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Transforming sheltered workshops into affirmative businesses: an outcome evaluation
Terry Krupa1, Majka Lagarde, Karin Carmichael
1Occupational Therapy Program, School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queens University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, K7L 3N6. krupat@post.queensu.ca
Abstract:
This paper examines the outcomes associated with Voices, Opportunities and Choices Employment Club (VOCEC), which used the resources of a sheltered workshop to evolve affirmative businesses for people receiving mental health services. Quantitative and qualitative methodologies were used to understand the impact of VOCEC on employment and well-being outcomes compared to the former sheltered workshops and to competitive work. The results suggest that VOCEC has been successful in creating paid employment opportunities at levels approximating minimum wage and establishing a structure to incubate new businesses. The evaluation revealed the process by which Associates experience their participation as rewarding. It also indicated constraints on participation within the VOCEC model.