
Turning Abilities into Opportunities
ABOUT THE PROJECT
In 2023, we transformed our workshop space to create the eMPower Academy,
a training and career development center, to offer career and
life skills development. In this space, individuals with disabilities gain and improve life skills, explore career options, and
receive training to ready themselves for community-based employment. Modular learning labs create community and education paths
with relevant connections to employment needs and opportunities to achieve individual goals. Each learning
lab has relevant connections to the broader community. Learning labs include Equipment Repair, Janitorial,
Foodservice, Gardening, Hospitality & Healthy Lifestyle, Pre-manufacturing, Professional Services, Retail and Technology.
The eMPower Academy also includes a meeting space for group learning and may be rented for use.
For more information email Ascott@careyservices.com
Food service
In our fast food services class, you will learn how to quickly prepare meals, choose
quality ingredients, and use efficient cooking techniques. Get hands-on experience in
setting up a fast-paced kitchen, putting orders together accurately, and providing fast
service. Understand the importance of keeping high hygiene standards, talking
effectively with customers, and managing a busy work environment. Our guidance will
help you gain the skills needed for a successful career in the fast food industry.
In addition to this class, we also have a company called "The Kitchen coMPany" that is now open. Individuals can get hired there to
gain more hands-on experience and further develop their skills. Join us to enhance your fast food service knowledge and start your career journey!
Interested in more hands-on experience?
Click here to visit The Kitchen Company's page and explore job opportunities!

Professional Services
Professional Services centers on a comprehensive training program that equips
individuals with the skills needed for excellence in various operational tasks. We provide
thorough education on filing and sorting techniques to ensure documents are well-
organized and accessible. Our training covers the proper use and maintenance of
cleaning equipment. Emphasizing clear communication
and attention to detail, our education program prepares individuals to handle every task
with the highest level of professionalism and care.

Catapult
The Catapult Program offers comprehensive training in LEAN manufacturing principles, workplace readiness, and advanced skills development. Our curriculum covers Just-In-Time, Standardized Work, Process Diagnostics, safety protocols, hazardous communication, professionalism, business etiquette, root cause analysis, statistical process controls, and OSHA guidelines, with classroom learning enhanced by practical activities. Accredited and inclusive, graduates can earn 6 college dual credit hours at Ivy Tech in a program adapted for individuals with disabilities. Explore our program, tour our facilities, and share your expertise. Contact us to arrange a visit or click here to learn more.

Instructional Center
Our space is perfect for large in-person
classroom training and instruction, both for internal and
external use. It is designed to be inclusive and support
groups of all sizes, making it ideal for businesses and
organizations looking to conduct effective training sessions.
Interested in renting our facility?
Contact us at ascott@careyservices.com

Technology
The technology learning lab offers a range of training programs designed to equip individuals with
essential digital skills. Participants learn typing, basic computer skills, and the personal
use of social media. We provide job search training, including virtual meeting and
networking skills, to enhance employment opportunities. Our program also cover
smartphone use, internet safety, and the importance of self-responsibility in the digital
world.

Gardening
Our Gardening Center provides hands-on training in the production of produce, plants, and
flowers. Participants learn essential skills such as watering plants, planning, and following
directions. Participants gain practical skills in watering plants, planning, and following
directions, ensuring they can manage various gardening tasks effectively. The program also
emphasizes creativity, allowing individuals to explore and express their artistic talents through
garden design and plant arrangement. Communication is a key component, fostering teamwork
and collaboration among participants. By integrating these elements, our Gardening learning lab
provides a holistic educational experience that nurtures both practical skills and personal
growth, preparing individuals to excel in gardening endeavors.

Hospitality & Healthy Lifestyles
Our Hospitality and Healthy Lifestyles area offers comprehensive training in hospitality,
housekeeping, and personal care. Participants engage in practical tasks such as changing sheets,
doing laundry, cleaning bathrooms, straightening rooms, vacuuming, and sweeping. The program
also emphasizes the importance of customer service, effective communication, and time
management skills. By mastering these tasks, individuals gain valuable experience that prepares
them for roles in the hospitality industry. This approach ensures that participants not only
develop practical skills but also grow in confidence and competence, enabling them to thrive in
both professional and personal settings.
Retail
The Retail lab provides in-depth training for individuals interested in gaining skills
essential for the retail industry. Participants learn to handle cash, count money
accurately, and operate a cash register with confidence. The program covers stocking
and restocking shelves, space conversion for optimal product placement, and inventory
counting and control to ensure efficient store operations. Additionally, individuals are
trained in creating attractive merchandise displays and maintaining proper office
setting etiquette. This comprehensive training equips participants with the practical skills and knowledge
necessary to excel in various retail roles, fostering both professional growth and personal development.
In addition to this training, we also have a company called "The Market Place" that is now open. Individuals
can get hired there to gain more hands-on experience and further develop their skills.
Join us to enhance your retail knowledge and start your career journey!
Interested in more hands-on experience?
Click here to visit The Market Place's page and explore job opportunities!

Equipment Repair
Our Equipment Repair learning lab provides focused training in maintaining and repairing various equipment.
Participants gain practical experience in cleaning, vacuuming, and sweeping to ensure equipment remains in top
condition. The program covers skills such as chemical management and the proper use of protective equipment.
Emphasis is placed on effective planning and time management to handle repair tasks efficiently.
This training equips individuals with the skills needed for success in equipment repair roles.

Janitorial
The Janitorial lab offers specialized training in essential maintenance and cleaning tasks.
Participants learn to manage chemicals safely,
change paper towel and toilet paper dispensers, and handle trash management effectively.
The program includes hands-on experience with cleaning techniques,
such as vacuuming and sweeping, as well as the use of protective equipment.
The training ensures that individuals can perform janitorial duties
efficiently and with a high standard of cleanliness.
This program prepares participants for success in various janitorial roles,
emphasizing professionalism and attention to detail.

FAQ
Carey Services strives to meet the ever changing needs and goals of the individuals we serve. This academy helped us develop opportunities for greater involvement of the individuals we serve in the community, create additional opportunities for the community to be involved with Carey Services, meet the needs and desires for more meaningful and person-centered services, and helps us achieve greater meaningful participation in and with the community by "Turning abilities into opportunities".
While developing and improving skills to obtain community employment is a strong focus, the ultimate goal is to assist the individuals we serve to turn their abilities into opportunities so that they live their best life based on their individual needs and choices as part of an integrated and accepting community. This may be achieved by learning a new skill to use at home, living a safer/healthier life, finding a new interest, volunteering with an activity they enjoy and believe in, or getting a job. It is up to each individual to decide what they want to achieve. The eMPower Academy is a tool to support and care for each individual as they work towards those achievements as part of our person-centered approach to services.
Programming at the eMPower Acaddemy is a path available for all interested individuals served by Carey Services. It is our hope and intention to grow to include other underserved populations and service organizations in the Grant County area through partnerships and other methods. The eMPower Academy aims to be a benefit to the whole community.
You can contact Jim Allbaugh, Jennifer Widmer, Kelly Scher, or Tim Kendrick with any questions. If there are questions regarding starting services (or changing existing services) with Carey Services, you can contact our In-Take Coordinator, Jennefer Reed. Contact information will be provided below.
Jim:
- Email: jallbaugh@careyservices.com
- Phone: 765-668-8961 Ext: 102
Jennifer:
- Email: jennifer.widmer@careyservices.com
- Phone: 765-668-8961 Ext:143
Kelly:
- Email:kelly.scher@careyservices.com
- Phone: 765-668-8961 Ext: 124
Tim:
- Email: tkendrick@careyservices.com
- Phone: 765-668-8961 Ext: 165