Supportive Employment

The Supportive Employment Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and is guided by the belief that all persons, regardless of their disability, can do meaningful work of their choosing when given the necessary support.

Supportive Employment Program (SEP) works with adults who have suspected or diagnosed mental illness, helping them find and maintain employment of their choice. Models and services offered by SEP are based on supported employment "Evidence Based Practices," or those practices that lead to positive outcomes for consumers based on a growing body of research.  (See attached Models and Services document at right for additional information.)

Supportive Employment Program job coaches help consumers identify jobs in the community and may work one on one with them or work with them in a group setting. SEP Job Coaches provide intensive training and ongoing follow-along for consumers. Additional services include on-site vocational evaluation, career exploration and vocational skills training.

Supportive Employment Program tailors its services to individuals' unique needs. Some consumers work one on one with a Job Coach to identify and obtain jobs in the community. Other consumers may need more assistance or a more structured environment. These individuals are able to work on Supportive Employment Program's Mobile Work Crews which provide maintenance and grounds-keeping services for Wake County Parks. Individuals may also work in one of two coffee shops called The Daily Grind, which are operated by Wake County Human Services and are located in two Human Services Centers.

Referrals/Information:  To make a referral to SEP, the Supportive Employment Referral Form (attached at right) may be used. Please print form, complete and send to Mellinee Simmons at 220 Swinburne St., Suite 3157, Raleigh, NC 27610, or send scanned document to Mellinee at her e-mail address, mellinee.simmons@co.wake.nc.us. If you would like general information about the Supportive Employment Program, please contact Mellinee at the above e-mail address or by telephone at 919-212-7228.

Location: 220 Swinburne St., Raleigh, NC 27610

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:15 p.m.