Located in:
- Program-Specific Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation (Blind)
The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services Portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan [13] must include the following descriptions and estimates, as required by section 101(a) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by title IV of WIOA:
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[13] Sec. 102(b)(2)(D)(iii) of WIOA
- q. Quality, Scope, and Extent of Supported Employment Services
Include the following:
- q. Quality, Scope, and Extent of Supported Employment Services
q. 1. The quality, scope, and extent of supported employment services to be provided to individuals with the most significant disabilities, including youth with the most significant disabilities
Current Narrative:
DBVI works closely with DVR and the Designated Agencies to assess individuals on the DBVI caseload who are eligible for supported employment services. Each DBVI Counselor has the necessary information to contact the assessment coordinator at the Designated Agencies in their region. DBVI Counselors also participate as part of IEP teams that consider eligibility for supported employment services through the Designated Agencies. These collaborative efforts make it possible for DBVI staff to coordinate evaluations for eligibility and timely referrals as part of the IEP process with the Local Education Agencies. DBVI Counselors make sure that staff from the appropriate DA is involved in the IEP meetings if they have not already been included by the LEA.
In some cases DBVI and DVR will have a duel case open and provide different services depending on the primary disability. This is also discussed at IEP and other team meetings. The key for DBVI staff is to create strong connections with the LEA, DVR, and DA(s) in their region and to discuss the needs and eligibility of individuals who will benefit from supported employment services. The DBVI Director also has direct access to the supported employment coordinator for the larger umbrella Department and often meets with her for updates in the Developmental Disabilities system and to receive guidance about individual situations.
For these collaborations, DBVI uses Title I funds for pre-placement assessment and training activities; and Title VI for post placement supported employment services. Extended services for youth with the most significant disabilities for up to four years until age 25 are provided when appropriate. Individual Medicaid waiver funds are used to provide the ongoing support.