a. DVR will develop and utilize special indicators in its case management system to track individuals who belong to one of the above groups. b. DVR will ensure that all materials distributed or published by the agency will be accessible and demonstrate cultural competency. c. To promote more efficient use of resources and increase access for individuals who use ASL, DVR will explore the benefits of hiring staff interpreters versus contracting for ASL interpreting services. Objective: Maine DVR will develop new strategies to increase the employment of people with mental health disabilities Strategies: a. DVR will partner with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services to explore opportunities available through the I SPA b. DVR will work with the Department of Corrections through its quarterly joint meetings to identify effective practices in referring and supporting individuals for whom mental health is a barrier to employment. Objective: Maine DVR will maintain statewide consistency in its practices with regard to offering services to DVR clients as measured by client case review. “Clubhouses” Strategies: a. DVR will maintain a liaison to the local Clubhouse in each office. b. DVR will invite Clubhouse program staff to participate in DVR training opportunities. Objective: In keeping with WIOA legislation, ensure individuals working at sub–minimum wage are aware of and have access to DVR services Strategies: a. DVR will partner with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Aging and Disability Services(OADS) and the Bureau of Labor Standards (BLS) to identify individuals who are currently working at sub–minimum wage b. DVR will develop an outreach strategy to these workers in collaboration with OADS and BLS c. DVR will develop procedural guidance and training for staff on conversion of workers from sub–minimum wage settings to competitive, integrated employment 4. The methods to be used to improve and expand VR services for students with disabilities, including the coordination of services designed to facilitate the transition of such students from school to postsecondary life (including the receipt of VR services,
a. DVR will develop and utilize special indicators in its case management system to track individuals who belong to one of the above groups. b. DVR will ensure that all materials distributed or published by the agency will be accessible and demonstrate cultural competency. c. To promote more efficient use of resources and increase access for individuals who use ASL, DVR will explore the benefits of hiring staff interpreters versus contracting for ASL interpreting services. Objective: Maine DVR will develop new strategies to increase the employment of people with mental health disabilities Strategies: a. DVR will partner with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services to explore opportunities available through the I SPA b. DVR will work with the Department of Corrections through its quarterly joint meetings to identify effective practices in referring and supporting individuals for whom mental health is a barrier to employment. Objective: Maine DVR will maintain statewide consistency in its practices with regard to “Clubhouses” offering services to DVR clients as measured by client case review. Strategies: a. DVR will maintain a liaison to the local Clubhouse in each office. b. DVR will invite Clubhouse program staff to participate in DVR training opportunities. Objective: In keeping with WIOA legislation, ensure individuals working at sub–minimum wage are aware of and have access to DVR services Strategies: a. DVR will partner with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Aging and Disability Services(OADS) and the Bureau of Labor Standards (BLS) to identify individuals who are currently working at sub–minimum wage b. DVR will develop an outreach strategy to these workers in collaboration with OADS and BLS c. DVR will develop procedural guidance and training for staff on conversion of workers from sub–minimum wage settings to competitive, integrated employment 4. The methods to be used to improve and expand VR services for students with disabilities, including the coordination of services designed to facilitate the transition of such students from school to postsecondary life (including the receipt of VR services,
DVR%20State%20Plan%20from%20RSA%20Website%20(2)%208-31-16.docx