FAQ’S
WHO QUALIFIES TO BE AN ARTISAN AT BEE?
BEE is equipped to provide supports and meet the needs of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities who, for whatever reason, have been unable or chosen not to gain or maintain employment in the typical workforce. Our artisans have a wide array of diagnoses, gifts & abilities-- we’re not a disability-specific program.
CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE MONTHLY FEES?
In order to maintain small ratios and a high quality environment where our staff focus on the individual rather than paperwork, we do not accept government funding of any kind. This means we do not contract with any waiver programs, but instead, have a private-pay model. The annual cost to provide a supportive work environment and a top-of-the-line experience is approximately $25,ooo per artisan. An artisan's family and/or support system financially partners with BEE to cover a portion of this cost in order for us to create the individualized supports and accommodations that each artisan needs to successfully access work. The monthly fee for a full-time artisan is $880/month. We never want finances to be a barrier for anyone applying to join BEE, so we raise funds to offer financial assistance for those in need and those who qualify.This can be explored during the admissions process.
WHERE DO YOU RECEIVE YOUR FUNDING?
We have 3 revenue streams- the majority comes from donations (individuals and corporations). Other streams are product sales and monthly fees.
IS THERE A WAITING LIST TO BECOME AN ARTISAN?
Yes. We started with 7 original artisans and made the intentional decision to ascribe to a “slow-growth” approach in order to never forsake quality for quantity. We currently have a waiting pool as we slowly grow to build a sustainable community. The timing of our waiting pool is highly dependent on the openings we have in our program, the timing of applicants' desired start date, as well as several other factors. As of our current waiting pool today, for an applicant who applies right now, it could be up to 2- 3 years before our next opening, but that is a rough timeline and there is a possibility of getting in sooner. Many factors go into determining openings and fit. If you are at all considering BEE as an option, we highly encourage you to submit an application as soon as possible to secure a spot in the waiting pool, regardless of your final decision or future plans. There is no commitment required on your end if you end up deciding BEE is not the right fit. Also, there are not any fees due until Step 3 in the admissions process which would typically begin ~4-6 months prior to our anticipated next opening. When you apply, you can specify if you are looking for a particular start date that we will take into consideration.
DO ARTISANS GET PAID?
Within the first 90 days of completing vocational training, an artisan's rate of production is evaluated to see if they qualify for one of two tracks: paid employment or our vocational training program. Both tracks have the same scheduling, supports and services.
