CareerAbility
Founded in 2017, CareerAbility fulfills a vital part of Chapel Haven Schleifer Center’s mission by guiding students and community members toward meaningful employment. Today, we serve more than 100 individuals across residential programs and the broader community. Our services support adults at every stage of their employment journey—from exploring the world of work to securing and sustaining longterm career goals.
CareerAbility’s model is rooted in a person-centered approach and incorporates best practices such as discovery, work-based learning, job skill development, and enhanced job placement services.
Every participant is paired with a Career Development Advisor (CDA) who works closely with the individual and their team to create a personalized career development plan. Advisors begin involvement as early as the Week Visit and remain engaged throughout the Chapel Haven experience, serving as advocates and points of contact for families.
Our dedicated Business and Community Relations Specialist (BCRS) partners with each job seeker to understand their strengths and preferences, then develops competitive employment opportunities with local businesses. Together, the CDA and BCRS ensure that each placement is tailored to the individual for the best chance of longterm success.
Because CareerAbility is integrated within Chapel Haven, we coordinate seamlessly with residential and community support teams. This ensures that employment services align with each individual’s broader needs, and that any changes or concerns are communicated quickly and effectively.
CareerAbility’s emphasis on person-centered planning and strong job matching has led to outstanding retention outcomes. Nationally, only 45.3% of individuals with developmental disabilities or autism retain employment for 90 days. In contrast, more than 90% of CareerAbility participants reach this milestone.
Of those placed through Customized Employment, 96% have retained their jobs for one year or more, and 92% remain employed through October 2025.
We work with individuals and their teams to explore funding options, including support through the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS), Department of Developmental Services (DDS), and Department of Social Services (DSS). Scholarships may also be applied to CareerAbility services.
Please visit our Scholarships page for more information.
