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:
DSB recognizes the importance of providing equitable access and the opportunity to fully participate to individuals with disabilities. Based on the most recent Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment, DSB’s efforts to reduce the limitations placed on participants in regards to technology and transportation have made an impact in allowing consumers to participate in VR services. The most recent Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment indicated that Job Services, including Job Placement, were the most significant need of our consumers. DSB will continue to work with providers both in Arkansas and in neighboring states to offer more opportunities for direct job placement. DSB continues to work with partner agencies to locate more opportunities for job placement as well as to expand outreach to employers through our efforts with Business Engagement. Additionally, DSB will work in conjunction with provider agencies to provide work appropriate skills and training to blind and low vision participants. DSB refers participants to World Services for the Blind, Alpha Pointe, Louisiana Center for the Blind, Sources, Goodwill, Adult Education and other providers as necessary for additional skills training, including but not limited to soft skills, and work readiness training to assist participants in improving their probability of securing competitive employment. DSB is continuing to work on strategies to improve those relationships and partnerships to ensure that more participants benefit from the services necessary to meet their need when it comes to employment preparation and soft skills development.