Vocational Services

Bridging self-awareness to self-sufficiency, Anka is one of the largest employers of people with mental illness in California. Its vocational programs include job training and job placement, sheltered workshop, work enclaves, and supported employment.  Anka has obtained major vocational contracts with federal and state agencies including the Department of the Navy, Department of the Air Force, California Highway Patrol, and EDD. Anka is accredited by CARF and works closely with California’s Department of Rehabilitation. Anka is also a certified in California as a Department of Rehabilitation “Ticket-to-Work” provider.

• Job Training and Placement Services
  Vocational supports focus on finding competitive jobs in the community and provide the supports necessary to ensure an individual's success at the workplace. It includes guidance in completing an employment application, assisting with effectively interviewing for employment, training to enhance work-related social and communication skills, and job seeking skills. Priority is placed on the commitment to competitive employment as an attainable goal with an emphasis on targeting individualized job placement according to consumers' preferences, strengths, and work experience with a rapid job search approach for any client expressing interest in working.
  
  
• Sheltered Workshop
  The agency has its own work center where "hands-on" job training is provided, paid work is performed, and résumé writing, interviewing strategies, computer skills and job readiness classes are taught. This model is typically time-limited and allows consumers the opportunity to learn and practice the skills needed to maintain outside employment while adjusting to a regular work schedule and work responsibility.
  
  
• Work Enclaves
  Anka has multiple work enclaves that provide litter abatement, landscaping, and property maintenance for a variety of contractors. Consumers are typically paid a living wage and receive support to manage entitlement benefits and wages. In this model, many consumers are able to increase their income and reduce their dependence on government funded entitlement programs.
  
  
• Supported Employment
  Anka provides job development supported employment services for people who secure competitive employment in the community. Employment services include job coaching and support services for as long as necessary to ensure job retention. Consumers, in partnership with job developers, are typically able to secure employment in labor, office, and service industries.