Navigating Vocational Waters
Navigating vocational waters can be tricky for anyone, especially for those with a mental or physical challenge. However, with the appropriate supports the joy of working can be an opportunity experienced by all. As part of the IEP (Individualized Educational Plan), adolescents should be introduced to services provided through Vocational Rehabilitation (VR). Services for transition are required to begin by the age of 16, however as /advocates for your child you can begin to request the intervention of VR at14. The earlier the intervention, the greater the future success for implementation of quality programs and suitable funding will be. There are waiting lists for funding in many areas, and VR will partner with area agencies when possible to obtain these pools of money.
Vocational Rehabilitation offers a wide range of services including, but not limited to:
- comprehensive rehabilitation evaluation to determine abilities, skills, interests, and needs
- vocational counseling and rehabilitation planning, employment services such as job-seeking skills, resume development, and other work readiness assistance
- assistance finding and keeping a job, including the use of special employer incentives, if needed
- training such as On the Job Training (OJT), apprenticeships, and non-paid work experiences
- supported employment opportunities, inclusive of job coaching and ongoing supports
- if needed, post-secondary training at a college, vocational, technical or business school
- the use of adaptive technology
- supportive rehabilitation services including case management, counseling, and referral
- transition planning services help special education students with significant disabilities, and their families prepare for the adult world of work and independent living
Vocational Rehabilitation is about informed choice. It is important to recognize that they will work closely with the individual to fully assess and determine the most fulfilling path with the greatest potential. As parents, you can fully support creativity in the direction from early on. As with any type of service provided, there are workers who as I like to say simply “phone it in” while there are others who fully engage in the process and are active players on the team. As parents, you advocate for the type of team that you want to see your child a part of!
As I considered the opportunities that VR offers for those adolescents considering life beyond school, I was confronted with the notion of those individuals who have slipped through the cracks. While it is important to understand the early intervention process of VR, to get involved through the school, to get the assessments offered, and to take advantage of the programs that are suitable to ensure a great career path, one must note that it is never to late to hop onto this path. As it is in our relationship with Christ….we can never come to the table too late!!!
I recently received a call from a young man who had been a part of special education services while in high school. He simply slipped through the cracks. Having had a difficult family situation and being unable to advocate for himself, he found himself leaving school with no real direction. Having made some new choices, recognizing that perhaps options may still be available to him, at the age of 33 he has made the choice to return to an academic environment. Having had an IEP, while in school, those same elements which were part of that plan, will continue to follow with him. Through the assistance of VR this young man is taking initial steps to forge a new path.
