Narrative: d. 2. Q. ii.

The timing of the transition of an individual with a disability to extended services is dependent upon the needs of the customer and the employer, and in most cases, available funding from one of the DHS agencies (OMHSAS, ODP and OLTL). Extended services may not be needed for the individual who has appropriate natural supports such as the employer, co-workers, family, and friends. However, extended services must be offered for situations where natural supports for the needs of the employee are missing or incomplete.

The determination of the need for extended services begins at the assessment stage of the VR plan. At that time the rehabilitation team, OVR staff, the individual, the individual’s family, and, if applicable, the individual’s Case Manager/Supports Coordinator determine what resources are needed for long-term supports. This team collaboratively determines what resources are available to meet the extended services need.

The customer’s case enters SE Extended Services when the VRC has determined there is the need for OVR-funded intensive supports beyond case closure. There may be situations in which the customer has not yet achieved stability on the job, or needs additional supports to maintain employment. In these instances, OVR support may continue with extended SE services to support the customer as determined by the VRC and the customer, if there are no alternative funding sources. Ongoing communication with alternative funding sources must occur at the beginning of any SE case and continue through case closure. If the customer is eligible for alternative funding, every effort should be made to review the status of the funding to ensure that responsibility is transferred to the appropriate funding source. Funding for extended services should be discussed and reviewed at beginning of SE case. The need for extended services should be thoroughly assessed as time progresses. Contact with ODP, OLTL, or BAS should occur to review whether funding is available from other sources. Supported Employment services may be provided by OVR up to 24 months for all individuals who are determined eligible for Supported Employment. Extended Services are also available, up to four years or when the individual turn 25 years old, for youth with most significant disabilities.