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. C. Overcome identified barriers relating to equitable access to and participation of individuals with disabilities in the State VR Services Program and the State Supported Employment Services Program.
Current Narrative:
Many DBVI consumers often need assistive technology to overcome barriers to have equitable access to services and employment. VRCs are trained in assistive technology available to consumers who are blind and visually impaired as well as providers available to train on this technology. Orientation and Mobility Specialists and Vision Rehabilitation Therapists are also trained on the assistive technology devices/services that are available. When barriers are identified through working with consumers, staff are knowledgeable and able to make appropriate recommendations for assistive technology/devices for the consumer. One example is when a DBVI consumer was hired for a reception position. Assistive technology (JAWS) was needed for the computer to overcome a barrier, which DBVI staff was able to discuss with the employer and provide information on purchase and any training that would be required. DBVI also provided training and information to other partners/employees within the building to give them a better understanding of working with an individual who is blind or visually impaired.