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
- o. State's Strategies
Describe the required strategies and how the agency will use these strategies to achieve its goals and priorities, support innovation and expansion activities, and overcome any barriers to accessing the VR and the Supported Employment programs (See sections 101(a)(15)(D) and (18)(B) of the Rehabilitation Act and section 427 of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA)):
- o. State's Strategies
o. 8. A. Achieve goals and priorities by the State, consistent with the comprehensive needs assessment;
Current Narrative:
DBVI developed strategies that will help them attain their goals/objectives. DBVI will continue to educate partners, other state agencies, and private organizations about working with blind or visually impaired consumers. DBVI will communicate with advocacy organizations to identify New Mainers who would benefit from DBVI VR services. DBVI, upon request, will provide informational sessions and trainings to service agencies who provide case management and other services to New Mainers. DBVI provides in-person and online orientations describing our eligibility requirements, service delivery and program requirements to job seekers.
Transportation was identified in the CSNA as on on-going unmet need. DBVI staff will provide input to DOT, providers of public transportation and to core partners regarding accessibility needs of our consumers. Input shall include for example accessible route maps, large print bus schedules/routes, audible street crossings, tactile pads and lighting/contrast consultation. DBVI has designated staff to consult with transportation departments regarding transit studies, bicycle access, bus programming and staff meetings. DBVI attends Transportation For All and Public Notice meetings issued by DOT.
There was a need for increased awareness of the DBVI services identified in the CSNA. Maine DBVI staff will provide in-service trainings to other service providers within their region. DBVI Staff will provide service awareness and assistive technology/adaptive device activities for consumers and the general public within their regions. DBVI will coordinate cooperative training with Maine Department of Transportation (DOT). DBVI will work with its main contractors to create a more organized and centralized public education effort. DBVI will continue to explore collaboration with the Veteran’s Administration Blind Rehabilitation program to streamline the referral process between the two agencies. DBVI will encourage all staff to regularly attend local Lions Club meetings. DBVI staff and contracted partners will provide service awareness to doctors within their region.