IMPORTANT NOTE: OVRS HAS DECIDED NOT TO FUND CWST PROGRAMS IN THE 2009-2011 BIENNIUM.


Short Term Skills Training Programs still exist, just not enhanced by additional OVRS funding.

This partnership takes advantage of existing short term skills training programs at the local community college (Occupational Skills Training, Employment Skills Training, Professional Skills Training and others) and provides supports to make these programs more available to individuals with disabilities who are eligible for VR services. In most cases, the student's individual program is primarily site-based (training at a job site) with some classes, as appropriate for their career goal.

The college develops a curriculum for the site-based learning which includes occupational and academic skills relevant to a student’s identified career goal. This curriculum is developed in collaboration with the hosting employer (where the student is on site). Students can complete training and receive support in finding employment in as short as a few months.

It would be best for YTP practitioners to contact their local community college and inquire about "Short Term Skills Training Options" that still might exist.

Attached below is information about Portland Community College's Occupational Skills Training Program.

One can also "Google" the term "Occupational Skills Training + Oregon Community Colleges" to find other locales.

Also attached below, you will find several "Stories" or "Vignettes" which will help you understand what works and doesn't work for young adults in short term skills training programs. Upload the attached Word document (*.doc) or Adobe Acrobat Document (*.pdf) to read these vignettes.