What We DO

Pacific Opportunities specializes in helping adults find and maintain employment.

We take into account each client’s work history, personal barriers, employment goals, and other metrics to assist each client individually. We use a evidence based approach, along with one-on-one support to help each of our clients achieve their work related goals.

Some clients need help before they enter the job market, others have maintained a steady job for years. We help each client work through the three steps of employment.

  • 1st Step - Pre Employment

  • 2nd Step - Supported Employment

  • 3rd Step - Supported Employment Maintenance

1st Step: Learning about what’s out there and where you fit in. Before you go out and get that full or part-time job, you may not know where to start. It’s important for us to help as well as outline what success looks like. 

We offer three services in this category. 

1. Career Exploration 

2. Community Based Work Assessment

3. Discovery 

Our first two are accessed through each county’s Vocational Rehabilitation office and help our agency learn more about each client. Discovery is accessed through a county Service Coordinator (SC) or a Support Service Brokerage Personal Agent (PA). 

2nd Step: Getting Prepared for, Finding, and Working in Your New Job

  • Supported employment refers to a program or approach aimed at helping individuals with disabilities secure and maintain competitive employment in integrated work settings.

    Nationally, supported employment is guided by the principles and guidelines outlined in the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, particularly under Title IV, which focuses on vocational rehabilitation services. The national definition emphasizes providing individualized support and assistance to individuals with disabilities to obtain and maintain competitive employment.

    Key components of the national definition of supported employment include:

    Competitive Employment: The focus is on helping individuals with disabilities secure jobs in integrated work settings, where they earn wages that are comparable to those made by individuals without disabilities performing similar work.

    Individualized Approach: Supported employment emphasizes tailoring the services and supports to meet each individual's unique needs and preferences. The program aims to identify the person's strengths, abilities, and interests and match them with suitable employment opportunities.

    Ongoing Support: The provision of ongoing support is a crucial element. Individuals receive assistance both during and after the job search process, as needed, to ensure job retention and advancement. This support may include job coaching, counseling, skill development, and accommodations.

    Integrated Work Settings: The goal is to place individuals with disabilities in workplaces that include individuals with and without disabilities, promoting inclusion and fostering a supportive work environment.

    • Resume building

    • Mock Interviews

    • Presenting yourself as the best candidate

    • Receiving and Consolidating required forms for employers

    • We use assessments and other information that we collect through the VRC’s to help identify jobs that will work well with our clients

    • We use existing relationships with employers to help get your foot in the door

    • We help you get the job!

    • Once you’ve been hired, we don’t stop. We’re there to help you in many ways. Each person’s journey is different. We’re there to help you onboard at the new employer and make sure you’re ready for your first few weeks.

  • Individualized Services: Oregon has worked to develop person-centered and individualized service plans. This approach allows individuals and their families to have more choice and control over the services they receive, tailoring them to their unique needs and preferences.

    Complimentary Service Provider Organizations: VR services in Oregon are often only part of a broader network of providers who offer a range of supports, including housing, group-supported employment, skills training, and recreational activities.

    Employment Supports: Oregon has emphasized providing opportunities for individuals with IDD to gain meaningful employment. This includes job training, coaching, and support for competitive integrated employment.

    Support for Families: The state has sought to provide resources and support for families caring for individuals with IDD. This can include respite care, training, and assistance navigating available services.

    Innovative Programs: Oregon has been open to innovative models of support and funding. This includes efforts to encourage and promote self-direction, where individuals have greater control over their services and funding.

    The K Plan waiver allows Oregon to offer a wide range of services and supports to eligible individuals with IDD, enabling them to live and participate in their communities while receiving the necessary assistance and care. These services can include:

    Residential Supports: Assistance with finding and maintaining appropriate housing options that suit the individual's needs and preferences.

    Employment Services: Support individuals with IDD to obtain and maintain meaningful employment through job training, job coaching, and other employment-related services.

    Day Programs: Structured and engaging day activities that promote skill development, social interaction, and community integration.

    Personal Supports: Assistance with daily living activities such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and transportation.

    Therapy and Health Services: Access to necessary therapies, medical services, and health-related supports.

    Recreation and Social Activities: Opportunities for individuals to engage in community recreational and social activities.

    Family Supports Resources and assistance for families caring for individuals with IDD, including respite care and training.

    The K Plan waiver is named after the section of the Social Security Act that allows states to establish Medicaid waiver programs to provide HCBS. It reflects a commitment to person-centered care and a focus on allowing individuals with IDD to have greater choice and control over the services they receive, with an emphasis on community integration and independence.

    It's important to note that the details of the K Plan waiver and the services it covers may vary based on state policies and regulations. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about the K Plan waiver in Oregon, you should contact the Oregon Department of Human Services or the relevant state agency responsible for intellectual and developmental disabilities services.

    • Once you’ve been on the job, you may need some help learning how to complete tasks or work with your supervisor. We’re there to help. We coach each client through the different stages of employment from new-hire to seasoned veteran. When issues arise, your coach is a long-term resource that can help you smooth out difficult situations.

  • "My brother was out of work, and Pacific Opportunities led him to successful employment. Rachael and her team worked with him throughout the entire process: they helped him write his resume, met with him weekly to practice interview techniques, helped him fill out applications, and found a job that fits his skills perfectly. They also worked with the new employer as he learned the job and made regular contact with all parties to ensure he knew his tasks and the employer was happy with his performance. I was so impressed with the care and communication that Rachael and her team showed every step of the way. I am so thankful for the services of Pacific Opportunities, Inc.”

    Susan S.

  • “Pacific Opportunities gave me the breakthrough I’ve been needing! I’ve wanted to work at a real job for so long, but previous support never followed through to really meet my needs. Pacific Opportunities taught me how to interview well. I now have a job that I love and the best part is that they continue to provide support. Thank you!”

    Michael T., Sales Associate, Ross

  • “Pacific Opportunities has changed my life. Rachael and her crew helped me get a job that I love. This job has increased my self-esteem and motivates me to be a better person and a better mother. I used to be shy and quiet. This job has given me self confidence and now I have great customer service skills. Thank you, Pacific Opportunities.”

    Leslie G., Crew Member, Trader Joe’s

3rd Step: Long-term Supported Employment

This is the final phase for our clients. Many clients want to maintain a relationship with us for years. Some decide that they no longer need a job coach. We work with our clients to decide when our services are no longer needed so we can be phased out completely. Many find it helpful to continue to work directly with us for years! SC’s or PA’s help to make the decision. 

Our services are designed using the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) approach, which started in the US and has gained traction worldwide as the strongest, evidence based approach for Supported Employment (SE). IPS is based on guiding principles, all of which are addressed through our comprehensive service list. 

Learn about what you want to do. For clients in this category, we will help them explore new opportunities through our Career Exploration program or through Discovery