Narrative: j. 1. B.

Vocational rehabilitation services to minorities with disabilities in Maine have always been a challenge to DVR because of the state’s relatively homogeneous population and low ethnic diversity.  Residents are primarily White (94.6%) with small representation of Black (1.6%), Asian (1.2%), and Native American (0.7%) individuals in certain geographical areas of the state. Native Americans represent a historically recognizable group and Maine has nearly 18,500 tribal members who are located both on reservations and defined land, as well as scattered across the state. Tribal members are primarily located in Penobscot, Washington and Aroostook counties. Unemployment figures among Micmac and Maliseet tribes range from 55% to 76%. DVR continues to work collaboratively with the Houlton Band of Maliseet’s, which was recently re-awarded a five-year Section 121 grant. The grant has been extended until 2025.

While Maine’s minority population is small, two areas of Maine have seen significant increases in the numbers of non–English speakers due to refugee resettlement programs. According to the 2014 American Community Survey, approximately 65,000 Maine residents speak a language other than English at home. Targeted culturally appropriate outreach may be needed to ensure that information concerning VR resources is available to individuals who belong to potentially underserved minority populations.

The FFY 19 data in the most recent CSNA highlighted that 92% of the VR poulation is White and 8% identify themselves as being members of a racial or ethnic minority.  https://www.maine.gov/rehab/dvr/stateplan/