Findlay, Ohio, March 19, 2004 — The occupational therapy program at The University of Findlay has received a $9,200 grant to provide assessments and interventions for consumers involved in a supported employment program through the Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAHMS).

ADAHMS received an $18,400 Housing and Employment Infusion Grant from the Ohio Department of Mental Health to support the development of an employment program. UF’s occupational therapy program received $9,200 for its portion of the project.

Supported employment programs are designed to improve access to competitive employment for consumers of mental health services and improve access to and success in security permanent housing. The supported employment model features a process of individual assessment followed by rapid job search and placement in competitive employment positions desired by the service consumer and deemed appropriate to his or her abilities. The program is for all consumers of mental health services, particularly those with chronic and severe mental illness.

Rosalie King, assistant professor of occupational therapy, provides a comprehensive assessment of functional performance in preparation for supported job placement.

Assessments are completed at The University of Findlay’s OT HOME, 219 Trenton Ave., which provides a comfortable, distraction free environment for the consumer to perform at his or her best. The assessment identifies an individual’s strengths and weaknesses, and King gives specific recommendations for success in the work environment based on the outcome.

The grant follows the initiative of President George W. Bush in addressing what is termed a “fragmented system of care” for this population.