Located in:
- Program-Specific Requirements for State Vocational Rehabilitation (Blind)
The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services Portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan must include the following descriptions and estimates, as required by sections 101(a) and 606 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by title IV of WIOA.
- l. Interagency Cooperation with Other Agencies
In accordance with the requirements in Section 101(a)(11)(C) and (K), describe interagency cooperation with and utilization of the services and facilities of agencies and programs that are not carrying out activities through the statewide workforce development system to develop opportunities for community-based employment in integrated settings, to the greatest extent practicable for the following:
- l. Interagency Cooperation with Other Agencies
l. 9. Other private nonprofit organizations.
Current Narrative:
Centers for Independent Living: DSHS/DVR currently contracts Title VII, Part B funds to four independent living centers statewide. DSB holds a contract through DVR and the State Independent Living Council to provide Independent Living Services through Part B monies to adults under age 55 who cannot or don’t intend to work. We also partner with the Centers for Independence who also utilize Part B funds to enhance and expand core independent living services with a focus on youth with significant disabilities. In addition to core services, independent living centers have been focusing on outreach to increase services in unserved or underserved geographic areas. Additional outreach efforts include targeted disability groups, minority groups, and urban or rural populations with the focus on youth with significant disabilities and 504 plans. The goal is to create a safe environment for youth with disabilities in which youth feel comfortable and confident when talking to allies. This goal will be accomplished by enhancing youth understanding of independent living philosophy, successful self-advocacy, and ways to engage with legislators about disability issues. The independent living centers’ Title VII, Part B contracts are aligned with and can be amended to meet the goals set forth by the State Plan for Independent Living, the strategic plan developed by the Washington State Independent Living Council.
Disability Inclusion Network (DIN): The DIN is a business resource group for members of the Disabled Community and their allies in Washington State service. The DIN’s mission is to engage in the experience, values, and knowledge of people with disabilities in state government, promote universal access, and create an environment where people with disabilities can fully participate in all aspects of the workplace. THE DIN’s vision is to see Washington State as an Employer of Choice ensuring people with disabilities have equitable access and resources through recruitment, hiring, training, development, retention, and promotion. The Executive Director of DSB is currently acting as the Executive Sponsor for this Business Resource Group.
Washington Workforce Association: The Washington Workforce Association (WWA) is a nonprofit, non-partisan membership organization comprised of Washington’s twelve Workforce Development Councils (WDCs). The WWA partners with state, regional, and national organizations advocating for a coordinated and fully funded workforce development system focused on the needs of job seekers and businesses.