Located in:
- Program-Specific Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation (Combined or General)
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:
Each of the goals and associated strategies have a role to play in overcoming barriers related to equitable access to and participation in the vocational rehabilitation program. In particular, a culture of growth and development will support staff to develop skills in areas of deficit, including cultural competence, disability awareness, or increased understanding or other characteristics creating barriers to accessing DVR. Improving the customer experience makes DVR more accessible to all people, including those who may be less inclined to access DVR or may be less aware of the resources available. Additionally, implementing Employment First will directly impact access to services, including supported employment, by ensuring competitive integrated employment is the first and preferred option for individuals with disabilities who wish to work.