As young adults prepare for transition, it can by confusing to understand what roles the Developmental Disabilities Administration and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation play in getting and obtaining employment in high school and beyond. Here is a brief description of how they provide services:
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) helps adults with disabilities find and secure stable employment. DVR services are not long-term. Their purpose is to provide the necessary tools and assistance for initial job placement and (if needed) to aid transition to long-term supports outside DVR (such as DDA).
Services may include: counseling & guidance; trial work experience; community-based assessment; benefits planning; assistive technology; job-related services such as completing applications, developing a resume, practicing interview skills, conducting a job search, gaining job skills; and transition to DDA long-term supports.
The Role of DVR in High School Transition
DVR partners with school districts to help students receiving high school transition services prepare for and find employment. This typically happens during the final year of school (age 20-21).
The Developmental Disabilities Administration
The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) provides long-term employment/day services to eligible individuals age 21 and over. Services may include:
- Individual Supported Employment: discovery (identifying interests, strengths, needs), assessment, job preparation, job placement & coaching;
- Group Supported Employment: supervised employment for groups of no more than 8 workers with disabilities in the same setting;
- Community Access: participation in activities that promote individualized skill development, independent living and community integration.
It’s important to find out, prior to exiting the school system, how to apply for these services (and if funding will be available).
Although DDA does not provide employment services until age 21, other home & community-based services may be available. Visit the DDA website for a full list of services.
