North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services

1. North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services A Programmatic Overview

2. NC Division of Vocational Rehabilitation A Division of the NC Department of Health and Human Services. Federal oversight from the Rehabilitation Services Administration under the US Department of Education, with funding ration of 80% Federal & 20% State. Statewide coverage with 33 offices, including two regional facilities; many have satellite units and coverage in Joblinks. Referrals typically start as young as 16 years of age.

3. Eligibility Criteria Physical or mental impairment documented by appropriate specialist. Individuals on SSI/SSDI are presumed to be eligible. Impairment must result in an impediment to employment. Individual able to obtain and maintain employment after VR services received. VR services are required for the individual to become successfully employed.

4. Initial Interview Some offices utilize group orientation to explain program. Completion of VR application form with counselor thru counseling relationship. Release of information forms obtained. Financial eligibility forms, does not result in denial of services. What is impact of disability upon work life. VR services available relevant to consumer’s situation. VR services desired, provider choice, etc.

5. Financial Eligibility Waiver for SSI/SSDI recipients; presumed eligibility. Net income of family unit. Allowed exemptions such as medical expenses. Excess financial resources results in contribution toward certain VR sponsored services. Services subject to financial needs test Services exempt from financial needs test

6. Assessment Phase Should last no longer than 60 days per federal guidelines; exceptions for certain cases. Medical specialty exams. Psychological testing. Vocational evaluation by agency staff. Comprehensive evaluation by community rehabilitation program. Supplemental evaluation by supported employment provider. Leads to determination of program eligibility/ineligibility by VR counselor. If ineligible, other community resources are provided.

7. Development of IPE Full participation and input by consumer Informed choice & consumer choice. Service selection, including cost services. Responsibilities of the agency and of the consumer Estimated time frames Amendments Comparable benefits

8. Services after determination of program eligibility Vocational/supportive counseling Rehabilitation engineering Personal assistance Interpreter services Supported employment (SE) Work adjustment training Brain Injury cognitive retraining (in certain areas) Transitional employment (TE) Vocational/college training Transportation

9. Services after determination of program eligibility cont’d Maintenance – limited assistance with living expenses Work clothes and uniforms Surgery and other medical services Psychotherapy Assistive technology Home and vehicle modification Medication Tools and equipment Small business operations Job seeking skills classes

10. Services after determination of program eligibility cont’d On the job training Job placement Follow up with consumer Follow up with employer (if direct placement)

11. Closure of case Generally 90 days after employment secured If no other services are needed With permission of the consumer Post-employment services may be available Reopen case if necessary

12. Complaint Options • Informal discussion with unit manager • Formal appeal through Regional Director requesting administrative review and/or appeals hearing • Client Assistance Program (CAP) • 1-800-215-7227

13. Contact Information • State Office: Jim Swain, MA.Ed., MS Program Specialist for Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities NC DVRS State Office 805 Ruggles Drive Raleigh, NC 27603 Jim.Swain@dhhs.nc.gov Phone: 919-855-3500 Fax: 919-715-0616