More one-on-one help for people with disabilities

Milwaukie-based nonprofit Exceed Enterprises has expanded its Upskills Training Program

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Milwaukie-based nonprofit Exceed Enterprises has expanded its Upskills Training Program for people with disabilities to focus on work-related skills and help participants learn about businesses and work opportunities in their community.

"Upskills is a more advanced retraining program for folks who need more one-on-one or small group training so they can go back to the work force," said Ashley Metz, community inclusion specialist.

Metz added that Upskills also will focus on specific areas of training such as attendance, workplace attire, hygiene, workplace conversations and social pieces. Discussing such topics in a safe, integrated environment will allow participants to gain self-confidence in the workplace.

"We have also started building Portfolio Books for each client that includes a résumé booklet, job/business tour evaluations, TriMet training and any other tools that are needed for their employment goals," Metz said.

The Upskills Employment Training Program is a training space to discuss life/work skills, challenges, and real time practice to overcome barriers to employment and independence at work and home. UpSkills has grown in size and has added Linda Jones, a community inclusion specialist, to allow for more outings and reasonable outing size for inclusion and integration.