Summer Teen Employment Program (STEP)
Each summer, up to 70 teens with disabilities can participate in this six-week summer employment opportunity. Eligible participants are students who will be returning to high school in the fall and are eligible for services by the Developmental Disabilities Resources Board (DDRB) of St. Charles County prior to the start of the program.
This program emphasizes experiencing the differences between school and work and learning about future career opportunities.
Eligibility: St. Charles County residents only
Application: The application process may take several months, so we encourage interested applicants to apply as soon as possible. We usually accept applications between October and April for the following summer. This is a collaborative project between Alternative Opportunities, Center for Specialized Services, BCI, Mers/Goodwill, and Easterseals Midwest.
Summer Work Experience Program (SWEP)
We are a participating provider of the Summer Work Experience Program (SWEP). During this 8-week program, three to four students work at one employment location, earning a training wage. Students work for businesses or organizations that match their preferences, skills, and support needs.
Eligibility: St. Louis County residents who are students
Application: The application process may take several months, so we encourage interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.
Summer Work Experience (SWE)
We are a participating provider of the Summer Work Experience (SWE). During this 6-week program, one to seven students work at one employment location, earning a training wage. Students work for businesses or organizations that match their preferences, skills, and support needs.
Eligibility: Kansas City, St. Charles County, and St. Louis residents
Application: Participants are eligible through their local Vocational Rehabilitation office. Interested paticipants must reach out to their local VR office to enroll in these services. The application process is open January through April for the following summer.
Transitioning from School to Work
Project SEARCH is a school-to-work program that provides total workplace immersion for students with disabilities, including autism. Students learn essential work-based skills that will give them an advantage when seeking rewarding competitive employment that matches their skills, interests, and abilities. Learn more about Project SEARCH.
