School-to-Work Vocational Programs
Kulanu partners with local school districts to introduce students to the World of Work and support the transition from school to adulthood. Through classroom-based vocational instruction, community exploration, internships, and job readiness training, students gain exposure to a variety of career paths while building practical workplace and independent living skills.
Kulanu’s “Travel the World of Work” curriculum helps students identify strengths, interests, and vocational preferences while preparing for future employment opportunities and adult services.
Community-based Pre-vocational Services
Kulanu’s Community-Based Pre-Vocational Services provide real-world experiences that help individuals develop the foundational “soft skills” necessary for future employment and increased independence.
Participants strengthen communication, teamwork, problem-solving, workplace behavior, time management, and community integration skills through structured activities and community-based experiences. These services are designed to prepare individuals for vocational success while promoting confidence, responsibility, and self-advocacy.
Supported Employment & Employment Training
Kulanu’s Supported Employment and Employment Training services assist individuals in obtaining and maintaining meaningful, competitive employment in the community.
Through a person-centered planning process, Kulanu’s vocational team helps individuals identify career interests, strengths, aptitudes, and preferred work environments. Services may include vocational assessments, employment readiness training, resume development, interview preparation, job placement assistance, and on-site job coaching supports.
Private Pay Consulting Services
Kulanu also offers private pay vocational consulting and transition planning services for individuals and families seeking personalized guidance outside of agency-funded programs.
These services may include transition planning, vocational evaluations, employment coaching, independent living guidance, college and career readiness support, workplace advocacy, and individualized consultation for adolescents and adults navigating educational, vocational, or adult service systems.
Private consulting services are tailored to the unique goals, strengths, and support needs of each individual and family.
our Adult Careers team
Esther Weinstein
Director of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Esther Weinstein serves as Director of Vocational Rehabilitation Services at Kulanu, where she oversees vocational and transition programs supporting individuals with disabilities. She holds a master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation from Syracuse University and brings extensive experience in developing innovative employment services, career readiness programs, and community-based opportunities for adolescents and young adults, including oversight of ACCES-VR services, school district partnerships, vocational training, job placement, and supported employment programs.
Robin Goren
Outreach Coordinator
Robin Goren serves as Outreach Coordinator for the Kulanu Works division at Kulanu, where she has been a dedicated member of the organization since 2015. Throughout her tenure, she has held a range of roles supporting individuals in achieving meaningful employment and community-based opportunities, bringing extensive expertise in resume development, job coaching, and individualized job readiness support. In her current role, she leads employer outreach and partnership development, manages an outside school district contract that includes coordinating volunteer worksites, scheduling, and workplace tours for vocational students, and builds community-based employment opportunities. She is deeply committed to creating pathways to employment that foster independence, skill development, and real-world experience for clients.
James Votke
Operations Coordinator
James Votke serves as Operations Coordinator for the Kulanu Works division at Kulanu, bringing more than 13 years of experience in special education and vocational services. He previously served as Vocational Education Coordinator, where he supported the development of vocational opportunities and individualized programs designed to help students and adults build skills for long-term success. In his current role, James oversees program operations and the summer internship program, helping to create meaningful employment and community-based opportunities for individuals with diverse learning and support needs. He specializes in vocational programming, job development, staff training, and building community partnerships that empower individuals to strengthen their abilities, gain independence, and achieve their employment goals.
Kayla Strube
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Kayla Strube serves as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with Kulanu Works, where she supports individuals with disabilities through career development, self-advocacy, and vocational programming. Since joining Kulanu in 2024, Kayla has become a valued member of the team, recognized for her collaborative approach and commitment to helping clients build confidence, independence, and meaningful opportunities for growth.
Kulanu Academy ENROLLMENT is open!
At Kulanu Academy, we make the admissions process simple and accessible for families exploring the right educational fit for their child. Enrollment is currently open, and families are encouraged to inquire at any time. Our team is here to guide you through each step and help determine if Kulanu Academy is the right fit for your family.