Utah Work Instruction Program (UWIN) provides a quality work experience program for visually impaired students. If you are (or will be) 16 before June 16, 2010 and interested in participating, CLICK HERE for UWIN Application. Questions? Call Jason Shaffer at (801) 464-2061.
What Is UWIN?
UWIN is a seven week program for students 16 years of age and older, enrolled in high school and functioning near grade level. The program is jointly sponsored by Utah Industries for the Blind, the Utah School for the Deaf and the Blind and the Division of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired. The UWIN program has three primary goals:
1. Summer Employment
In cooperation with the Salt Lake City business community, UWIN offers students six weeks of paid work experience. Jobs are assigned to students based on their interests, experience and ability. The jobs most likely will be entry level positions, similar to those of their sighted peers, such as food service, clerical and office work, child care, and retail stores or markets.
2. Activities of Daily Living
UWIN students will reside at the Delta Gamma sorority house located adjacent to the University of Utah. UWIN staff will be present at the residence 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Students will have the opportunity to refine their skills in activities of daily living. UWIN students are required to plan, purchase and prepare their meals. They are responsible for maintaining their clothing, personal effects and assisting with the maintenance of the common living quarters at the UWIN residence. Students will independently travel to their job sites, which include use of public transportation.
3. Fun and Socialization
UWIN students will participate in many social and recreational activities with the other kids in the program. On weekday evenings there will be planned activities during the week, such as “Out and About” (where students participate in activities using public transportation,” movies at the Gateway, and game nights. On weekends, there will be several planned recreational activities, such as camping, swimming, hiking, concerts and river rafting.
Why Participate in UWIN?
Statistics indicate that greater than 70% of blind adults do not participate in the labor force. There is significant evidence to show that those who have had work experience prior to entering the full-time labor market are much more likely to succeed in defining their vocational goals and securing employment. It is extremely important that students have the opportunity to learn the joys, responsibilities and rewards that are achieved through employment. It is equally important that as young adults students begin to exercise their independence in environments that will allow them to safely learn the consequences of their actions.
Who Is Eligible for UWIN?
To be eligible for UWIN a student must be legally blind or visually impaired, be working at or near grade level in school and meet minimum levels of competency in Orientation & Mobility and Daily Living Skills. They also must be registered with Vocational Rehabilitation. Most importantly, students must be willing to participate in all aspects of the program.
If you are not sure your nominee or student is eligible, please complete the application to indicate your student’s interest in participating. All applications will be reviewed. Some students may require additional assessment pr