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The Ariel Difference  |  Types of Service  |  Supports  |  Locations  |  Getting Started  |  FAQs

What are Vocational Services?

At Ariel, we believe meaningful work can change lives. That’s why our Vocational Services are here to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) build real-world job skills and find work they can be proud of.

We provide a supportive space where people can gain confidence, explore careers, learn new skills, and take steps toward long-term success. Whether someone is preparing for their first job, learning how to apply, or ready to join the local workforce, we’re here every step of the way.

The Ariel Difference

We do more than teach job skills—we help people discover their potential.

Our hands-on programs like Whaz Up Dawg, Charley’s Cookies, Perdita’s Coffee, and the Work Crew in Grand Junction give participants a chance to earn money while learning in a safe, encouraging environment. We know every person’s path looks different, and we’re here to walk alongside them, providing the tools and support they need to succeed.

Because for us, it’s not just about getting a job. It’s about helping people thrive once they’re there.

Meet Caleb

Caleb started with our Vocational Services after being a part of Ariel’s host home and day programs for several years. He was most excited to learn about the opportunities to continue growing his abilities and to create community, which can be challenging when moving through life with developmental differences. Caleb loves earning money and being part of a team where he learns customer service and develops skills that help him grow personally and professionally.

“Working on the lawn crew has really helped me gain independence and given me a new sense of confidence. I’m proud of myself for learning new leadership skills and for figuring out how to operate the equipment—like restringing the weed whacker on my own.

I also appreciate the friendships I’ve made with people who enjoy the same kind of work that I do. Being part of the crew has given me the chance to connect with others and feel like I’m part of a team.

My next goal is to get my driver’s license and eventually be able to drive a truck. I’m excited for what’s ahead, and I feel good about the progress I’ve made so far.”

Types of Vocational Services

We tailor our services to meet needs, strengths, and interests. Adults in our programs are often called “Members” under Medicaid guidelines. Here’s what we offer:

  • Career exploration: Assistance in identifying career interests and exploring options that align with individual strengths and passions, which may include personality assessments or informational interviews.
  • Skill building: Hands-on training to improve workplace skills, such as customer service and communication, teamwork, problem-solving and other job specific tasks (e.g., cash register management, food handling).
  • Resume and interview preparation: Support with creating professional resumes, practicing interview techniques, and finding ways to stand out to employers.
  • Job placement support: Help finding employment opportunities that match individual needs and goals, including guidance on applications and introductions to potential employers.
  • Internal job programs: Opportunities to learn basic employment skills through Ariel-based initiatives like Whaz Up Dawg, Charley’s Cookies, Perdita’s Coffee, and the Work Crew in Grand Junction.
  • Community employment: Supported employment opportunities where participants can transition to jobs within the local community after mastering foundational skills.
  • Job coaching and post-employment support: Personalized coaching sessions to build confidence and help participants succeed on the job, which includes setting goals, managing responsibilities, and handling workplace challenges. Mentoring after employment ensures participants are thriving and growing in their roles.

No matter where someone is starting, we offer multiple ways to grow, build independence, and discover what’s possible.

Whaz Up Dawg!

The Whaz Up Dawg! (WUD) food truck, a program of Ariel, employs adults with I/DD who face barriers to employment. With guidance from experienced supervisors, employees learn essential vocational skills in a safe, nurturing environment while serving great food and building long-term success in the community.

Charley’s Cookies

Charley’s Cookies, a program of Ariel, provides adults with I/DD hands-on training in food safety, commercial baking, customer service, and money management—in a supportive environment that prepares them for community employment. The program produces oven-fresh, made-to-order cookies using quality ingredients, hand-scooped with care and packaged specifically for each customer.

Perdita’s Coffee

Perdita’s Coffee is a mission-driven nonprofit owned and operated by Ariel, offering inclusive employment opportunities for adults with I/DD, as well as parents and teens facing employment barriers. Employees build vocational skills, work ethic, and confidence while serving high-quality, locally sourced coffee and teas in a welcoming café environment.

Work Crew

The Ariel Work Crew provides dependable outdoor and cleanup services—mowing, trimming, raking, weeding, pet cleanup, and hauling—performed by adults with I/DD. The program offers meaningful work experience while building job skills, confidence, and independence through quality service in the community.

Additional support available with Vocational Services

Our Vocational Services work hand-in-hand with other helpful programs, which together create a well-rounded, empowering experience. Options include:

Case Management

Friendly staff partner with you to set goals, make plans, and connect with the right services. They focus on what matters most—building trust, discovering interests, respecting choices, and helping Members feel included in decisions.

Day Programs

Fun, engaging activities like arts and crafts, fitness classes, and learning groups where your loved one can build new skills and make friends. They’re a great opportunity to try new things and to connect with new friends.

Transportation

Support to ensure Members can get to work, support programs, and volunteer opportunities. Transportation help removes barriers so they can stay active in their community and maintain independence.

Behavioral Support

People learn effective ways to handle tough situations and develop coping strategies for success at home and work. Our approach focuses on building confidence and skills that make daily life easier.

Therapy

We can help you with anxiety, depression, trauma and other challenges using proven methods supporting health and wellbeing. The Ariel Difference is that we can tailor individual, family, and group sessions specifically for adults with I/DD.

Where we provide Vocational Services

Most Vocational Services are based at our Grand Junction headquarters. We’re happy to talk through options based on your location and needs. Reach out via our Contact page.

How to get started with Vocational Services

To join Vocational Services, you need to meet certain criteria related to disabilities or challenges. Reach out to us to start the process.

Services are generally covered through Medicaid, insurance, or other funding sources—so there’s no cost to the participant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you don’t find what you’re looking for below, feel free to ask your question via our Contact Form.

Vocational Services focus on job skills and employment. Day Habilitation is more about enrichment, personal growth and social connections.

It depends on the person! One Member might bake cookies at Charley’s or do landscaping on the Work Crew. Another might be exploring career interests or practicing interview skills. We customize it to each individual’s path.

Yes! Members involved in our internal programs like Charley’s Cookies or Work Crew can earn money while mastering employment skills. This helps foster financial independence and boosts confidence as participants transition to external supported employment opportunities.

The goal is to prepare participants for supported employment in the community, which could include retail, food service, clerical work, or other roles that match their skills and interests. Our team works closely with participants to identify opportunities that align with their goals. Some examples of places our Members have achieved employment, include The Home Depot, Texas Roadhouse, and Intermountain Health (St. Mary’s Hospital).

>> Unless otherwise noted, all images and names represent real Members but actual images and names have not been used for privacy reasons. <<