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
- h. Interagency Cooperation
Describe how the designated State unit will collaborate with the State agency responsible for administering each of the following programs to develop opportunities for competitive integrated employment, to the greatest extent practicable:
- h. Interagency Cooperation
h. 2. The State agency responsible for providing services for individuals with developmental disabilities; and
Current Narrative:
The FDBS collaborates with the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, the Department of Children and Families, and other state agencies to development opportunities for competitive integrated employment. Each agency is responsible for completing activities under the cooperative agreement. Activities are coordinated at three levels: Partner (Coalition) Level – advise and make recommendations that inform the work of the state level; State Level – identify barriers that hinder individuals with disabilities from obtaining employment and determine potential solutions; and Local Level – seek training solutions and best practices to close program gaps and improvements. The partners will meet at least twice a year with representatives from each partner agency.
The APD is responsible for services and programs for individuals with cognitive disabilities. The FDBS collaborates with APD on reciprocal referrals for individuals who are blind/visually impaired and have other disabilities. APD case managers work with FDBS VR counselors during Individualized Education Plan meetings for students who are dual clients of both agencies to ensure there is no duplication of services.
The FDBS works in conjunction with the Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind to review, analyze, and advise the Division on its performance of responsibilities under Title IV of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. The Blind Services Foundation of Florida is also a key partner with the FDBS. The Foundation’s purpose is to serve as a Direct Support Organization to the FDBS and individuals with visual impairments living in Florida. The Foundation receives proceeds from the Biker’s Care license tags. Funds of the Foundation are used to support programs of the FDBS, to conduct activities, and to initiate developmental projects for the benefit of Floridians who are blind or visually impaired.