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OPWDD Prevocational Services

Ready to help your loved one prepare for the workplace? With OPWDD prevocational services, we focus on building skills, confidence, and independence to create a future filled with meaningful opportunities.

From learning to earning

Every individual has unique strengths and abilities, and our OPWDD prevocational services are tailored to help them shine. By focusing on the essential skills needed to find and maintain employment, we open the door to meaningful opportunities.

While not every participant may transition to a paid position, workforce engagement offers so much more—confidence, social interaction, and a sense of purpose. Whether it’s learning to navigate a workplace, interacting with coworkers, or building independence, these experiences foster a sense of belonging and connection to the community.

Our program prepares individuals for success in roles that match their interests, whether in schools to Amazon warehouses, grocery stores, and beyond. Watching participants take pride in their achievements is a testament to the power of tailored support and training. Together, we’ll help your loved one unlock their full potential.

OPWDD prevocational services requirements

Participants must meet these criteria to apply for this service via Hamaspik of Kings County.

True understanding

Skill-building

Our OPWDD prevocational services provide personalized training designed to help your loved one develop skills aligned with their strengths.

Led by listening

Comprehensive support

We create meaningful experiences that foster independence and a sense of connection to the community, regardless of employment.

Embracing everyone

Real opportunities

We prepare participants for real-world workplaces, ensuring they feel valued and take pride in their accomplishments.

How our OPWDD prevocational services work:

  • Our OPWDD prevocational services provide personalized coaching and support at every stage of the journey. From foundational skills like punctuality, accountability, and conflict resolution to industry-specific training, we equip participants with the tools they need for success.
  • Participants often begin by volunteering, gaining confidence and experience. As they reach key milestones, they may become eligible for paid positions, turning their training into real-world opportunities.
  • We collaborate closely with the prevocational provider to ensure everything runs smoothly, addressing any challenges that arise.
  • Participants may also receive supplemental funds (several dollars) for incentives and tools, motivating them throughout their training process. Together, we create a pathway to meaningful growth and progress.

Interested in OPWDD
prevocational services?

If you are already OPWDD-approved, reach out and find out if this program is a fit for you. If you don't yet have an OPWDD approval, let us know — our efficient intake team will help you get started.

Note: You can begin to benefit right away, while you wait for approval! Once you start the intake process, Hamaspik can start you off with specific support programs for temporary relief.

group 26502Interested in using our services as your Fiscal Intermediary?
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Jobs that make them feel like a "mensch"

Three young men share their experiences

Yitzchak, the Amazon warehouse manager

All my friends had jobs, and I really wanted one, too. I needed a reason to wake up on time just like everyone else. I got assessed to find out about my hobbies and strengths, and then I got a job working in an Amazon warehouse. I prepare deliveries and pack up boxes and I love it! My mother is so happy, she calls Mr. Feldman [the program manager[ every month to thank him for finding me such a great job.

David, the chocolate factory worker

I used to work for a construction company making coffee for employees. It was really boring — how many coffees a day can people drink? I ended up playing with my tablet most of the day. I was so happy when Hamaspik found me a job at a chocolate factory. I really like chocolate so it’s a good job for me. I’m too busy to use my tablet too much during the day now. That’s a good thing. I text my boss every day telling him how much I love my job.

Shea, the grocery order fulfillment associate

Before I got my job I was home all day. I used to get angry, every little thing bothered me, and my mother got upset — because I had nothing to do and I was bored. Getting a job changed my whole life. I’m already working at the grocery for a whole year! I am busy at work now, packing boxes and bringing them out to people’s cars. At home I am much happier, and also my mother is much happier with me. It’s all because I got a job, I feel like a mensch now.

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The heart behind our OPWDD prevocational services

Hamaspik Team

Joel Lefkovits

Department Director
Director of OPWDD-HCBS Services

“People are surprised to learn just how much an individual can be capable of. We have adults in wheelchairs with significant limitations successfully holding down productive jobs — and getting paid for it.

FAQs

What happens if my loved one struggles with certain parts of the training?

That’s completely fine! Our coaching is designed to adapt. We’ll provide additional support, break tasks into manageable steps, and work closely with the provider to ensure progress happens at the pace best for them.

Can your prevocational services lead to paid employment?

Yes! While some participants remain in volunteer roles, others meet key milestones that make them eligible for paid work. We help identify those opportunities and guide participants through the transition to employment when ready.

How do you assess skills before creating a training plan?

We start with a thorough evaluation, considering current abilities, interests, and potential areas for growth. This process includes observing daily habits, discussing goals with the family, and identifying the prevocational skills most crucial for success.

You probably still have questions. Everyone does.

And we're here to provide answers.
Please tell us how we can make things easier for you.

All calls are confidential.

All calls are confidential.