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 COVID-19 FAQ

 

When will the EmployAbility campus reopen?

Although some businesses have reopened after Governor Kemp’s April 24 announcement outlining the incremental reopening of several sectors of the economy, he did extend the shelter-in-place order for the elderly and medically fragile until Friday, June 12.

EmployAbility takes the health and safety of our program participants and staff very seriously and will continue to keep its campus closed until that extended shelter-in-place order has expired.

Our job coaches continue to support those program participants in our Supported Employment Services (SES) program who are working in essential jobs in the community via virtual technologies.

We are offering virtual instruction and educational programming via video and telephone conferencing to our program participants and will continue to do so until our campus reopens and we can safely resume in-person programming.

 

Have there been any cases of COVID-19 at EmployAbility?

As of today, there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported to EmployAbility by our staff or program participants.  We are taking preventive measures and implementing program changes in line with guidelines provided by public health officials.

 

Which programs have been suspended?

All on-campus services are currently suspended through June 12 to align with the current shelter-in-place order, although this may change if the order is extended. 

Many of our programs are offering virtual services during this time:

  • Supported Employment Services: In person and virtual job coaching will be provided for those participants who are working, on a case by case basis.  Job Seekers instruction will be offered remotely via computer/video or telephone conference services for SES program participants.
  • The Academy: will be offering some virtual instruction and educational resources via computer/video or telephone conference for Academy program participants.
  • Community Access Groups (CAG): will be offering some virtual educational and enrichment resources via online tours and activities for CAG program participants.
  • Day Habilitation: will be offering some online engagement opportunities for virtual socialization.
  • Case Management: is maintaining support services and ISPs through virtual tools.

     

    Why did EmployAbility decide to suspend on-campus programs?

    We are committed to balancing the needs of our community, while maintaining an environment that is safe for our program participants, their families, and our staff, which includes following the City, County, and State orders to shelter-in-place and banning all gatherings of 10 or more people.

    We have been closely monitoring developments related to COVID-19 since early March.  We review the latest updates coming from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Georgia Department of Health, Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), Service Providers Association for Developmental Disabilities (SPADD, the Chatham County Department of Health, the Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL), the City of Savannah, and Governor Kemp’s Office.

     

    Will the suspension of on-campus services be extended?

    EmployAbility will continue to follow the recommendations of public health and government officials.  Will keep our program participants informed as appropriate and with as much notice as is possible.

     

    How do I contact someone if I have questions or concerns?

    Current program participants or family members should reach out to Ms. Shenequa Gresham, Director of Day Services, via email at [email protected].

    Donors, volunteers, or media should contact Ms. Laura Lane McKinnon, Director for Organizational Advancement, via email at [email protected]. 

    All other inquiries can be sent to [email protected]

     

    Will EmployAbility be hosting its annual charity golf tournament on May 1st?

    After carefully considering all of the complexities and variables, it was decided that our best option will be to cancel this year’s tournament, rather than to postpone it.

     

    How can I support EmployAbility during this challenging time?

    Since much of our program revenue is attendance based, there will be a significant negative financial impact to our organization as a result of our temporary closure.  We are closely monitoring the availability of federal, state, and grant funds to offset the economic impact of the COVID-19 crisis, but the generosity of the community will be very important to us during this challenge.

    Your donations are always appreciated and at this difficult time, they can provide much needed support as we navigate this difficult situation. 

    Here are two ways you can support us now: