Jamie Hoover HR Generalist, Jeff Stephens TCMHS ES Manager, Ann Kiger HR Manager
Tri-County Mental Health strives to help the people it serves live full and productive lives. Many people with mental illness are capable of working and want the sense of achievement and success that comes from doing a good job at work. Tri-County’s Employment Services team is there to help.
The Tri-County Employment Services works with individuals with mental illness by developing resumes and assisting in the job search. Each plan is individualized to fit the consumer’s skills and interests. The program’s services range from on-the job coaching, establishing employment meetings and ongoing support to ensure job success.
The Employment Services department has built partnerships with area employers to help those with mental illness gain employment at various KC area partner companies. Employers understand that Tri-County screens candidates carefully to make certain candidates are motivated and capable of doing the job.
One particular company that has excelled in the program by advocating and supporting the Tri-County consumers is US Farathane – a leading source of plastics manufacturing supplying the automotive industry as well as other industries.
This year, Tri-County Mental Health nominated US Farathane for the Greater Kansas City Business Leadership Network DisAbility Champion Award. The company was nominated for their partnership and efforts in assisting those going back to work after a challenge or stint away. US Farathane was selected as a Runner-Up Award Winner and was recognized at the Eighth Annual Luncheon in April 2018.
Ann Kiger, Human Resources Manager, and her staff go above and beyond assisting candidates through the hiring process, explaining the company’s duties and what is involved for each position. But it is the special workplace environment that makes the employees feel at home at Farathane.
“We believe that every employee is entitled to a workplace free of harassment. We are committed to zero tolerance of harassment and a standard of behavior that encourages respect and dignity for all employees,” said Ann Kriger. “I think our different cultures has helped create a great environment.”
Tri-County Employment Services looks forward to continuing this partnership and common purpose of assisting job seekers in gaining and maintaining employment to meet their needs and improve all areas of their life – especially as they enter a workforce where the leadership values an environment free from the stigmas traditionally associated with mental illness.
To learn more about the Employment Services at Tri-County, visit: tri-countymhs.org/adult-employment-services/.
