Chattanooga
Autism Center
Vocation and Employment Assistance
DISCLAIMER: The CAC has compiled lists of autism-related resources in our region to help you save time searching for them on the web. This list of service providers is for informational purposes only and being listed does not constitute the endorsement of the CAC.
If you would like us to add a resource or update a resource, contact us at 423-531-6961 opt. 0 or email info@chattanoogaautismcenter.org
Assists people with disabilities in preparing for, seeking, securing, and maintaining employment. Provides vocational evaluation, situational work assessment, work adjustment training, job readiness skills instruction, life skills instruction, job placement services and follow-up employment services. Employers are provided information about tax incentives, job analysis and job accommodations.
Website: caringinc.org/
Contact: June Grimes, Director
Email: caringinc@bellsouth.net
Jasper Office: (423) 942-1800
Dayton Office: (423) 775-4043
Cross Plains Community Partner is a nonprofit organization providing community-based day and employment services to adults in Northwest GA with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Their day program uses a person-centered approach to discover people's interests, gifts, and needs for support. Activities may include transportation to community locations and events, support connecting with friends in the community, volunteering and civic engagement, recreational activities, art sessions, and more.
They also provide supported employment services in partnership with Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation.
Web address: https://crossplainscp.org
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/crossplainscp/
Location: 2738 Underwood Road, Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 278-8143
Email: crossplains@crossplainscp.org
GVRA operates five programs that share a primary goal -- to help people with disabilities to become fully productive members of society by achieving independence and meaningful employment. The largest of the programs is Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), Disability Adjudication Services and the Roosevelt Warm Springs. Two other unique divisions serve consumers with visual impairments -- the Business Enterprise Program and Georgia Industries for the Blind.
Services:
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Vocational assessment
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Vocational counseling and guidance
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Physical and mental restoration services
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Vocational training
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School-to-work transition
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Rehabilitation technology
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Supported employment
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Job search and job placement
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Referral to other agencies for needed services
Website: www.gvs.ga.gov or https://gvs.georgia.gov/about-us
Dalton Office: serves Whitfield and Murray Counties
Phone: (706) 272-2303
Address: 1615 Hickory Street, Suite 106, Dalton GA 30720
Lafayette Office: serves Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade and Walker Counties
Phone: (706) 638-5536
Address: 202 W. Villanow Street, Lafayette GA 30728
DAY SERVICES:
Individuals in the region who have disabilities can apply to participate in the Life Bridges Day Program. Life Bridges staff get to know the individuals they support; learning their interests and goals, and helping them find activities. Outings and activities focus on a variety of skill building and exploration activities; including volunteering, learning about jobs and focusing on pursuing interests and building independence. Life Bridges also works with ECF Choices to help adults who are interested in pursuing a job in the community. Their employment support staff focus on identifying interests and skills and using them to discover a meaningful workplace. The person is supported in learning the skills necessary to interview for a job, learn on the job skills, and how to approach any workplace problems as they arise.
RESIDENTIAL SERVICES:
Life Bridges has four ICF/IID homes that serve individuals with Intellectual disabilities and other disabilities who may be medically fragile and/or behaviorally challenged. Programming is tailored to the needs of the individual and is provided on a 24/7 basis. Supports include nursing, therapies and active treatment.
THERAPIES FOR ADULTS:
Therapies include occupational therapy, physical therapy and ABA therapy. Their clinic also has a nutritionist and 2 medical practitioners.
Ages served: 18 years and older
Web address: https://lifebridgesonline.com/
Location: 764 Old Chattanooga Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311
Phone: 423 472-5268
Email: charleshamby@lifebridgesonline.com, djackson@lifebridgesonline.com
The STAR Center provides services for education, employment, and quality of life for all ages and needs. They will help a child learn to read, help a person get their first job, and help the elderly stay in their homes. They are dedicated to making West Tennessee a place where people with disabilities can make their dreams a reality.
Web address: https://www.star-center.org/employment/
Location: 1119 Old Humboldt Road, Jackson, TN 38305
Phone: (731) 668-3888
Serve most counties in West and Middle TN