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 who have disabilities to "plan" for their future.
The OVR Counselor for Transition Aged Youth in our area, is Wendy Harris. Wendy meets with students periodically throughout the year once a student has been enrolled in the program. The program is consumer driven, this means the student/individual must request and ask for services.
Eligibility is based on a documented disability.
Including: learning disability, intellectual disability/mental retardation, mental health diagnosis such as depression or anxiety, ADHD, Medical Disabilities such as Diabetes or Epilepsy, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Visual Impairment, Deaf or Hard of Hearing, physical disabilities, and other disabilities that may be a barrier to obtaining and maintaining employment.
Most high schools have applications on hand to apply for OVR and/or Wendy Harris can meet with students to explain her services. Individuals may also contact her at the number below.
OVR: Wendy Harris, 1-800-442-6359
Referring yourself to OVR or CareerLink
