FAQ's

What is Michiana Resources

Michiana Resources is a rehabilitation agency, developed to help individuals with disabilities and/or vocational disadvantages help themselves. This is done through the cooperative development of an individual program plan to provide vocational, developmental, support and advocacy services for the purpose of enhancing the consumer's ability to become as self sufficient as possible. Michiana Resources is a private, not-for-profit, 501(C)3 corporation. The governing body is a fifteen member, volunteer Board of Directors who set policy and direction for the agency. The daily operations of the agency are administered by the Chief Executive Officer, hired by the Board.

Who is eligible for services at Michiana Resources?

To be eligible for services an individual must:

Be at least 16 years of age.
Have a certified disability or other vocational disadvantage.
Not pose a danger to self or others.
Complete the required intake process

What services are available at Michiana Resources?

The following services are provided at Michiana Resources:

Vocational Evaluation
Case Management
Employment Services which includes job development, job coaching, and follow-along
Work Services (Sheltered employment)
Occupational Skills Training, including sewing, custodial, material handling, and computer literacy
Pre-vocational Training
Adult Developmental Activities (Habilitation Training)
Sensory & Environmental Awareness Training
Community Connections
Therapies (Behavior management, speech & occupational therapies- provided as funding resources are available)
Library Services
Transportation
Medicaid Waiver Provider
Information and Referral
Assistive Technology
Adult Day Services Program

How do I apply for services at Michiana Resources?

There are several different ways to apply for services, depending on your disability type, funding resources or your vocational disadvantage. To find out the process that is best for you, call Sharon Janoski, Consumer Services Specialist in charge of intake, at (219) 874-4288 ext. #322.

How long can I expect to receive services from Michiana Resources?

The duration of services can vary greatly. If you need a specific vocational issue assessed, it could be as short a period as one day. On the other hand, if a facility-based program or non-vocational community-based services are provided, you may attend indefinitely if needed.

Will I get paid if I come to Michiana Resources?

Earning a pay check at Michiana Resources depends on the program in which you are involved. All vocational programs afford the opportunity for wages; but, if you possess more critical developmental needs your programming will focus on those issues first. Every effort will be made to provide some paid activities whenever possible. However, in the Adult Developmental Activities program no wages are guaranteed.

How will my wages be determined?

In Supported Employment the wages are determined by the employer. The specific job and/or position determines the exact dollar amount. However, pay must meet minimum wage standards.
Work Services clients are paid under Regulation 29CRF, Part 525, Employment of Workers With Disabilities Under Special Certificate. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) provides that workers whose disabilities impair their ability to perform the type of work being done may be employed at wage rates below the minimum. The payments must reflect the productivity of the individual worker as related to the productivity of a worker not disabled for the work being performed and the wages being paid to experienced workers, performing the same or similar work in the vicinity. Such wages are referred to as commensurate wage rates.

Does Michiana Resources provide transportation services?

Yes, Michiana Resources has a fleet of buses. However, the seating capacity is limited. Consumers are encouraged to find their own transportation whenever possible. There is a Michigan City municipal bus that runs from the library to Michiana Resources, and monthly bus passes are available for a nominal fee.

What are Michiana Resources' business hours?

Regular business hours are Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with the exception of various holidays.