GraceWorks Academy

Our Job is Your Job

GraceWorks Academy prepares individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities to succeed in meaningful jobs within the community. As we are fond of telling those we serve, “Our job is your job”.

Following the Griffin-Hammis Customized Employment model, we start with a process called Discovery, where we explore each person’s abilities, passions, and employment needs. From there, we connect each person with informational interviews and job-shadowing experiences to help refine what they have to offer an employer.

Our job development specialist serves as the liaison between each job seeker and prospective jobs in the community. Once a position has been obtained, we provide a vocational mentor to support them on the job until they are able to thrive in the position independently.

Post-high school career training

GraceWorks Academy offers classes (beginning in 2025 – watch the calendar below) designed to prepare individuals with intellectual disabilities to be ready for employment across eight different career paths: food service, culinary, agriculture, construction, mechanics & small engine repair, business & IT, caregiving for people and pets, and the arts.

Following attending the Career Exploration course, which involves eight 2-hour sessions, participants will be assisted to select the most meaningful career readiness that matches their interests and goals. Each career readiness track involves eight to ten full-day (8-hour) courses. Participants will earn a certificate when they complete each course and a diploma when they complete an entire career readiness track.

Upon completion, participants will be assisted to obtain a job in that field by our job development specialists. In addition, some individuals may be invited to apply for a six-week unpaid internship at one of the employment laboratories operated by our nonprofit partner, Graceful Opportunities. This will add valuable experience to an individual’s resume.

Other Opportunities with
GraceWorks Academy

PEERS Social Skills Program:

Learn to thrive in social settings with our comprehensive social skills training, empowering participants to build meaningful relationships and interact confidently.

The Rules of The Road:

Do you want to learn how to drive? Our nonprofit partner, Graceful Opportunities, offers a 12-week driver’s education program designed to help individuals with intellectual disabilities obtain their Missouri Driver’s Permit.

If you’re unsure whether you can become a safe and responsible licensed driver, we can arrange an evaluation with an occupational therapists from Grace Reliant Health Services.

Watch the calendar below for the next free informational workshop.

Community Networking & Social Engagement:

Beyond professional development, our program encourages participants to connect with their community through social outings, fun activities, and volunteer work. This blend of engagement and enjoyment fosters a well-rounded sense of belonging and enriches the journey toward independence.

Individualized Skill Development:

Our tailored skill development program focuses on nurturing individual strengths and fostering growth in diverse areas of expertise. Whether it’s honing skills in the home to increase independence or exploring creative passions, our ISD services are designed to unlock your full potential and empower you to excel in all facets of life.

What our consumers have to say

I would like to start by saying how much I appreciate all that you did with me on the drivers ed guidebook & driving simulator. It was a great way to learn the information to pass the state written driver’s test. I tried to take the written test several times on my own but with no success. After I took the class—The Rules of the Road—I passed the written test the first time. Then I took drivers training & passed the first time I took the test. And now I am proud to be a licensed driver.