EP!C TO HOLD GRAND OPENING OF NEW CAREER CENTER

on Sept. 25 at 4:00 PM, local non-profit, EP!C, will host a ribbon cutting with the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce to mark the grand opening of their new career center. The reception will include the ribbon cutting, tours, light refreshments, and giveaways.
 
While EP!C has been providing job assistance for 45 years, this new career center will boast the latest technology and integrate with EP!C’s Practical Assessment Exploration System (PAES®) Lab. Here, individuals with cognitive differences can build their work skills and look to expand their employment options in the community with the help of trained staff. The center also houses workshops for individuals to learn about job development and retention skills, and allows for accessible recreation use for someone who may not have access to adaptive technology in their home.
 
Students and job seekers will be able to customize the supports they need, which include:
· Personal Career Coaching
· Individualized Career Plans
· Job Readiness Workshops
· Skills Development Training
· Community & Peer Support
· Networking Opportunities
· Job Placement Assistance
· Interview Support
 
The Practical Assessment Exploration System PAES® Lab at EP!C gives real-world, hands-on experience for students and job seekers to practice skills needed for specific employment categories that include:
• Business/Marketing
• Consumer/Service
• Construction/Industrial
• Processing/Production
• Computer Technology
 
Doris Hayes, EP!C’s Chief Operating Officer, stated, “Having a new, dedicated space will help our team give job seekers the best chance at finding a job in the community. As an employer, diversifying your team by hiring someone with a disability shouldn’t be a tough decision, but we know there are some hesitations. When a job seeker goes through EP!C’s program, they can better package their employable skills and advocate for any accessibility needs. We are thankful for the IASP group and all their support, so we can continue to be the best in helping people with disabilities prepare for and find careers in our community.”
 
The upgrade to EP!C’s employment program was made possible by generous donations generated at the annual UTSAV Diwali Gala presented by the Asian Indian Community of Peoria, The Indo-American Society of Peoria (IASP), & PJ Dance Academy.  
 
Prabhat Mittal, IASP board member leading the Diwali Gala, said, “IASP supports charitable, educational, and scientific organizations focused on education, health, and employment. After evaluating 15 local nonprofits, IASP selected EP!C for its strong alignment with this mission. EP!C empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through customized educational, residential, employment, and clinical programs. The community can help continue this support by attending this year’s event, held on October 25th at the Peoria Civic Center.”