psychological Services Clinic. This is a private pay program but may be helpful if needed to supplement support along with The Employment Network Services. If you have DDD you can access transportation supports, community based 1:1 supports for times when you aren't working or if you just need assistance with the non task related parts of the job, or supported employment for extra job coaching support long term.

I just want to volunteer, I am not interested in being employed at this time, can I still join the Employment Network?

You cannot be a ticket to work recipient unless you want to work enough hours (general over 25 a week) to get off of SSI/SSDI.

Can I use Rutgers facilities?

If you are employed by Rutgers University full time (over 37.5 hours a week) you can access the Rutgers facilities for free like the Rutgers Rec Centers pool and gym. 

If you are employed by Rutgers University part time you can access Rutgers Rec Centers pool and gym if you pay the monthly fee. 

Anyone, whether you work at Rutgers or not, can access the Rutgers libraries, Rutgers Yard (food stores), Rutgers Barnes and Nobles, Rutgers Student Centers, Rutgers Movie Theater and the Rutgers farm. 

You can also pay cash to eat in any of the student centers or dining halls. 

The Rutgers bus system is free and open to anyone regardless to if they work at Rutgers or not.

 

Where would I park?

If visiting the RCAAS you may park in the visitor spots that are right next to the RCAAS. 

At your job, parking will vary depending on your job location. If working at Rutgers some people choose to come to the RCAAS first then take a local Rutgers bus to their job at Rutgers.