Narrative: d. 2. N. i.

The methodology of the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) for distribution of Title VI–B funds is based exclusively on a fee–for–service authorization process with approved vendors of supported employment (SE) services. DRS uses no Title VI–B funds for administrative costs. Utilizing the DRS fee schedule for SE services, rehabilitation counselors utilize Title VI–B and Title I funds to provide needed SE services for eligible individuals with the most significant disabilities.

DRS established a statewide fee–for–service funding approach for job development services for SE–eligible individuals. This structure provides vendors an effective and efficient way of meeting the costs of this critical element of the job placement process. The process provides reimbursement for employment outcomes and brings increased energy and vendor resources to support job development activities.

In FY 2015, DRS exhausted the $300,000.00 of the Title VI–B funds to serve individuals with the most significant disabilities in its SE program through community rehabilitation program (CRP) services. When Title VI–B funds ($300,000 total per year with $150,000 set aside for youth with disabilities) are exhausted, DRS defrays supported employment program service costs with Title I funds for individuals who require the services or who qualify and have not yet been served under the supported employment program. In FY 2015, DRS authorized $474,215.67 SE services for 151 youth with disabilities and $254,054.95 in SE services for 109 adults with disabilities.

DRS plans to continue using three prevalent models of supported employment services: individual placement, mobile work crews, and enclaves. Additionally, DRS will encourage and support development of affirmative industries that integrate workers with disabilities and workers without disabilities throughout the CRP network.

DRS policies defining competitive employment settings promote linking CRPs with federal and state work contracts that may exist within the community. Such links expand job opportunities for individuals receiving SE, particularly those who reside in rural locations. This approach also directs Title VI–B and Title I funds into placement–related services and activities.