Affiliations: Alexian Brothers Healthcare System, Chicago, IL,
USA | Chicago Theological Seminary, Chicago, IL, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Brad E. Egan, OTD, OTR/L, 825 W.
Wellington Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, USA. E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Finding work and/or re-entering the workforce can be extremely
challenging for persons living with HIV/AIDS. Also difficult is assisting
them in the process, mostly because there is little documentation or resources
about programs that provide vocational services specifically for this
population. In response to this dilemma and because it was perceived as a
win/win situation, three urban residential community organizations serving the
HIV/AIDS population, decided independently to create in-house work
opportunities for their clients. All of these organizations are a variation of
the same theme: transitional/supportive housing for persons with HIV/AIDS that
were formerly homeless and are now interested in becoming increasingly
self-sufficient. This article will present a program description that addresses
unique manner in which these three sites created in-house job programs in the
areas of receptionist, kitchen, and maintenance work. More specifically, this
paper will address the strengths, limitations, and ethical considerations that
guided program development.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, in-house job training, stabilization of health, transitional and supportive living
