NOVA Employment is challenging other businesses in the area to help create 100 jobs for workers with disabilities in 100 days.
For most school leavers, one of the first things to do after year 12 is to look for a job.
However, for school leavers with disabilities, finding a job can be more challenging.
Nova Employment's Transition to Work program aims to help school leavers with disabilities find employment more easily.
It runs for two years, giving school leavers skills to enter the workforce and a certificate I in work readiness.
The program has been running since 2005 and more than 80 per cent of participants have secured open employment.
One of those to benefit from the program is Ryan Hayes, who works as a product distributor at Bunnings Warehouse in McGraths Hill.
Mr Hayes has been employed by Bunnings since August, after completing a 12-week internship as part of the program.
A Bunnings Warehouse spokeswoman said the internship was a crucial part of the program.
"The biggest benefit of the Transition to Work program is to give interns a taste of the environment," she said.
Bunnings is one of many companies to benefit.
Nova Employment Windsor and Rouse Hill manager Anthony Gale says employers have been quick to take on many of the Transition to Work participants.
"They're really happy with the readiness," he said.
Mr Hayes is the first participant of the program to be employed by the McGraths Hill Bunnings, and already has integrated well with other staff.
"Already he has proven to be an asset to our team," the Bunnings spokeswoman said.
Details: http://novaemployment.com.au.
■ Nursery workers;
■ Labourers;
■ Car detailers;
■ Retail workers.
NOVA Employment & Training is a disability employment service, with most of the funding coming through the federal government’s Department of Social Services.
Nova helps employers find motivated and keen employees and helps people with disabilities find and develop their careers.
Nova is an ‘open employment’ program. It finds job-seekers work in the general community with the same working conditions as people who do not have a disability.
Nova is not a sheltered workshop or ‘business service’.
