Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Massachusetts & Rhode Island
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Pre-Vocational Program

Devereux Massachusetts - Pre-Vocational Program

The goal of Devereux’s pre-vocational training program in Massachusetts is to provide students with opportunities in a supportive, nurturing environment, and help prepare them for successful community employment and future career goals. The skills addressed include, working as a team member, commercial housekeeping, cafeteria line work, basic administrative assistance work, auto certification, maintenance training and culinary arts training. Students receive job coaching and individual and group training, depending on the program. Job searching skills, job retention and the beginning stages of career exploration also are taught.

  • Culinary arts: Students will develop appropriate job and life skills for acquiring and maintaining an entry level position in the food industry. Skill development includes: food preparation; awareness and maintenance of safe and sanitary food conditions; and the use of kitchen equipment.
  • Auto mechanics: The focus of this program is to provide students with an opportunity to become familiar with maintaining various types of automobiles. Skill development includes: assessment of vehicles for cleanliness and interior/exterior damage; oil changes; and tire rotation. Students also acquire a working knowledge of brake, suspension and exhaust systems.
  • Maintenance: Students develop basic job and life skills related to the maintenance of grounds and building structures. Such skills include, but are not limited to: safety, teamwork and the use of tools related to plumbing, grounds keeping, electrical work, carpentry and welding.
  • Woodworking: Students have an opportunity to develop pre-carpentry skills. Advanced carpentry skills are available in a collaborative effort with the Devereux maintenance department. Shop and tool safety, project planning and creativity are objectives in the woodworking curriculum.

"I felt that no one could parent Josh as well as I could. I was wrong. He was cared for and nurtured by the most caring, warm, and loving group of wonderful people. I look at my son today and I give Devereux full credit." -- Lois Brown, parent