Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a program that helps people who have physical or mental disabilities find and keep a job. You may be eligible for VR services if your disability interferes with your ability to find a job or if you need VR’s assistance in finding or keeping a job. Also, if you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for a disability, and your goal is to become employed, it is presumed that you are eligible.
VR helps you by first assigning a VR counselor who will work with you to discuss what your barriers to employment are, as well as help you figure out what type of employment you are interested in. The goal is to find a job that is not only fulfilling but one that you are comfortable in doing.
The result of these conversations are used to create an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE), and this IPE is used by the VR counselor and the Employment Service Provider you choose to inform your job search.
An Employment Service Provider, such as The Vocation Depot, once chosen assigns an Employment Specialist to your case, this is someone who helps you craft a resume, search for jobs, helps you apply to jobs you are interested in, offers interviewing skills and practice, and provides retention services to keep you in a job you love.
To get started, follow the link, http://www.rehabworks.org/customers.shtml, and locate the Customer Referral form. Please complete the form and turn in to your local VR office, there is a local office directory available here.
If you have any questions, be sure to check out the VR Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) or feel free to contact us at 888-489-6466 for more information.