Transitioning from School to Post-School
The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR)
OVR is a state and federally funded program that aims to help individuals with disabilities break down barriers to employment. This may take the form of:
- assisting students to pay for training and further education
- providing on the job training and job coaching for individuals who wish to become employed but may need some assistance transitioning, navigating, or becoming trained or beginning employment
- advocating for individuals with disabilities
- providing incentives to employers to hire individuals with disabilities
- assisting people with earning their learner's permit or driver's license through tutoring and/or behind the wheel practice
- providing funding for tools, equipment or uniforms necessary for employment
- community based assessments
- helping students and adults with disabilities to "plan" for their future.
The OVR Counselor for Youth in our area, is Wendy Harris. Wendy meets with students atperiodically throughout the year once a student the student has completed the intake process. The program is consumer driven, this means the student must request and ask for services.
Most school districts have applications on file for OVR and/or Wendy Harris can meet with students to explain her services. Individuals may also contact the OVR office directly to request an application and make a referral for services.
OVR: Wendy Harris, 1-800-442-6359
