Employment Services

Finding or keeping a job can be one of the most difficult issues facing a person with epilepsy. That's why our Employment Services division offers a variety of services to aid those in need of assistance in this area.

Individual Counseling: One-to-one counseling to provide information about specific types of jobs, what sort of work those jobs would entail, and how to obtain them. In addition, licensed social workers are available for supportive counseling through the job search process and assistance with issues outside of the job search process including housing options, transportation issues, etc.

Job Seeking Skills:  Assistance/instruction is given in developing resumes and cover letters, interviewing skills, help with job applications, finding job leads, goal setting, and action plans. Free faxing, mailing, telephone, and copying services are available to submit resumes & cover letters and contact employers.

Job Club:  Participants meet to discuss the job search process with peers, job leads, and suggest strategies for finding a job. In addition, those attending have the opportunity to review available job postings from a variety of sources.

Placement Assistance: Foundation staff work with employers to improve their understanding of epilepsy and to develop long-term job opportunities.

Referrals:  Referrals, when appropriate, can be made to public or private agencies for special needs, skills training, and other employment services.

Advocacy/Disclosure Training:  Talk about when and how to discuss epilepsy with an employer, with emphasis placed on understanding your legal rights and responsibilities, including discussion on the Americans with Disabilities Act. Individual strategies and plans are developed to fit your particular situation so that you are comfortable with your decisions on epilepsy disclosure.

Follow-Up After Placement: Continued contact for at least 90 days to assist you with remaining employed if any problems or issues arise and to ensure adequate support is given when adjusting to a new job. 

This service is free of charge to all Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago clients interested in employment services through our vocational program.  For more information contact  Staci Burton at (312) 939-8622.