annual report for fy 2017 - career...

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services

S TATE

R EHABILITATION

C OUNCIL

Annual Report for FY 2017

The SRC/DVRS Partnership Celebrates Accomplishments

October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017

New Jersey Dept. of Labor

Tel (609) 292-5987 Fax (609) 292-8347

PO Box 398 Trenton, NJ 08625-0398 [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Table of Contents

Contents

Rehabilitation Council Members ______________________________________ 1

Message from the Chair ______________________________________________ 2

Beliefs Mission, Function______________________________________________ 3

Membership, Committees, Resources _________________________________ 5

Meetings, Trainings and Forums ______________________________________ 7

Activities and Accomplishments ______________________________________ 9

Significant Issues ____________________________________________________ 21

Planned Activities for FY 2018 ________________________________________ 23

SRC State Plan Recommendations _____________________________________ 26

Summary ____________________________________________________________ 28

Local Office Directory_________________________________________________ 29

i

2017 NJSRC Annual Report

Rehabilitation Council Members Council Membership is in accordance with Section 105 of the 1998 Amendments to the

Rehabilitation Act and New Jersey Executive Order 110 and reflects a diverse range of

disability groups, geographical areas, racial, ethnic and gender groups. Each member is

appointed by the Governor of New Jersey. The Council represents a broad spectrum of

individuals who are concerned with the vocational needs of people with disabilities and

who support the objectives of the public rehabilitation program in New Jersey. As of

2017 representation on the Council is as follows:

Member Representation

Joanne Norflet Recipient of VR Services

James R. Thebery Advocate 1

Wayne Roorda Advocate 2

Rebecca Shulman Advocate 3

Patricia A. Tomlinson Advocate 4

Thomas G. Jennings Business Rep 1

James E. Seath Business Rep 2

Margaret M. Englebert Business Rep 3

Brian D. Sant’Angelo Business Rep 4

Mohsen Badran Community Rehab Program Rep

Lillie Lowe-Reid Client Assistance Program

Bill Freeman NJDOE – Office of Special Education Rep

Lorna Runkle Business, Industry & Labor Representative

Carolyn D. Hayer Parent Training & Info Center Rep

Nantanee Koppstein SILC

Margaret Gilbride Advocate 5

Janice Oursler VR Counselor 1

Kathleen Wilson VR Counselor 2

In process State Workforce Development Board

Alice Hunnicutt Director, DVRS, Ex-Officio

New Jersey State Rehabilitation Council

Executive Committee

Peggy Englebert Chairperson

Rebecca Shulman, Vice-Chairperson

Carolyn Hayer Treasurer

Alice Hunnicutt DVRS Director

Pg. 1

Pg. 02 2017 NJSRC Annual Report

Message from the Chair

On behalf of the State Rehabilitation Council of New Jersey, it is my privilege to present the 2017 Annual Report to our stakeholders. The SRC has, again, had a busy, productive year backed by the guidance of our dedicated membership, our excellent relationship with NJDVRS under the leadership of Director, Alice Hunnicutt, and the strong support of our DVR liaisons, whom we especially thank for their organizational skills that keep us meeting in a timely, structured manner. The Council welcomed 4 new members this year, members who add to the diversity of our Council, and who bring unique skills, resources, and perspective to the SRC. We also saw the retirement of 3 longtime members, all of whom we will miss for the knowledge and energy they brought to our group.

This year the SRC and DVRS held 5 Public Forums throughout the state, all of which were well attended by both the community and by members of our Council, who heard firsthand the concerns of a wide range of individuals. Prominent themes this year included the need for more information disseminated about WIOA and the effects it will have on the services provided to people with disabilities by DVRS. Many staff from education entities, in particular, spoke out about this need for more information as they work with students and their families towards employment goals. Numerous family members testified that it is essential that DVRS continues to support a complete range of employment choices for individuals with disabilities. A brief survey conducted at the APSE conference echoed concerns shared at the forums regarding the need for more widely circulated information, as well as the availability of better transportation, and much better marketing about DVR. This issue of marketing of DVR is a thread that runs through the many discussions that occurred about services this year. The SRC participated in the Coordinated Human Services Transportation Plan by being introduced to the plan design in its early stages, helping to promote the survey that contributed to the plan, and viewing a presentation of the results, Go Further, developed by the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority. This plan, which can be found at njtpa.org/human-services-plan, is chock full of recommendations and suggestions for implementation. SRC members enjoyed, and contributed, via a Listening Session, to the soft skills necessary for youth to obtain employment, thanks to the staff in the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Master’s program at Rutgers University.

The SRC also conducted a thorough review, with revisions, of the SRC by-laws and SRC member handbook under the direction of Pat Tomlinson. We extend our thanks to Pat for this multi-month task of soliciting and incorporating changes.

The project of which I am most proud was the visitation of DVRS offices throughout the state by members of the State Rehabilitation Council. Over the course of 18 months the SRC met with more than 200 staff in 17 locations, including Central office staff. Every meeting was attended by former Assistant Director, Brian Fitzgibbons, SRC member James Seath, and the Chair, often accompanied by other SRC members, especially Rebecca Shulman. There is a more detailed account of these visits further along in this

MARIANNE

HANIFIN

(NEPTUNE):

“Dear Marianne,

Following is

documentation you

requested. Hopefully, it

completes the

requirements

necessary. Kevin just

read your email and

texted me commenting

what a very nice lady

you are. He will be

there this Friday

morning to see you. If

we don’t speak until

then, we wish you all

the best in your

retirement! We are so

grateful for your

kindness, assistance

and grace, which you

have always shown us.

May God bless you and

your family. -Parent

EMMA GORDON

(BRIDGETON):

I wanted to thank

you for all the help

you provided me

with to become a

registered nurse.

Without you I would

not be able to make

the difference in

people’s lives that I

currently make. I am

proud to be a

registered nurse and

am continuing my

education at

Wilmington

University in New

Castle DE. I hope to

someday become a

family nurse

practitioner. –Client

2017 NJSRC Annual Report Pg. 03

annual report, but I wanted to note two reasons I am most proud of this accomplishment: first, it was a huge undertaking to assemble all of these meetings, finding days when SRC and staff were available; second, it was most gratifying to listen to the staff in the local offices, to hear their concerns, because those concerns always related to how best to serve people with disabilities. In my opinion they represent the best kept secret in the State of New Jersey. Their pride in the life changing work they do is exquisite.

Finally, this is my last report as the Chair of the SRC, a position that has been an honor to hold, one made easier by the work of a superb Executive Committee, and knowledgeable, hard working committee chairs. I am thankful for the opportunity I was afforded to work closely with NJDVRS, and to lead this Council.

Respectfully submitted,

Peggy Englebert

Peggy Englebert, M.Ed., LRC, CRC, CVE Chair, New Jersey State Rehabilitation Council

B eliefs, Mission, Function

SRC BELIEFS As members of the New Jersey State Rehabilitation Council (SRC), we believe:

That people with disabilities, like all people, have diverse strengths that must be defined

and identified along many dimensions.

That each person with a disability has value.

In a public system of vocational rehabilitation that is responsible and accountable to

those it serves and to those who fund it.

In partnerships, affiliations and linkages.

That optimal results in rehabilitation depend on an equal partnership between

consumers and the professional (service provider).

That all consumers should be given enough information to make informed choices.

That all people with disabilities are ultimately responsible and accountable for the

choices they make.

That all people with disabilities should have the opportunity to maximize their potential.

That respect for all is critical to this process.

That it is necessary to support, further and exemplify diversity and multiculturalism

within the disability community and the community at large.

That the rights of people with disabilities should be advanced and protected.

PATIENCE OKOTIE-

ISEKENEGBE

(BRIDGETON):

Patience has done a

wonderful job heling

me with my life plan.

The assistance that the state has given me has

been exceptional turn

around in my current

situation. I appreciate

everything that Mrs.

Patience has done for

me. –Client

I want to take this time

to say Thank You to

Mrs. Patience for

taking the time to

really allow me to

understand my

potential for success

and for helping me

thru my struggles of

life, she is an excellent

counselor. -Client

PATRICK MURPHY

(NEPTUNE):

“I followed up with

Patrick at your office.

Wow, he is amazing,

efficient, thorough,

articulate, and on the

ball. I thought I was

going to have to do the

work of getting

information from the

college to get them on

the approved list.

Please convey how

impressed I was with

him to his supervisor.

He even let me know

that after he contacted

the college, they did

their part, and that he

is just waiting for your

central office to do

their part now. Thank

you again” –Parent


SRC MISSION

The SRC is a partnership of persons with disabilities, advocates and other interested persons. It is committed to ensuring through policy development, implementation and advocacy that New Jersey has a rehabilitation program that is not only comprehensive and consumer-responsive but also effective, efficient and significantly funded. The SRC is dedicated to ensuring that persons with disabilities receive rehabilitation services that result in employment.

SRC MANDATED FUNCTION

The SRC, on behalf of the community it represents, reviews, analyzes and advises the New Jersey State Vocational Rehabilitation Program (DVRS) regarding the performance of its responsibilities. Council goals and activities are set annually and are in response to both National and State issues, as mandated by Section 105 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The focus of Council goals and activities includes but is not limited to Consumer Satisfaction, Statewide Needs Assessment, State Plan and Amendments, Policy, Extent/Scope/Effectiveness of Services, Interagency Agreements and New Jersey's Employment programs.

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), signed into law July 22, 2014, reauthorized the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 under title IV. It is important to note that most provisions under title IV went into effect upon enactment of WIOA. The SRC is committed to ensuring appropriate support to the DVRS in its implementation of WIOA.

ADEKOYA BROWN

(NEWARK):

On behalf of Integrity

House, thank you for

speaking at the Re-

Entry Work shop. We

greatly appreciate you

taking the time out of

your busy schedule and

providing us with

information and

reference material. We

hope that you enjoyed

meeting the members

and that you will

consider returning in

the future. Thanks

again for taking the

time to speak at our

meeting. (Integrity

House Family)

Thank you for being so

patient and kind in

helping me find a job. I

will always be grateful

to you for your support

and kindness. A bundle

of thanks to you for all

of the thoughtfulness

you’ve shown.

(Consumer).

MARCELA DINOSO

(HACKENSACK):

Marcela, Thank you

for your help!!! I

received my hearing

aids and can’t believe

all the noise. Lol, I was

walking my dog and I

kept hearing sounds. It

was the birds singing

which I haven’t heard

in years!! Thanks

again, warm regards.

(Consumer)


Membership, Committees, Resources

Membership Development

The full Council participates in identification of potential members appropriate to the beliefs and mission of the SRC. Member attendance, vacancies, and upcoming term expirations are reviewed during the February and June meetings with recommendations made to fill vacancies according to the category the vacancy(s) represents. The SRC is fully compliant with the requirements under Section 105 in the law; members have been appointed by the Governor and at least half of the SRC membership is comprised of persons with disabilities who are not employed by the DVRS. A wide range of disability representation has been achieved.

Officer Elections

Officers are elected bi-annually at the SRC May meeting for a two-year term. The following new officers were elected in June 2016: Peggy Englebert, Chair; Rebecca Shulman, Vice- Chair, and Carolyn Hayer, Treasurer. The officers were elected for a two-year term through June 2018.

Committees

The SRC Chair, in conjunction with the Executive Committee, appoints committees annually to meet federally mandated activities and SRC priority areas. Each SRC member is expected to participate on a committee. The DVRS supports each committee by assigning a DVRS staff member to provide information as requested.

Standing committees include:

Executive Committee – Comprised of the SRC Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer and the DVRSDirector as ex-officio.

Evaluation & Consumer Satisfaction Committee – Activities include, but are not limitedto, program evaluation activities and consumer satisfaction studies.

Policy Committee/Legislative Committee – Activities include, but are not limited to,advocacy and education, policy and State Plan review, Administrative Code review, StatePlan Public Hearings, Statewide Comprehensive Needs Assessment, pending and currentlegislation, particularly with respect to impact on funding.

Transition Services for Students and Youth to Work Committee – Responsible forinitiatives relating to providing pre-employment transition services, transition services, andservices to youth with disabilities as outlined in WIOA.

GILDA ESCOBAR

(HACKENSACK):

Thank you so much

for your commitment,

guidance and support.

I am still working at

The Paper Store and

loving every minute. I

now realize I could

not have worked on a

full-time basis. I have

no second thoughts

about leaving the HR

Field. You are the

best. Thank you for

the positive outcome.

(Consumer Mother)

AALIYAH

ROBINSON-PETERS

(NEW

BRUNSWICK):

“You did a great job

listening to and

sending me to a great

program at JFK that

really helped

me!” (Consumer)

I just wanted to email

you and express

gratitude for what

you have done for

me. I truly

appreciate! Have a

good day and I'll be

in contact with you

soon. (Consumer)

I wanted to

personally thank you

for pulling clients

from your case load I

appreciate all the

hard work you have

put in to help make

the Auto Zone event

a success!!!The level

of promptness and

communication was

above and beyond.

Thank you again!!!!!!!

(Samia Haridi)


Ad Hoc Committees, Task Forces, and Study Groups – Are created on an as needed basisby the SRC Chair. Non-Council members may serve on these groups, but the Chair of thegroup must be a SRC member. Ad Hoc Committees include:

By-Laws Review Committee – Is appointed by the SRC Chair on even-numbered years toreview and make recommendations to the full Council for needed revision.

Membership Committee – Is charged with developing plans to bring membership intocompliance with RSA mandates

Resource Plan The following DVRS staff provides support, attend, and participate in the activities of the Rehabilitation Council:

DVRS Director attends all meetings and provides staff support to the executivecommittee.

Two Assistant Directors provide staff support to the legislative/policy and emergingissues committees; the executive assistant to the DVRS director provides staff supportto the evaluation committee and day-to-day requests that come from SRC members.

Executive secretary to the director provides minutes for every meeting and prepareshandouts for all SRC meetings.

Other DVRS staff members are assigned as needed to support the Council and asappropriate to their area of expertise.

For the period of 10/1/16 – 9/30/17, a $46,500 budget was established for Council operating expenses. The budget covered: quarterly and special meeting costs, annual planning summit, member expenses to attend and participate in meetings and training, accommodations, training, printing costs, fiscal agent budget administration and miscellaneous funds needed to support Council activities as appropriate. Council activities stayed within the allocated amounts.

AMY HOEHMAN

(NEPTUNE):

Hi Amy, I know it’s the

weekend however, I

really want to tell you

how excited I am to

begin again. As you’ve

seen I’m sure by now

how emotional I can

get. It’s simply because

I am ever so grateful to

be alive, I had the

opportunity to see my

family here in Jersey

again and to meet new

exciting people from

various lifestyles as well

as cultures. You are

definitely amongst the

exciting. Thank you

and DVRS so much for

the opportunity to find

out who and what the

new (client’s name) is

about and what she can

possibly perform. To

some, this class may be

nothing to be as excited

as I am, however, it is

the chance for me to

get back to feeling like

a productive member

of society again, to give

of myself in a way I

haven’t been able to do

in 7 ½ years. That’s the

part that excites me so

much, giving to others

and helping myself at

the same time. Inside I

am jumping with the

possibilities that await.

Now, I pray for

strength, and

endurance to finish this

race that is about to

start! Have a great

weekend. (Consumer)


Meetings, Trainings and Forums

Accessibility

The Council promotes inclusion at all sponsored meetings for members and other participants by providing, as needed, personal care attendant services, transportation services, interpreter services, computer assisted real-time transcription (CART) and assistive listening devices. Teleconferencing is made available to accommodate persons who have difficulty traveling, or who reside in rural or remote areas. In addition, all documents are sent out prior to each SRC meeting via email.

Regular New Jersey SRC Meetings

The SRC conducts quarterly meetings. Meetings were held on November 1 2016, February 1, 2017, June 6, 2017 and September 13, 2017. Full Council activities are scheduled in the morning with committees meeting in the afternoon. Committee meetings are also held in the interim months, on an as needed basis. Conference calling is used when appropriate. Regular meetings are open to the public and interested stakeholders are encouraged to attend. An annual planning meeting was held on August 2, 2016.

SRC Members Participate in the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR)

Council representatives regularly attend the CSAVR spring and fall meetings. There is a special track for SRC leadership nationally that meets the day before the general CSAVR meeting begins. New Jersey SRC representatives attend this meeting in addition to the general CSAVR meetings. The New Jersey SRC is a member of the National Coalition of State Rehabilitation Councils (NCSRC). The NCSRC coordinates the track for SRCs at the CSAVR conferences in the spring and fall meetings.

NJSRC representatives participate in CSAVR Standing Committee meetings; including the Deaf, Deaf Blind, Hard-of-Hearing and Late-Deafened Standing Committee; the Transition Standing Committee and the Employment Standing Committee.

Several members of the SRC continue to work on the “Model State Plan for Rehabilitation Services for Individuals Who Are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, Hard-of-Hearing and Late-Deafened” and have offered technical consultation throughout the country.

ELAINE SOTO-

ORTIZ (TRENTON):

The services that have

been explained to me

by my counselor have

given me a significant

amount of hope in

finding a successful

career in Homeland

Security. (Consumer)

MICHAELA

MACAULEY (NEW

BRUNSWICK):

It was a pleasure to

meet with you this

morning. Thank you

for your patience and

for answering my

many questions.

Although (client) has

not started his

transition into the

work force our

meeting was a great

beginning. I will

periodically keep you

posted of his progress.

A parent of a disabled

child has many paths

to navigate and a

friendly helping hand

is always appreciated.

Hope to speak with

you soon and enjoy the

rest of your summer.

(Parent)

PATIENCE

(BRIDGETON):

Mrs. Patience is a great

and very

understanding person.

Her name says it all,

Patience. She needs a

raise. (Client)


2017 Public Forums:

The following public forums were held during this reporting period:

Dates Venue Attendance Interpreters Provided

# SRC/DVRS Attendees

Written Testimony provided

April 11, 2017

Ocean County

14 Y 3 Yes

April 13, 2017

Hudson County

20 Y 5 None

April 18, 2017

Salem County

25 Y 2 None

April 24, 2017

Somerset County

22 Y 5 None

April 28, 2017

Burlington County

27 Y 4 Yes

GINA AGRO (TOMS

RIVER):

“Gina is a

phenomenal case

worker” (Client)

Gina has a client who

needed to have

accommodations/

equipment added to

his home for his job.

After significant

issues in the

manufacturing

process the client has

his zero gravity chair

etc. and is very

pleased. He is

gainfully employed

and very grateful to

DVRS and Gina for

her months of work

on his behalf. (Tadd

Maffucci, Supervisor

– Toms River DVR)

PETER RUFFINI

(NEW

BRUNSWICK):

Thanks for everything

Pete. The truth is, if

you didn't send me to

vocab rehab, I

wouldn't be where I

am today. That's

where I gained all of

the experience I

needed to land this

job. Thanks again for

sending me. (Client)

“Thanks so much for

your help and for

believing in Tory and

treating her with such

respect.“ (Parent)


Activities and Accomplishments

Eligible Consumers Served in 2017

In FFY’ 2017, the DVRS served all categories of eligible consumers. The agency currently has the

financial resources to serve all categories; however, it is projected that with the implementation

of the Workforce Investment Opportunity Act (W.I.O.A.) the agency could go into an order of

selection in FFY’ 2018 due to realignment of federal funds emphasizing Pre-Employment

Transition Services for students and youth. In addition, the Department of Human Services has

implemented policy changes that now require all individuals with intellectual/developmental

disabilities (ID/DD) who seek support through the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) to

seek employment services first with DVRS.

Successful Employment Outcomes In FFY’17, closures decreased from 3,808 in FFY’ 2016, to 3,552 in FFY’ 2017. This decrease is less than

8% from FFY’16.

Minority Identification

There were 12,181 *closed cases in FFY’17. DVRS served all these individuals and closed their cases for other reasons or were successful rehabilitations. 29% of all the closures are rehabilitations and 52% of the total rehab closures are from minority groups.

P*lease note: Consumers can choose 2 or more minority identifiers on their applications.

Rehabilitation Closures

4400

4200

4000

3800

3600

3400

3552

FFY'2015 FFY'2017

JESSICA VAIL (TOMS

RIVER):

This is a long overdue

commendation for your

employee Jessica Vail.

Jessica first began

working with my son

who in January was

furloughed from a job he

held for eight years.

Jessica extended every

professional and personal

courtesy to our family

during a very troubling

time. She directed us to

the services offered

through LWD/DVR and

we were able to work with

ARC in finding John M

full time employment at

Woodhaven Lumber.

Although the position is

challenging John M is

working with a job coach

and handling his new

position well. He also is

working with the State

DD people on

supervised/independent

living. We are grateful to

have worked with Jessica

and be given assistance

that has put my son on

the right path. It is people

like Jessica that restores

one’s ‘faith in the system’.

She is a wonderful

employee and person. -

Parent

SUSAN BALLANTYNE

(TOMS RIVER):

“I appreciate everything

my counselor did for me.

She treated me with

respect and did

everything she could for

me. Susan helped me

complete my education

and I couldn’t be more

satisfied” (Client)


Northern Region

Total minority closures in FFY’17 are 1,864 out of all rehabilitated closures.

Referrals by Region

0

BARBARA

STOCKTON (NEW

BRUNSWICK):

We would like to

recognize Barbara

Stockton here at New

Brunswick DVRS.

DVRS New

Brunswick is

currently short a few

counselors. As a VRC

2, Barbara has stepped

up to assist as our

acting supervisor

until an official

supervisor is hired.

Despite having her

own very active

caseload, Barbara not

only approves our

eCATS and case

work, she handles

issues that may arise

with some of our

more challenging

clients. She is also

readily available to

put her own casework

down to listen and

advise us in our own

casework and

counseling. She is

mindful of all of our

needs as they arise.

What’s most

impressive is that she

never complains and

remains positive

through this

transitional period,

leading by example. I

don’t think she

understands how

much we appreciate

her. Thank you,

Barbara! (New

Brunswick DVRS

Counselors)

Office Caseloads Referrals

Paterson 9 907

Randolph 7 745

Hackettstown 5 695

Hackensack 9 1,023

Jersey City 10 1,333

Total 40 4,703


Central Region


Newark 16 2,757

New Brunswick 9 1,921

Elizabeth 9 1,422

Somerville 6 1,129

Trenton 8 1,364

Neptune 8 964

Total 56 8,593

Southern Region


Toms River 9 1,897

Camden 13 1,855

Thorofare 5 679

Westampton 7 1,035

Pleasantville 8 1,312

Bridgeton 7 1,057

Wildwood 2 401

Total 51 8,236

DANIELLE KWAN

(SOMERVILLE):

I am so grateful we

can reopen my case.

I was so afraid we

couldn't. I truly

appreciate that

reassurance. We can

cancel my

appointment for the

8th and once I get

back on track I will

contact you. I truly

love working with

you... you are so

helpful and

extremely very

compassionate!

Thank you again

and I am so very

grateful for all you

have done for me. I

will definitely

contact you once I

get back on track!

With Extreme

Gratitude! (Client)

ASHLEY NEILSON

(WESTAMPTON):

Many thanks for all

your help. You’re

making miracles

happen! -Consumer

JENNIFER

SOSDORF

(WESTAMPTON):

Thank you again for

helping me to

continue to be part

of the working

world. Part of God’s

healing is for me to

continue to work.

God bless you all

and Thanks again. -

Consumer


Referral Sources The DVRS received a total of 21,532 referrals during FFY’17. Of the 3,552 total rehabilitations, the following referral sources were the highest; Self Referrals, Elementary/High School, Other Individuals including family and friends and Other. Some of the other referral sources include: Community Rehabilitation Programs, medical professionals, One-Stop Career Centers, the Social Security Administration, employers, welfare agencies, social workers, mental health centers, other state and local agencies, etc.

Elementary/High School Other Individuals/Family/ 15%

Friends

Self Referrals 34%

Other 40%

11%

Disabilities Served DVRS serves a wide range of disabilities; in 2017 Cognitive and Psychosocial were the largest group served. These two groups made up 56% of all disabilities served. 32% was made up the “other” consumers and they had a range of disability impairments.

40%

35%

30%

25%

20%

15%

10%

5%

0% Cognitive 33% Psychosocial 23% Physical/Muskuloskeletal 8% Communicative 4%

GILDA ESCOBAR

(HACKENSACK) Thank you so much

for everything. My

son’s recovery

process has been a

team effort and you

played an

instrumental part in

helping him. We

are so grateful to

have had the

opportunity to meet

and work with you.

My son’s illness was

extremely difficult

and the recovery

also; however, we

are grateful for the

wonderful people

and organizations

that made this

recovery process

more manageable.

Thank you also for

the vouchers for his

continued

participation in the

Functional Skills

Program as well as

for the driving

evaluation/lesson at

Kessler West. We

send you well

wishes on your

professional

endeavor. May you

always have enough

so that you are able

to continue to help

others. I am sure

your department is

sad that you are

moving on. Thank

you again and best

wishes. (Consumer

& Parent)

Pg. 12


Supported Employment Assists Consumers with Significant Disabilities

The DVRS successfully rehabilitated 1,048 individuals who received Supported Employment services in FFY’17; the following represent the most significant disabilities:

Cognitive Impairment 20%

Psychosocial Impairments: 11%

In each of these disability groups the division worked with CRPs with specific expertise in the provision of services. Individuals receiving Supported Employment Services in FFY’16 accounted for 30% or a third of all successful rehab closures.

WIOA and LWD/SETC Combined State Plan

Title IV of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) amended the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. WIOA was created to provide state and local areas the flexibility to collaborate across systems in an effort to better address the employment and skills needs of current employees, jobseekers, and employers. WIOA requires a single, unified state plan that includes all of the core programs under it. It established core measures for all four titles that are designed to measure the effectiveness and continuous improvement of the One-Stop and Youth service delivery systems.

Title IV of WIOA included many key changes for the vocational rehabilitation program. Employer engagement is a focus and the DVRS plan now includes a section that describes how we will coordinate with employers. DVRS established its business outreach team (BOT) in FFY 2017. The BOT is comprised of six business outreach specialists who are supervised by one chief assigned to the assistant director of field services. Its main focus is to assist DVRS business partners in improving their businesses and enhancing career pathways opportunities for DVRS consumers.

The Act also included an emphasis for services to students with disabilities. Pre-employment transition services is another new requirement in the Act, and DVRS has identified 21 dedicated counselors to take the role of providing pre-employment transition services throughout the New Jersey. In FFY 2017 DVRS developed pre-employment transition services through a fee-for-service model as well as posted a notice of grant opportunity specifically for these services.

The WIOA amendments added section 511 to the Act that pertains to individuals working under a special wage certificate issued to an employer under section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA) that authorizes payment of subminimum wages under certain conditions. The new section 511 applies to all entities holding a certificate under section 14(c) that employ or are interested in employing individuals with disabilities at subminimum wages.

FRED GENUALDI

(HACKETTSTOWN):

“Through a looking

glass of a thousand

stars, may heavenly

angels watch over youand bless you wherever you are.Merry Christmas.” Thanking you for your help and consideration in helping me get back to work again with providing help with getting hearing aids. I thank you. Hoping it all works out. Blessings. -Client

LAURIE SMITH

(HACKETTSTOW

N):

I would like to take

the opportunity to

thank you and my

sponsors. You have

shown your sincere

kindness by lending

a hand in my

education and well-

being. Your

sponsorship has

helped me to realize

that dreams do

come true and that I

can be what I want

to be. My family is

secure knowing that

my education is

steady, and now, on

behalf of my family

and myself, I pour

out my humble

thanks. Thank you

and may the good

Lord bless you and

your family. –Client

Pg. 13


To meet the requirements under section 511, DVRS developed a strategy to work with the providers who employ individuals with disabilities in subminimum wages who are known to the division. Counselors from local offices provided counseling services to individuals in all of the extended employment facilities funded in LWD, and also provided counseling services to other providers as requested. In total, over 4,000 counseling sessions were done by DVRS.

It is important to note that there is a new obligation in WIOA that requires an annual accessibility review of all one-stops. This includes an examination of the physical layout as well as programmatic accessibility to ensure individuals with disabilities have equal access to all services provided to jobseekers without disabilities. DVRS has been a leader in helping to develop an appropriate template to ensure that all local one-stop offices follow this requirement.

Transitioning to Post School Activities

The reauthorization of WIOA made significant changes to the DVRS responsibility for transition services. Specifically, the law requires that the public VR program provide pre- employment transition services (Pre-ETS) to all students with disabilities. DVRS identified strategies to ensure that all transition students with disabilities have the opportunity to receive these services.

DVRS initiated a pilot project with the Middlesex County Vocational Technical Schools in FFY 2016 which culminated in developing a process that can be implemented statewide. Utilizing the school’s summer structured learning environment, DVRS counselors were able to connect to students with disabilities and provide Pre-ETS services throughout the summer and provide paid internship experiences in the process. Counselors were able to provide ongoing counseling and developed effective relationships with school personnel that increased collaboration between the school and DVRS. In April 2017 the process was presented to all of the superintendents of the vocational schools throughout New Jersey to elicit statewide interest. To date several vocational schools have contacted DVRS for more information.

DVRS continues to collaborate with other State Departments to ensure that students with disabilities transition from school to adult life in meaningful and appropriate ways throughout the state.

JENNIFER SHAW-

KNAB

(THOROFARE):

Can you believe he'll

be graduating this

semester? When I

look back on four

and half years - wow,

I really didn't know if

he would be able to it.

I am so proud of him;

I beam most days.

Jen, I want to thank

you (not just where

you work) as you

took a personal

interest in him and

I'm so thankful for

that. We have no idea

the program assisted

with college tuition

and we are so

appreciative that it

did. As you know, the

last 2 years or so, my

son has come alone

and set up the

meetings. He does

the ground work. He

was thrilled to find

out that the program

assists with finding a

job. As always, Jen, I

appreciate everything

you do! (Parent)

COLLEEN

HENDRICKSON

(WILDWOOD):

“Dear Ms. Colleen

Hendrickson, Thank

you for all you have

done to help me get

here. I couldn’t have

done it without you.

I’m glad to have had

you to advise me and

wish you a bright new

year. Thanks again.”

-Consumer

Pg. 14


Master’s Degree Programs Collaborate with the DVRS

The SRC continues to recommend that DVRS maintain its requirement for counselors to have Master’s degrees in vocational rehabilitation or a closely related field, and the New Jersey Civil Service Commission requires it as a prerequisite to become a Counselor for the DVRS. The School of Health Related Professions at Rutgers University has a Master’s degree program in Rehabilitation Counseling, and DVRS reports the following collaborative activities:

The DVRS regularly provides practicum and internship placements in all local offices. The DVRS and the SRC members have provided letters of support for grant applications

for rehabilitation education program students at both the graduate and undergraduatelevel. The school has an excellent record for receiving these grants.

The DVRS staff and the SRC members provide classroom lectures, mentor students, assistwith case conferences and provide knowledge of current practices in the field.

The SRC members take part in focus group activities of this program that helps forge newinitiatives for the program. Several members of the DSU and the SRC are active membersof the Rutgers University, School of Health Related Professions RehabilitationCounseling Program Advisory Council.

In additional to supporting staff to attend Rutgers University the agency has also offered programs in the George Washington University, The University of Wisconsin at Stout and several other universities offering on-line support.

Staff Development and Training

Although DVR no longer has specified training funding dollars, staff continue to pursue professional development and CRC credits. Staff attend rehabilitation specific presentations, vocational rehabilitation conferences, such as APSE and GSETA, take advantage of department internal Human Resource trainings, participate in the department’s tuition assistant program for credit specific continuing education coursework and attend state government trainings such as supervisory and public management opportunities.

In September 2017, DVR was able to place six Rutgers University students enrolled in the Rehabilitation Counseling program. Existing DVR counseling staff are assuming the roles of clinical supervisors and obtaining CRC credits for supporting the hands on educational process of these students. The Rutgers’ interns were placed in the Newark, Jersey City, Westampton, Elizabeth, Trenton and Pleasantville offices.

ROSEMARIE

PERRONE

(PLEASANTVILLE):

“Just wanted to send

you this e-mail to

show you my

appreciation – I felt

motivated than ever

because you have

faith in me and

because you know I

have a lot of potential.

Even when it comes

to my old bad past,

you still have faith in

me. You do know

your resources and

sources to help me as

a client. I learned a

few new things from

you about assistance

and resources for the

deaf student and

employee. I

appreciate your

professionalism and

quick responses to

my questions and

concerns. Overall

you’re the best

DVRS counselor

I’ve ever had! Thank

you, you rock!

Consumer

GARRETT

HARVEST

(NEWARK):

A quick note of

thanks. On May 13,

2017, Daniel will

graduate from

Alvernia University.

Without the money

from DVRS it would

never have happened.

We could not have

afforded this school

without your help.

You helped us

immensely sir, and on

behalf of my family I

want to say thank

you. -Parent

Pg. 15


The Business Outreach Team (BOT)

The BOT was developed under the directives of the Workforce Investment Opportunity Act.

In NJ as in many states, the BOT collaborates with the Commission for the Blind (CBVI) in

many efforts. The team had its kick off training in April, 2017. The six-member team along

with the Chief began work in mid- April. The initial focus was on developing relationships

with DVR local offices and local partners such as the One Stop Business Representatives and

Talent Networks. It did not take long before businesses began reaching out to the team.

Time is limited for BOT outreach due to the territorial assignments (attached). The individual

consultant covers a large area which includes 3-4 counties. We have, however, found that

our teamwork is excellent and all requests are being covered.

The following is an introduction to the mission of the BOT and services to businesses and

local DVR offices, both of which are our main directive:

The Business Outreach Team (BOT) has the main focus of developing a cooperative effort in

local DVR offices by means of consultative services utilized to educate those offices and

respective local businesses with the goal of improving services to those businesses and

enhancing opportunities for consumers. The cooperative efforts of the BOT will be extended

to all LWD business partners in order to achieve a unified approach to business outreach and

provide more effective services.

Consultation to employers may include information/training on ADA regulations for

employers; On the Job Training contracts; Apprenticeships; Federal Bonding; Tax Incentives;

Disability Awareness Training; Assistive Technology Presentations and Assessments; Career

Connections Resources, Customized Training Information and Planning; Job Analysis; Access

to a Qualified Talent Pool; Introduction to the National Employment Team (NET)

Services to DVRS offices may include guidance on the utilization of the National Employment

Team (NET) services; Talent Acquisition Portal (TAP) which is a computerized service for

individuals with disabilities to submit resumes to businesses seeking qualified candidates;

Targeted Hiring Events, Employer Tracking Program, Career Index Plus, Transferrable Skills

Analysis/Labor Market Information, Real Time Labor Market Data, Counselor Assistance in

Candidate Selection, Assessment Workshops, On the Job Training Development and

Consultation. The team analyzed business need after consultation and has offered and

presented all of services listed above to businesses depending on circumstances

The start-up timing for services was somewhat difficult due to lack of staff in some Local

offices. Services to offices have been on a slower pace than businesses due to this factor.

Unfortunately, DVR continues to have a hiring freeze which limits availability of counselors to

work closely with the BOT. We hoping this will be resolved in the New Year.

JENNIFER SHAW-

KNAB

(THOROFARE):

I'd greatly appreciate

anything you can do.

Also, thank you for

your guidance, trust

and support in my

son. It means more

than I, as his parent,

could ever express to

you. I'm so grateful.

–Parent

JENNIFER

VENEZIANI

(CAMDEN):

Let me take the time

to say thank you for

the part that you

played in helping

Lanei to reach his

goal(s). The work

that you do is so

important and it

means the difference

between someone

living a closed lonely

life and that same

person leading a

productive healthy

life. So thank you.

With that said, I

wanted to know if

you were available

this afternoon to talk.

I understand that

you need to speak to

him before the job

coach can move

forward. –Angela

Phillips

JENNIFER SHAW-

KNAB

(THOROFARE):

Thank you Jen! No

one has ever

acknowledged all the

hard work I have

done until now!! So

thank you and God

Bless!! -Client

Pg. 16


The following is a summary of some of the highlights involving the Business Outreach team

which has now been in existence for 7 months:

The BOT has consulted with approximately 47 new businesses touching on at least one of

the above mentioned services. Ten exclusive hiring events have been completed with at

least 20 consumers being hired to date through these endeavors. Other One Stop/DVR

hiring events have also been held with additional positive results which are still being

processed.

October, the month of Disability Awareness produced a Camden County (WDB organized)

business presentation in which the BOT presented “Disability Etiquette.” The month also

had two business organized mentoring days: one presented by Comcast and the other by the

Port Authority of NY/NJ. The BOT took part in both and five consumers were selected by the

companies, respectively, to participate. The grand finale was a South Jersey Business Summit

for businesses held at the Atlantic Cape Community College. A sampling of

presentations included: Disability Awareness and Assistive Technology.

The BOT is now in the process of working cooperatively with local SE vendors in an effort to

share our job leads with the vendors. The process is in pilot and, if successful, will be shared

throughout NJ.

State Rehabilitation Council Members Meet DVRS Counselors In Local VR Offices

Introduction: Over the course of the past 18 months members of the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC)

had the privilege of visiting DVRS offices throughout the state, sitting and talking with DVR

Counselors, listening to their opinions and ideas, sharing thoughts and beliefs. This report

was written based on the notes that were taken at each office visited. The members of the

SRC met with more than 200 staff at all levels of the agency, in 17 offices, including those in

the Central Office.

SRC member and historian, Jim Seath, brought to each meeting details about the long and

rich history of the public vocational rehabilitation program in our state. New Jersey, which

was at the forefront of this movement, will be celebrating 100 years of service in 2018. Jim

conveyed knowledge not only of the origins of vocational rehabilitation, but examples of

illustrious figures, such as Henry Kessler, who understood that The Knife Was Not Enough, as

the eponymous title of his book stated, when treating injured soldiers returning from war.

Dr. Kessler recognized that that the whole person must be treated, and knew that

employment added depth and purpose to the overall rehabilitation of soldiers who could

not return to their previous professions. Jim’s historical perspective gave insight into the

civil rights movement among rehabilitation counselors that birthed the Rehab Act of 1973,

TASHA MELTON/

HELEN

VERVELAKIS

(CAMDEN):

Previous client John

G. stopped in office

this morning

requesting to speak

to Tasha’s

supervisor. He

sincerely thanked

Camden DVRS,

especially Tasha and

Helen, in helping

him achieve his

dream job. He

reported that four

years ago he was

living in a homeless

shelter and through

the assistance of

Tasha, he was able to

obtain employment

as a New Jersey

transit bus driver

successfully working

for over two years.

He reported that it is

hard to imagine that

four years ago living

in a homeless shelter

that today he

purchased a new car

and is in the process

of purchasing a

home. Great job to

Tasha and Helen for

their assistance

leading towards such

a successful case! -

Jeffrey Clark,

Camden DVRS

Supervisor

Pg. 17


including a side story that demonstrated the power of the National Rehabilitation

Association to make positive, powerful change at the Federal level for people with

disabilities.

Findings:

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors are schooled in the approach that it is not their job to

“fix what is wrong” with a person with a disability, but to “discover and enhance what is

right”, so the person may realize their fullest employment potential. It is, at once, a joyful

and a daunting task. Joyful in the possible outcomes, daunting in the face of obstacles that

VR counselors meet along the way, e.g., huge caseloads, antiquated technology, offices that

are practically hidden in the towns and cities they occupy, sometimes with no public

transportation. Add to that an ever changing list of Federal rules, regulations, and the

interpretations thereof, and it is amazing that local office staff across the state present the

positive, optimistic picture that the members of the State Rehabilitation Council

encountered on their tour of DVRS offices. Despite heavy caseloads (sometimes well over

200), and other impediments, staff we met in our travels were focused on the needs of the

Consumers, and any discussion of their challenges led back to why improvements were

crucial in order to better provide employment services to people with disabilities.

SRC members were particularly impressed with the Counselors wide range of education,

experience, and especially their knowledge of resources in the community. The SRC met

staff who were as new as just a few days on the job to people who had been with the agency

for more than 4 decades. Equally remarkable was the diversity of prior experience that staff

brought to the agency, a diversity that created a valuable in house resource for all to share.

Staff are thirsty for more resources, more training, more direction so that they can stay

within established guidelines while helping people with disabilities soar to new heights.

Conclusions:

The challenges presented during this odyssey can and should be resolved. Additional staff,

modern technology, well-marked locations, and targeted trainings are not a luxury, they are

a necessity from every perspective. Additional staff and lighter caseloads brings opportunity

for more people with disabilities to go to work, thus improving the economics of not just the

individual with disabilities, but the State of New Jersey, as well. Better signage on buildings

is an easy problem to fix, and is one that will bring multiple benefits, as individuals do not

lose time trying to find their local DVRS office, or give up in discouragement. Finally, it is our

opinion that the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services is the best kept secret in the

state of New Jersey. Consideration should be given to a clear and concise marketing

campaign as DVRS conducts its Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment.

Sincere thanks are extended to former DVR Assistant Director, Brian Fitzgibbons, who

JESSICA VAIL

(TOMS RIVER):

This is a long overdue

commendation for

your employee Jessica

Vail. Jessica first

began working with

my son- John M -

who in January was

furloughed from a

job he held for eight

years. Jessica

extended every

professional and

personal courtesy to

our family during a

very troubling time.

She directed us to the

services offered

through LWD/DVR

and we were able to

work with ARC in

finding John M full

time employment at

Woodhaven Lumber.

Although the

position is

challenging John M is

working with a job

coach and handling

his new position well.

He also is working

with the State DD

people on supervised/

independent living.

We are grateful to

have worked with

Jessica and be given

assistance that has

put my son on the

right path. It is

people like Jessica

that restores one’s

‘faith in the system’.

She is a wonderful

employee and person.

–Parent

Pg. 18


arranged, escorted, and introduced us at the meetings; Jim Seath, whose pride in the work

that rehabilitation counselors have done and can do is contagious; and the SRC members

who took time form their hectic schedules to visit one, two or three of the DVR offices to

hear first-hand what the Council supports. Mostly, I would like to thank all of the Counselors

at the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation who captured us in energizing,

engaging encounters with their passion for what they do and who they serve. These visits

have been the highlight of my time as the Chair of the State Rehabilitation Council, and the

hopes and dreams of the counselors resonate a message of optimism that must guide the

SRC in thoughtful planning and decision making going forward.

National VR Network

Both individual DVRS consumers and businesses have greatly benefited from this national

collaboration that has been activated by the CSAVR National Employment Network (The

NET). The CSAVR has developed a national talent acquisition portal (TAP) that houses

resumes and job information specific for DVRS consumers. The Chief of the Business

Outreach Team (BOT) established in 2017 is the designated single point of contact for the

NET and continues to work with national endeavors of interest to the public VR program.

Regional Career Centers for People with Hearing Loss

Three regional centers, which opened in 2009 cover all 21 counties in New Jersey serving

individuals who are culturally deaf, hard of hearing, late deafened or with cochlear

implants. They are as follows:

Northern Career Pathways (operated by Easterseals NJ in Maplewood)

Career Development Center (operated by Bridges to Employment in Edison)

Career Success Solutions (operated by Rowan College at Burlington County in

Willingboro)

The purpose of the Regional Career Centers (RCC) for People with Hearing Loss grant is to

provide comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services to consumers of the Division of

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS).

Each center offers the following services:

Vocational Assessments to identify career options and goals based on the consumer’s

interests, capabilities and abilities as well as the job market trends

Job Readiness Services to prepare the consumers for employment by providing such

things as resume assistance, mock job interviews as well as training in self advocacy,

communication needs and work place general rules and culture

TED ROOY (TOMS

RIVER):

How are you? I’m

doing so much

better. I am still a

work in progress!! I

am so grateful for all

the help DVR and

you have provided

to me! I can’t thank

you enough for the

gift of hearing. I can

even hear a pencil

drop to the floor in

the classroom as a

paraprofessional” -

Client

YOLANDA

ROSALES (JERSEY

CITY):

The CDL training

Robert received and

completed through

the NJ Division of

Vocational

Rehabilitation

Services enabled

him to apply for and

be accepted into a

role that

significantly

advanced both his

career and

compensation

(increase by

79.57%). Your

training allowed him

to continue

advancing our

values and goals of

helping employees

grow their careers

by promoting from

within the family.

Thank you for this

valuable service to

our employees and

the greater

community of NJ. -

Director, Human

Resources

Pg. 19


Job Placement Assistance that will offer help in finding job openings and securing job

placement

Job Coaching Assistance that will offer training on the job

Assistive Technology Center houses various assistive technology devices for individuals

with hearing loss on display and to be demonstrated by staff. This will provide

awareness that may benefit the individual in the workplace.

Pre-Employment Transition Services

All staff are knowledge on the needs of people with hearing loss and are fluent in American

Sign Language (ASL).

In FY 2017, the RCC’s provided 64 vocational assessments, provided job readiness services

to 120 individuals, provided 67 ATD demonstrations, provided pre-employment transition

services to 29 students and secured employment for 77 DVRS consumers.

Schedule A Hiring:

In FFY ’17 the DVRS hosted two Schedule A Hiring Events, one in December and one in June. Prior to the December event, the Camden DVR hosted two Schedule A pre-Event

workshop sessions for interested candidates in the southern region. This event wasrepresented with both federal contractors and agencies. There were approximatelyseven contractors and nine agencies with scheduled interviews for entry level up tomanagement opportunities. Despite the federal hiring reduction there were foursuccessful placements to date. There is still pending opportunities.

June 28 in Hudson County. This was the third event scheduled for the northern part ofthe state. The northern offices worked diligently to provide opportunity for qualifiedDVRS candidates and also partnered with the CBVI and Veteran’s Administration tosolicit qualified candidates with disabilities from them. A combination of 24 federalagencies/contractors participated at this event. Ninety-five candidates wereinterviewed and twenty-five received offers of employment as of October 20,2017.

Schedule A is different than that of the traditional Job Fair model. DVRS consumers arepre-screened by the VR counselor, matched to the Federal Job lead, and scheduled fora specific interview with a specific Federal HR Coordinator. Since the DVRS started theSchedule A Hiring Event, 148 individuals with disabilities have been hired via thisactivity.

Schedule A hiring is an ongoing process (especially with Federal Agencies) and it isanticipated that additional job offers will be made to Schedule A candidates.

JENNIFER

VENEZIANI

(CAMDEN):

I just really want to

Thank you and DVR

for everything! For

the comfort and

countless emails. It’s

what you do that

makes such an

impact on people’s

lives (especially

mine) when all hope

seems gone. You will

forever be in my

prayers. -Client

Thank you so much

for presenting today!

Several of the

directors spoke with

me afterward about

how much they

enjoyed your

presentation. It was

wonderful to have

information about

project SEARCH

disseminated in

Cumberland and

Salem counties

because the school

leaders here often feel

like they are the last

to learn about things.

It was great to see

you and I hope to

work with you again

soon! –Danielle M.

Taylor (Pineland

Learning Center)

Thank you so much

for last night’s

presentation. You

were GREAT! The

crowd was small, but

they were certainly

engaged. You

answered a lot of

questions. Thanks

again. –Kitty Slater

(Yale School)

Pg. 20


Significant Issues

Appointments

The DVRS and the SRC continue to work with the Governor’s Appointment office to provide all the paperwork necessary so appointments can be made on a timely basis. The SRC chair must maintain communication with the Governor’s office on a regular basis to ensure compliance with the WIOA requirements for appointments. The SRC is hopeful that this relationship will continue with the new administration in 2018.

State Match

The SRC continued to express concern regarding the state match needs of the DVRS in FFY ‘17. The full membership discussed this issue at every meeting and has charged the DVRS director to identify strategies to increase match opportunities. DVRS was successful in advocating that that state-funded allocations designated for long-term follow-along could be considered as appropriate match with RSA during its fiscal technical assistance meeting in June 2016.

Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment (CSNA)

The results of the CSNA were reviewed.

1. Employment will be seen as the first and primary option for all those who apply toDVRS to include those with the most significant developmental disabilities.

a. Provide Education and communication. Outreach presentations were madeto key stakeholders; a survey was sent to all DVRS staff for internal input; Fromthe Director’s Desk was implemented to keep staff informed; Training onsupported employment was given to all staff; and ongoing communicationwith SE vendors was provided.

b. Collaborate with Interagency Partners. An MOU was developed with theDivision of Developmental Disabilities; DVRS sits on the New Jersey Council onDevelopmental Disabilities, the State Special Education Advisory Committee;the Advisory for the Office of Autism; and the Association for PersonsSupporting Employment First planning Committee.

c. Improve access to DVRS for individuals with significant developmentaldisabilities. DVRS met with every Extended Employment provider in March2016 to discuss career pathways for individual workers; data indicatessubstantial rise in number of individuals with ID/DD receiving services fromDVRS; ongoing training developed and provided for community-based workassessments and trial work experience.

TINA BRAND

(CAMDEN):

Good Morning Tina! I

believe God places

“extra special people”

into our lives just when

we are in need of them

most and in His perfect

timing. For me, that

“special person” was

you Tina! It was an

answer to prayer which

I am eternally grateful

for. Although we were

under “time restraints”

you made me feel “at

ease” and did so with

such compassion,

showing me that you

really do care about

your clients you

cheerfully serve. There

is a Christian song

entitled “Mighty to

Save” and some of the

lyrics say “everyone

needs compassion” and

it reminds me of you.

You fulfill that need on

a daily basis and it’s

wonderful to witness in

seeing when that

happens. So, thank you

very much!! –Client

Wanted to let you know

Amazon is going well. I

really like it. The job

coaches are nice and

helpful. Thanks again

for the positive

influence you had in me

finding work. –Client

AALIYAH

ROBINSON-PETERS

(NEW BRUNSWICK):

“Thank you so much for

your help. I would like

to let your superiors

know what a great

employee they have.” -

Consumer

Pg. 21


d. Develop innovative and expanded services that offer increased employmentopportunities. DVRS successfully implemented four Pilot SEARCH sites inSeptember of 2016, and in 2017 added a fifth one. There is current interest toexpand into two more counties in 2018. DVRS also worked with BergenCommunity College to help develop a pilot for students with intellectual anddevelopmental disabilities. The Turning Point offers pre-employmenttransition services for students at the college.

e. Engage Employers. The Business outreach team (BOT) was approved in May2017; our Schedule A hiring event was expanded to cover the entire state withtwo events; employment services through DVRS were highlighted by the Lt.Governor; TWE training/process implemented; community-based servicesdeveloped; and developed a pilot program with a vocational technical highschool that provided Pre-ETS services and paid internship experiences.

2. Communication access and services for Deaf/HH is consistent, reliable, and results inemployment.

a. Provide Education and communication. Two presentations given to DD/HHCouncil; public forums specified Deaf services as a topic of conversation; newstate coordinator of the Deaf; interpreter/CART provided as universal accessat public forums; marketing materials in process of utilizing ASL.

b. Collaborate with Interagency Partners. DVRS met with staff at DD/HH todiscuss interagency collaboration; updated interpreter lists to ensure propercredentials of interpreters used; formalized in-house testing for SE providerstaff for ASL fluency.

c. Improve access to DVRS for D/HH consumers. Video phones updated in everyoffice; DVRS added three additional DLS counselors to cover the needs of Deafconsumers in the local offices.

d. Develop innovative and expanded services that offer increased employmentopportunities. The Deaf regional centers now include Pre-ETS services for DeafStudents; on-line training opportunity for staff identified for HH/late- deafened consumers; increased consumer satisfaction noted in latest SRCsurvey results.

e. Engage Employers. DVRS counselors increased the D/HH candidates for ourSchedule A hiring events; DVRS works with businesses ad hoc as requested.

DVRS collected comprehensive statewide needs assessment information for goal-setting in 2017.

Finally, the DVRS director met with community rehabilitation programs in FFY ’17 to discuss possible changes for their state-funded contracts that would help modernize programs and support individuals with significant disabilities move to appropriate career pathways. These changes were implemented in July 2017.

JILL SCHALL

(TRENTON):

“Thank you so much

for all you do in

helping individuals like

me with disabilities

find gainful

employment and sense

of purpose. Means a

lot!” -Client

TINA BRAND

(CAMDEN):

My Daughter and I

wanted to thank you

for the time you spent

with us yesterday. My

Daughter felt the

meeting was

encouraging and

uplifting and you made

her feel good about

herself in her quest to

get ahead in life and get

a better education,

where others had told

her she was not

capable, you gave her

hope . But most of all

she felt you cared about

her, which made her

feel very good. Again,

Thanks for helping her.

-Parent

AMANDA PARSONS

(TRENTON):

“Ms. Amanda is a very

good counselor and I’m

happy I have her”. –

Client

JODY CLASSEN

(BRIDGETON):

Thank you very much

for sending us this

important information.

We appreciate your

kindly assistance. We

will let you know

whether we decide on

the right program for

our daughter. Have a

blessed week. -Parents

Pg. 22


Case management system

In FFY 2017 the DVRS experienced four major releases in its case management system. The information systems unit collaborated with LWD’s Division of Information Technology to test the changed environment to ensure that the system was properly working for each upgrade. The unit then met with the DVRS AWARE best practices team (designated points of contact within each local office) for an additional internal review. The unit trained counselors on the new features that included measurable skills, educational attainment, and potentially eligible cases for Pre-ETS students.

Centers for Independent Living

DVRS continues to be the designated state entity (DSE) for the centers for independent living. In 2017 DVRS collaborated with the centers to increase their ability to provide services under a fee-for-service opportunity. DVRS also worked with them to develop opportunities for Pre- ETS services.

Implementation of Section 511

The DVRS provided counseling to over 3,000 individuals currently receiving subminimum wages under a 14(c) certificate in 2017. Entities not known to the DVRS who reached out to them were also provided with this services. Counselors provide monthly contacts with these entities to make sure that all individuals have the opportunity to receive this required counseling outlined in WIOA.

Planned Activities for FY 2018

Meetings:

Continue quarterly Council meetings;

Conduct an annual planning summit as a one day event; Conduct public forums in geographically diverse areas to obtain input regarding specific

topics identified by the SRC. Topics identified include:

o Order of Selection;o Pre-employment transition services/family engagement;o Services to the individuals with Autism; ando Substance Use/Mental Health Disabilities.

Support the agency’s efforts to meet on a regularly scheduled basis with serviceproviders and/or other agencies for planning, problem solving, grant developmentandother purposes as needed; and

Keep abreast of the goals in the New Jersey combined state plan and support theoutcomes identified in the new comprehensive statewide needs assessment.

YIGAL FALK

(TRENTON):

Mr. Yigal Falk is

currently my son

Jordan’s Vocational

Rehabilitation

Counselor. When

Jordan and I initially

met with Mr. Falk

(August 19, 2016), we

automatically

perceived him as very

warm, caring and

professional.

Throughout the

months that followed,

Mr. Falk has assisted

Jordan through his job

search via Jordan’s

support coordinators

and job coaches. He

has continuously kept

in contact with me via

telephone calls/emails

to follow up on

Jordan’s progress and

to ensure that there

are no discrepancies

with Jordan’s services.

Mr. Falk is an

excellent and valued

employee to the

Division of Vocational

Rehabilitation, New

Jersey State

Department of Labor

and Workforce

Development. –Parent

MICHAELA

MACAULEY (NEW

BRUNSWICK):

I am very thankful for

your help,

professionalism,

kindness and guidance

in supporting my auto

mechanic education.

May the Lord reward

you well for the

kindness you have

shown. –Client

Pg. 23


Committees:

Enhance and support the sub-committee structure itself;

Enhance and support the recommendations of the sub-committees by full disclosure ofsub-committee recommendations in advance of meetings where possible and follow upby the full SRC;

Continue consumer satisfaction activities, analysis and follow up recommendations toensure the DVRS is meeting the changing needs of its consumers. Utilize Survey Monkeyfor electronic delivery, response and analysis of satisfaction feedback; and

Identify goals based on the 2017 comprehensive statewide needs assessment.

SRC Membership:

Develop screening guidelines for recruitment and membership and review membershipactivities/status at each Executive Committee meeting, including resignations/expirationof appointments;

Provide guidance re: issues relating to recruitment and approval of members; and Conduct new SRC member orientation/training, including consideration of joint efforts

with the CBVI.

Communication:

Continue to look at opportunities and encourage the use of technology including, butnot limited to conference calling, long distance learning, and/or a dedicated web site forpurposes of information sharing, receiving input, training of members (including staff),emergency and routine notifications;

Implement use of Go to Meeting and Go to Webinar software; and Utilize Share Point to share information between SRC meetings.

Educational Efforts:

Continue leadership in providing training, support and access to the One-Stop systemsregarding persons with disabilities and the workforce; and

Develop educational information regarding the services provided to, successes andoutcomes of the DVRS constituents, including legislative district break down; and sendthe information to New Jersey representatives.

Advocacy: Continue to advocate for funding which will provide support to the DVRS for staffing,

programs, staff development and vocational rehabilitation services as mandated by theRSA and the demands of NJ’s population;

PATIENCE

(BRIDGETON):

Patience has been very

helpful to me. I

appreciate her being her

for me. –Client

MARIANNE HANIFIN

(NEPTUNE):

“Thinking of you with

fondness as a person. I

am not working yet, but

getting to a better place.

Accepting my age was

the hardest thing to do.

I’ve started traveling

again, as I couldn’t

stand the winter, and it

was getting too

depressing. I hope

you’ll do some traveling

too, instead of being at

your desk. I appreciate

all you did for me.

Looking back, I believe I

used you as my shrink.

It allowed me to get

some order in my life.

Thanks!” -Client

CHRISTINA SUNGA

(PATERSON):

“Thanks for your time!

Effort! And Great

Energy!! You’ve really

made an enormous

positive difference!” -

Client

AALIYA ROBINSON-

PETERS (NEW

BRUNSWICK):

Thank you! That's great

news! I really want to

thank you for all your

help and support. DVR

has made my transition

to Rutgers a lot

smoother. I have no

word to explain my

gratitude. However, I

will show you by my

actions and

performance at Rutgers!

(Client)

Pg. 24


Advocate for funding to support the DVRS’ efforts to expand services through grants andother means as appropriate to support a full range of services to individuals, includingthose in transition;

Advocate for funding to support the RSA’s requirements for state match, including third- party cooperative agreements; and

Provide support to the DVRS in applying for grants that enhance successful employmentoutcomes for persons with disabilities.

Collaboration:

Support the DVRS’ effort to increase opportunities for paid internships;

Participate in development of goals and work plan to enhance services to consumerswho are the most significantly disabled;

Continue active involvement with the CSAVR National Employment Network (The NET);and

Partner with the DVRS in the development of new goals.

DANIELLE KWAN/

LUIS LUGO

(SOMERVILLE):

I truly want to thank

you for our meeting

today! You have

amazing patience

with me and provide

me with so much

hope... that means

the world to me,

especially at this

juncture in my life! I

also wanted to let

you know that Louis

did call to confirm

our appointment, I

just somehow missed

the call and VM. He

is always wonderful

to speak with and

work with! Thank

you again for all you

do for me... I look

forward to hearing

from you! -Client

JENNIFER SHAW-

KNAB

(THOROFARE)/

RHONDA

RODGERS

(HIREABILITY):

I GOT THE JOB!!!!

McMaster Carr

called me today with

the offer, said he

knew I had the job

the first time we

met!! Rhonda/Jenn I

want to thank you

guys so much this is

amazing, I've been

waiting for this

opportunity for so

long. -Client

Pg. 25


SRC State Plan Recommendations

The New Jersey State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) provides oversight and advises the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS), the designated state unit (DSU) within the Department of Labor and Workforce Development (LWD). The LWD is the designated state agency (DSA). The SRC is a partnership of people with disabilities, advocates, and other interested persons who are committed to ensuring through policy development, implementation, and advocacy that New Jersey has a rehabilitation program that is not only comprehensive and consumer-responsive but also effective, efficient, and significantly funded. The SRC is dedicated to ensuring that people with disabilities receive rehabilitation services that result in gainful employment. Representing the myriad of diversity that is New Jersey, council members believe that individuals with disabilities are the “untapped resource” to the business community and assert that disability is a natural part of the human experience that in no way diminishes a person’s right to fully participate in all aspects of American life. Members of the SRC in New Jersey believe in a public system of vocational rehabilitation that is responsible and accountable to those it serves and to those who fund it; they believe that competitive jobs generate tax revenue and enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to spend discretionary income which contributes to the state's economy.

The SRC and the DVRS jointly developed and reviewed elements of the combined state plan. An assessment of the effectiveness of the vocational rehabilitation delivery system has resulted in the following recommendations based on suggestions from the public forums held in FFY’17 in Ocean, Hudson, Salem, Somerset and Burlington counties.

The SRC recommendations for federal fiscal year (FFY) 2017 and their status updates are as follows:

SRC Recommendation: The SRC understands that the job of the counselor is unique and requires knowledge of vocational rehabilitation specific to individuals with disabilities. The SRC recommends continued requirement of the New Jersey DVRS counselor position to include a master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation or a closely related field as per current civil service description

Agency Response: The DVRS accepts the recommendation to maintain the requirement of a VR counselor to include a master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation or a closely related field as per current civil service description.

Status Update: The DVRS has been successful in advocating to continue the requirement of a VR counselor to include a master’s degree for all new hires in FFY ’17.

LESLEY JACK

(WESTAMPTON):

Just wanted to say

thank you for a great

meeting last

Thursday. I told you

about the job

interview I had, well I

got it!!!! I start

Monday! Scheduling

coordinator 9-1,

Monday through

Friday. I'm hoping

my health can handle

it so we'll see. Thanks

again. Oh and I sent a

follow up email and

today was actually my

2nd interview and

they thanked me for

it. Glad I took your

advice. –Ellen

Pursuant to our email

exchange today

Rutgers CCPD

(Center for

Continuing

Professional

Development) sent an

email with a letter of

acceptance; please see

attachment. With the

greatest of gratitude I

would like to thank

you for all your help

in facilitating this

opportunity to get the

training needed for

certification. Best

wishes and looking

forward again to

working with you in

the near future. –

Client

Pg. 26


SRC Recommendation: The SRC recommends that the DVRS continue to develop effective pre-employment transition services for all students with disabilities.

Agency Response: DVRS accepts the recommendation to continue to develop effective pre-employment transition services for all students with disabilities.

Status Update: The DVRS developed new pre-employment services funded as a fee-for-service throughout the state. Additionally, an NGO was posted toward the end of 2017; contracts will be generated in 2018. All local offices have at least one counselor assigned to be the lead pre- employment transition counselor as well.

SRC Recommendation: The SRC recognizes that the DVRS program is affected by national discussion regarding the definition of competitive, integrated employment and is concerned that persons with disabilities may not be able to exercise individual informed choice. The SRC recommends that DVRS provides individuals with disabilities in New Jersey a full continuum of employment opportunities based on informed choice.

Agency Response: DVRS accepts the recommendation to ensure that persons with disabilities exercise informed choice when pursuing employment opportunities.

Status Update: The DVRS met with several family organizations throughout New Jersey through its 2017 public forums to ensure family and consumer input regarding the state’s continuum of placement options.

SRC Recommendation: The SRC recognizes that jobseekers with disabilities sometimes do not know that there is a national vocational rehabilitation program. The SRC recommends that DVRS continually update and provide marketing information about VR services over a variety of communicational modes.

Agency Response: DVRS accepts the recommendation to update and provide marketing information about DVRS services.

Status Update: The DVRS has updated its information on the LWD website and continues to develop new marketing materials on an ongoing basis.

SHOBHA AYYAPPAN

(NEWARK):

This is almost the end of my

journey with your

organization. Before I

gratefully exit I wanted to

thank Shobha again. My

heart is bursting with pride

and I wanted to share this

good news with you.

Because Shobha had a big

hand in my daughters’

future security. My

daughter is set to actually

TAKE the CDA test

06/21/2017 at 10:00 AM at:

M Eastwood Colleges 103

Park Avenue Nutley NJ

07110. The course was

supposed to have been for

only for 5 months at P4P

Academy, that location

disbanded with the director

and staffs positions being

deleted. Another kind

person has voluntarily

helped her to finish. Now

that day is almost here.

Thank you so much Shobha

I really love that you did this

for us. Now I feel confident

that if anything ever

happens to me, accident or

death, she will be able to

always feed herself. This is

every parents dream. I am

filled with emotion. Please

remember us Shobha. Long

after there is no need to

email you I will remember

you. You are the absolute

best in what you do. We

appreciate you. Also for all

the vouchers and bus tickets

we thank you. P.S. Director

you should acknowledge

Shobha with a special bonus

or raise but I came into the

room with her 1 year ago

bossy and determined to

have my way about my

daughter but she saw better

and I am glad she overruled

me. A quiet woman carrying

a big stick. We love Shobha

please honor her. –Parent

Pg. 27


Summary

During FFY’17, the Rehabilitation Council continued to work cohesively and productively,

partially as a result of renewed emphasis on the tools at hand, utilizing an updated committee

structure, staff and member dedication and focus on staffing to achieve maximum

employment outcomes. Members worked closely with each other, the DVRS, Department of

Labor and Workforce Development personnel, other state agency directors, and most

importantly with the constituency it is mandated to serve. It made recommendations on

topics of importance to the Federal and State governments, and supported the participation

of the DVRS in local initiatives.

The Rehabilitation Council has benefited from the support and cooperation of the New Jersey

DVRS. The Council looks forward to another year of challenges and successful outcomes for

persons with disabilities who seek employment and other services through the New Jersey

DVRS.

JENNIFER SOSDORF

(WESTAMPTON):

Please enjoy a cup of

coffee – not for doing

your job, you do it

very well and it was a

difficult appointment

for me and Allison. I

want you to know how

different this appoint

was – you listened to

my daughter, despite

the tears and

meltdowns. It’s so easy

—especially for a

young adult with

speech issues-for a

questioner to look to

me and her dad for

translation. You never

abandoned your client

—you worked through

all the challenges. It’s

rare for me to see this,

we’ve been doing

doctor’s appointments

and therapists over 20

years – YOU listened

to her. Our 2:00

appointment finished

at 3:45. Not sure if you

were as drained as I

was, but I am so

grateful for working

through Allison’s

issues. Many thanks. -

Parent

KRISTA LOPE

(CAMDEN):

“Thank you for being

so nice. I got the job at

the CVS you helped

me with at the Job

Fair. I am so happy

because of you. You

add a little

“wonderful” to

everything you do.

Thanks for what you

did for me and thanks

for being you”. -Client

Pg. 28


DVRS Offices & Contact Information

TRENTON (Central) John Fitch Plaza – 12th Floor P.O.

Box 398, 08625-0398

ALICE HUNNICUTT, Director

609-292-5987, 609-292-8347/FAX, 292-4033/AH FAX

609-292-2919/TTY,609-341-3000/VP

[email protected]

http://careerconnections.nj.gov/careerconnections/plan/f

PATERSON (Passaic)

200 Memorial Drive, 1st Floor, 07505

ROSEMARY PETRIZZO, Manager

DEBRALU BIENIECKI, Supervisor

973-742-9226/Option 3 or 973-340-3400,

973-279-5895/FAX 973-968-6556/VP

[email protected]

BRIDGETON (Cumberland, Salem)

40 E. Broad Street, Suite 204, 08302-2881

KEANE ZIMMERMAN, Manager

MARVA FERGUSON, Supervisor

856-453-3888, 856-453-3909/FAX

856-453-3923/TTY, 866-552-4533/VP

[email protected]

PLEASANTVILLE (Atlantic)

2 S. Main St., 1st Fl. Suite 2, 08232

CANDACE TITANSKI, Manager

J. MICHAEL MARGRAF, Supervisor 609-

813-3933, 609-813-3959/FAX 608-813-

3958/TTY,609-241-7064/VP

[email protected]

CAMDEN (Camden)

2600 Mt. Ephraim Ave., Suite 103, 08104-3290

JEFFREY DEITZ, Manager

JEFFREY CLARK, Supervisor

856-614-2500, 856-614-2538/FAX

856-614-2504/TTY,856-831-7599/VP

[email protected]

RANDOLPH (Morris, Sussex, Warren) 13

Emory Avenue, 2nd floor, 07869

ANTONEY SMITH, Manager

JOAN WLAZLOWSKI, Supervisor

SCOTT MCGILL, Supervsor

862-397-5600 (3), 973-895-6420/FAX

862-242-5412/VP

[email protected]

ELIZABETH (Union)

921 Elizabeth Ave., 3rd Floor 07201

EDWARD FAVER,Manager

PAT WILLIAMS, Supervisor

908-965-3940, 908-965-2976/FAX

908-965-3995/VP

SOMERVILLE (Somerset, Hunterdon) 75

Veterans Memorial Dr., Suite 101

08876-2952

ELIZABETH CONTE, Acting Manager

ELIZABETH CONTE, Supervisor

908-704-3030, 908-704-3476/FAX

866-954-1190/VP

[email protected]

HACKENSACK (Bergen)

60 State Street, 2nd Floor, 07601-5471

MAXINE BECKER, Manager

JORGE DELGADO Supervisor

201-996-8970, 201-996-8880/FAX

[email protected]

THOROFARE (Gloucester) Gloucester

Regional Service Ctr. 215 Crown Point Rd.,

Suite 200,

08086-2153

STACEY SMITH, Manager Vacant,

Supervisor

856-384-3730, 856-384-3777/FAX

[email protected]

JERSEY CITY (Hudson)

438 Summit Avenue, 6th Floor, 07306-3187

Vacant, Manager

GILDA ESCOBAR, Supervisor 201-217-7180, 201-217-7287/FAX

201-942-0085/VP

[email protected]

TOMS RIVER (Ocean)

1027 Hooper Ave., Bldg. 6, 3rd Floor Suite

1, 08753-2225

CHERYL DEGRAFF-SHANKLE, Mgr.

TADD MAFFUCCI, Supervisor

732-505-2310, 732-505-2317/FAX

DVR,[email protected]

AMY HOEHMAN

(NEPTUNE):

“Hi Amy. Thank you

again! I got hired as

an animal control

officer with

Associated Humane

Society, who is

contracted with the

city of Newark to

provide animal

control. Yep WE did

it. Without your help,

it might not have

happened! Thanks so

much again.” –Client

“How do I even begin

to count the ways I’m

grateful to you?

You’ve been such an

amazing gift in my

life. The advice you

share and most of all

the unwavering belief

you show me…you

lift me up and have

kept me going. Thank

you a million times

and more. You’re my

lighthouse!” –Client

DANIELLE KWAN

(SOMERVILLE):

Guess what? I got my

first paycheck in over

13 years today! It

wasn't much because I

just started and my

hours are low but still

a paycheck. Thanks a

lot. - Client

Pg. 29


NEPTUNE (Monmouth)

60 Taylor Avenue, 07753-4844

SUSAN RAKOCI-ANDERSON, Manager

KATHY SPACE, Supervisor

732-775-1799, 732-775-1666/FAX

[email protected]

TRENTON (Mercer)

Labor Station Plaza, P.O. Box 959 28 Yard

Avenue, 08625-0959

RAJ VENKATRANMAN, Acting Mgr.

RAJ VENKATRANMAN, Supervisor

609-292-2940, 609-984-3553/FAX

609-498-7011/TTY & VP

[email protected]

NEWARK (Essex)

990 Broad Street, 2nd Floor, 07101

ELIZABETH A. DAVIS, Manager

CARREL COREUS, Supervisor

WILLIAM SCHULZ, Supervisor 973-648-3494, 973-

648-3902/FAX

862-772-7166/VP

[email protected]

WESTAMPTON (Burlington)

795 Woodlane Road, Suite 201 08060

STACEY SMITH, Manager

Vacant, Supervisor

609-518-3948, 609-581-3956/FAX

[email protected]

NEW BRUNSWICK (Middlesex)

550 Jersey Avenue, P.O. Box 2672, 08901

Vacant, Manager

BARBARA STOCKTON, Acting Supervisor

732-937-6300, 732-937-6358/FAX

732-393-8056/VP

[email protected]

WILDWOOD (Cape May)

3810 New Jersey Avenue, 08260

CANDACE TITANSKI, Manager

NORMA CORDEIRO, Supervisor

609-523-0330, 609-523-0212/FAX

609-224-1218/VP

[email protected]

JILL SCHALL (TRENTON)/HELEN LIU (CENTRAL OFFICE): Our family want to take a few minutes to thank you so much for all your support and help to our son! We just come back from his graduation ceremony and we can't stop thinking of all the people which gave him all the support, encouragement and help. My thanks beyond my word. He is still hanging around with his friend at school. He will contact you once he has time. I also attached his certificate and honor he got. Thank you and have a great summer! –Parents

EMMA GORDON (BRIDGETON): I would like to thank you for your help. You are a god send and this program that help people with their need to hear better. It is a new world out there and to be able to listen to all the sounds. And that’s because of you. Thank you again… Doing Good! –Client

I am writing this letter to let you know how well I am doing with the hearing aids you helped me get. I did not realize how bad my hearing was. You helped save my job but more than that, you have helped me enjoy life again. It’s nice to be able to hear my friends’ talk and join in with the conversation and watching TV without blasting everyone out. Thank you so very much. I will never be able to repay you for your kindness. -Client

Pg. 30

annual report for fy 2017 - career...

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