History

In the early 1980's, Bernard (Ben) Schapiro, founder of STEP, Inc., began his pioneering role in the formation of the supported employment movement for people with psychiatric disabilities. A well-known advocate of vocational rehabilitation programs for people with disabilities, he believed that individuals need the self-respect that work affords. After careful planning by Mr. Schapiro, STEP began its job of providing dignity through work for a heretofore untapped resource of our community to selected employers in the State of Maryland.

STEP is staffed by experienced Employment Specialists. The unique segment of the program is that experienced job coaches assist the client in learning the tasks necessary for successful job performance. Upon employer and employee satisfaction, the support is gradually withdrawn and the client is absorbed into the regular world of work.

Since its beginning in 1986, STEP has served individuals with psychiatric disabilities, successfully placing them in competitive employment. Our job retention rate is well above the national average.

From an original operating budget of $90,000 and a staff of five, we have grown to $1.1 million with 32 employees.

Originally serving only Baltimore City, we have expanded geographically to serve Baltimore, Anne Arundel, Carroll, Harford, Queen Anne's, Talbot, Caroline, Kent, and Dorchester Counties.

STEP has been honored by the Regional Rehabilitation Exchange as an Exemplary Program and by the Power's organization with its Leadership Award for supported employment.

Recognized as a leader in vocational services, STEP has provided training and consultation throughout the United States and in Canada.