The SEEDS program is one of the most important services we offer at The Opportunity Tree. As an Employment First agency, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to have a meaningful career and live independently. Adleen Toloumu, who recently joined us as the Director of Employment Services, shared her enthusiasm for the SEEDS program and the impact it has on our Members.
“Our employment program gives people with IDD the dignity they deserve and everything they need to have a meaningful career and independence”
– Adleen Toloumu
Interviewer: Adleen, can you start by telling us a bit about yourself and what drew you to The Opportunity Tree?
Adleen Toloumu: “Sure! I’m all about dedication to empowerment and inclusion. I’m passionate about advocating for individuals with disabilities and educating communities about their potential. I champion the idea that individuals with disabilities, including those with significant challenges, are fully capable of participating in community life and contributing to the workforce. When I learned about The Opportunity Tree and its commitment to Employment First, I knew it was a perfect fit. I love that we’re all about giving people the tools they need to succeed in the real world.”
Interviewer: Can you explain how the SEEDS program has evolved and its significance in providing meaningful employment opportunities?
Adleen Toloumu: “The Opportunity Tree has a long history of offering workshop programs since the sixties. These workshops provided our Members with work but often paid subminimum wages, which raised ethical concerns. That just became an ethical issue to really enrich their lives and to make sure that they’re living an inclusive life, fulfilling life. Last year, we began transitioning to a more inclusive approach, recognizing that our Members deserve better opportunities. The SEEDS program, which stands for Supporting Employment, Empowerment, Development, and Success, is designed to offer real-world employment opportunities where Members can earn competitive wages. This shift has been crucial in enriching their lives and providing them with meaningful career paths.”
Interviewer: Let’s dive into the SEEDS program and how it operates now. Can you walk us through the different stages, starting with pre-employment?
Adleen Toloumu: “Absolutely! We start with our Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS). This is where we work with high school students, helping them transition from school to either further education or straight into the workforce. It’s a great way to show them that there’s a world of possibilities out there beyond the classroom. We focus on equipping them with essential skills like career exploration, resume building, interview practice, and job coaching. These activities are tailored to each individual’s strengths and interests.”
“That just became an ethical issue to really enrich their lives and to make sure that they’re living an inclusive life, fulfilling life. “
– Adleen Toloumu
Interviewer: What support do you provide when they’re ready to start looking for a job?
Adleen Toloumu: “Once they’re ready to enter the job market, we offer Job Development and Retention (JDR) services. We help them with everything from resume building to interview preparation. Our Employment Support Specialists (ESS) work closely with them, providing one-on-one job coaching and support in finding the right job match. For example, if someone is interested in customer service, we prepare them for that specific field and even accompany them to interviews if needed.”
Interviewer: And after they land a job, what kind of support can they expect?
Adleen Toloumu: “Our support doesn’t stop at hiring. We continue with job coaching to ensure they are comfortable and successful in their new roles. This might involve helping them navigate workplace dynamics, advocating for necessary accommodations, or just providing moral support. Typically, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services cover up to three months of post-employment support, but we can extend this if needed. If longer-term support is required, we transition them to services under the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), ensuring continuous support as they adjust to their new roles.”
Interviewer: What’s the age range of Members involved in these programs?
Adleen Toloumu: “We have a pretty diverse group, ranging from 18 to folks in their 50s. It’s never too late to learn new skills and find meaningful work! We currently have 15 Members in Phoenix, five in Avondale, and smaller groups in Maricopa and Casa Grande. In total, we’re supporting 33 individuals through VR services, five through DDD employment services, and a few in our pre-ETS and GSE programs. It’s great to see so many people benefiting from what we offer.”
Interviewer: That’s a fantastic range. What do you think is the most rewarding part of your job?
Adleen Toloumu: “Honestly, it’s seeing the transformation in our Members. When they realize their potential and start believing in themselves, it’s incredibly rewarding. Watching them gain confidence, build skills, and eventually land a job they’re proud of – it’s the best feeling in the world. Our employment program truly gives people with IDD the dignity they deserve and the tools they need for a fulfilling career and independence. It’s all about making a positive impact in their lives and in the community.”
Interviewer: What are some of the unique aspects of the SEEDS program?
Adleen Toloumu: “The SEEDS program stands out for its practical, hands-on training. At our Avondale campus, for example, the Opportunity Exchange project allows Members to experience real-world roles like cashiers and store associates. This initiative provides essential skills in business operations and customer service in a supportive setting, preparing them for the workforce. And as an employment first agency, yes we always try to show the way to everyone toward the employment that align with their abilities. Another standout feature is our Group Supported Employment (GSE) program, which is ideal for those who excel in team environments. It helps Members develop both job-specific skills and social abilities, focusing on building confidence, communication, and teamwork.”
“And as an employment first agency, yes we always try to show the way to everyone toward the employment that align with their abilities.“
– Adleen Toloumu
Interviewer: What are the future plans for the SEEDS program?
Adleen Toloumu: “We’re excited about expanding the SEEDS program to reach more individuals, especially those who might not require traditional Day Treatment for Adults (DTA) services. Our goal is to offer job development support that caters to diverse needs and abilities. We plan to introduce more initiatives like the Opportunity Exchange, providing practical business experience. We’re also enhancing our job coaching and post-employment support to ensure that Members not only secure jobs but thrive in them. I think that really helps build their confidence and understanding of the job. And it really enhances employment readiness. Ultimately, we aim to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve meaningful careers and independence. By broadening our services, we hope to equip more people with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the workforce and contribute to the community.”
Interviewer: Thank you so much, Adleen. It’s inspiring to hear about the amazing work you and the team are doing!
Adleen Toloumu: “Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to discuss these important aspects of our work. We’re excited about the future and the positive impact we can continue to make in the lives of our Members.”
“We aim to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve meaningful careers and independence“
– Adleen Toloumu