Bridgewell
 
 

 

Residential Services

Affordable Housing

Homeless Services

Employment Training &
Educational Services

Day Habilitation Services

Day Rehabilitation Services

Clinical Services
Young Adult Services
Recreational Services

 

Employment Training &
Educational Services

Bridgewell's vocational and employment services are grounded in the belief that education and employment are pathways to achieving meaningful identity in society. Our training options are designed to empower each individual to take steps toward fulfilling his or her vocational and career goals.

Employment Resource Network (ERN)
Located in Salem, Massachusetts, ERN is a supported employment and education service funded by the Department of Mental Health and the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. ERN provides vocational opportunities, community job placement and educational services. ERN maintains active community relationships with a variety of local businesses that hire ERN participants.

ERN Employment Services
Based on the unique strengths and interests of each program participant, we offer comprehensive career-plan development. The program accommodates individuals at various stages in their career development. Services include: vocational assessment, career exploration, skills training, job development and placement, and on-the-job coaching.

ERN Education Services
This program is designed for people who wish to acquire additional training and education in order to move beyond entry-level employment. We work with clients to identify their unique learning style, develop educational plans, identify appropriate programs and offer one-on-one tutoring and assistance in obtaining a General Equivalency Diploma (GED).

ERN Technology Center
The center provides access to state-of-the-art computer equipment and a trained staff that offers classes in keyboarding, word processing and Internet navigation.

ERN Alternative Careers
Artists Among Us promotes artistic expression as a viable career option. Participants have been able to promote their work and receive financial compensation. Artists Among Us is supported by a coalition of area service providers.

For more information on the Employment Resource Network, call 978.741. 4052 or e-mail ern@bridgewell.org.


Friendship Club
The Friendship Club, located in Lynn, Massachusetts, is a place where people who have had psychiatric disabilities come to rebuild their lives. The participants are called members, not patients, and the focus is on their strengths and not their illness. Work in the clubhouse, whether it is clerical, data input, meal preparation or reaching out to fellow members, provides the core healing process to each participant. Every opportunity provided is the result of efforts of the members and staff who work side by side in a unique partnership. One of the most important steps members take toward greater independence is transitional employment where they work in the community at real jobs. Members also receive help in securing housing, advancing their education, obtaining psychiatric and medical care, and maintaining government benefits. Membership is for life, giving members all the time they need to secure their new life in the community.

For more information on the Friendship Club, call 781.581.2891 or e-mail friendship@bridgewell.org.

Vocational Interest Program (VIP)
VIP's primary focus is to provide job training for individuals in the Lynn area who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The program provides individuals with the opportunity to develop and refine skills needed to reenter the workforce. Courses with a focus on job readiness are offered and include work ethics, interviewing skills and resume development.

For more information on VIP, call 781.595.5030 or e-mail vip@bridgewell.org.

Visions Work-Training Program
Visions offers an evaluation of current job skills, abilities and preferences, as well as career counseling for individuals who are dually diagnosed with developmental and psychiatric disabilities. The program is geared toward increasing a participant's employment, social and overall life skills. Job-placement options are available on-site and within the community.

For more information on Visions, call 781.598.0660 or e-mail visions@bridgewell.org.