An Introduction to Vocational Rehabilitation for Educators

1. An Introduction to Vocational Rehabilitation for Educators June , 2014 Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors

2. That was then, this is now…

3. Today’s Goal: 5Ws & H of VR WHO is VR / WHO do we serve? WHAT is VR? WHEN to access VR services? WHERE is VR? WHY partner with VR? HOW to make the partnership happen. ULTIMATE GOAL: EMPLOYMENT OUTCOMES

4. WHO is VR? • Mission “To assist Oregonians with disabilities to achieve and maintain employment and independence.” • We believe individuals that experience disabilities are: -Motivated to work -Capable, talented, and can achieve on par with their peers -Deserve the opportunity to achieve their potential -Have skills that are needed in the world of work

5. WHO is VR? Historical Perspective: • The Disability Rights Movement resulted in the 1973 Rehabilitation Act. • Amendments in the 1990s increased the role of the consumer. This increased consumer choice and resulted in better options for high quality jobs. • Today, Executive Order is fostering better partnerships with ODDS, ODE, and VR for coordinated team approach to transitioning students experiencing disability.

6. WHO is VR? Who are Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors? • Counselors have extensive knowledge in community resources and available workforce programs • Counselors have expertise in and know what disability accommodations are necessary for a particular client. They can help match jobs to a clients specific skill set. • Counselors help clients to determine what a “reasonable accommodation might be and how to ask for it. • Counselors can act as part of a transition team to help determine a job goal and steps required to get there.

7. WHO does VR serve? Individuals experiencing a documented disability The disability is a barrier to employment There is a service VR can provide to address barrier The individual wants to work

8. WHAT VR Does?

9. WHAT VR Does?

10. WHAT VR does? • From IEP to IPE Student + IEP = Path to Graduation Student + IPE = Path to Employment VR will become part of the student’s team to assist in building upon the work that the student and school have done. Build on identified PINS --Preferences, Interests, Needs, Strengths--

11. WHAT VR Does? …All services based on student’s VR Eligibility Employment Services and supports can remove barriers so a student can meet his/her job goal • Counseling and Guidance Assist with understanding barriers to employment, with a focus on disability related barriers, and personal strengths/attributes • Job Accommodations • Training • Job Development • Job Coaching/Support

12. WHEN to Access VR? • Student has an interest in gaining employment • Student’s disability appears to have the potential to impact employment success • At least 1 year prior to the student exiting the school system (hopefully school staff and VR are discussing case loads on a regular base) Note: VR Counselors can come to the school but it is helpful to have at least a month notice • Student is connected, if applicable, with County Developmental Disability Services and/or Brokerage (intending to seek employment)

13. WHEN to Access VR?

14. WHERE is VR? • 14 VR branch offices statewide • Many offices have multiple outstations • 123 VR counselors statewide • 12 counselors serve Lane County

15. WHERE is VR? Metro Area Branches: • Beaverton – 503/277-2500 • Clackamas - 971/673-6130 • Central Portland – 971/673-2555 • East Portland – 971/673-5858 • North Portland – 971/673-3055 • We can come to you.

16. WHY Partner with VR? • Opportunities for employment, training, and education during this time can establish a foundation for adult income and occupational achievement. • Without careful planning and supports, individuals might be tracked into low paying or unsatisfying jobs, or no jobs at all. Lack of opportunities for advancement Lack of motivation for advancement

17. WHY Partner with VR? Percentage of individuals between 18-34 years old earning wages that placed them below the federal poverty line. (U.S. Census Bureau, 2010) Young adults with disabilities in their early career years are more likely to be: • Unemployed • Underemployed • Living below the poverty line

18. WHY Partner with VR? Limited knowledge/awareness potential job opportunities & career paths Lack of exposure to work experiences

19. WHY Partner with VR? Team Approach = Better Employment Outcomes VR is a lifelong resource for student employment needs related to disability barriers Teachers have a rich history and knowledge that is invaluable to VR counselors Benefits Planning

20. WHY Partner with VR? The students and families need your help to connect with adult service agencies such as VR • We (Schools, VR, Brokerages, County Development Disability Services) can partner with students to provide help in them reaching their goals • Transition goals can be meaningful • United front • Benefits of a team approach

21. HOW to Partner with VR Facilitate referral to VR • Identify Students who many benefit • Connect Student to YTP specialist and/or VR Counselor

22. HOW to Partner with VR Intake Session Overview • What to expect • Who to invite • Timelines • Eligibility criteria Medical Diagnosis vs. School Eligibility

23. HOW to Partner with VR Before the referral: • Career Exploration & Person Centered Plans • Career Goal Development • Real Life Skill Building • Work Experiences Job Interest Inventories Job Shadows Informational Interviews

24. HOW to Partner with VR School Partnership Local Teacher : VRC Connection, Set up meeting for all Special Ed providers, Meeting for Parents and Students, facilitated individual intake sessions at school, ongoing collaboration Example of partnership

25. That was then, this is now… Questions?