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New 'Step Forward' class and expanded SPARK schedule aim to boost community employment for people with disabilities
Summary
Winona ORC announced Step Forward, a new 2026 class for job readiness and the expanded SPARK day program; SPARK will add three class times and requires participants to be on a waiver.
Ann Mueller described two program initiatives intended to increase participants' readiness for competitive community employment.
"This new upcoming class is designed to support individuals with disabilities in building the skills, education, and training needed to prepare for meaningful community employment," Mueller said about Step Forward, which will provide structured, hands-on learning with group activities focused on communication, teamwork and workplace professionalism. The program will be offered multiple times per year with a 1-to-5 ratio.
Mueller also said the ORC renamed its day programming to SPARK (Skills, Participation, Access, Relationships, Knowledge) and will expand the schedule by adding Mondays 12:00–3:00 p.m., and Tuesdays and Fridays 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Participation requires a waiver under current program rules.
Board members discussed outreach to local employers to support placements; Mueller said staff will collaborate with business partners for community-based learning and job site opportunities.
