Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP)
Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP) is a career-focused mentoring program for students with disabilities between the ages of 14-21 that promotes family engagement and strengthens training for mentors, youth, and communities. Running 9 months during the school year, students can work individually with a mentor as well as alongside their peers in a group environment to learn about their own career interests while developing skills necessary to further their education and/or secure employment. We now offer a 16-week Summer Program in addition to our 9-month program.
ECNV is a Center for Independent Living led by people with disabilities who provide advocacy and services to people with disabilities in Northern Virginia.
Schedule:
Summer Session 2025
** During June, July, and August, participants will have the opportunity to participate in two weekly group events as well as one individual session with their mentor per week. Group events include worksite visits, guest speakers, volunteer experiences, and other group activities and are scheduled based on the group's availability. Individual sessions with a mentor are scheduled weekly based on mutual availability.
** If a participant plans to be unavailable for part of this program, they can work with their mentor and the program coordinator to complete the program material.
Referral Deadline: May 18, 2025
Timeframe: May-September
April 2025: Receiving Referrals and Support
May 2025: Onboarding and Orientation
June 2025: Phase One: Career Assessment & Community Mapping
• Self- and career-based assessments
• Career preparation activities
• Introduction to Pathful Explore (Career exploration tool)
• Exploring community resources & travel training
• Special events: Worksite visits, guest speakers, and end of phase celebration
July 2025: Phase Two: Career Preparation
• Career research and exploration
• Resumes & Mock interviews
• Job readiness activities & Financial literacy workshop
• Special events: Worksite visits, guest speakers, and end of phase celebration
August 2025: Phase Three: Career Projects
• College 101: College life, requirements, applications, and financial aid
• Introduction to trades and apprenticeships
• Internships, volunteerism, and civic responsibility
• Job interviews with professionals
• Career projects
• Special events: Worksite visits, guest speakers, and end of phase celebration
September 2025: Phase Four: Transition
• Program and post-program career goals
• Program reflection
• Transition plan and next steps
Program Curriculum:
The program will focus on building essential career skills, including resume writing, professional dress, office etiquette, and interview techniques. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in community events and activities, projects, such as volunteering or attending special events, further enhancing their skills and engagement with the community.
Students will identify their personal strengths, abilities, and interests, helping them gain a better understanding of themselves. They will also learn about their community, its benefits, and available resources. Additionally, students will gain knowledge of their rights and responsibilities related to their specific disability.
Participants will learn to:
Build skills and understanding around workplace readiness
Identify formal and informal supports
Understand key concepts in self-advocacy that can lead to a more successful career
Target Audience:
Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP) is perfect for transition-aged students with disabilities who want to build a stronger foundation and a clearer understanding of their career choices as they transition to adulthood.
Accessibility & Accommodations:
The Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP) will be held virtually and in the community. Participants will need access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone (or other electronic device with audio / visuals) to participate. Reasonable accommodation and computer access may be requested during the onboarding process. Community-based events will be physically accessible (wheelchair access, no steps, etc.) Any questions about the program or accessibility are welcome at info@ecnv.org.
How to Participate in the Program:
At this time, this program is only available to DARS clients receiving Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).
If you are interested in participating, please reach out to your DARS counselor, special education teacher, or Employment and Transition Representative (ETR) at their school for assistance.
For additional questions, please contact Kevina Brown at kbrown@ecnv.org
