Summer Work Experience Program

What is SWEP?

The Summer Work Experience Program, or SWEP, is a unique program offered to young adults between the ages of 16–20. SWEP provides youth with a five to six-week meaningful paid work experience in a supported environment.

Applications for SWEP 2026 are available!
SWEP Applications are due Friday, February 6th, 2026.

SWEP banner with images of people working.

Where does SWEP take place?

There are two SWEP programs:

SWEP Emerging Leaders takes place in Portland. Participants stay in dorm-style housing with peers and learn work readiness, daily living, and adaptive recreation skills, and participate in a paid Work Experience set up by OCB.

SWEP Explorations happens in students’ communities around the State and has flexible, optional components that can be tailored around students’ needs and preferences, including:

Community-based paid Work Experience set up by OCB, based on available resources in the student's community
Two-week residential component in Vancouver, Washington at the Washington School for the Blind’s YES 1 program
Recreational opportunities such as activities arranged through the Northwest Association of Blind Athletes
Progressive employment activities like company tours, mock interviews, and other programming provided online or in the student's community

When is SWEP?

SWEP is typically held during the summer months toward the end of June and for the entire month of July (varies depending on facility availability).

What will I do at SWEP?

SWEP participants engage in activities and classes designed to activate and enhance each individual’s sense of self-worth and self-reliance. Participants work with instructors who specialize in mobility, assistive technology, and vocational training.

What will I learn from SWEP?

The SWEP Experience can provide a participant with the opportunity to build relationships with peers and mentors who are also experiencing vision loss, while they gain confidence and valuable insight into their own future career and/or educational options. Students who attend this program regularly report that it is a very positive and life-changing experience.

Please read our SWEP brochure for more information.

Questions? Please contact us at transition@ocb.oregon.gov.

Please note that in all OCB programs, employees are subject to state mandatory reporter laws related to child abuse and elder abuse.

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