Vocational Rehabilitation Definitions Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is both a state and federally funded program that supports people with disabilities to explore, prepare for, gain, and maintain employment. The goal of VR is to help individuals reach their full potential in the community and workforce. VR services are individualized and based on a person’s unique needs and employment goals. VR services are free; however, some services may require cost-sharing depending on financial guidelines. When an individual qualifies for services, they will be assigned a VR counselor. The VR counselor will help the individual to develop an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) based on their strengths, resources, and abilities. Services anyone might receive could include:
Assessment services (e.g., medical/mental health assessment, vocational interest assessment, aptitude assessment). Counseling and guidance (e.g., examining needs, barriers, strengths, and support with developing personal and career goals). Training and support services (e.g., assistive technology, transportation, postsecondary or workplace readiness training). Employment and supported employment (e.g., resumé building, interview practice, job application assistance, job coaching, job placement). Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS). VR has focused services for students between the ages 14-21. To deliver Pre-ETS services, VR works in partnership with school systems and community providers to help introduce students to the world of work, identify potential career options, and connect students with a VR counselor prior to high school graduation. Guiding Questions Do you know if you have an open case with your local VR office? If not, do you know how to apply for VR services? Do you know how to access and share your medical records with a VR professional? Are you familiar with some of the services provided by VR? What VR services do you think you could benefit from? Resources EMPOWER November Monthly Deep Dive - VR In this resource, EMPOWER VI dives deeper into eligibility and applying for VR services in their archived Newsletter.
Services provided by state department/state unit for visual impairment – Perkins School for the Blind This resource explains how receiving free state services can help tremendously with navigating life with a vision impairment. Perkins reviews seven benefits of having a case with state departments for vision impairment.
If you are interested in learning more about VR Blind and Visually Impaired Services in Tennessee, check out VR's Blind & Visually Impaired Services page.
For information about applying in states other than Tennessee, locate your state’s VR information at State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies (ed.gov) .
