At CAREERS Support Solutions, we empower individuals with intellectual, developmental, psychiatric and/or physical disabilities attain dignity, financial independence and a true sense of community. We do this through workforce readiness classes, vocational training, internship and job placements, on-going long term support, social skills development and more — at no cost to participants, their families or employers.
CAREERS recently joined Opengate, Inc. — another local non-profit providing innovative programming and meaningful community engagement opportunities for people with disabilities. Since 1987, CAREERS has helped individuals find and keep jobs throughout the Hudson Valley, including Westchester, Putnam and lower Dutchess Counties, NY. All CAREERS programs and staff remain in place under Opengate, and all services have carried on without interruption. We continue delivering vital vocational training, supporting individuals in developing the skills needed for independent living and successful employment, and providing long-term job support.
We believe successful employment looks different for everyone. When our program participants enjoy their jobs, take pride in their work, and remain employed for years, even decades – that is success. When they are valued by their employers and fully integrated into their workplace communities – that is success. And when employers tell us our clients are among the most hard-working, optimistic, loyal and dependable employees – that is success.
Our proven approach combines soft skills training, hands-on job search assistance, thorough on-the-job training, and most importantly, on-going, long-term support. This continuous support is what truly sets CAREERS apart. Our credentialed Employment Specialists provide encouragement, advocacy and strategies that help clients build confidence, perseverance and focus – skills essential for long-term success in work and life. We also educate employers on best practices for managing and supporting employees with special needs.
Over time, CAREERS has expanded its reach to support high school students preparing to enter the workforce and older adults with and without disabilities looking for employment. CAREERS has a Day Habilitation Without Walls Program (Ambition in Motion – AIM) which helps people not ready for employment develop skills, engage in their community and find value through volunteering. Over the years, a number of AIM participants have grown beyond the program and, with the support of CAREERS, have transitioned to paid employment.
We invite you to explore our website and learn more about who we are, what we do, and the inspiring stories of the people we serve. You will see why at CAREERS, we change lives, one job at a time.
If you know someone with a qualifying disability who is willing and able to work and may benefit from our expertise, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected].
Christina “Tina” Cornish-Lauria
Executive Director
Tina Cornish-Lauria has dedicated her career to helping individuals with disabilities become self-sufficient through employment. She holds a B.S. in Rehabilitation from the College of St. Joseph the Provider in Rutland, Vermont. She has worked as a vocational counselor and in a community residence for developmentally disabled adults. She then worked at Opengate, Inc. for five years as head of their pre-vocational programs. Ms. Cornish-Lauria joined CAREERS in 1989 to open the agency’s northern Westchester branch and was appointed Executive Director in 1991.
