Hang Ten: Riding the waves to employment

Ana Núñez and Betty Schoen

Man on surfboard on

wave

AgendaOverview of Vocational Rehabilitation

(VR)Overview of Independent Living

Rehabilitation Services (ILRS)Role of Assistive Technology (AT) in VR

and ILHow to contact VR/IL to make a referral

Bart Simpson on a surfboard in curl of

wave

Program Breakdown

Department of Economic

Security(DES)

Department of Employment and

Rehabilitation Services(DERS)

Other Division Other Division

Rehabilitation Services

Administration(RSA)

Other Administration

Other Administration

Vocational Rehabilitation

(VR)

Independent Living

RehabilitationServices

(ILRS)

Other Section

Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)Mission

Arizona Rehabilitation Services Administration will partner with eligible individuals who have disabilities to achieve employment outcomes and enhanced independence by offering comprehensive services and supports.

VisionIndividuals with disabilities will be

empowered to achieve their employment and independent living goals.

RSA Guiding PrinciplesPromote the transformative power of

independence through the achievement of client goals.

Facilitate and encourage full and active client participation.

Provide effective and quality services.Be creative and responsible in the provision of

services.Support community inclusion and social

development.Collaborate with community organizations,

Federal/State agencies, clients, employers, and businesses. 

VR Eligibility CriteriaThe individual has:• A documented disability that• Results in substantial barriers to employment• The individual desires and is able to work

competitively• The individual requires VR services in order

to prepare for, obtain, retain, or regain employment

4 Cartoon penguins with surfboards on

the beach

Priority CategoryFirst Priority- most significant disability

related service needs

Second Priority- significant disability related service needs

Third Priority- less significant disability related service needs

VR Process

IntakeEligibility decision and OOSIPE Development

IPE Service ProvisionEmploymentCase closure

Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE)

Similar to IEP but with vocational focusObjectives Goals ResponsibilitiesServicesTimeline

VR ServicesServices are identified on a case by case basis in order to meet the individualized needs of all that apply.AssessmentsVocational Guidance and counselingTrainingWork site evaluationJob Development and placementRehabilitation technology services and devices

More VR Services…Career explorationDisability AwarenessJob-readinessWork Experience opportunities

Row of surf students on the beach

practicing stance for instructor

ILRS PurposeThe ILRS program is designed to enable individuals with significant disabilities to live and function more independently within their home or community.

ILRS promotes a philosophyof independent living, consumer control, peer support, self-help, self determination, equal access, leadership, empowerment, and productivity of individuals with disabilities.

ILRS Eligibility CriteriaThe presence of a significant physical, mental

or cognitive or sensory disability that limits an individual's ability to function independently in family or community or to engage or continue in employment

There is a reasonable expectation that independent living rehabilitation services will significantly assist the individual to improve his/her ability to function independently in family or community or to engage or continue in employment.

ILRS ProcessIntakeEligibility decision ILP DevelopmentILP Service ProvisionAttainment of IL Goal(s)Case closure

Cartoon penguin riding on surfboard

Independent Living Plan (ILP)ILP goals are designed to increase  and maintain independence in significant life areas. An ILP is not limited to only one goal, but should include the goals necessary and appropriate to meet the client's needs. Examples of primary goals related to the Independent Living Rehabilitation Services program that can be considered when developing the clients ILP:Self-Advocacy/Self Empowerment, communication,

mobility/transportation, community-based living, educational, self care, information access/technology, Personal Resource Management, Relocation from a Nursing Home or Institution, Community/Social Participation

ILRS ServicesAdaptive Driving & Vehicle ModificationsHand controls, Wheelchair lift

Home ModificationsWheelchair rampDoor wideningGrab bars

Rehabilitation Technology

How to get started…with VR or ILRS

AZRSA Central Office: 602-542-3332Toll-Free: 1-800-563-1221 TTY - Maricopa County: (602) 340-7771 TTY - Outside Maricopa County: 1-855-475-8194https://www.azdes.gov/rehabilitation_services/

Questions

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cloud

PresentersAna Núñez, Statewide Transition Coordinator

602-370-9220, ANunez@azdes.gov Betty Schoen, Region 1 Transition Specialist

602-542-6282, BSchoen@azdes.gov

Cartoon fish with caption Gnarly

Dude