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therapy and includes a certification that such treatment or therapy is necessary for the person to be able to participate in current or future activities. B. Mental health services, including medical or mental health treatment, therapy, counseling, and other services to address mental or emotional disorders that can interfere with an individual’s ability to work or look for work will be considered job readiness assistance. These services are provided by qualified medical/mental health professionals who determine the necessity and modality of treatment. C. Rehabilitative services that provide medical or other rehabilitative services to address clients’ physical or mental disability before employment goals can be reached will be considered job readiness assistance. These services are offered by SCVR based on individual need.

Job readiness training may be conducted through workshops or seminars, such as, the TANF Employment Preparation Program (EPP) and through treatment programs, as well as, through one- on-one counseling.

15.3 Employment Preparation Program Description (EMPP) The Employment Preparation Program (EPP) is a 4-week job readiness activity sponsored by DSS. The curriculum provides activities that enhance job readiness and life skills. Services can be accessed on an individual basis according to need.

The training agenda is composed of two weeks of employment assistance services designed to enable participants to have the necessary skills to secure and maintain employment. Topics covered include: career plans, vocational assessment, understanding the labor market, superior resumes and cover letters, effective interview skills, networking tactics, interpersonal and teamwork skills, job skills to help keep the job and get promoted, and accurate employment applications.

Two weeks will cover life skills activities, - a continuum of knowledge and aptitudes that are necessary for a person to function independently and to avoid interruptions of the employment experience. The training plans are devised to provide advanced training for those people who are preparing to go to work, but need further training to be successful on the job. Topics covered include: Social Skills, Family Responsibilities, Problem Solving, Communication Skills, Transportation, and Health issues. The intent of life skills activities is to help clients develop skills and attitudes that are part of the standard expectations for the workplace and for successful daily living. The recommended schedule for EPP class is 30 hours per week.

Referrals to Employment Preparation Program TANF participants may be referred to EPP based on their need for services. EPP may serve as a prerequisite for participation in TANF Core components such as Work Experience, OJT and Community Service. It is recommended that all non-Job Ready participants be referred to EPP prior to referral to the WFC or Supervised Job Search.