How many people does HI serve?
HI serves about 500 people with disabilities each year. The majority of them receive vocational evaluation, vocational training, or case management services. Our vocational services are provided to Helena and the surrounding area, while our case management services are available in not only Helena, but in Bozeman, Butte, Great Falls, and Anaconda -- just to name a few.
How many community employers does HI work with?
At any given time, we actively work with 50 to 60 businesses that hire people with disabilities. We assess the employee's skills and interests to find an employer match. After placement, our staff works with the employees to ensure that they learn their job and that the employer is satisfied.
Where would I live if I chose to receive services from HI?
HI is a qualified provider of Supported Living Services and can provide these services on a limited basis. There are several other qualified providers of residential services in the Helena, MT area. To the extent possible, we will assist new folks in locating an appropriate living situation.
What products does HI make?
We have two product manufacturing areas: Wood Products and Benchmark Textiles. In the wood product area, we make a variety of items such as stakes and lath that are used by state and federal highway departments in road construction. We also make shipping containers and pallets, specialty gift boxes, and storage sheds. In the textile plant, we make backpacks, duffel bags, briefcases, and other heavy fabric products. Most of these products are sold to the federal government for fire fighters use.
Will I be paid for work done while I am in training in HI?
Yes. HI follows US Department of Labor laws regarding wages paid to people with disabilities while they learn how to work. HI pays productivity-based wages that are tied to community standards. You will be paid on a wage scale of the employer for whom you work.
How do I apply to come to HI?
There are three ways: 1) If you receive services from the Montana Vocational Rehabilitation Program, request that your VR counselor make a referral to us; 2) If you receive services from the Developmental Disabilities Program, talk to your case manager about a referral; 3) If you are not working with either of those agencies or are not sure, call us directly at 406-442-8632 and ask for the Director of Programs.
I am an employer who is interested in possibly hiring individuals through HI. How do I get more information?
We are always delighted to work with new employers! Please call our Job Placement Specialist, Ona, at 406-442-8632. She will be happy to meet with you to determine your needs. Once she knows what you are looking for, she will work hard to find the right person to fill the job. Upon placement, if it is determined that the new employee needs extra help to learn the job, we can provide a job coach to teach them job skills and to help ensure that the job is done well.
There are benefits and incentives available for employing a person with a disability and Ona can provide you information on those.
Do I have to pay for services I will receive at HI?
In most cases, individuals who are clients of the Montana Developmental Disability program do not have to pay for the services they receive. For individuals who are clients of the Montana Vocational Rehabilitation programs, there is a financial means test that may require some individuals to contribute to the cost of their services. For the most part, HI is reimbursed by these two programs for services provided. However, from time to time, we do serve individuals who pay for their own services because they do not have funding from another source.
How successful is HI at meeting the needs of people with vocational challenges?
HI has a reputation for providing a wide variety of employment options, being very successful at finding community jobs, and focusing on real work rather than work simulation. The people we serve experience the pride and dignity of doing meaningful jobs and being rewarded for their efforts. Quality is a high priority to us. We are continuously accredited by the Commission of Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).
