Unicorn Children's Foundation is in a unique position to expand the vocational training and certification programs we offer across the State of Florida in high-growth industries, as a result of existing technological infrastructure and developed partnerships with industry-specific instructors. These programs support career opportunities and advancements for young adults with developmental disabilities as they enter the workforce and help them to obtain and maintain employment and increase self-sufficiency.
Program participants will have the opportunity to earn industry-standard certifications in Retail, Coffee, or Hospitality. In addition, program will include a 20 hour pre-employment internship which provides opportunities to explore career interests while applying knowledge and skills learned in a work setting. This valuable experience helps participants make connections between the theory and practice of academic study and the practical application as well as provides an opportunity to build professional networks.
Program Applicants: In order for an applicant to be eligible to participate he/she must meet the following criteria:
Applicant must be between the ages of 16 to 30
Applicant must have a documented developmental disability which includes intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, autism, spina bifida, Down syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome, or Prader-Willi syndrome.
Applicant must have access to a computer and internet (assistance can be provided upon request).
Applicant must have a goal of paid employment upon completion of the program.
Applicant must be a resident of the State of Florida.
Applicant needs to be able to follow simple one-step directions (verbal or visual), adhere to safety protocols set forth by a worksite and program staff, use conventional coping strategies to communicate frustration/anger, and have no previous history or incidences of elopement, property destruction, or physical aggression towards self or others.
Program cost: The cost of courses and the internship for participants in 2023 is grant funded and free of charge for all participants meeting the eligibility criteria above.
Program dates: February 6 to September 1, 2023 Classes will be offered within (3) 10-week sessions. Participants in each program will take (4-6) core courses and a minimum of (4) lifelong learning/wellness courses. All courses will be offered live via Zoom virtual platform.
Interested? Please fill out the interest form below. In addition, all new participants will need to complete a general program application. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE
Barista Training Program Virtual classes hosted via zoom
Unicorn Children's Foundation is partnering with Firedancer Coffee to offer a Barista Training program for individuals interested in the world of coffee. Participants will be introduced to the world of coffee and its supply chain—from planting to roasting to retail--and learn about career opportunities within the world of coffee, along with the skills and education required for each job. Participants will learn skills required to work as a Barista such as using a coffee grinder, make espresso and foam, and texture milk for cappuccinos. In addition, participants will learn the different methods of brewing coffee. They will receive theoretical and practical hands-on instruction for a range of devices including automatic and manual gravity brewers, as well as other commonly used brewers within their local culture. Lastly, participants will explore how to produce a tasty brew based on an understanding of the essential brewing elements and an analysis of their brew results.
Certificates from the Specialty Coffee Association will be awarded to participants who complete the class and pass exams for Barista Skills Foundation, Brewing Skills Foundation, Introduction to Tea, and Food Handler. Participants must complete a 20 hour pre-employment internship which provides opportunities to explore career interests while applying knowledge and skills learned in a work setting.
Retail Training Program Virtual classes hosted via zoom
Unicorn Children’s Foundation is partnering with Ken’s Krew, Inc. to offer a Retail Training Program for individuals interested in seeking community employment in a retail environment.
Topics covered include an overview of the retail industry, jobs within a retail setting, customer service skills, handling challenging situations, identifying personal strengths, and learning from guest speakers employed in the retail industry.
Individuals who have difficulties reading, writing, or retaining new vocabulary and technical information are encouraged to attend with a "coach" for support. Participants will be expected to complete homework and independent study assignments throughout the course.
Certificates from the National Retail Federation Foundation will be awarded to participants who complete the class and pass exams for Retail Fundamentals and Customer Service. Participants must complete a 20 hour pre-employment internship which provides opportunities to explore career interests while applying knowledge and skills learned in a work setting.
Hospitality Training Program Virtual classes hosted via zoom
Unicorn Children’s Foundation is partnering with EasterSeals to offer a Hospitality Training Program for individuals interested in seeking community employment in a hospitality environment.
The curriculum is based on standards from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute. By the end of the program students will have learned new job skills that can be applied to both lodging settings and generalized to other fields.
Individuals who have difficulties reading, writing, or retaining new vocabulary and technical information are encouraged to attend with a "coach" for support. Participants will be expected to complete homework and independent study assignments throughout the course.
Certificates from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute will be awarded to participants who complete the class and pass exams for Front Desk Representative, Breakfast Attendant, Guestroom Attendant, Maintenance Employee, and GuestService Gold. Participants must complete a 20 hour pre-employment internship which provides opportunities to explore career interests while applying knowledge and skills learned in a work setting.
