Commissioner's Corner

RSA Commissioner’s Update
September 2011

From Commissioner Lynnae Ruttledge

Welcome to the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) Commissioner’s Update.    Please accept our sincere thanks to the readership that contacted us.  We  apologize for the errors in the September 2011 Commissioner’s Update and appreciate the opportunity to offer the corrected information below.

COMMISSIONER’S CORNER

Located on the RSA website at http://rsa.ed.gov, you will find the Commissioner’s Corner.  The Commissioner’s Corner was created with you in mind in an effort to share information.  At the Commissioner’s Corner you will find information regarding events and federal partnerships, as well as archived Commissioner’s Updates and Quarterly Times.  Please visit this site as updates are posted frequently. 

RANDOLPH-SHEPPARD ACT - RSA is proud to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Randolph-Sheppard Act.

DID YOU KNOW?

• The Randolph-Sheppard Act was passed in 1936 and was amended in 1954 and 1974.  It was authorized for the purpose of providing blind individuals with remunerative employment, enlarging economic opportunities for the blind, and stimulating the blind to become self-supporting members of our society.
• Since the Randolph-Sheppard Act was passed, thousands of blind individuals have been licensed and trained to manage Randolph-Sheppard vending facilities nationally.
• In FY 2009, the program had gross sales of $758,352,474. 
• In FY 2009, the average annual earnings for a blind vending facility manager were $51,664. 
•  During FY 2009, there were 2,358 blind vendors nationally.  
•  In FY 2009, there were 885 vending facilities on federal property. 
• Although there is no legislative mandate, in FY 2009, blind vendors voluntarily employed 1,919 persons with visual and other disabilities, as well as 12,482 other individuals.
•  Over the years, the Randolph-Sheppard program has changed dramatically from single vendor-managed concessions and newsstands to large military food service contracts, kiosks, convenience stores, laundry facilities, restaurants, highway rest-area vending machines and much more.

DISABILITY MENTORING DAY OCTOBER 19TH

The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) Disability Mentoring Day (DMD) Program is a national job-shadowing and career exploration program designed to link students and jobseekers with disabilities to employers interested in hiring people with disabilities. The theme for the 2011 DMD national launch is Transition to Independent Futures, focusing on the importance of education, employment, and independent living for people with disabilities.

AAPD coordinates the national DMD through a network of more than 350 volunteer coordinators. DMD coordinators are responsible for local DMD programs and share information about their programs at www.DisabilityMentor.net.  Please visit this website to obtain information regarding your local program. 

NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH (NDEAM)

The celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) heightens awareness of Americans with disabilities while recognizing their contributions to both our workforce and our society. The 2011 theme, Profit by Investing in Workers With Disabilities, emphasizes the rich diversity and talent that workers with disabilities bring to the workplace.  For the month of October, RSA and the U.S. Business Leadership Network (USBLN) plan to work in partnership to highlight success stories as we promote NDEAM.   Please visit http://www.dol.gov/odep/pubs/ndeam2011poster.htm for resources available.

WEBINARS

RSA will sponsor a series of technical assistance webinars on topics that will serve a variety of professional communities. Please visit https://ncrtm.org/moodle/course/view.php?id=193 to take part in previous, current, and future webinars. 

Upcoming Webinar Events:

9/21/2011         Strategies for Providing Effective Vocational Rehabilitation to Underserved Populations

9/22/2011         Contract Development and Administration

RSA Commissioner’s Update
August 2011

From Commissioner Lynnae Ruttledge

RSA is proud to be celebrating the 21st anniversary of the signing of ADA on July 26.

Welcome to the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)!  The purpose of the RSA Commissioner’s Update is to increase awareness and knowledge of RSA activities.  Updates will be sent via email each month. 

COMMISSIONER’S CORNER

Located on the RSA website at http://rsa.ed.gov you will find the Commissioner’s Corner.  The Commissioner’s Corner was created with you in mind in an effort to share information.  At the Commissioner’s Corner you will find information regarding events and federal partnerships, as well as archived Commissioner’s Updates and Quarterly Times.  Please visit this site as updates are posted frequently. 

STATE MONITORING AND PROGRAM IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

• Reallotment of federal funds for vocational rehabilitation services from agencies not expected to utilize their full FY 2011 allotment by the end of this FY will occur from July 15, 2011, to August 15, 2011.
• FY 2011 On-site Monitoring.  In August 2011, RSA’s State Monitoring and Program Improvement Division (SMPID) will conduct FY 2011 vocational rehabilitation on-site monitoring visits to Maine General and Nevada vocational rehabilitation agencies and Centers for Independent Living on-site visits to Mainstream Independent Living in Arkansas and Independent Living Resources in Oregon to ensure consistency with federal requirements and to ensure the continued implementation of programs designed to improve results for individuals with disabilities. 

RESOURCES

What can you do? The Campaign for Disability Employment

The Campaign for Disability Employment is a collaborative effort between several disability and business organizations that seek to promote positive employment outcomes for people with disabilities by encouraging employers and others to recognize the value and talent they bring to the workplace, as well as the dividend to be realized by fully including people with disabilities at work. People with disabilities make important contributions to America’s businesses every day. By implementing good workplace practices, like maintaining a flexible and inclusive work environment, businesses can capitalize on the talents of qualified people with disabilities, benefitting everyone. For more information, visit www.whatcanyoudocampaign.org.

CONFERENCES

August 23–26.  FY 2011 National Financial Management Conference.

RSA, in cooperation with the regional Technical Assistance and Continuing Education centers, will conduct a national financial management conference, in Arlington, Va.  The conference will feature working sessions in areas of fiscal management of the vocational rehabilitation (VR) program, including resource management, match and maintenance of effort, internal controls, and allowable or allocable costs.  In addition, the conference will provide opportunities for sharing fiscal management practices used by VR agencies. 

WEBINARS

RSA will sponsor a series of technical assistance webinars on topics that will serve a variety of professional communities. Please visit https://ncrtm.org/moodle/course/view.php?id=193 to take part in previous, current and future webinars. 

RSA Commissioner’s Update
June/July 2011

From Commissioner Lynnae Ruttledge

Welcome to the RSA Commissioner’s Update! Published by the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), this update is intended to increase awareness and knowledge of RSA activities. We will send you a new edition via email and we hope you enjoy it. 

BUDGET UPDATE

The administration has identified cuts required to reach a $31 million reduction in appropriation, plus a 0.2% across the board rescission, excluding the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) state grants (Grants to States (RA Title I-A, sections 110 and 111) and Grants to Indians (RA Title I-C).  You can go to the OMB website at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget  or Department of Education website at www.ed.gov to review the 2011 budget.  We would like to share the following information:   

• Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers (RA section 304):  continuation of funding will be provided, but no new grants will be awarded.
• Recreational Programs (RA section 305):  program funding was discontinued.
• Projects with Industry (RA VI-A):  program funding was discontinued.
• Program Improvement (RA section 12 (a)):  program funding was discontinued.  Limited activity may be conducted under the Demonstration and Training program (RA section 303).
• Evaluation (RA section 14):  program funding was discontinued.  Limited activity may be conducted under the Demonstration and Training program (RA section 303).

GRANT COMPETITIONS OMPETITIONS

• On April 20, 2011, the Department published a notice in the Federal Register inviting applications for new awards under the Rehabilitation Long-Term Training program for Fiscal Year (FY) 2011. Since that time, the Department has determined that, as a result of final congressional action on FY 2011 appropriations, there are not sufficient funds available in 2011 to make new awards. As such, on May 17, 2011 the Department published a notice to withdraw this notice inviting applications for new awards for FY 2011 under this program at http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2011-05-17/pdf/2011-12072.pdf.

• On June 20, 2011, the Department published a notice of Proposed Priority (NPP) in the Federal Register for the Special Demonstration Programs, National Technical Assistance Projects to Improve Employment Outcomes for Individuals with Disabilities. Comments must be received on or before July 20, 2011.

• On June 27, 2011, the Department published a notice in the Federal Register inviting applications for new wards under the Centers for Independent Living for Fiscal Year (FY) 2011. Comments must be received on or before July 20, 2011.  The deadline for transmittal of applications is July 27, 2011.

WORKING TOGETHER TO BETTER SERVE VETERANS WITH DISABILITIESTO BETTER SERVE

Veterans with disabilities, rehabilitation professionals, and businesses that hire and retain veterans with disabilities benefit from collaborative partnerships within the public vocational rehabilitation program. The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) and the Veterans Administration (VA) have a long and positive history in working together to assure better employment outcomes for veterans with disabilities. 

On May 23, 2011, RSA Commissioner Lynnae M. Ruttledge and Director Ruth A. Fanning,  along with the VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment  (VR&E) Service, reaffirmed their shared commitment and signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU will ensure that both federal agencies work together to support local relationships between state VR agencies and other entities funded by RSA and the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Services program. Services are administered through VA regional offices for the purpose of providing a more comprehensive and integrated program of vocational rehabilitation services for veterans with disabilities.  Building on the collaborative relationships at the federal, state, and local levels, the MOU will encourage the development of new relationships and coordination of services in new ways. The intended result is more, better, and in many cases more localized services to veterans with disabilities who want to prepare for, get, or keep a job.

There is an excellent resource for rehabilitation professionals in the 34th IRI Institute on Rehabilitation Issues entitled When Johnny (or Jeannie) Comes Marching Home . . . and Back to Work Linking Veterans Affairs and State Vocational Rehabilitation Services for Service Men and Womenat http://iriforum.org/download/34IRI.pdf.

RSA and VR&E look forward to working together with the many partners that working on better outcomes for our veterans with disabilities. Some of the key partners with current activities include the National Rehabilitation Association, the Council of State Administrators for Vocational Rehabilitation, and the National Council on Independent Living.

RSA-MIS WEBSITE

Agency report cards have been posted for FY 2009 and FY 2008.  The agency report cards contain 95 different data elements for each agency and year.  The “Underlying Tables” spreadsheet lists the results of all 80 agencies for each data element.  There is an index from which each table is linked, as well as an explanation of the data element.  Information can be found at http://rsa.ed.gov. 

UPCOMING CONFERENCE

2011 National Financial Management Conference: “Financial Management:  A Sound Investment in Successful VR Outcomes” August 23-26, 2011 Hyatt Regency Crystal City Hotel, Arlington, Virginia Conference Website:  www.regonline.com/2011fiscal

Rehabilitation Services Administration * US Department of Education * http://rsa.ed.gov

RSA Commissioner’s Update
May 2011

From Commissioner Lynnae Ruttledge Welcome to the RSA Commissioner ’ Update! Published by the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), this update is intended to increase awareness and knowledge of RSA activities. We will send you a new edition via e-mail each month and we hope you enjoy it.  

Budget Update
The Administration is still deliberating cuts required to reach the total of $31 million plus .2% rescission across-the-board reductions, excluding the VR program.  Additional information will be shared as it is confirmed.  

State Monitoring and Program Improvement Division
Section 107 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Rehabilitation Act), requires the Commissioner of RSA to conduct annual reviews and periodic on-site monitoring of programs authorized under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act to determine whether a vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency is complying substantially with the provisions of its State Plan under Section 101 of the Rehabilitation Act and with the Evaluation Standards and Performance Indicators established under Section 106.  To fulfill this requirement, RSA has developed the Vocational Rehabilitation Program FY 2011 Monitoring and Technical Assistance Guide (MTAG) to assess the performance of the VR agencies in the operation of the program and their compliance with pertinent federal programmatic and fiscal requirements.

In fiscal year (FY) 2011, RSA ’ State Monitoring and Program Improvement Division (SMPID), will implement the MTAG to review the administration and operation of the VR program by 10 agencies in eight states.  This implementation is intended as a pilot, and the experiences of its staff and that of the VR agencies will provide RSA with information that it can use to improve the process for the monitoring cycle beginning in FY 2012 and ending in FY 2016.

The specific programs covered under this MTAG include: (1) the VR program, established under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act and (2) the supported employment (SE) program, authorized pursuant to Title VI, Part B, of the Rehabilitation Act.

Beginning in FY 2012, staff of the SMPID Independent Living (IL) Unit will monitor the two formula grant programs authorized under Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act, including the state IL services (SILS/IL Part B) program and the IL services for older individuals who are blind (OIB) program, separately from the review of the VR and SE programs using a distinct protocol and process.  In that and future years, the IL Unit will select one to two states in which to monitor the SILS and OIB formula grant programs.  These states may or may not be selected from among those in which monitoring of the VR and SE programs will occur. 

To align its monitoring activities with the priorities established by the RSA commissioner, SMPID will include in its monitoring of the VR and SE programs three focus areas to be used when reviewing the performance and compliance of each agency.  These focus areas cover: (1) organizational structure requirements of the designated state agency (DSA) and designated state unit (DSU); (2) transition services and employment outcomes for youths with disabilities; and (3) the fiscal integrity of the VR program.

The nature and scope, along with the activities to be conducted under each focus area, is contained in sections III, IV and V, respectively, of this MTAG.  As a result of the activities related to each of the focus areas, review teams may identify: emerging practices; areas of performance in need of, and recommendations for, improvement; compliance findings and corrective actions to resolve the findings; and the need for technical assistance and continuing education that will enable the agency to improve performance or carry out corrective actions.

RSA-MIS Website (http://rsa.ed.gov)
Here are recent changes made: 
(1) Commissioner Corner;
(2) A new display under the People section that allows for users to view VR state director contact information;
(3) Collapsible panels on the Policy screen allowing for easy viewing of Policy Directives, Information Memorandum, and Technical Assistance Circulars by year;
(4) Client Assistance Program (CAP) – Initial table setup involving multiple changes for CAPs;
(5) RSA-631 form updated to use collapsible panels; and
(6) A new function for SF 425 to capture changes made to the form, column by column.

Rehabilitation Services Administration
U.S. Department of Education

RSA Commissioner’s Update
April 2011

From Commissioner Lynnae Ruttledge                                                       

Welcome to the RSA Commissioner’s Update! Published by the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), this update is intended to increase awareness and knowledge of RSA activities. We will send you a new edition via e-mail each month and we hope you enjoy it.  

State Monitoring and Program Improvement Division

RSA has completed the redesign of its Web page. It now posts practices that state VR agencies and other RSA grantees and stakeholders have developed to improve employment and independent living outcomes as well as enhance internal operations. The currently posted practices were identified primarily during RSA’s monitoring of state vocational rehabilitation and independent living programs that occurred from Fiscal Year (FY) 2007-10.  We changed our descriptor from "Promising Practices" to "Emerging Practices" in order to better capture that this sharing of state information is a mechanism for promoting communities of practice and increasing awareness of a variety of approaches that may provide a foundation for research and lead to the development of evidence-based practices.  Please keep in mind that these practices were developed by state agencies based on specific needs and implemented based on available resources. Therefore, a practice may work differently or produce different results in your agency if you choose to replicate it.     

Initially we have established five categories of practices: Strategic Planning, Quality Assurance, Transition Services, Human Resource Development, and Supported Employment. The practices are listed by category, and a brief description and agency contact information are provided for each practice. It is our intention to expand the number of categories soon and add practices from other agencies as well as from other RSA grantees and stakeholders. We hope that “Emerging Practices” will be a useful resource to you. You can access “Emerging Practices” at http://rsa.ed.gov/emerging-practices.cfm.

Grant Competitions

RSA will publish notices in the Federal Register in FY 2011, inviting applications for the following programs:  Long-Term Training Program (CFDA# 84.129); Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers Program (CFDA# 84.128G); Recreational Programs (CFDA# 84.128J); American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program (CFDA# 84.250); and the National AT Activities Program (CFDA# 84.224B). Visit http://www.ed.gov/fund/grant/find/edlite-forecast.html.

Webinars

RSA will sponsor a series of technical assistance webinars on topics that will serve a variety of professional communities. Please visit https://ncrtm.org/moodle/course/view.php?id=193 to take part in previous, current and future webinars. 

Last Month’s Webinars:

• Strategic Use of Funds Provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
• FY 2011 Annual Performance Report Training for RSA Training and Service Programs Division Grantees
• FY 2012 State Plan Submission

 FY 2009 Vocational Rehabilitation Performance Wall Chart

The FY 2009 Vocational Rehabilitation Performance Wall Chart provides performance data for the 80 VR agencies in the states and territories, organized by the three agency types: blind, general and combined. State agencies are sorted based on the “number of cases closed with employment.” National totals and agency-specific averages and totals are provided for comparison.  Definitions and data sources for the measures also are provided on the chart. The information contained on the chart reflects the information submitted by VR agencies to RSA. Both printed and Microsoft Word versions of the tables are available. If you have any questions or wish to acquire a copy of the wall chart, please contact Joe Pepin, chief of the Data Unit, at joe.pepin@ed.gov or at 202-245-7598.

Rehabilitation Services Administration
U.S. Department of Education

RSA Commissioner’s Update
March 2011

From Commissioner Lynnae Ruttledge Welcome to the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)!  The purpose of the RSA Commissioner’s Update is to increase awareness and knowledge of RSA activities.  You will receive the update via e-mail each month.  

State Monitoring and Program Improvement Division
In FY 2011, RSA will pilot its new state monitoring protocol for the VR program in 10 state VR agencies: Arkansas-B and G, Arizona-C, Georgia-C, Illinois-C, Maine-B and G, Nevada-C, Pennsylvania-C, and Tennessee-C.  These agencies provide representation of general (G), blind (B), and combined (C) agencies as well as a variety of geographies and population sizes throughout the U.S.  Following the FY 2011 pilot year, RSA will review 14 state VR agencies per year over a five year period. In a state with two VR agencies, RSA will review both in the same year. 

RSA’s monitoring of the state VR programs will address specific national focus areas, including the commissioner’s priority areas: organizational unit requirements, fiscal management and transition services, and allow flexibility to address areas specific to each agency based on previously identified issues and needs. 

Grant Competitions
RSA will be publishing notices in the Federal Register in 2011, inviting applications for the following programs:  Long-Term Training Program (84.129); Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers Program (84.128G); Recreational Programs (84.128J); American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program (84.250); and the National AT Activities Program (84.224B).  Applications for the Long-Term Training Program, Recreational Programs, National AT Activities Program will be due 45 days from the publication date.  Applications for the AIVRS and Migrants and Seasonal Farmworkers programs will be due 60 days from the publication date.  Visit www.ed.gov.

Webinars
RSA will -sponsor a series of technical assistance webinars on topics that will serve a variety of professional communities. Please visit  https://ncrtm.org/moodle/course/view.php?id=193 to  take part in previous, current and future webinars. 
Upcoming Webinars: March 8, 2011  FY 2012 State Plan Submission

Rehabilitation Services Administration
U.S. Department of Education

RSA Commissioner’s Update
February 2011

From Commissioner Lynnae Ruttledge
Welcome to the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)!  The purpose of the RSA Commissioner’s Update is to increase awareness and knowledge of RSA activities.  You will receive the update via e-mail. 

Of Interest
The White House convened a meeting to discuss the contributions that RSA and state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies can make to the
implementation of the President Obama’s executive order on employment in federal government  for individuals with disabilities. To read the
executive order visit  www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/executive-order-increasing-federal-employment-individuals-with-disabilities

Grant Competitions
RSA will be publishing notices in the Federal Register in 2011, inviting applications for the following programs:  Long-Term Training Program (84.129); Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers Program (84.128G); Recreational Programs (84.128J); American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program (84.250); and the National AT Activities Program (84.224B).  Applications will be due 45 days from the publication date.  Visit www.ed.gov.

Webinars
RSA will be sponsoring a series of technical assistance webinars on topics that will serve a variety of professional communities. Visit https://ncrtm.org/moodle/course/view.php?id=193 to engage in previous, current and future webinars. 

Upcoming Webinars:

•  Feb. 11:   RSA and NTAC Present Employment Services and Outcomes for People with ID/DD: National Trends and Successful Collaborations
• Feb. 28:   RSA and NTAC Present Vocational Rehabilitation Outreach to Underserved Populations

FY 2009 Vocational Rehabilitation Performance Wall Chart
The FY 2009 Vocational Rehabilitation Performance Wall Chart provides performance data for the 80 VR agencies in the states and territories, organized by the three agency types: blind, general and combined. National totals and agency-specific averages and totals are provided for comparison. A definition and data sources for each measure are also provided on the chart.  State agencies are sorted based on the “number of cases closed with employment.” The information contained on the chart reflects the information submitted by VR agencies to RSA.  Both printed and Microsoft Word versions of the tables are available. If you have any questions or wish to acquire a copy of the wall chart, please contact Joe Pepin, chief of the Data Unit, at joe.pepin@ed.gov or at 202-245-7598.

Rehabilitation Services Administration
U.S. Department of Education

RSA Commissioner’s

QUARTERLY TIMES
January–March, 2011

Welcome to the Commissioner’s Quarterly Times!  Its purpose is to increase awareness and knowledge of the activities that take place within the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA).  The Quarterly Times will be emailed each quarter for the purpose of sharing information regarding the commissioner’s travels and RSA’s key grant activities.  We hope that you find this informative and useful.  If you have any suggestions or comments, please email Cassandra Shoffler at Cassandra.Shoffler@ed.gov.

LOOKING AHEAD…

 April 1                American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) one-day conference, Rehabilitation and Broadband Technologies Intersect, Washington, DC

April 5               Ohio Disability Employment Alliance Summit, Columbus, OH

April 6                Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) Spring Placement Counselor-Business Single Point of Contact (SPOC) Training, State College, PA

April 7–8          WID-NCIL-Mathematica Employment Policy Summit, Washington, DC

April 8               U.S. Department of Labor’s HIV/AIDS Employment Roundtable, Washington, DC

April 10–13    Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) 2011 Spring Conference, Bethesda, MD

April 12             U.S. Business Leadership Network (USBLN) and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Corporate Disability Employment Summit, Washington, DC

April 13             National Council of State Agencies for the Blind (NCSAB) 2011 Spring Conference, Bethesda, MD

April 21             Employment Summit (United Spinal Association and Temple University), Philadelphia, PA

April 27             12th Annual George Washington Rehabilitation Counseling Symposium, Washington, DC

May 5-6              National Council on Disability (NCD) “Living” Forum, Portland, OR

May 10               MIG Summit, Denver, CO

May 11               Montana Vocational Rehabilitation Staff Conference, Butte, MT

May 17               National Health Care Summit, Chicago, IL

May 18               Region 8 Field Chiefs Meeting, Jackson, WY

May 24               5th Annual Brain Injury Conference, Denver, CO

May 25               South East Region NRA Conference, Biloxi, MS

June 3                 New Jersey NRA Breakfast, Stratford, NJ

June 6                  Consortia of Administrators for Native American Rehabilitation (CANAR) Conference, Green Bay, WI

June 14–16      APSE National Conference, Seattle, WA

COMMISSIONER’S TRAVELS

 JANUARY

• Virgin Island Vocational Rehabilitation Meeting

Discussed the Vocational Rehabilitation program and its role in the community, national initiatives, and collaborations with partners in employment for individuals with disabilities.

• Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) Executive Committee Leadership Teleconference Call With RSA Commissioner

Participated in the winter CSAVR Executive Committee leadership teleconference call.

• Horizons Radio Reading Program

Joined Special Assistant to the President Kareem Dale in an interview on the Horizons Radio Reading Program, focusing comments on: (1) Importance of competitive, integrated employment outcomes that provide individuals with significant disabilities the ability to be economically self-sufficient; (2) Promoting the partnership role of RSA and the public vocational rehabilitation programs in the successful implementation of the president’s executive order on employment of individuals with disabilities in federal government; (3)  Sharing strategies and practices used by rehabilitation professionals, job seekers with disabilities and employers that assist transitioning youths and adults in being successful and globally competitive in the workplace of today and tomorrow; and (4) Highlighting the opportunities in the president’s 2011 budget and the potential for reauthorization of the Workforce Investment Act and the Rehabilitation Act.

• Administration on Developmental Disabilities Envision 2011 Federal Listening Panel Session: Envisioning the Future Summit Series

Joined Assistant Secretary Alexa Posny and Deputy Assistant Secretary Sue Swenson in the Administration on Developmental Disabilities Envision 2011 federal panel session, which engaged national stakeholders to consolidate and prioritize the consistent themes and principles heard in the earlier regional meetings.

FEBRUARY

• Region 5 Technical Assistance Continuing Education (TACE) Vocational Rehabilitation Directors Meeting

Participated in the Region 5 TACE state directors meeting, discussing the issues impacting the public vocational rehabilitation programs and providing updates from RSA and upcoming legislation.

• National Council of State Agencies for the Blind (NCSAB) Executive Committee Leadership Teleconference Call

Joined RSA Senior Leadership Team members in the winter NCSAB Executive Committee leadership teleconference call and provided updates from RSA.

• Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America 2011 Annual Sagebrush National Training Conference

Provided the keynote address on the outcomes from the 2010 RSA National Training Conference.

• Disability Policy Seminar Employment Plenary Session

Discussed perspectives and priorities around reauthorization of the Workforce Investment Act and other employment policy initiatives impacting individuals with disabilities.

• Administration on Aging, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and Veterans Administration National Grantee Meeting

Participated in the discussion of the various state grant programs for persons with disabilities on resources for aging and disability, option counseling standards, evidence-based care transition, partnerships, community living programs and VA directed services.

MARCH

• Testify on Employment of Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities

Testified on employment of individuals with intellectual disabilities, commenting on the provision of vocational rehabilitation services to students transitioning from school to work settings and/or postsecondary education.  The focus of the hearing was on the achievement of competitive, integrated employment for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

• Office of Personnel Management’s Executive Order Training

Participated in the training specifically for federal government agencies to support successful implementation of the president’s executive order on increasing employment of individuals with disabilities in the federal government. Promoted successful collaborations at the state and regional levels with state VR agencies.

• 21st Annual Alabama Transition Conference

Provided a national update on transition of youths with disabilities.

• Virginia Transition Conference

Provided keynote address on transition of youths with disabilities to the workforce and the role of VR and the federal government. 

• Office of Personnel Management’s EO Training in Los Angeles

Participated in the training to promote successful collaborations at the state and regional levels with state vocational agencies.    

• Office of Personnel Management’s Executive Order Training in Conjunction with California State University, Northridge (CSUN) 26th Annual International Technology and Persons With Disabilities Conference

Participated in the training to promote successful collaborations at the state and regional level with state vocational agencies.   

• Delaware Transition Conference

Provided the keynote address at the transition conference. 

GRANT ACTIVITIES

Grant Activities

RSA’s Training and Service Programs Division (TSPD) staff responded to comments received and placed notices inviting applications and notices of proposed priorities into either a second or third round of review for approval and ultimately publication in the Federal Register. These include: 84.128G Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers Program; 84.128J Recreation; 84.129 Rehabilitation Long Term Training; 84.224 Assistive Technology; 84.250 American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Program; and 84.811 National Training and Technical Assistance Activities:  Conferences and Webinars (this is a NPP WHAT IS “NPP”? ). Clearance is pending on a memo forwarded to support a national fiscal conference. Staff has addressed concerns submitted by the Department’s Budget Service, DRS WHAT IS “DRS” and the Office of the Under Secretary.

Development of Projects With Industry (PWI) On-site Visit Report

TSPD staff are engaged in writing and revising several PWI on-site compliance review reports about reviews that occurred in fiscal year 2010 and most recently in 2011.

Development of FY 2010 Monitoring Reports for the State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies

RSA’s State Monitoring and Program Improvement Division (SMPID) state teams are developing performance-based program and fiscal monitoring reports on the 13 state vocational rehabilitation agencies monitored in the FY 2010 monitoring cycle to determine whether the agencies substantially  complied with the provisions of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, implementing regulations and the state plan.  The monitoring reports will also identify areas of improvement and areas of noncompliance that require corrective action by the agency.

FY 2011 RSA Monitoring Protocol

RSA’s SMPID identified and established six work groups needed to develop a protocol and focus areas for the SMPID state VR, and Independent Living monitoring and Centers for Independent Living discretionary monitoring.  The six work groups are:  protocol; fiscal; organizational unit; transition; IL/CIL; and data.  These work groups comprised staff from SMPID, TSPD, and the Program Support Staff (PSS).  In addition, a collaboration work group was established to develop and identify operational strategies for TSPD and SMPID collaboration and identify supplementary areas of the TSPD and SMPID work plans that include intersections between the divisions.  This work group comprised SMPID, TSPD, and PSS representatives. 

Centers for Independent Living (CIL) On-Site Monitoring Review

RSA’s SMPID conducted an on-site monitoring review of CILs in Wyoming during the week of April 4–8  and Illinois during the week of April 11–15  to ensure consistency with federal requirements and continued implementation of programs designed to improve results for individuals with disabilities.

RSA Commissioner’s

QUARTERLY TIMES
April–June, 2011

Welcome to the Commissioner’s Quarterly Times!  Its purpose is to increase awareness and knowledge of the activities that take place within the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA).  The Quarterly Times will be emailed each quarter for the purpose of sharing information regarding the commissioner’s travels and RSA’s key grant activities.  We hope that you find this informative and useful.  If you have any suggestions or comments, please email Cassandra Shoffler at Cassandra.Shoffler@ed.gov.

LOOKING AHEAD…

July 13                Dream to Achieve Conference for American Indians with Disabilities, Keynote address, Toppenish, Wash.

July 13                Yakama Nation Cultural Center, Keynote address, Toppenish, Wash.

July 14                Yakama Disability Conference, Toppenish, Wash.

July 20                2011 Pa. Community on Transition Conference, Pre-recorded video presentation, Washington, DC

July 29                NAMRC Conference Keynote address, Atlanta, Ga.

Aug. 1-3             2011 OSEP Leadership Mega Conference, Arlington, Va.

Aug. 9                 USAID brown bag lunch - MIUSA presentation, Washington, D.C.

Aug. 23               USAID brown bag lunch - MIUSA presentation, Arlington, Va.

Sept. 12             U.S. launch of WHO report, Arlington, Va.

Sept. 13             4th Annual Summit on VR Program Evaluation and Quality Assurance, Tampa Bay, Fla.

Sept. 14             Region X 2011 NW Training Forum, Keynote address, Portland, Ore.

Fiscal Year (FY) 2011 National Financial Management Conference,  Aug. 23-26, Arlington, Va.

RSA, in cooperation with the regional Technical Assistance and Continuing Education (TACE) centers, is planning a national financial management conference.   The conference will feature working sessions in areas of fiscal management of the VR program, including resource management, match and maintenance of effort, internal controls, and allowable and allocable cost. 

FY 2011 Project Directors’ Conference,  Aug. 1-3, Arlington, Va. 

This year’s theme is “Working for a Better Tomorrow.”  This conference is planned by several discretionary grant programs managed by the RSA Training and Service Program Division. The conference allows grantees to highlight an individual project’s impact, disseminate information and meet with federal partners. 

COMMISSIONER’S TRAVELS

 APRIL

• Ohio Disability Employment Alliance Summit

Provided the keynote address and discussed the national employment strategies, initiatives and updates from RSA. 

• Pennsylvania 2011 Statewide Transition Conference

Provided the keynote address and discussed national employment strategies, transition youth initiatives, and updates from RSA.

• Employment Policy Summit convened by Mathematica, WID and NCIL

Attended the summit.

• NCSRC Members Meeting

Participated in the NCSRC meeting and provided an update on RSA and facilitated the discussion with NCSRC members.

• Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) 2011 Spring Conference

Provided the keynote address and gave updates from RSA and on upcoming legislation on the Workforce Investment Act and the Rehabilitation Act.

• Corporate Disability Employment Summit

Attended the summit.

• National Council of State Agencies for the Blind (NCSAB) 2011 Spring Conference

Provided the keynote address and discussed updates from RSA and Workforce Investment Act and Rehabilitation Act legislation. 

• 2011 Disability Leadership and Policy Summit

Participated on the panel and discussed the development and implementation of programs and policies that will lead to employment opportunities and hiring of people with disabilities and veterans. 

• The 12th Annual George Washington Counseling Symposium

Attended the symposium sponsored by the Center for Rehabilitation Counseling Research and Education and provided updates from RSA and on upcoming legislation.

MAY

• National Council on Disability’s Quarterly Meeting

Participated in the “Living Forum” to discuss challenges and best practices, build new and deepen existing collaborations and partnerships, hear from and engage with federal partners and learn from one another with the shared goal of improving community living for people with disabilities. 

• Montana Vocational Rehabilitation Staff Conference

Spoke at the staff meeting and provided updates on upcoming legislation. 

• Healthcare: Career Trends, Best Practices and Call-To-Action Summit

Participated in the summit sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor and Access Living of Metropolitan Chicago. This event discussed increased employment opportunities for people with disabilities, constructive dialogue about breaking down employment barriers in clinical and non clinical settings, building strategic alliances, exchanging information and improving access to healthcare careers for qualified people with disabilities, veterans, and minorities. 

• Region VIII Field Chief’s Meeting

Provided updates on upcoming legislation and issues impacting the public VR programs.

• 5th Annual Secondary Transition State Planning Institute

Provided the keynote address and discussed rehabilitation services and secondary transition for youth with disabilities in vocational rehabilitation programs.

•  New Jersey Know Your Rights Conference

The theme of the conference was “Protecting the Rights of People Who Are Blind or Visually-Impaired.”  Provided the keynote address and discussed the role and rights under the Rehabilitation Act for people who are blind or visually-impaired.

• National Brain Injury Employment Conference

Provided the keynote address and discussed updates from RSA, upcoming legislation and best and emerging national practices. 

• American Association of People with Disabilities Summer Internships Program Supervisors Luncheon

Participated in the luncheon which brought together the 2011 summer interns to meet with other interns and supervisors from various government agencies. 

COMMISSIONER’S TRAVELS

JUNE

• Consortia of Administrators for Native American Rehabilitation Conference (CANAR) Mid-Year Training Conference

Provided the keynote address "Building and Sustaining Effective Partnerships" and discussed issues impacting Native American vocational rehabilitation programs and updates on upcoming legislation. 

• 22nd Annual APSE National Conference

Provided the keynote address titled “Working together to Create More Successful Partnerships.” 

• National Council of State Agencies for the Blind Teleconference with Commissioner Ruttledge

Via teleconference, discussed ARRA expenditures and outcomes, transition services and successes for youths with disabilities and the President’s Executive Order on employment for people with disabilities in the federal government. 

• Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitation Services

Met with the Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitation Services leadership and staff and discussed the Connecticut vocational programs and updates on upcoming legislation. 

• Connecticut State Board of Education and Services for the Blind agency

Met with the Connecticut Services for the Blind agency leadership and discussed programs and services for the blind or visually impaired and updates on upcoming legislation.

• New Hampshire State Rehabilitation Council

Met with the New Hampshire State Rehabilitation Council and discussed issues related to the employment of people with disabilities in the state of New Hampshire.

• New Hampshire Vocational Rehabilitation

Met with the New Hampshire Vocational Rehabilitation leadership and discussed New Hampshire vocational programs and provided updates on upcoming legislation. 

• Video Conference with Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services

Participated in a video conference and discussed the new federal hiring initiative for persons with disabilities gaining employment into the federal government. 

• Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission’s Consumer Conference

Provided the keynote address and discussed setting high expectations, creating transition goals and focusing on economic self-sufficiency through competitive and integrated employment, especially with employment opportunities with federal agencies.

GRANT ACTIVITIES

FY 2010 State Monitoring and Program Improvement Division (SMPID) Monitoring Reports

The RSA SMPID state teams developed performance-based program and fiscal monitoring reports of the VR and IL programs in 13 state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies monitored in FY 2010 monitoring cycle to determine whether the agencies complied substantially with the provisions Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, implementing regulations and the State Plan.  The monitoring reports identified areas of improvement and areas of noncompliance that require corrective action by the agency.  RSA has published the FY 2010 final monitoring reports of VR programs in Alaska, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, Virginia, and Wisconsin. 

Institute on Rehabilitation Issues (IRI) Prime Student Group meeting

Members of the 37th IRI Prime Study Group convened to being developing the IRI document.  This year’s topic was “Understanding the Impact of Health Care Reform on the Employment and Independence of Individuals with Disabilities.” 

Projects with Industry (PWI)

Letters were mailed to all PWI grantees concerning FY 2011 funding cuts and discontinuation of the program.  Two teleconferences were conducted on June 15th to answer questions about this event.

Program and Fiscal On-Site Monitoring

RSA’s Training Program Unit conducted an on-site program and fiscal monitoring visit of George Washington University, Southern University and A & M College (Louisiana).

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) On-Site Monitoring

SMPID conducted VR on-site monitoring visits for the following vocational rehabilitation agencies:  Arizona, Arkansas Blind, Arkansas General, Pennsylvania, Illinois Combined, Maine General, and Tennessee to ensure consistency with federal requirements and to ensure the continued implementation of programs designed to improve results for individuals with disabilities. 

Centers for Independent Living (CIL) On-Site Monitoring Review

SMPID conducted an on-site monitoring review of CILs in Montana (Living for Today/Tomorrow Center), Arkansas (Mainstream Center), Wyoming, Oregon, Indiana, and Illinois to ensure consistency with federal requirements and continued implementation of programs designed to improve results for individuals with disabilities.

COMMISSIONER’S QUARTERLY TIMES

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
July-September 2011

Welcome to the Commissioner’s Quarterly Times! Its purpose is to increase awareness and knowledge of the activities that take place within the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). The Quarterly Times will be emailed each quarter for the purpose of sharing information regarding the commissioner’s travels and RSA’s key grant activities. We hope that you find this informative and useful. If you have any suggestions or comments, please email Cassandra Shoffler at Cassandra.Shoffler@ed.gov.

LOOKING AHEAD

November 8       White House Meeting on the State of the Science Conference, Washington, DC

November 16     National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, Washington, DC

November 17     Alliance for Full Participation Plenary Session, Washington, DC

November 17     RSA Staff Recognition in conjunction with ED Appreciation, Washington, DC

November 22     Assistive Technology Stakeholders Meeting, Washington, DC

November 30     TASH Conference, Atlanta, GA

December 1        TASA Conference, Atlanta, GA

COMMISSIONER’S TRAVELS

JULY

“Dream to Achieve” for American Indians with Disabilities Conference.

Provided the keynote address and discussed issues pertaining to American Indians with disabilities and tribal vocational rehabilitation programs.

FEMA’s ODIC Open House ADA Anniversary.

Attended the open house.

AAPD 21st Anniversary of the American’s with Disabilities Act Celebration.

Attended the celebration.

Summer Interns Working in the Federal Government.

Attended the White House event to celebrate the ADA Anniversary for summer

interns working in federal government agencies on disability issues.

National Association of Multicultural Rehabilitation Concerns Conference.

Provided the keynote address and discussed the importance of working together to achieve better outcomes in the public vocational rehabilitation programs.

National Association of Multicultural Rehabilitation Concerns Board Meeting.

Attended the meeting and discussed national multicultural policy issues.

AUGUST

Rehabilitation Services Administration’s 2011 Directors’ Conference.

Provided the keynote address and discussed updates from RSA, upcoming legislation and other topics.

National Diversity Forum.

Attended the forum sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy and discussed the new

Add Us In initiative which seeks to identify and develop innovative opportunities and models that increase the capacity of

targeted small businesses to improve job opportunities for youth and adults with disabilities.

Institute on Rehabilitation Issues (IRI) Study Group Meeting.

Spoke at the IRI Study Group Meeting sponsored by Rehabilitation Services Administration and discussed

the importance of the study group and the impact on addressing issues in rehabilitation for people with disabilities.

National Rehabilitation Leaders Institute’s Issues Forum for New Rehabilitation Executives.

Provided remarks at the forum which focused on the importance of leadership in the public vocational rehabilitation

(VR) program, current challenges to the VR program and perspectives on policy direction that will best promote

employment of individuals with significant disabilities.

Rehabilitation Services Administration’s FY 2011 National Financial Management Conference.

Provided the opening and closing remarks.

FY 2011 National Financial Management Conference.

RSA, in cooperation with the regional Technical Assistance and Continuing Education Centers, sponsored a national financial

management conference in Arlington, Va., which featured working sessions in areas of fiscal management of the vocational

rehabilitation (VR) program, including resource management, match and maintenance of effort, internal controls, and

allowable/allocable costs. In addition, the conference provided opportunities for sharing fiscal management practices used

by VR agencies.

Kentucky Rehabilitation Association Annual Conference.

Presented at the Kentucky Rehabilitation Association Annual Conference in Covington, KY and discussed RSA initiatives

and updates on pending legislation.

Georgia Rehabilitation Association Conference.

Provided the keynote address and discussed creating partnerships to improve employment opportunities for people with

disabilities.

SEPTEMBER

4th Annual Summit on Vocational Rehabilitation Program Evaluation and Quality Assurance Conference.

Gave the keynote address and discussed creating partnerships to improve employment opportunities for people with

disabilities.

A National Onsite Training: Outcomes Measures for Centers for Independent Living.

Provided the keynote address and discussed creating partnerships to improve employment opportunities for people

with disabilities.

Northwest Training Forum on Employment for People who are deaf, deaf-blind or hard of hearing Conference.

Gave the keynote address discussed creating partnerships to improve employment opportunities for

people with disabilities.

National Disability Leadership Association.

Met with the National Disability Leadership Association and discussed the employment opportunities of people with

disabilities in the federal government.

Video Conference with National Association of Blind Merchants’ 2011 BLAST Conference.

Lead video conference and discussed the administration’s commitments and new initiatives.

Illinois Department of Human Services Leadership.

Met with the Illinois Department of Human Services and Vocational Rehabilitation Leadership and discussed their

leadership transition plans to continue effective administration of the VR program and its resources.

National Organization on Disability Veteran’s Employment Forum.

Attended the Forum which addressed the principles and practices for improved employment support to veterans

with serious disabilities.

Bank of America Employer Services Meeting.

Spoke at the services meeting breakfast session roundtable and discussed employment services for people with

disabilities throughout the country.

Videoconference with the Spokane Washington American Indian Tribe.

Addressed the Spokane Washington American Indian Tribe through videoconference and discussed employment services

and resources for American Indians with disabilities in the state of Washington.

GRANT ACTIVITIES

Development of FY 2010 Monitoring Reports.

The Rehabilitation Services Administration’s State Monitoring and Program Improvement Division (SMPID) developed

performance-based program and fiscal monitoring reports of the VR and IL programs in 13 state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies monitored in the FY 2010 monitoring cycle to determine whether the agencies complied substantially with the provisions of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, implementing regulations and the State Plan. The monitoring

reports identified areas of improvement and areas of noncompliance that require corrective action by the agency. RSA

published FY 2010 final monitoring reports of VR programs in Alaska, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

FY 2011 On-Site Monitoring. SMPID conducted an FY 2011 vocational rehabilitation on-site monitoring visit to the Georgia combined vocational rehabilitation agency to ensure consistency with federal requirements and to ensure the continued

implementation of programs designed to improve results for individuals with disabilities.

Development of FY 2011 Monitoring Reports. SMPID state teams conducted six of 10 scheduled on-site monitoring visits of vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies for FY 2011 to determine whether the agencies complied substantially with the provisions of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, implementing regulations and the State Plan. Of the six on-site vis-its, RSA has completed a draft monitoring report of the VR program for the state of Arizona. The draft monitoring report identified areas of improvement and areas of noncompliance that require corrective action by the agency.

On-site Program and Fiscal Monitoring Visit.

RSA’s Training Programs Unit conducted an on-site program and fiscal monitoring visit of Southern University and A&M Col-lege in Louisiana. The focus was on five of the university’s Long-Term Training grants (84.129 B, F, L, and W) and one active grant focusing on Capacity Building for Traditionally Underserved Populations (84.315 D)

On-site Program and Fiscal Monitoring Visit.

RSA’s Training Programs Unit conducted an on-site program and fiscal monitoring visit of California State University – Fresno. The focus on six of the university’s Long-Term Training grants (84.129 B, F, and R).

On-site Program and Fiscal Monitoring Visit.

RSA’s Training Programs Unit conducted an onsite program and fiscal monitoring visit of George Washington University with the focus on four of the university’s active Long-Term Training grants (84.129 B, F, R, and W) and one active grant focusing on the Institute on Rehabilitation Issues (84.264C).

FY 2011 National Financial Management Conference.

RSA, in cooperation with the regional Technical Assistance and Continuing Education (TACE) centers, held a national financial management conference August 23-26, 2011, in Arlington, Virginia. The conference featured working sessions in areas of fiscal management of the VR program, including resource management, match and maintenance of effort, internal controls, and allowable/allocable costs. In addition, the conference provided opportunities for sharing fiscal management practices used by VR agencies.

Development of FY 2012 Vocational Rehabilitation State Plans.

SMPID state liaisons are reviewing and approving FY 2012 VR State Plans to ensure conformity with statutory provisions of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, implementing regulations and the administrative requirements of RSA. RSA has published the Oregon Blind State Plan on the RSA Management Information System (MIS).

Dear Colleagues:

On this day, July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law reaffirming that all citizens, regardless of disability, are entitled to the same privileges, pursuits, and opportunities as everyone else.  As the Obama Administration marks that anniversary, we celebrate the continuing promise of the ADA that all Americans should have equal access and equal opportunity, including Americans with disabilities.  In today’s Proclamation, President Obama states that “The ADA was about independence and the freedom to make of our lives what we will.  We celebrate that today, and we recommit ourselves to ending discrimination in all its forms.”

I am delighted to share the Presidential Proclamation – Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act with each of you.   

Lynnae M. Ruttledge, Commissioner
Rehabilitation Services Administration

The White House
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
July 25, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Generations of Americans with disabilities have improved our country in countless ways. Refusing to accept the world as it was, they have torn down the barriers that prohibited them from fully realizing the American dream. Their tireless efforts led to the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), one of the most comprehensive pieces of civil rights legislation in our Nation’s history. On this day, we celebrate the 21st anniversary of the ADA and the progress we have made, and we reaffirm our commitment to ensure equal opportunity for all Americans.

Each day, people living with disabilities make immeasurable contributions to the diversity and vitality of our communities. Nearly one in five Americans lives with a disability. They are our family members and friends, neighbors and colleagues, and business and civic leaders. Since the passing of the ADA, persons with disabilities are leading fuller lives in neighborhoods that are more accessible and have greater access to new technologies. In our classrooms, young people with disabilities now enjoy the same educational opportunities as their peers and are gaining the tools necessary to reach their greatest potential.

Despite these advancements, there is more work to be done, and my Administration remains committed to ending all forms of discrimination and upholding the rights of Americans with disabilities. The Department of Justice continues to strengthen enforcement of the ADA by ensuring that persons with disabilities have access to community-based services that allow them to lead independent lives in the communities of their choosing. Under provisions of the Affordable Care Act, insurers will no longer be able to engage in the discriminatory practice of denying coverage based on pre-existing conditions, and Americans with disabilities will have greater control over their health care choices. And last year, I signed an Executive Order establishing the Federal Government as a model employer for individuals with disabilities, placing a special focus on recruitment and retention of public servants with disabilities across Federal agencies.

Through the ADA, America was the first country in the world to comprehensively declare equality for citizens with disabilities. To continue promoting these principles, we have joined in signing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. At its core, this Convention promotes equality. It seeks to ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy the same rights and opportunities as all people, and are able to lead their lives as do other individuals.

Eventual ratification of this Convention would represent another important step in our forty-plus years of protecting disability rights. It would offer us a platform to encourage other countries to join and implement the Convention. Broad implementation would mean greater protections and benefits abroad for millions of Americans with disabilities, including our veterans, who travel, conduct business, study, reside, or retire overseas. In encouraging other countries to join and implement the Convention, we also could help level the playing field to the benefit of American companies, who already meet high standards under United States domestic law. Improved disabilities standards abroad would also afford American businesses increased opportunities to export innovative products and technologies, stimulating job creation at home.

Equal access, equal opportunity, and the freedom to make of our lives what we will are principles upon which our Nation was founded, and they continue to guide our efforts to perfect our Union. Together, we can ensure our country is not deprived of the full talents and contributions of the approximately 54 million Americans living with disabilities, and we will move forward with the work of providing pathways to opportunity to all of our people.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Tuesday, July 26, 2011, the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I encourage Americans across our Nation to celebrate the 21st anniversary of this civil rights law and the many contributions of individuals with disabilities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.

BARACK OBAMA

August 1-3.  The 14th Annual RSA Project Directors’ Conference.

The 14th Annual RSA Project Directors’ Conference is scheduled for August 1-3 at the Crystal Gateway Marriott Hotel.  This year’s theme is “Working for a Better Tomorrow.”  The conference will include RSA Commissioner Lynnae Ruttledge; Henry Claypool, director of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disability; Patricia Leahy, legislative director of the National Rehabilitation Association; and Jill Houghton, acting director of the U.S. Business Leadership Network.  Grantees will also be able to meet with their assigned RSA program officer, learn about case management as well as other new developments, and network with fellow grantees. 

This year’s conference is available online at: http://www.regonline.com/2011projectdirectorsconference.
Conference cost is $350.00 per person.

OSERS National Transition Conference

Due to the large number of important events occurring in the Fall 2011, efforts are underway to move the 2011 OSERS National Transition Conference “College and Careers for Youth with Disabilities” to 2012.  Information will be updated at www.transition2011.org as it becomes available.

The National Transition Conference will provide a forum for the development of an action agenda, bring together critical partners in the transition community to exchange innovative ideas and approaches; demonstrate knowledge gained from policy implementation; transition practices; research findings; and promote and facilitate the development of networks and relationships.

The National Transition Conference will bring together:
• Youth and young adults
• Family members/advocates/caregivers
• Educators
• Vocational rehabilitation professionals
• Employment and training professionals
• Researchers
• State and federal officials
• Leaders in the transition community

Don’t miss this opportunity to access the latest information available in the field that can be used to improve the transition from school to adult life for young adults with disabilities!

2011 Rehabilitation Services Administration
National Financial Management Conference
"Financial Management: A Sound Investment in Successful VR Outcomes"

Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), in collaboration with the regional Technical Assistance and Continuing Education (TACE) centers will conduct a FY 2011 Financial Management Conference August 23-26, 2011, at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City Hotel in Arlington, Virginia.  Joining RSA and the TACE centers on the program will be state partners from vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies and other federal partners, including the Office of the Inspector General, the Indirect Cost Group, the Office of the Chief Financial Officer, and Risk Management Services.  TACE 3 at The George Washington University will serve as the conference coordinator. 

This conference is intended to provide training and technical assistance to management and staff of VR agencies responsible for the financial management of the VR program.  The conference will focus on key areas of financial management identified in the VR monitoring process as areas of need for technical assistance, including resource management, match and maintenance of effort, fiscal controls and contract management, and allowable and allocable costs.  The conference will also provide opportunities for VR agencies to share practices in the area of financial management that have been effective in their agencies as well as practices in other areas, such as strategic planning and needs assessment, that enhance VR program improvement. The conference promises to be an excellent opportunity to enhance the participant’s knowledge of financial management for the VR program and share information with other VR agencies.  

Registration and conference information can be found at www.regonline.com/2011fiscal

DISABILITY MENTORING DAY OCT. 19

The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) Disability Mentoring Day (DMD) Program is a national job-shadowing and career exploration program designed to link students and jobseekers with disabilities to employers interested in hiring people with disabilities. The theme for the 2011 DMD national launch is Transition to Independent Futures, focusing on the importance of education, employment, and independent living for people with disabilities.

AAPD coordinates the national DMD through a network of more than 350 volunteer coordinators. DMD coordinators are responsible for local DMD programs and share information about their programs at www.DisabilityMentor.net.  Please visit this website to obtain information regarding your local program. 

Blind Americans Equality Day, 2011
By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Generations of blind and visually impaired Americans have dedicated their passion and skills to enhancing our national life—leading as public servants, penning works of literature, lending voice to universal passions through music, and inspiring as champions in sports.  On Blind Americans Equality Day, we celebrate the achievements of blind and visually impaired Americans and reaffirm our commitment to advancing their complete social and economic integration.

My Administration is dedicated to ensuring Americans with disabilities have every opportunity to reach their full potential.  Last year, I signed the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act to set new standards that enable people living with disabilities to access broadband, digital, and mobile innovations.  To help level the playing field for employment, we are working to improve the Federal Government’s compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.  Making electronic and information technology 508 compliant will give applicants with disabilities a fair chance and allow disabled employees to use necessary tools while on the job.  By taking these steps, my Administration reaffirms its pledge to openness by making sure that people with disabilities can better access all the information the Federal Government has placed online. 

This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the passage of the Randolph-Sheppard Act.   For decades, the legislation has provided opportunities for blind and visually impaired Americans to work as vendors on Federal property, creating meaningful entrepreneurial opportunities.  These jobs have enriched the lives of those participating in the Randolph-Sheppard program and enhanced public understanding of blindness for those who have interacted with the program’s vendors. 

Though we have made progress in the march to equality for the blind and those with low vision, there is still more work to be done.  In addition to improving access to technology and employment opportunities, this January I signed the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2010.   This landmark legislation requires electric and hybrid car manufacturers to add sounds to alert all pedestrians to the presence of these unusually quiet vehicles.  These provisions will help increase the safety and independence of blind and visually impaired Americans.

By joint resolution approved on October 6, 1964 (Public Law 88-628, as amended), the Congress designated October 15 of each year as White Cane Safety Day to recognize the contributions of Americans who are blind or have low vision.  Today, let us recommit to forging ahead with the work of perfecting our union and ensuring we remain a Nation where all our people, including those living with disabilities, have every opportunity to achieve their dreams.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2011, as Blind Americans Equality Day.  I call upon public officials, business and community leaders, educators, librarians, and Americans across the country to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this _____ day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.

Working Together to Better Serve Veterans with Disabilities

Veterans with disabilities, rehabilitation professionals, and businesses that hire and retain veterans with disabilities benefit from collaborative partnerships within the public vocational rehabilitation program. The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) and the Veterans Administration (VA) have a long and positive history in working together to assure better employment outcomes for veterans with disabilities. 

On May 23, 2011, RSA Commissioner Lynnae M. Ruttledge and Director Ruth A. Fanning,  along with the VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment  (VR&E) Service, reaffirmed their shared commitment and signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU will ensure that both federal agencies work together to support local relationships between state VR agencies and other entities funded by RSA and the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Services program. Services are administered through VA regional offices for the purpose of providing a more comprehensive and integrated program of vocational rehabilitation services for veterans with disabilities.  Building on the collaborative relationships at the federal, state, and local levels,  the MOU will encourage the development of new relationships and coordination of services in new ways. The intended result is more, better, and in many cases more localized services to veterans with disabilities who want to prepare for, get, or keep a job.

There is an excellent resource for rehabilitation professionals in the 34th IRI Institute on Rehabilitation Issues entitled When Johnny (or Jeannie) ComesMarchingHome . . . and Back to Work Linking Veterans Affairs and State Vocational Rehabilitation Services for Service Men and Womenat http://iriforum.org/download/34IRI.pdf.

RSA and VR&E look forward to working together with the many partners that working on better outcomes for our veterans with disabilities. Some of the key partners with current activities include the National Rehabilitation Association, the Council of State Administrators for Vocational Rehabilitation, and the National Council on Independent Living.

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND EMPLOYMENT SERVICE
AND
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REHABILITATION SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

A.  Purpose

The Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Service and the Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) agree to advance, improve, and expand the employment opportunities for disabled veterans committing themselves to active cooperation and coordination in implementing the objectives set forth in this agreement.

B.  Authority

This agreement is authorized in accordance with 38 U.S.C. §§3115 (a) and 3116(a) and section 12(b) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (the “Act”), as amended (29 U.S.C. § 709(b)).

C.  Terms

VR&E Service and RSA will each appoint an individual to:

• Serve as the point of contact for joint VR&E and RSA activities within their respective Departments.

• Serve as the contact person for state and local agencies and offices to provide information and guidance regarding joint VR&E and RSA activities.

• Assist in establishing cooperative agreements between State

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Agencies pursuant to section 101(a)(11) of the Act (29 U.S.C. § 721(a)(11), and VA Regional Offices (RO).  Such agreements are intended to identify opportunities at the local level for collaboration and partnership to improve services and increase employment outcome for disabled veterans.  VR&E and RSA, through the assigned liaisons, will share information and coordinate activities to carry out and support the objectives of this MOU.

Specifically, they will: 

• Develop and disseminate national guidance about statutory requirements of the VR&E and the public VR program under the Act, and identify opportunities for partnership.

• Exchange information about best practices and joint service provisions at the local levels, to include any local level pilot programs and existing local level collaborations.

• Invite the other to appropriate national meetings and training conferences for the purpose of familiarizing both parties with the services, requirements, best practices and issues relating to collaboration of both systems at the local level.

• Assign staff to participate in workgroups on topics or issues of mutual interest, such as participation in RSA Institutes of Rehabilitation Issues prime study groups.

• Provide technical assistance and support to any VR office or VA RO that requests assistance in facilitating the development and/or operation of a state or local agreement.

This agreement does not in itself authorize the expenditure or reimbursement of any funds, and nothing in this agreement obligates either party to expend appropriations or other funds, or to enter into any contract or other obligation.Further, this agreement shall not be interpreted to limit, supersede, or otherwise affect either party’s normal operations or decisions in carrying out its missionor statutory or regulatory duties.  This agreement does not restrict the parties from participating in similar activities or arrangement with other entities. 

This agreement will become effective upon the date of signature of the underlined parties and will remain in effect until terminated by either or both parties, but will be jointly reviewed at five year intervals from the date of signature.  This agreement may be terminated by either party with 30 calendar days written notice.  This agreement may be modified subject to the mutual written consent of the parties or their designees.

Ruth A. Fanning, Director
Vocational Rehabilitation and
Employment Service
Department of Veterans Affairs

Lynnae M. Ruttledge, Commissioner
Rehabilitation Services Administration
Department of Education

What can you do? The Campaign for Disability Employment

The Campaign for Disability Employment is a collaborative effort between several disability and business organizations that seek to promote positive employment outcomes for people with disabilities by encouraging employers and others to recognize the value and talent they bring to the workplace, as well as the dividend to be realized by fully including people with disabilities at work. People with disabilities make important contributions to America’s businesses every day. By implementing good workplace practices, like maintaining a flexible and inclusive work environment, businesses can capitalize on the talents of qualified people with disabilities, benefitting everyone.

For more information, visit www.whatcanyoudocampaign.org.

INSTITUTE ON REHABILITATION ISSUES

The primary purpose of the IRI is to develop publications for use in training and technical assistance for vocational rehabilitation (VR) counselors, consumers, administrators, and other partners in the VR process. IRI publications provide a unique perspective on emerging issues in vocational rehabilitation as both the topics and the content are developed by practitioners.

For more than fifty-five years, the IRI has been a national forum for discussing the important challenges facing the State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services Program. It is the longest running event of its kind in the rehabilitation field, and one of the longest in the human services profession. The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) sponsors the IRI in collaboration with representatives from the State VR agencies, consumer groups, the Technical Assistance and Continuing Education (TACE) Centers, and other stakeholders in the VR program, in order to develop a linkage between knowledge development and practitioner utilization.

The topics are solicited each year from VR agency personnel and other stakeholders under the signature of the Commissioner of RSA and reviewed by the IRI National Planning Committee. The IRI monographs are widely used by VR counselors and supervisors, Human Resource Development (HRD) specialists, community-based rehabilitation service providers, administrators, researchers, and education and policy analysts.

Additional information can be found at http://iriforum.org/books.aspx

Publications

36th IRI:       The State Rehabilitation Council – Vocational Rehabilitation Partnership: Working Together Works

35th IRI:       eLearning and Vocational Rehabilitation

35th IRI:       VR and Corrections

34th IRI:       The Aging Workforce

34th IRI:       When Johnny (or Jeannie) Comes Marching Home…and Back to Work

33rd IRI:       Recruitment and Retention of Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors

32nd IRI:      The VR-Business Network: Charting Your Course

32nd IRI:      Rehabilitation of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders

31st IRI:        Leading and Managing Change in Public Vocational Rehabilitation

31st IRI:        Consumer Organizations

30th IRI:       A New Paradigm for Vocational Evaluation: Empowering the VR Consumer through Vocational Information

30th IRI:       Innovative Methods for Providing VR Services to Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities

29th IRI:       Promoting Consumer Empowerment through Professional VR Counseling

29th IRI:       Teaching Orientation and Mobility: Non-Traditional Approaches to Meeting Critical Staffing Shortages

28th IRI:       Investing in the Transition of Youth with Disabilities to Productive Careers

28th IRI:       Distance Education: Opportunities and Issues for the Public Vocational Rehabilitation Program

27th IRI:       Effective Strategies for Improving Employment Outcomes for People with Chronic Kidney Disease

27th IRI:       Providing Vocational Rehabilitation in a Workforce Environment

26th IRI:       The Family as a Critical Partner in the Achievement of a Successful Employment Outcome

26th IRI:       Using the Internet as a Resource to the Work of the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

25th IRI:       Serving Individuals who are Low-Functioning Deaf

STATE VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AGENCY

Every state has a vocational rehabilitation agency that is designed to help individuals with disabilities meet their employment goals. Vocational rehabilitation agencies assist individuals with disabilities to prepare for, obtain, maintain, or regain employment.

The following list includes links to websites and other contact information for vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies in U.S. Territories:

Alabama
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (334) 293-7500
Toll-Free: (800) 441-7607
Toll-Free Restrictions: AL residents only
Fax: (334) 293-7383
TTY: (800) 499-1816
Website: http://www.rehab.state.al.us/Home/default.aspx?url=/Home/Main

Alaska
Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (907) 465-2814
Toll-Free: (800) 478-2815
Fax: (907) 465-2856
TTY: (907) 465-2814
Website:  http://www.labor.state.ak.us/dvr/home.htm

Arizona
Arizona Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (602) 542-3332
Toll-Free: (800) 563-1221
Fax: (602) 542-3778
TTY: (602) 542-6049
Website:  https://www.azdes.gov/rehabilitation_services/

Arkansas
Arkansas Division of Services for the Blind
Phone: (501) 682-5463
Toll-Free: (800) 960-9270
Toll-Free Restrictions: AR residents only
Fax: (501) 682-0366
TTY: (501) 682-0093
Website: http://www.arkansas.gov/dhs/dsb

Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (501) 296-1600
Toll-Free: (800) 330-0632
Fax: (501) 296-1655
TTY: (501) 296-1669
Website: http://ace.arkansas.gov/arRehabServices

California
California Department of Rehabilitation
Phone: (916) 558-5874
Fax: (916) 321-1313
TTY: (916) 558-5872
Website: http://www.dor.ca.gov/

Colorado
Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (303) 866-4150
Toll-Free:  (866) 870-4595
Fax: (303) 866-4905
TTY: (303) 866-4150
Website: www.dvrcolorado.com

Connecticut
Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (860) 424-4844
Toll-Free: (800) 537-2549
Toll-Free Restrictions: CT residents only
Fax: (860) 424-4850
TTY: (860) 424-4839
Website: http://www.brs.state.ct.us/

Connecticut Vocational Rehabilitation Division
State Board of Education and Services for the Blind
Phone: (860) 602-4008
Toll-Free: (800) 842-4510
Toll-Free Restrictions: CT residents only
Fax: (860) 602-4030
TTY: (860) 602-4221
Website: http://www.ct.gov/besb/site/default.asp

Delaware
Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (302) 761-8275
Fax: (302) 761-6611
TTY: (302) 761-8275
Website: http://www.delawareworks.com/dvr/welcome.shtml

Delaware Division of Visually Impaired
Phone: (302) 255-9800
Fax: (302) 255-9964
Website: http://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dvi/vocrehab.html

 District of Columbia
District of Columbia Rehabilitation Services Administration
Phone: (202) 442-8663
Fax: (202) 442-8742
Website: http://dds.dc.gov/DC/DDS/Rehabilitation+Services+Administration

Florida
Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (850) 245-3399
Toll-Free: (800) 451-4327
Toll-Free Restrictions: FL residents only
Fax: (850) 245-3316
Video Phone:  866-971-7744 or 866-245-9828
Website: http://www.rehabworks.org/

Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Division of Blind Services
Phone: (850) 245-0300
Toll-Free: (800) 342-1828
Toll-Free Restrictions: FL residents only
Fax: (850) 245-0363
Website: http://dbs.myflorida.com/

Georgia
Georgia Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (404) 232-3910
Fax: (404) 232-3912
TTY: (404) 232-3911
Website: http://www.vocrehabga.org/

Hawaii
Hawaii Vocational Rehabilitation and Services for the Blind Division
Phone: (808) 586-9744
Fax: (808) 586-9755
TTY: (808) 692-7715
Website: http://www.hawaiivr.org/

Idaho
Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (208) 334-3390
Fax: (208) 334-5305
Website: http://www.vr.idaho.gov/

Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Phone: (208) 334-3220
Toll-Free: (800) 542-8688
Toll-Free Restrictions: ID residents only
Fax: (208) 334-2963
Website: http://www.icbvi.state.id.us/

Illinois
Illinois Department of Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (217) 782-2094
Toll-Free: (800) 843-6154
Toll-Free Restrictions: IL residents only
Fax: (217) 557-0142
TTY: (800) 447-6404
Website: http://www.dhs.state.il.us

Indiana
Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (317) 234-4475
Toll-Free: (800) 545-7763
Toll-Free Restrictions: IN residents only
Fax: (317) 232-6478
TTY: (317) 232-1240
Website: http://www.in.gov/fssa/ddrs/2636.htm

 Iowa
Iowa Department for the Blind
State Department for the Blind
Phone: (515) 281-1334
Toll-Free: (800) 362-2587
Toll-Free Restrictions: IA residents only
Fax: (515) 281-1263
TTY: (515) 281-1355
Website: http://www.blind.state.ia.us/

Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (515) 281-4211
Toll-Free: (800) 532-1486
Fax: (515) 281-4703
TTY: (515) 281-4211
Website: http://www.ivrs.iowa.gov/

Kansas
Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (785) 368-7112
Toll-Free: (800) 432-0698
Toll-Free Restrictions: KS residents only
Fax: (785) 368-7467
TTY: (785) 368-7478
Website: http://www.srs.ks.gov/services/Pages/Vocational.aspx

Kentucky
Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (502) 564-4440
Toll-Free: (800) 372-7172
Toll-Free Restrictions: KY residents only
Fax: (502) 564-6745
TTY: (888) 420-9874
Website: http://www.ovr.ky.gov/

Kentucky Office for the Blind for the Blind
Phone: (502) 564-4754
Toll-Free: (800) 321-6668
Fax: (502) 564-2951
TTY: (502) 564-2929
Website: http://blind.ky.gov/

Louisiana
Louisiana Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (225) 219-2225
Toll-Free: (800) 737-2958
Toll-Free Restrictions: LA residents only
Fax: (225) 219-2942
TTY: (225) 225-2225
Website: http://www.laworks.net/WorkforceDev/LRS/LRS_Main.asp

Maine
Maine Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (207) 623-7943
Toll-Free: (800) 698-4440
Toll-Free Restrictions: ME residents only
Fax: (207) 287-5292
TTY: (888) 755-0023
Website: http://www.maine.gov/rehab/dvr/index.shtml

Maine Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Phone: (207) 623-7956
Toll-Free: (800) 698-4440
Toll-Free Restrictions: ME residents only
Fax: (207) 624-5980
TTY: (888) 755-0023
Website: http://www.state.me.us/rehab/

Maryland
Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (410) 554-9442
Toll-Free: (888) 554-0334
Fax: (410) 554-9412
TTY: (410) 554-9411
Website: http://www.dors.state.md.us/

Massachusetts
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
Phone: (617) 204-3600
Toll-Free: (800) 245-6543
Toll-Free Restrictions: MA residents only
Fax: (617) 727-1354
TTY: (800) 245-6543
Website: http://www.state.ma.us/mrc/

Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
Phone: (617) 727-5550 x7503
Toll-Free: (800) 392-6450
Toll-Free Restrictions: MA residents only
Fax: (617) 626-7685
TTY: (800) 392-6556
Website: http://www.state.ma.us/mcb/

Michigan
Michigan Commission for the Blind
Phone: (517) 373-2062
Toll-Free: (800) 292-4200
Toll-Free Restrictions: MI residents only
Fax: (517) 335-5140
TTY: (888) 864-1212
Website: http://www.michigan.gov/mcb

Michigan Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (517) 335-0399
Toll-Free: (800) 605-6722
Toll-Free Restrictions: MI residents only
Fax: (517) 335-7277
TTY: (888) 605-6722
Website: http://www.michigan.gov/mrs

Minnesota
Minnesota State Services for the Blind
Phone: (651) 642-0500
Toll-Free: (800) 652-9000
Toll-Free Restrictions: MN residents only
Fax: (651) 649-5927
TTY: 651-642-0506
Website: http://www.mnssb.org/

Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (651) 259-7345
Toll-Free: (800) 328-9095
Toll-Free Restrictions: MN residents only
Fax: (651) 297-5159
TTY: (651) 296-3900
Website: http://www.deed.state.mn.us/rehab/rehab.htm

Mississippi
Mississippi Department of  Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (601) 853-5100
Toll-Free: (800) 443-1000
Fax: (601) 853-5158
TTY: (601) 853-5310
Website: http://www.mdrs.state.ms.us/client/ovr.asp

Missouri
Missouri Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (573) 751-3251
Toll-Free: (877) 222-8963
Fax: (573) 751-1441
TTY: (573) 751-0881
Website: http://dese.mo.gov/vr/

Missouri Rehabilitation Services for the Blind
Phone: (573) 751-4249
Fax: (573) 751-4984
TTY: (800) 592-6004
Website: http://www.dss.mo.gov/fsd/rsb/

Montana
Montana Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (406) 444-2590
Toll-Free: (877) 296-1197
Fax: (406) 444-3632
TTY: (406) 444-2590
Website: http://www.dphhs.mt.gov/vocrehab/programs.shtml

Nebraska
Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Phone: (402) 471-2891
Toll-Free: (877) 809-2419
Fax: (402) 471-3009
Website: http://www.ncbvi.ne.gov/

Nebraska Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (402) 471-3644
Toll-Free: (877) 637-3422
Fax: (402) 471-0788
TTY: (402) 471-3644
Website: http://www.vr.ne.gov

Nevada
Nevada Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (775) 684-4040
Fax: (775) 684-4184
TTY: (775) 684-8400
Website: http://detr.state.nv.us/rehab/reh_index.htm

New Hampshire
New Hampshire Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (603) 271-3494
Toll-Free: (800) 299-1647
Toll-Free Restrictions: NH residents only
Fax: (603) 271-1953
TTY: (603) 271-3471
Website: http://www.education.nh.gov/career/vocational/

New Jersey
New Jersey Commission for the Blind and the Visually Impaired (New Jersey)
Phone: (973) 648-3333
Fax: (973) 648-7364
TTY: (973) 648-4559
Website: http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/cbvi/home/

New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (609) 292-5987
Toll-Free: (866) 871-7867
Fax: (609) 292-8347
TTY: (609) 292-2919
Website: http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/labor/dvrs/DVRIndex.html

New Mexico
New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (505) 954-8500
Toll-Free: (800) 224-7005
Fax: (505) 954-8562
TTY: (505) 292-0454 (Relay New Mexico)
Website: http://www.dvrgetsjobs.com/

State of  New Mexico Commission for the Blind
Phone: (505) 841-8844
Toll-Free: (888) 513-7958
Toll-Free Restrictions: NM residents only
Fax: (505)841-8850
Website: http://www.cfb.state.nm.us/

New York
New York State Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped
Phone: (518) 474-7299
Fax: (518) 486-5819
TTY: (518) 474-7501
Website: http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/cbvh/

New York Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation (New York)
Phone: (518) 474-1711
Toll-Free: (800) 222-5627
Fax: (518) 474-8802
TTY: (518) 474-5652
Website: http://www.vesid.nysed.gov/

North Carolina
North Carolina Division of Services for the Blind
Phone: (919) 733-9822
Toll-Free: (866) 222-1546
Toll-Free Restrictions: NC residents only
Fax: (919) 733-9769
TTY: (919) 733-9700
Website: http://www.ncdhhs.gov/dsb/

North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (919) 855-3500
Fax: (919) 733-7968
TTY: (919) 855-3579
Website: http://dvr.dhhs.state.nc.us/

North Dakota
North Dakota Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (701) 328-8950
Toll-Free: (800) 755-2745
Fax: (701) 328-8969
TTY: (701) 328-8968
Website: http://www.nd.gov/dhs/dvr/index.html

Ohio
Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission
Phone: (614) 438-1210
Toll-Free: (800) 282-4536 x1210
Toll-Free Restrictions: OH residents only
Fax: (614) 785-5010
TTY: (614) 785-5048
Website: http://www.rsc.state.oh.us/default.aspx

Oklahoma
Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (405) 951-3400
Toll-Free: (800) 845-8476
Toll-Free Restrictions: OK residents only
Fax: (405) 951-3529
TTY: (405) 951-3400
Website: http://www.okdrs.gov

Oregon
Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (503) 945-5880
Toll-Free: (877) 277-0513
Fax: (503) 947-5010
TTY: (866) 801-0130
Website: http://egov.oregon.gov/DHS/vr/index.shtml/

Oregon Commission for the Blind
Phone: (971) 673-1588
Toll-Free: (888) 202-5463
Toll-Free Restrictions: OR residents only
Fax: (971) 673-1570
TTY: (971) 673-1577
Website: http://www.cfb.state.or.us/

Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (717) 787-5244
Toll-Free: (800) 442-6351
Toll-Free Restrictions: PA residents only
Fax: (717) 783-5221
TTY: (717) 787-4885
Website: http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=552292&mode=2

Pennsylvania Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services
Phone: (717) 787-6176
Toll-Free: (800) 622-2842
Toll-Free Restrictions: PA residents only
Fax: (717) 772-1629
TTY: (717) 787-4885
Website: http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/blindness_and_visual_services/10367

Rhode Island
Rhode Island Office of Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (401) 421-7005
Spanish:  (401) 242-8020
Fax: (401) 222-3574
TTY: (401) 421-7016
Website: http://www.ors.ri.gov/

South Carolina
South Carolina Commission for the Blind
Phone: (803) 898-8731
Toll-Free: (800) 922-2222
Toll-Free Restrictions: SC residents only
Fax: (803) 898-8800
Website: http://www.sccb.state.sc.us/

South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department
Phone: (803) 896-6500
Toll-Free: (800) 832-7526
Toll-Free Restrictions: SC residents only
Fax: (803) 896-6529
TTY: (803) 896-6666
Website: http://www.scvrd.net/

South Dakota
South Dakota Division of Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (605) 773-5990
Toll-Free: (800) 265-9684
Fax: (605) 773-5483
TTY: (605) 773-5990
Website: http://dhs.sd.gov/drs/

South Dakota Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired
Phone: (605) 773-4644
Toll-Free: (800) 265-9684
Toll-Free Restrictions: SD residents only
Fax: (605) 773-5483
TTY: (605) 773-4644
Website: http://dhs.sd.gov/sbvi/

Tennessee
Tennessee Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (615) 313-4891
Fax: (615) 741-6508
TTY: (615) 313-5695
Website: http://tennessee.gov/humanserv/rehab/vrs.html

Texas
Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services
Phone: (512) 424-4220
Toll-Free: (866) 581-9328
Fax: (512) 424-4277
TTY: (800) 628-5115
Website: http://www.dars.state.tx.us/drs/index.shtml

Utah
Utah Division of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired
 Phone: (801) 323-4343
Toll-Free: (800) 284-1823
Toll-Free Restrictions: UT residents only
Fax: (801) 323-4396
TTY: (801) 323-4395
Website: http://www.usor.utah.gov/division-of-services-for-the-blind-and-visually-impaired

Utah State Office of Rehabilitation
Phone: (801) 538-7530
Toll-Free: (800) 473-7530
Toll-Free Restrictions: UT residents only
Fax: (801) 538-7522
TTY: (801) 538-7530
Website: http://www.usor.utah.gov/

Vermont
Vermont Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Phone: (802) 241-2210
Toll-Free: (888) 405-5005
Toll-Free Restrictions: VT residents only
Fax: (802) 241-2128
Website: http://www.dbvi.vermont.gov

Vermont Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (802) 241-2186
Toll-Free: (866) 879-6757
Toll-Free Restrictions: VT residents only
Fax: (802) 241-3359
TTY: (802) 241-1455
Website: http://vocrehab.vermont.gov/

Virginia
Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired
Phone: (804) 371-3140
Toll-Free: (800) 622-2155
Toll-Free Restrictions: VA residents only
Fax: (804) 371-3351
TTY: (804) 371-3140
Website: http://www.vdbvi.org/

Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (804) 662-7000
Toll-Free: (800) 552-5019
Toll-Free Restrictions: VA residents only
Fax: (804) 662-9532
TTY: (800) 552-5019
Website: http://www.vadrs.org/

Washington
Washington Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (360) 725-3636
Toll-Free: (800) 637-5627
Toll-Free Restrictions: WA residents only
Fax: (360) 438-8011
Website: http://www.dshs.wa.gov/dvr/

Washington State Department of Services for the Blind
Phone: (206) 721-6400
Toll-Free: (800) 552-7103
Toll-Free Restrictions: WA residents only
Fax: (206) 721-4103
TTY: (206) 721-4056
Website: http://www.dsb.wa.gov/

West Virginia
West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (304) 766-4601
Toll-Free: (800) 642-8207
Fax: (304) 766-4905
TTY: (304) 766-4965
Website: http://www.wvdrs.org/

Wisconsin
Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (608) 261-0050
Toll-Free: (800) 442-3477
Toll-Free Restrictions: WI residents only
Fax: (608) 266-1133
TTY: (888) 877-5939
Website: http://dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr/

Wyoming
Wyoming Vocational Rehabilitation Division
Phone: (307) 777-7389
Fax: (307) 777-5939
TTY: (307) 777-7386
Website: http://wyomingworkforce.org/vr/

TERRITORIES

American Samoa
American Samoa Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (684) 699-1371
Fax: (684) 699-1376
Website: http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_American_Samoa/

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (670) 322-6537
Fax: (670) 322-6536
TTY: (670) 322-6449
Website: http://www.ovrgov.net

Guam
Guam Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Phone: (671) 475-4200
Fax: (671) 475-4661
TTY: (671) 477-8642
Website: none available

Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico Vocational Rehabilitation Administration
Phone: (787) 729-0160
Fax: (787) 728-8070
TTY: (787) 268-3735
Website: http://www.arv.gobierno.pr

Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands Division of Vocational and Rehabilitation Services
Phone: (340) 774-0930 x4190
Fax: (340) 774-7773
TTY: (340) 776-2043
Website:  http://www.dhs.gov.vi/disabilities/index.html

The information above contains hypertext links or pointers to information created and maintained by other public and private organizations. These links and pointers are provided for the users convenience. The U.S. Department of Education does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. Further, the inclusion of links or pointers to particular items in hypertext is not intended to reflect their importance, nor is it intended to endorse any views expressed, or products or services offered, on these outside sites, or the organizations sponsoring the sites. (updated 12.12.2011)

FOCUS:  Carilion Clinic, Christiansburg, VA

From Wendy Baber, Human Resources Consultant at Carilion Clinic

“Our staff really enjoyed taking the students under their wings and felt an ownership to this program. The students have built relationships with our staff just as any other employee would, and our staff did an excellent job pulling the students into their work families. It was a great experience to see the welcome from staff and to see people step up and mentor the students.”

I would say this program has been a wonderful experience for Carilion. We have learned so much from the students and are thankful we are able to play a part in providing young people with opportunities they may not have otherwise had.”

Story about Max

In many ways,  Max is an enigma.  A review of his school records shows that at various times throughout his career, he had had different educational labels placed on him, the most recent being learning-disabled.  Max had difficulties adjusting socially within a traditional school setting and making academic progress.  At the age of 19, Max graduated from an alternative school with a special education diploma.  He entered the Project SEARCH program because he had a strong desire to continue learning and work competitively. 

Max’s first internship at the Carilion Clinic was in the maintenance department.  Despite his shyness, Max quickly formed strong bonds and relationships with his co-workers.  He respected the knowledge and experience of the skilled workers in his department, who, consequently,  respected Max’s dedication to better himself and his work ethic.  Max’s quest to be a good employee led him to volunteer at the hospital on weekends and snow days, when Project SEARCH was not in session.

Regretfully, at the end of the first rotation, Max had to move to his next internship.  With great anxiety, he began working with the environmental services department, where his job included floor care and trash removal.  Quickly, Max’s gifts and talents were recognized by the folks working in this new department.  After three weeks in his second rotation, Max was hired by Carilion Clinic New River Valley as a floor care specialist, working 28 to 32 hours per week.  After his first review, he received a pay increase.  Due to his excellent job performance, Max was offered a full-time position with benefits last week. 

More about Max from the Roanoke Times Newspaper:

CHRISTIANSBURG -- Max Holk, an 18-year-old with a disability, couldn’t bring himself to learn to drive.

But when he reported to work in the maintenance department at Carilion New River Valley Medical Center in August, his job involved maneuvering a Gator construction machine, like a golf cart.

A co-worker, noticing Holk’s ability, brought him a drivers’ manual. Holk’s studying now for the permit test.

Project SEARCH , the internship program that got Holk in the driver’s seat, placed him and four other Montgomery County Public Schools students into unpaid internships at the hospital this year. It’s a joint effort among Carilion, the school system, the Virginia Department of Education, and the Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services.  The program exists internationally to teach students with disabilities job skills so they can then enter the work force, likely in minimum wage positions.

It gives the students extra intangibles that come with careers, too -- colleagues as friends, stamina for an eight-hour workday, knowledge about financial responsibility and the reward of being part of a team.

"If all we’ve done in public school is teach them how to be in school and not be part of a community, then we’ve really failed," said Lisa Holland, the school system’s special education transition coordinator.

RESOURCES:

Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services

Website:  http://www.vadrs.org

DISCLAIMER:

Permission to publish this story was given by the Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services and the consumer to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website, nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

 FOCUS:  Kalyn – Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital

Kalyn entered Bon Secours St. Mary’s Project SEARCH at 20 years old.  Kalyn is a young woman with a bubbling personality and palpable enthusiasm. She has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and speech impairment, but Kalyn does not let this hold her back.  When interviewed for participation in the project, she quickly announced, “I want to participate in this project because I want to work at St. Mary’s full time one day!”  Kalyn was accepted into the project, which is a national research study conducted by Virginia Commonwealth University’s Rehabilitation Research and Training Center and funded by the U.S. Department of Education’s National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research.  

As part of the research, Kalyn participated in Project SEARCH at St. Mary’s for the 2010-2011school year. .  She rotated through three ten-week internships, including ambulatory services, main operating room, and central sterile.  During her first internship, her duties included removing over 100 surgical instruments from the washer, sorting them and assembling surgery trays.  Kalyn was excited to learn her tasks and become independent.  After three days of her internship, she was left to work alone for an hour.  Kalyn’s supervisor reported to SEARCH staff that she started laughing when she saw Kalyn’s work completed independently.  She said she started laughing because otherwise she would have started crying. Her supervisor was overwhelmed with what Kalyn had learned just by observation.  She had underestimated Kalyn’s abilities and was astounded by her work. 

In Kalyn’s second internship in the main operating room, she stocked supplies, replenished blanket warmers, stocked scrub in sinks and turned over patient rooms.  Again she excelled at all assigned tasks and staff expressed their delight in her high energy and work ethic.  Kalyn’s third internship was in central sterile, where she was assigned to sort instruments, scan them into the computer, bag each accordingly, place identifying labels on the bags and wrap trays for procedures.  Kalyn performed marvelously in this internship as well. 

When the employment specialists began talking with her internship supervisors about the possibility of her being hired into existing positions within their departments, their response was overwhelming.  Two of her internship supervisors started ‘fighting’  to have Kalyn for their own departments.  In the end, the main operating room at Bon Secours St. Mary’s hired her as a surgical care technician working 30 hours per week making over $9 per hour.

In July, Kalyn was scheduled to participate in CPR training as part of her new employee orientation.  Following the training, SEARCH staff received a note from one of her colleagues:

“I am an RN in the main operating room at St. Mary’s Hospital. I have had the privilege of working with Kalyn for the past few months, regrettably not getting to know her better until this morning.

I was assigned to renew my CPR certification this morning along with Kalyn.  When Kalyn walked in the room, I invited her to sit with me and be my partner.  I want to tell you what a remarkable job she did.  She was open to learning and excited about it as well. She embraced the entire class and performed each skill as well as any other. When suggestions were given to her about perhaps a better, more comfortable way of holding the CPR mask, she tried it and thanked the person offering help. By the end of the class we all found ourselves encouraging Kalyn in her skills. She did fantastic.

 What a remarkable young woman, I look forward to continuing to work with her. And of course even more comfortable knowing she is CPR-certified. :)”

I am proud to announce that as of August 18, Kalyn reached her dream.  She was offered a full-time position with benefits in Bon Secours St. Mary’s main operating room. 

Kalyn’s success has not been easy.  As a young woman with ASD and speech impairment, she struggled with expressing her thoughts and emotions with her peers, coworkers and supervisors.  She had days of frustration and tears but never let those days hold her back.  Through the use of self monitoring check sheets and positive behavior supports, she has been able to push forward.  Her positive attitude has been infectious in the classroom, and, as you can read, in all environments she touches.  Kalyn has been dealt many struggles in her short 20 years, and has chosen a road of perseverance. She has achieved what many only dream of accomplishing. 

RESOURCES:

Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services

Website:  http://www.vadrs.org

DISCLAIMER:

Permission to publish this story was given by the Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services and the consumer to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website, nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS: DuRaun - Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical

From Don West, director of support operations, Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center

West commented that the hospital managers were reserved about volunteering to help with the program at first.  While only a few managers supported the idea in the beginning, after the first semester, there was a waiting list of managers who wanted to work with the students. West said the students were all outstanding and became a part of the Sentara family:  We realized that we had jobs for them! Sentara hired the majority of the students and they are excelling!  In reality, some of the students are outperforming some of our employees.  Being very selfish, I am looking forward to the 2012 class because I will be trying to fill any opening I have in my departments with the students. They have proven that they are outstanding and just want an opportunity to "shine."

Story about DuRaun

DuRaun is a young man who has a specific learning disability.  He earned a special diploma from Williamsburg - James City County Public Schools.  He started the SEARCH program in September 2010. His initial nine-week internship was as an out-patient rehab tech, where he assisted the therapists with patients. He helped them with exercise in the rehab room and in the pool, checked temperature gauges on equipment and cleaned the equipment. DuRaun has always been a very shy and quiet young man. During this rotation, he became more assertive, as evidenced by his willingness to get into the pool to help patients, particularly notable because he could not even swim.

DuRaun was hired after his second rotation in environmental services as a floor technician, where he now earns $10.35 per hour working 40 hours per week with full benefits. In fact, he requested the night shift and has been doing so well that they moved him to the emergency room floor. When I asked his supervisor how he was doing, he stated, “I wish I had one hundred more employees just like him”.

The confidence and maturity that DuRaun gained from participating in the Project SEARCH program is somewhat remarkable. He went from being almost timid to now being a model employee.   As a result of DuRaun’s success, he demonstrated to the hospital team that people with disabilities are productive, worthy of being valued employees.

RESOURCES:

Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services

Website:  http://www.vadrs.org

DISCLAIMER:

Permission to publish this story was given by the Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services and the consumer to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website, nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS: Project Search in Oakland County:  A Celebration of Innovations and Success

Project SEARCH is dedicated to providing education and training to young adults with disabilities through an innovative workforce and career development model that benefits the individual, workplace and community. The primary goal is to secure competitive employment outcomes for each of the Project SEARCH student graduates. 

Read more about Project SEARCH in Oakland County success stories, including those of Eric, Michael, Lawrence and Tracey, at http://projectsearchoaklandcounty.com/success_stories.html

RESOURCES:

Project SEARCH in Oakland County

http://projectsearchoaklandcounty.com

DISCLAIMER:

The Department of Education does not endorse, takes no responsibility for, and exercises no control over the linked organization or its views or content, nor does it vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the destination server. The Department of Education also cannot authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in linked websites. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked website.

FOCUS:  VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND VETERANS

Marine Lance Corporal Corey Webb had been in Iraq for two weeks when he was injured after his unit came under enemy fire.  The Springville, Alabama man sustained a broken collarbone and a leg injury that would later require amputation.  When he returned home, Corey tackled his recovery with the “can do” attitude that he had learned as a Marine.  He was a bit lost, though, when it came to returning to the workplace.  Prior to his deployment, the young man was preparing to begin work as a lineman for Alabama Power Co., but after his injury it was clear he wouldn’t be able to perform the duties of that job.

Despite that, he was determined to work with the company.  Alabama Power referred Corey to the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services for assistance in finding a place with the company.  Peggy Anderson, the statewide coordinator for employer development, and Kristie Grammer, a rehabilitation counselor and the department’s V.A. liaison in the Birmingham area, worked diligently with Alabama Power to find Corey a position.  He was hired as a dispatcher in the company’s appliance sales division.  Within a few months, he departed for the Anniston Army Depot, where he is a property management specialist.

Today, with VRS’ support, the 25 year-old is pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Jacksonville State University.  He’s grateful for the assistance he has received through VRS, which he praises for being a “single point of contact.”  “It’s so much simpler,” he said.  “If I need anything, I know I can call VRS.”

Read Marine Lance Corporal Corey Webb’s story and many others in the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation 2011-1012 Investing in America Report: www.rehabnetwork.org/investing_in_americahttp://rehabnetwork.org/investing_in_america/CSAVR%20Investing%20In%20America%20%20Composite2011.pdf

RESOURCES:
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
Website:  http://rehab.state.al.us

Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  http://rehabnetwork.org

DISCLAIMER:
This story was adapted from the story on the same topic at the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) website, along with other success stories.  Permission to publish it was given by CSAVR to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website, nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS:  SCOTT’S STORY AT THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE: NATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

The Schedule “A” hiring process through the national employment team (NET) and NJ vocational rehabilitation (VR) provided me - Hope - that an avenue to realistically compete for a position with the federal government was available to me, regardless of my disAbility.  This proved invaluable to me, as it gave me direction and focused me toward achieving that goal.

The process was easy to follow and streamlined. The VR agency took an inventory assessment of my skills. My skills were then matched with potential career paths, then towards specific positions. VR made sure that I qualified for Schedule “A” hiring and prepared the required documentation. They also assisted me with preparation of my resume. Then I began to apply for positions where my skills matched.

My resume was forwarded directly from The NET/VR to the IRS Accessibility Office. The national Accessibility Office worked with me to look at placement opportunities. To great delight, I was contacted for an interview. The IRS made reasonable accommodations for me during the interview process so that I could interview along with other qualified applicants.  Then they contacted me to tell me I was hired for the position. I was filled with joy for this opportunity and dedicated myself towards working hard to succeed. I relocated from NJ to the D.C. area for the position.

After I was hired, federal human resource professionals personally guided me through preparation of the employment paperwork, the Reasonable Accommodation Coordinator made sure that I received the reasonable accommodations I needed, and my manager was very helpful and supportive. She made me feel welcome at the position.

I have just completed my first year at the position and earned a successful review. I enjoy my position very much and continue to work hard and learn. I have even made some new friends. I am forever grateful to the Schedule “A” hiring program.

According to Bernie Coston, Director of the IRS Accessibility Office, “One of our major goals at the IRS is to increase the number of success stories such as Scott’s by working with our external partners in hiring individuals with disAbilities”

RESOURCES:
New Jersey Department of Labor
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Website:  http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us

Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  www.rehabnetwork.org

DISCLAIMER:
The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website, nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

SHOWCASING STORIES OF SUCCESS

FOCUS:  TENISHA
Tenisha began working with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) services based on mental health challenges that impacted her employability.  Although her mental health had improved, she had little work experience, challenges with problem solving, and ineffective interviewing skills.  Her DVR counselor connected her with the DVR On-the-Job Training (OJT) initiative supported by American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds.

Tenisha interviewed for an internship as an employment and training specialist/resource room assistant with a state agency, the Wisconsin Division of Employment and Training.  Her skills and work performance were exemplary, and she proved to be a great match for that position.  Tenisha continued to work with her DVR counselor to improve her interview skills.

Tenisha competed for a position when one became available and was hired! She works full- time, earning $15.75 per hour, and has health insurance and other benefits. She assists dislocated workers in applying for federal benefits with the Trade Adjustment Act program.  Her OJT job experiential learning opportunity clearly helped position her for success. Tenisha states, “I can’t say enough positive things about both the DVR program and the opportunity for on-the-job training. There is no doubt that the training opportunity helped me get the job I have today.”

FOCUS:  SIMON
Simon began working with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) in 2009. He experienced significant depression, impulse-control disorder and chemical dependency, which resulted in a period of incarceration and unemployment.  At the time, Simon was living with family, receiving food stamps, unable to pay child support and had no current work history.

Simon’s Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselor explained that DVR was using funds received from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to support an On-the-Job Training initiative. The program was designed to connect DVR job seekers to real work for real pay using the ARRA funds to offset the wage cost to the employer during training. Simon participated in the OJT program and was hired by Lakeview Farms in a clerk position.  Simon earns $12.00 per hour and receives a full benefit package.

Jim Rittgers, who represents Lakeview Farms, reports that Simon is doing a great job for the company. He shared, “Simon has a sense of maturity, initiative, and a real enthusiasm to do well.” Jim stated, “The most valuable thing that happened is that DVR connected a qualified, capable job seeker to the right job. The OJT funds are an added bonus but only valuable if we invest in the right candidate.”  He said the assessment and training programs clearly positioned Simon for success on the job.

Simon is very satisfied with his employment outcome, and credits his success to a hard-working counselor and job developer, On-the-Job Training opportunities, and his drive to be successful. 

FOCUS: GLEN
Glen began working with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) with a primary disability of hearing loss and an orthopedic secondary disability of limited range of motion from a neck injury. 

DVR developed an On-the-Job Training (OJT) agreement with United Agriculture Services, LLC.  Glen secured full-time employment in its Ashland office earning $400 per  week.   His job duties include labor, warehouse, retail sales, machine operation and feed delivery.  He enjoys his work, which is consistent with his farm and retail background and fits well with his capabilities.  Glen took employer-sponsored training in stock fencing, received his Commercial Drivers License, and expects to be given additional duties and responsibilities with a wage increase in the near future.

DVR assisted Glen with a vocational assessment, vocational guidance and counseling, adaptive technology, temporary work, and an OJT.   Glen achieved a successful employment outcome in November2010.

FOCUS: CRYSTAL
Crystal began working with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) as a transition student from Oconto High School.  Crystal’s disability affected her reading, writing and retention of information.  Upon graduating from high school, Crystal received job development services, which included participating in temporary employment experiences to help her acquire the essential employment skills needed for success. 

With the assistance of a job developer, a number of employers were identified as potential temporary employment providers.   Graphic Management Specialty Products, which is a locally owned printing company that specializes in printing of tabletop products and other contracted manufacturing, was identified as Crystal’s temporary employer.  She was exposed to numerous distinct general labor positions to assist her in the understanding of the various positions within that company.  Crystal was offered full-time employment at the beginning of June as a general laborer.  She continued to maintain contact with the job developer regarding the position and the employer identified ways which help Crystal succeed in her position. 

FOCUS: JASON
Jason began working with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) services six years ago based on a clubfoot with congenital onset. He incurred additional difficulties with regard to standing and ambulation over the years, and lost the entry-level employment he had.  

With support from DVR, Jason began working at the DWD as a program assistant in January 2011.  DVR assisted him with training grant funds, temporary work training and an American Recovery and Reinvestment Act-funded Limited Term Employee/On-the-Job Training (OJT) state internship, through which he was offered permanent employment with the state.   

In addition, Jason received support services of mileage reimbursement, parking fees and a computer for training purposes.  His file was kept open beyond the customary 90-day time period, as he was having parking issues related to his clubfoot.  DVR assisted Jason with the cost of his parking fees until he was able to obtain a handicapped parking sticker.

RESOURCES:
Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development: Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  http://www.dshs.wa.gov

DISCLAIMER
Permission to publish this story was given by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development: Vocational Rehabilitation Services and the consumers to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website; nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site; users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS:  MICHAEL – NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON HEALTH – DISABILITY OUTREACH COORDINATOR

In early 2010, Mike worked with Wisconsin Vocational Rehabilitation staff and The NET to explore options in the federal sector. He submitted application packets for the National Hiring event and was contacted by The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Corporate Recruitment Division. They learned of his background and advocacy for employing people with disabilities and asked if Mike would be interested in assisting in the development of The National Institutes of Health disability recruitment and retention program.

Since joining NIH’s Corporate Recruitment team, Mike was given the flexibility to research, develop and implement new programs and approaches designed to maximize the effectiveness of Schedule A and NIH recruitment and retention programs. Over the last few months Mike and NIH’s Corporate Recruitment Teams focus was on "NIH’s Veterans and People with Disabilities Hiring event".  Utilizing established relationships, and most importantly the CSAVR (NET) program supported by the states VR agencies, NIH is not only meeting the immediate goals but has changed the way many hiring mangers look at specialty hiring.

Mike states that, “through working with trusted and established individuals and organizations, NIH increased our pre-qualifying percentage from 35% of resumes collected to 77%. Additionally we received over 58% increase in the resumes collected and in half the time (5 days) when compared to previous postings of 14 days.  Finally the most impressive aspect was the quality of candidates we received.  The resumes received represented candidates ranging from GS-5 all the way to GS-15, including scientists and other professional categories.”

Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  www.rehabnetwork.org

DISCLAIMER:
The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website, nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS: ALLISON SCOTT — A LEADER WITH A PASSION FOR ADVOCACY

Allison Scott is a determined and insightful individual whose experience as a woman with a disability has been influential in shaping the person she has become and the issues that motivate her. Allison has Morquio Syndrome, a rare form of skeletal dysplasia that affects bone growth and limits mobility. Her journey of living with this syndrome has allowed her to gain a heightened sense of the needs in the communities around her and to develop a passion for creating change in those communities.

Allison graduated from high school in 2005 and attended the University of Virginia (U.Va.) with a Jefferson Scholarship, a full, merit-based scholarship awarded on the basis of academics, leadership and citizenship. During the four years she spent there, Allison encountered many significant academic works, as well as individual relationships that impacted her development. Majoring in political and social thought and in English, Allison developed her abilities to critically think and communicate ideas through writing. Some of the most engaging courses for Allison were centered on the exploration of social issues and health care. Relationships with professors and peers enriched her academic experience by providing forums for further pursuing areas of interest and creating strong networks of mutual support.

During her time at U.Va., Allison served as an advocate for students with disabilities and other minority groups on campus. As one of the oldest universities in the country, U.Va.’s campus is historic and beautiful, but it also presents significant challenges to students with disabilities, because it was designed long before the Americans with Disabilities Act was conceived. Allison worked for the university’s access committee, a group of university faculty and administrators responsible for improving campus accessibility for people with disabilities. In this position, she determined and prioritized recommendations to the committee and was involved in initiatives that made significant improvements in accessibility to campus buildings and public transportation systems. She also was involved in student groups focused on addressing issues of diversity at U.Va., and served on a committee advising university leaders of the development of institutional responses to bias complaints. In addition to her activities on campus, Allison was involved with Charlottesville Abundant Life Ministries, a nonprofit organization engaged with community development in a local under-resourced neighborhood near the university. She worked for the organization as both a volunteer tutor and summer program director, leading academic and recreational programs for youth in the community.

Allison graduated with high distinction from U.Va. in 2009. After graduation, she began working at Amerigroup Corporation, a managed care organization that exclusively works with publicly funded programs, such as Medicaid and Medicare. The Company drew Allison’s attention because of its focus on health care for communities in need, and this merged several of the areas of interest that Allison developed during college. She is a participant in the company’s Leadership Development Program (LDP), a rotational program designed to give early career professionals a range of development opportunities and exposure to key business areas. Most recently, she worked to support the Company’s government relations efforts during the Texas state legislative session and is now working as a project manager in the clinical quality management department. Throughout her time at the company, the LDP program has provided Allison and other colleagues in the program with access to mentoring relationships, and these have been significant in creating avenues for Allison to learn from the experiences of others as she develops her own career path. Her work with Amerigroup has given Allison the opportunity to expand her knowledge of the health care field and the intersection of the private sector with public policy, and she plans to apply this knowledge in the future as she continues to develop as an advocate and leader.

DISCLAIMER:
The Department of Education does not endorse, takes no responsibility for, and exercises no control over the linked organization or its views, or contents, nor does it vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the destination server. The Department of Education also cannot authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in linked Web sites. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked Web site. Please click on the link below to continue.

FOCUS:   MELINDA KOWALSKI AND WEI ATTIA HIRED THROUGH OFFICE MAX AND MARYLAND PARTNERSHIP

The successful collaboration between OfficeMax (OMX) and the Maryland Department of Education’s Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) began with a trip to South Carolina. In 2008, a team of OMX executives, including Elkridge, Md. Operations Director Hank McDonald, visited an Anderson, S.C. distribution center to learn about an initiative to hire employees with disabilities.

McDonald was impressed, and when OMX Human Resources (HR) Generalist Jani Burns transferred to Elkridge from another OMX distribution center in 2009, the two made promoting a similar initiative a priority in Elkridge.  Burns set out to find a partner organization.  She found DORS, Maryland’s state vocational rehabilitation (VR) program, which offers a wide variety of VR services to Marylanders who have disabilities and want to work or keep a job.

In July 2010, DORS Business Specialists Jody Boone, Darlene Peregoy and Christine Franklin met with Burns and McDonald, and conversations began about how the two organizations could work together to find prospective employees for the OMX distribution center. Burns was quickly sold on the partnership. “I liked what they had to say; they weren’t just checking off boxes … they showed a genuine interest in the OMX operation.”  When some warehouse positions opened up, Burns contacted DORS.

By midwinter, two DORS consumers were hired: Wei Attia in January and Melinda Kowalski in February. Both women, who are deaf, work as distribution specialists.  DORS provided four months of on-the-job support for the new employees and warehouse staff, as well as assisted with OMX receiving financial hiring incentives.  In addition, prior to Attia and Kowalski coming on board, Burns conducted training for the location’s management team on OMX’s diversity and inclusion initiative.  Jody and Kathy Schwabeland, staff specialist for deaf services, conducted training for both management and second-shift warehouse staff on disability etiquette and working with co-workers who are deaf.  McDonald said this training was very helpful. “Kathy came in with grace and humor. She told the warehouse employees, ‘Ask me anything; there are no out-of-bounds questions’.”

DORS also provided interpreters to help Attia and Kowalski adjust to their new work environment.  One of the interpreters provided sign language classes, optional lunchtime information sessions, and communication tips and strategies for the warehouse staff.

A visit to the flag-draped distribution center (one for every country represented by a warehouse employee) revealed the successful partnership. Attia and Kowalski were enthusiastic about being at OMX because of the “great teamwork” and McDonald reported that there have been unexpected benefits to hiring employees who are deaf. “We had to make some minor accommodations for better communication and that has helped everyone!” he said.

OfficeMax continues to work closely with DORS to develop other employment opportunities. “We are looking to hire more … every time we have an opening, we let DORS know,” said Burns, who also noted the team impact. “This has been a great team-building experience for everyone!”

RESOURCES:
Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Website:  http://www.dors.state.md.us

DISCLAIMER

This story was adapted from the story on the same topic at the Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Rehabilitation Services website, along with other success stories, at http://www.dors.state.md.us/DORS/ProgramServices/Deaf+Services/success/.

Permission to publish it was given by the Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website, nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS:  PARTNERSHIP FOR SUCCESS: PUBLIC VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND CONNECTICUT NETWORK

The Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitative Services, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services for the Blind and the Connecticut Network (CT-N) have formed a partnership that brings job openings and well-trained, highly motivated job candidates together.  CT-N is a 24-hour, multiplatform television network that provides coverage of all three branches of Connecticut state government and Connecticut public policy.  In the fall of 2008, CT-N requested assistance from Connecticut’s VR program with filling a closed captioning technician job opening.  Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Jonathan Richmond and Rehabilitation Technologist Michelle Laramie met with the staff of CT-N to evaluate the job duties and identify the adaptive technology that would make the job accessible to a person who is blind.  Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist Matthew Cornelius provided suggested solutions regarding transportation issues.  Job candidate Douglas Burns was an ideal fit for this job, having solid computer skills, a clear audio recording voice, and strong vocabulary skills.  With some initial on-the-job training funding and adaptive technology, Douglas quickly proved his capabilities. 

The success and reliability that Douglas brought to CT-N paved the way for a second hire when another Closed Captioning Technician opportunity arose the following year. With funding received under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, Robin Woodbury was hired into a durational paid internship, during which  Robin’s skills and enthusiasm were so evident, that his position became permanent.  The winning partnership between public vocational rehabilitation and the employer community shines through in these two successes.  Congratulations to Douglas, Robin and CT-N. 

RESOURCES
Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitative Services
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services for the Blind
Website:  www.ct.gov/besb

Connecticut Network (CT-N)
Website:   www.ct-n.com

DISCLAIMER
The Department of Education does not endorse, takes no responsibility for, and exercises no control over the linked organization or its views, or contents, nor does it vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the destination server. The Department of Education also cannot authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in linked Web sites. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked Web site. Please click on the link below to continue.

FOCUS:  KELLY’S SELF EMPLOYMENT IN VOCATIONAL REHABLITATION

Kelly Yarnes dreamed of one day being self employed.  She liked to make lavender sachets and greeting cards and wanted to sell them in a little shop along with garden décor and other gift items.  Although she had talent and enthusiasm, Kelly didn’t see how she could make her dream a reality because of the odds she faced having a disability.

Since birth, Kelly has had a seizure disorder that affects learning.  She was in Special Education classes throughout school and struggled with reading, writing and math.  When under stress or exceptionally tired, Kelly experienced severe seizures.  Perseverance, however, always kept Kelly going. 

Kelly did her best to establish a market for her handmade items, wearing a Victorian dress and wide brimmed hat at the Sequim, Washington annual Lavender Festival and during the Sequim Open Air Market on weekends where she sold her wares.  She also was known for her delicious homemade banana bread that she sold at a roadside stand.

Kelly continued to work as a dining room attendant and a janitor while dreaming of having her own business.  Despite having severe learning disabilities and a seizure disorder, she was determined.  After losing her job as a pizza prep work in December of 2006, Kelly her mother, Laurie, and her VR counselor started to brainstorm, and Kelly shared her long-standing employment goal with her counselor.
“My dream job would be to meet and greet people at a bed and breakfast, make lavender sachets, and sell them along with other gifts or garden décor in a little store at my house”.

From this modest entrepreneurial concept, “Banana Belt Kelly” evolved.  Kelly and her VR counselor worked together to develop a self employment plan while Kelly continued to stockpile handmade sachets, her own greeting cards, antiques and collectibles by frequenting “going out of business” sales.  People who me and heard of Kelly’s vision and dream were constantly contributing to her collection.

In July 2009, two years after that first brainstorming meeting, Kelly saw her dream fulfilled when Banana Belt Kelly officially opened its doors.  Kelly immediately started giving back to her community by collecting small donations at the sales counter for the Epilepsy Foundation.  While Banana Belt Kelly is a destination in itself, it is not the end of the Kelly’s dream but only the beginning.

“Kelly has been an absolute joy to work with,” said Marcia Farrell, Kelly’s VR Counselor.  “In 38 years of vocational counseling, Kelly’s story has been one of the most rewarding and inspirational.  She has such a “never give up on the dream’ approach and is simply a remarkable woman!”

Her story illustrates beautifully the spirit and intent of the Public VR program – to deliver services and expertise that level the playing field and enable individual with disabilities to pursue and achieve employment that is meaningful and fulfilling.

Read Kelly’s story and many others in the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation 2010-1011 Investing in America Report: http://rehabnetwork.org/investing_in_america/Investing%202010%20+%20Insert.pdf

RESOURCES:
Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  www.dshs.wa.gov/dvr

Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  http://rehabnetwork.org

DISCLAIMER:
This story was adapted from the story on the same topic at the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) website, along with other success stories.  Permission to publish it was given by CSAVR to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website, nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS:  MIRANDA LEVY:  A GO-GETTER WITH DETERMINATION

Miranda Levy was a go-getter and active with her vocational rehabilitation from the start.  Levy has epilepsy and first contacted the Washington State Department of Social & Health Services, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) for services in December 2005. Levy received her bachelor’s degree in religion with a focus on religious sociology from Walla Walla’s Whitman College in May 2008.  While in her senior year at Whitman College, she contacted Seattle Mercer Street DVR to request a DVR case transfer to the Seattle area.  While on break from school, Levy came to introduce herself and share her hopes for the future, and she promised to stay in touch.  She lived up to that promise and stayed very involved with her DVR services.

An internship opportunity became available through a partnership between the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center (DBTAC) Northwest and DVR.  Levy landed the internship.  Bill Youngman, DVR’s Mercer Street AT Specialist, did an assistive technology assessment, and the work area was fitted to meet her needs.  She was subsequently hired by DBTAC Northwest as a training and information specialist after the internship was completed.  Levy, with extensive knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), provides answers to questions about accessibility, employment, transportation and service animals.  She also provides training on service animals and travel, the ADA and child care.  Levy assists in creating marketing and educational materials for DBTAC Northwest.  She was in charge of producing DBTAC’s 2008 calendar and did such a wonderful job that she was asked to produce the 2009 calendar. 
Levy continues to increase her involvement with the disability community through volunteer projects with the Epilepsy Foundation Northwest.  She plans to pursue her master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling.  Levy is a fantastic young woman!

RESOURCES:
Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  http://www.dshs.wa.gov

DISCLAIMER
This story was adapted from Working in Washington, the 2009 annual report of the Washington State Department of Social & Health Services, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and is available, along with other success stories, at http://www.dshs.wa.gov/pdf/Publications/2009DVRReport.pdf.  Permission to publish it was given by DVR and Miranda Levy to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website; nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site; users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS ON: SHARONDA’S PARTICIPATION IN PILOT INTERNSHIP
PROGRAM LAUNCHES CAREER

Sharonda Johnson-Wilkes’ successful transition from a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiary to a successful federal government employee began in the spring 2010.  Sharonda had been working with Maryland’s Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) to locate employment when she was introduced to a pilot internship program between the Financial Management Services (FMS), U.S. Department of Treasury, and DORS.

The DORS Business Specialist assisted Sharonda in obtaining an intern position in FMS’ Equal Opportunity and Organization Enhancement Division (EOOE).  Sharonda’s performance was impressive and EOOE expressed interest in offering her a permanent position.  During this time, other employment options were explored including the Schedule A Hiring Authority which eventually resulted in Sharonda’s full time job placement as an Office Automation Assistant in the EOOE Division on February 14, 2011.  Sharonda and EOOE are thrilled with the outcome and FMS continues to work closely with DORS to develop other internship opportunities.

In addition to transitioning into the world of work, Sharonda has also been busy pursuing other new titles; last fall she participated in the Ms. Wheelchair Maryland 2011 content and was crowned Ms. Wheelchair Maryland on October 30, 2010. 

The Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services enabled Sharonda and the Equal Opportunity and Organization Enhancement Division to create a partnership that really works!

Sharonda’s story and many others can be found in the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation 2011–12 Investing in America Report at http://rehabnetwork.org/investing_in_america/CSAVR%20Investing%20In%20America%20%20Composite2011.pdf

Sharonda’s, Ms. Wheelchair Maryland 2011 story can be found on the Ms. Wheelchair Maryland website at http://www.ms-wheelchair-md.com

Sharonda’s Platform Speech can be found on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjfxZkYRd5w

RESOURCES:
Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Website:  http://www.dors.state.md.us

Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  http://rehabnetwork.org

DISCLAIMER:
This story was adapted from the story on the same topic at the Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Rehabilitation Services website, along with other success stories, at http://www.dors.state.md.us/DORS/ProgramServices/Deaf+Services/success/.   Permission to publish it was given by DORS, Sharonda Johnson-Wilkes to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website, nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS:  FRANK GREY

Frank Grey is a highly motivated achiever with a go-getter attitude.  Grey was born with cerebral palsy and also has communication barriers due to speech difficulties.  Through diligence, hard work, persistence, creativity and ambition, Grey has created a successful life.

Grey came to the Washington State Division of Social & Health Services, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) in August 2006, after completing his law degree from Seattle University, passing the bar exam and conducting a lengthy, independent job search with hopes of practicing law.  His job search efforts were incredibly innovative and creative.  Once he landed an interview by having a balloon delivered with a bear inside holding his resume.  Grey is not the type of guy to give up, but he continued to run into many dead ends, most likely due to misconceptions about his capabilities.

Grey’s DVR services were the result of collaboration among staff, from his counselor to the director.  They worked together to provide him with such services as assistive technology to address his communication barriers and help with developing a professional resume.  Grey was awarded a six-month internship with the Washington Workforce Association.  He gained experience as a policy coordinator and received a positive job reference.  In February 2010, Grey went to work full-time as a policy analyst at the Vancouver WorkSource.  Grey has proven himself to be a valuable member of his team.  In addition to his job at WorkSource, he teaches college-level law classes online and works at a law firm.  Grey’s experience exemplifies the positive outcomes that occur through DVR’s teamwork and collaboration in providing services.

RESOURCES:
Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  www.dshs.wa.gov/dvr

DISCLAIMER
This story was adapted from Working in Washington, the 2010 annual report of the Washington State Department of Social & Health Services, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and is available, along with other success stories, at http://www.dshs.wa.gov/pdf/Publications/2010DVRReport.pdf.  Permission to publish it was given by DVR and Frank Grey to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website; nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site; users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS: TAWAN’S SUCCESS AT THE U.S. DEPARTMET OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

A little bit of fate, a lot of hard work, and a strong collaborative partnership were the catalysts for positive change in the life of new Forest Service employee, Tawan Weeden.  Participation in work-based learning in Job Corps and utilization of Schedule A Hiring Authority Certification launched his career journey.

The Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation offered services that assisted him and his employer in creating a partnership that really works! 

Read Tawan’s story on page 4 in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) newsletter: http://www.dm.usda.gov/CulturalTransformationNewsletterAugust2011.pdf

RESOURCES:
Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
http://www.dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr

DISCLAIMER:
The Department of Education does not endorse, takes no responsibility for, and exercises no control over the linked organizations or their views or content, nor does it vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the destination server. The Department of Education also cannot authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in linked websites. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked website.

FOCUS: TERRI’S DETERMINATION LEADS TO SUCCESS

Terri began working with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) in June, 2003 after experiencing difficulty with the duties of her position as a food service assistant due to chronic pain from rheumatoid arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and depression. 

With assistance from DVR, Terri participated in a vocational evaluation and identified an employment goal of medical office assistant.  Terri began a training program for this position at Chippewa Valley Technical College for in August 2004.  Although Terri experienced setbacks during training due to pain, depressive symptoms and shoulder surgery, she attended school three quarters time and worked part-time on campus.  Terri graduated with an associate degree for medical office assistant in May 2008, and DVR began assisting her with job development services. 

Despite diligent job search efforts and temporary work at the Red Cross, Terri was unable to secure employment as a medical office assistant.  However, she expressed a high interest in returning to employment with the State of Wisconsin.  Based on this interest, the VR counselor utilized the American Recovery and Reinvestment funds to set up a Limited Term Employee On-the-Job Training (OJT) state internship.  Terri was very excited about the opportunity and gained new enthusiasm about her job search and employment situation.  Her VR counselor emailed Terri a list of job descriptions and she was able to interview for positions at the DMV and Unemployment Insurance (UI) divisions. 

Terri was offered an internship with the UI and started it in January 2010.  Upon completion of the six-month internship, DVR extended it for another six months in order for Terri to learn additional job duties.  Following the completion of her internship in December 2010, Terri interviewed for a project position with benefits with the Unemployment Division as an adjudicator, a higher–level position that she had performed during her internship with DVR.  She was offered the position of unemployment compensation associate-1in July 2011. 

RESOURCES:
Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development: Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  http://www.dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr

DISCLAIMER:
Permission to publish this story was given by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services and the consumer to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website,  nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

FOCUS:  DAVID GILLESPIE:  KEEPING TALENT WORKING

David’ss career as a molecular biologist at a prestigious cancer research center was interrupted for a period of time as he was rehabilitated following a spinal cord injury. However, he is now back at work full time, using a van with a lift for transportation and a standing power chair at the lab to complete research to complete research experiments. David reports that the Utah Vocational Rehabilitation program provided services vital to maintaining his employment which, in turn, helps him to take care and his family.

Read David’ss story and many others in the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation 2011-1012 Investing in America Report: www.rehabnetwork.org/investing_in_americahttp://rehabnetwork.org/investing_in_america/CSAVR%20Investing%20In%20America%20%20Composite2011.pdf

RESOURCES:
Utah Vocational Rehabilitation
Website: http://www.usor.utah.gov

Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  http://rehabnetwork.org

DISCLAIMER:
This story was adapted from the story on the same topic at the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) website, along with other success stories.  Permission to publish it was given by CSAVR to the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education.  The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.  Finally, the Department does not vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the referenced website, nor can it authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in the links on that site. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked site.

BRIAN BARD – THE DETERMINATION AND PASSION TO SUCCEED
U.S. Department of Education
Management Program Analyst / Grants Management Specialist in the Rehabilitation Services Administration

Brian’s experiences as an individual with a disability have been positive throughout his career. A quadriplegic as a result of a diving accident in 1986, Brian’s determination and passion to succeed has lead to his success in his career and family.    

Brian received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of South Florida in Journalism.  His prior professional experiences included Computer programmer, Journalist and Military Intelligence Specialist (Air Force Civilian).  It was during Brian’s decision to relocate with his family to Delaware that he connected with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services.  Through this experience, Brian was provided with services ranging from Vocational Guidance and Counseling, Assistive Technology, Vehicle Modification to a vocational rehabilitation internship opportunity.  Brian’s internship experience with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services included interviewing, client counseling, student transitions, case management and job placement.  Through his participation in the internship, Brian secured the knowledge and skills needed to successfully interview for and obtain a position as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. 

It was through a federal grant funded by the Rehabilitation Services Administration that provided training scholarships to qualified students enrolled in the master’s Rehabilitation Counseling Program that Brian received his Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the George Washington University in 2007. Brian worked for the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services in Delaware for two years assisting individuals with disabilities in securing competitive employment.  

Desiring a desire to have a greater impact on a national level, Brian applied for employment with the Federal Government in the Washington, DC area.  Brian was hired in 2008 under the Schedule An excepted appointment authority for hiring individuals with disabilities. Brian has been employed at the U.S. Department of Education since December of 2008. As a Management Program Analyst/Grants Management Specialist in the Rehabilitation Services Administration, an agency within the Department, Brian’s duties include leadership, grants management, technical assistance, program analysis and setting policy at a national level for the Department’s Assistive Technology programs. 

The U.S. Department of Education Rehabilitation Services Administration is particularly interested in hiring qualified individuals with disabilities because the programs that we administer provide training and employment for adults with disabilities. I converted to career status when given the opportunity. 

Resources
U.S. Department of Education
Website:  www.ed.gov

Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Website:  http://dvr.delawareworks.com/

Disclaimer
The Department of Education does not endorse, takes no responsibility for, and exercises no control over the linked organizations or their views or content, nor does it vouch for the accuracy or accessibility of the information contained on the destination server. The Department of Education also cannot authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in linked websites. Users must request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked website.