Attachment 4.12(c)(1)

Identifies the Goals and Priorities of the State in Carrying out the Vocational Rehabilitation and Supported Employment Programs

The following goals and priorities have been developed for the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program for FY 2000. The Rehabilitation Council provided input into the development of these goals and priorities.

1. The successful achievement of employment as an outcome is the number one priority for the VR program for FY 2000.
   1. Goal of 1,350 eligible individuals is projected to be served during FY 2000; 1,305 individuals were served in FY 98.
   2. A goal of 255 successful rehabilitations is projected for FY 2000; 248 individuals were successfully rehabilitated in FY 98.
   3. The average earnings for all closures are projected to be $290 per week for FY 2000; average earnings for all closures at the end of March 1999 were $264 per week.
   4. Wage earners will represent 88% of all closures for FY 2000; for FY 98 wage earners represented 86% of all closures.
2. Customer satisfaction regarding choice, needs and good service delivery is a priority for the VR Program during FY 2000.
   1. It is the VR's goal to have at least 45% of all closed cases in FY 2000 respond to its satisfaction survey.
   2. Case reviews will be conducted on 20% of all active VR cases during FY 2000, by the central office staff.
   3. The agency and the Rehabilitation Council will conduct a comprehensive need assessment during FY 2000.
   4. During FY 2000 an emphasis will continue to be placed on "client choice," in staff training and the development of policies and other materials.
3. Increasing the availability of adaptive technology services will continue to be a priority in FY 2000.
   1. Adaptive technology services will be increased during FY 2000 by adding at least one additional rehabilitation technology specialist position.
   2. The current list of 23 approved active vendors on the tutor network will be increased to at least 26 by the end of FY 2000.
   3. Assistive technology training will be provided for tutors and staff during FY 2000.
4. Transition services to help students transition to employment and/or post secondary training will receive additional emphasis during FY 2000.
   1. All 14-year-old students will be evaluated to help determine VR eligibility.
   2. VR counselors and education coordinators will receive joint training in "transitioning" during FY 2000.
5. Public awareness activities will be increased during FY 2000 focusing on employers, referral sources, and providers of services.
   1. Rehabilitation counselors during FY 2000 will distribute the new employer brochure to potential employers.
   2. Each regional office will be requested to provide at least one new additional outreach activity during FY 2000 (i.e., employer seminar, job fair, open house, etc.).