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Introduction

The Maryland State Rehabilitation Council (MSRC) was established under the 1992 Amendments to the Rehabilitation Act. The Council reviews, analyzes and advises the Division of Rehabilitation Services about issues such as service provision, eligibility, strategic planning and consumer satisfaction. SRC members meet quarterly, perform extensive committee work and help with informal consultation.

During FY2008, MSRC played an active role in many activities with and in support of DORS. These included:

• Advocating for increased awareness of public vocational rehabilitation programs, including educating stakeholders about the impact of DORS waiting list on people.

• Asking that federal legislators review federal funding formulas so that funds are equitably allotted to states

• Facilitating four statewide public meetings

• Providing consultation and review for consumer satisfaction surveys

• Providing an SRC representative on the interview panel when DORS hired a Staff Specialist for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing

• Reviewing and analyzing DORS employment and retention study

• Making personal office visits with members of Maryland’s General Assembly

• Providing testimony at the MD General Assembly in support of the Tax Credit for Qualifying Employees with Disabilities (HB280/SB314).

• Working with MD’s Department of Disabilities to revise regulations for the Employed Individuals with Disabilities program

• Actively participating in DORS strategic planning process, including planning meetings

• The Council was active in the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR); staff has attended teleconferences of the newly created National Council of State Rehabilitation Councils.

Summary of Input

The MSRC provides year-round formal and informal consultation to DORS, particularly at scheduled quarterly full Council meetings, at committee meetings and during an annual DORS/MSRC executive planning meeting. Meeting minutes document discussions and recommendations.

In addition, DORS provided members of the Policy and Planning Committee with documents so that the committees could offer formal recommendations for the agency’s strategic planning needs. These were:

• SRC FY 2008 Annual Report

• DORS FY 2008 Outcomes

• FY 2008 Standards & Indicators

• Consumer satisfaction survey results from the Office of Field Services and the Office for Blindness & Vision Services

• DORS/SRC 2008 Public Meetings report

Recommendations from the Maryland State Rehabilitation Council

General

1. The Council extends congratulations to DORS for the progress on reducing the waiting list with additional state funds last year. It recommends that a large part of the ARRA funding should focus on further reducing, or eliminating, the waiting list.

DORS response: DORS is aware that the waiting list has placed a hardship on people with disabilities in Maryland. Reducing and eventually eliminating the waiting list is the agency’s highest priority.

2. The Council recommends that additional Recovery Act funding be directed to the Governor’s QUEST Internship program, summer job experiences for youth, and enhancing services for individuals who are unserved or underserved.

DORS response: The Governor’s QUEST Internship Program has allowed many individuals with disabilities to gain realistic work experiences and develop networks and contacts which facilitate achievement of permanent employment. Using ARRA funding to continue this program will provide an excellent return on investment.

Evidence also shows that summer employment for youths provides a strong foundation for future success.

DORS also plans to use ARRA funding to promote service delivery by community rehabilitation programs to identify underserved populations.

3. Based on consumer feedback from a public meeting, the Council recommends that DORS provide staff training about personal care services, particularly as they relate to college students with disabilities.

DORS response: Since personal care services are very important to many individuals with significant disabilities, particularly students in post-secondary education, DORS agrees to design and provide this training.

4. The SRC suggests that DORS assure that students exploring options for post-secondary education have the information they need to compare available programs. Consideration should be given to development of a check list or fact sheet for students so they know what questions to ask at institutions of post-secondary education.

DORS response: This recommendation is in line with DORS goal of supporting career opportunities and well-paying jobs for students. The Division will explore existing resources such as HEATH, AHEAD and MD Disability Higher Education Network to provide additional resources to college-bound DORS consumers.

5. The Council is also concerned that school administrators are not identifying non-special education students with disabilities for DORS referral. DORS should explore training or other outreach to schools as a way to serve these students.

DORS response: DORS will explore ways to enhance communication with local education agencies in order to serve appropriate students who have 504 plans. The Division will request the inclusion of issues related to students with 504 plans and health impairments at the statewide transition institute.

6. DORS should continue to explore creative ways to solve transportation barriers that prevent otherwise job-ready individuals from becoming employed. These could include potential partnerships with organizations that provide low-cost automobiles for those who could not otherwise afford to purchase a car.

In addition, DORS should be an active advocate for plentiful, accessible public transportation. The agency should collaborate with state and local agencies such as the Maryland Department of Disabilities, Department of Labor, Licensing & Regulation, Maryland Department of Transportation, Department of Health & Mental Hygiene and others. The agency should be engaged in transportation forums such as BRAC Project, Coordinated Human Services Transportation efforts statewide.

DORS response: Transportation has been a long-time barrier to employment for people with disabilities. DORS will explore transportation options for persons with disabilities including partnerships with non-profits that facilitate the purchase of affordable and dependable cars. DORS will also work to ensure that we are visible advocates and participate in statewide transportation solution discussions.

7. DORS should develop more training opportunities for non-college bound students.

DORS response: DORS, along with the Workforce & Technology Center, will continue to monitor the area’s workforce needs and respond with appropriate training programs.

8. Public meetings, consumer satisfaction surveys and CAP referrals have all identified job development and placement as an area of concern. DORS should examine its programs and their effectiveness. Training (to include the topic of consumers’ job readiness) may address some of these issues.

DORS response: The Employer Services Council and the business liaisons will focus on how to continue to improve job development and placement services in the coming fiscal year.

9. The Council appreciated the opportunity to be involved in the selection of the Staff Specialist for Deaf and Hard of Hearing and looks forward to participating on the agency’s workgroup to study services for people who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.

DORS response: DORS looks forward to addressing the unique needs of our consumers who are deaf or hard of hearing and reviewing the recommendations of the work group.

10. The Council recommends that DORS review methodology of satisfaction surveys to ensure reliability of results. Explore Web-based surveys.

DORS response: DORS agrees that we will review all available options for obtaining accurate and reliable feedback on consumer satisfaction.

DORS supports these recommendations and continues to be very grateful for the expertise of the individuals who comprise the Maryland State Rehabilitation Council. Their passion for supporting individuals with disabilities is unsurpassed. DORS values their contributions of time and knowledge.

Cooperation with private and non-profit service agencies, related government agencies and other professional organizations has long been a cornerstone of public vocational rehabilitation in Maryland. Such collaborations help to overcome the complex and multiple barriers that confront people with disabilities who want to work or stay independent in their communities.

The Division maintains cooperative agreements, memoranda of understanding and membership on Interagency Councils and Local Committees and other collaborative initiatives and projects with agencies and organizations outside the workforce investment system.

A. Cooperative Agreements

1. Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH):

a. Mental Hygiene Administration (MHA) – This cooperative agreement, most recently updated effective June, 2007, addresses referrals between agencies and specifies shared responsibilities for funding of supported employment, as well as cross-training for staff.

b. Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) – Maryland State Department of Education, DORS, and the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Developmental Disabilities Administration updated and approved the Cooperative Agreement, Employment Services in December 2006. It addresses referral between agencies and specifies shared responsibilities for funding of supported employment. It also describes cross-training activities. A Priority Initiative Addendum has been signed that identifies target populations for DORS services, consistent with the DORS Order of Selection, among individuals with developmental disabilities who 1) are receiving Individualized Support Services (ISS); 2) those leaving secondary school prior to age 21; and 3) individuals in day activity programs.

DORS is represented on a DDA workgroup that includes service providers, parents and others for moving more individuals from sheltered to supported employment.

2. Maryland Association of Student and Financial Aid Administrators

This cooperative agreement specifies the process for defining unmet financial need for higher education and the requirements for PELL Grant and scholarship applications. It also outlines the process for sharing information to determine the amount of assistance DORS can provide to a student for tuition and other educational costs.

3. Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) – This agreement describes the referral process and the procedure for submitting rehabilitation plans to the Commission to determine if costs will be covered by an insurer.

4. Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) – The Interagency Cooperative Agreement on Transitioning specifies areas of cooperation among the Divisions of Student and School Services, Special Education/ Early Intervention Services, Career Technology and Adult Learning and Rehabilitation Services specific to transitioning youth. (See Attachment 4.8(b)(2).)

B. Memoranda of Understanding (MOU)

1. MOUs with each of these agencies authorize them to issue vouchers for the Maryland Disability Employment Tax Credit: Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s Mental Hygiene Administration (MHA), and Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA).

2. An MOU with the Maryland State Department of Budget and Management, Office of Personnel Services and Benefits outlines service provision for state employees with disabilities. This includes career assessment, worksite analysis and rehabilitation technology assessment for provision of reasonable accommodations. It also describes a referral process for state employees who are unable to do their job because of disability as well as what assistance is available for eligible employees in obtaining a new job within or outside of State government.

C. Interagency Councils and Local Committees

DORS maintains an active presence on numerous statewide interagency councils. DORS regional and field offices, the Workforce & Technology Center (WTC) and the Office for Blindness and Vision Services (OBVS) also maintain active working relationships with many local committees and initiatives.

Statewide:

a. Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)

b. Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC)

c. Association of Persons in Supported Employment (APSE) – Maryland Chapter (DORS, DDA, MHA, service providers, consumers, and professional associations)

d. Maryland Mental Health Advisory Board (DHMH, MHA)

e. Office of Children, Youth & Families, Local Coordinating Councils

f. Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Committee

g. Interagency Transition Council for Youth with Disabilities Under Executive Order 01.01.2007.13 (Interagency State Plan for Transitioning Students with Disabilities)

h. The Maryland Coordinating Committee for Human Services Transportation (MCCHST)

i. DHMH/DDA Governor’s Waiting List Initiative

j. Maryland Department of Disabilities Personal Assistance Services Advisory Committee

k. DHMH/DDA Self-Determination Employment Task Force

l. The Maryland Library for the Blind & Physically Handicapped Advisory Board

D. Other Collaborative Initiatives and Projects

DORS collaborates with the Department of Disabilities, a cabinet level agency. DORS is represented on the following committees:

1. The Interagency Transition Council for Youth with Disabilities (see Attachment 4.8(b)(2))

2. State Policy Exchange Workgroup

3. The Employed Individuals with Disabilities Committee (Medicaid Buy-in)

4. The ADA Celebration committee.

All committees bring together a variety of Maryland agencies that supply programs and services to individuals with disabilities.

There are also agreements with the Maryland School for the Blind (MSB) and the Maryland School for the Deaf (MSD), covering referral procedures, evaluation, individualized planning and follow-up. The Office for Blindness & Vision Services (OBVS) sponsors summer programs with MSB at the Workforce & Technology Center.

Other collaborations are:

• Supported Business Enterprise-- DORS works closely with the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) and the Mental Hygiene Administration (MHA) to assure that self-employment is a viable career option for individuals with cognitive and psychiatric disabilities. Supported Business Enterprise is a form of self-employment for individuals who, because of their disability, require supports to operate their business. While the consumer must perform a core function of the business, extended service providers support certain activities and related functions to assure successful operation. All businesses operate within an integrated employment setting.

• Blind Industries & Services of Maryland (BISM) –DORS provides state-aided grants support services to individuals with vision loss, including rehabilitation teachers, aids and devices and Braille production.

• Community Colleges—DORS has an agreement with the Community College of Baltimore County to work collaboratively on their 3 campuses with the college Disability Support Services staff to provide supports required by students with Autism spectrum disabilities. The Division’s Workforce & Technology Center has designated a staff person to work directly with students, college staff and faculty to assure student success at the community college and facilitate development of compensatory skills to continue to a four year institution of higher education or begin employment.

The Division considers service provision to high school students with disabilities and their families a high priority. The agency coordinates services with local educational agencies in order to identify diploma & certificate students who will need services in order to move into the world of work. These activities are coordinated both at the statewide level as well by regional directors and supervisors on a local level.

Coordination with Educational Officials.

The Division of Rehabilitation Services is an organizational unit of the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). DORS, therefore, is a signatory and partner in implementation of the Maryland Intra-agency Cooperative Planning Agreement for Secondary Students with Disabilities. This is an agreement with three other cooperating Divisions within MSDE: the Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services; the Division of Career Technology; and the Division of Student, Family, and School Services.

The agreement identifies the roles and responsibilities of the cooperating Divisions at the state and local level, including the process for technical assistance and training to schools; assurances for the development and completion of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) that is coordinated with the development of the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) prior to school exit; financial responsibilities and methods to resolve disputes; and referrals, including those students with disabilities at risk of dropping out, having been suspended or expelled. Students who remain in school are referred during the Fall semester of their next to last year in secondary school. The provision of in-school rehabilitation services was included to enhance earlier DORS involvement in career and employment services while the youth was still in school. The agreement is based on federal and state legislation, as well as policies consistent with transition evidence based practices.

Local Agreements.

Using the Maryland Intra-agency Cooperative Planning Agreement for Secondary Students with Disabilities as a basis and model, DORS and local education agency staff have developed MOUs to clarify roles and responsibilities at the local level. DORS also maintains local cooperative agreements with the Maryland School for the Blind and the Maryland School for the Deaf regarding appropriate transition services for these under served student populations.

State Law – Counselor Assignment to Secondary Schools; Completion of the IPE. Maryland State Law requires that DORS assign a counselor to each public secondary school in the state to promote effective transition. It also requires that DORS complete the IPE for eligible students with disabilities who can be served under the order of selection prior to school exit.

The Governor’s Interagency Transition Council for Youth with Disabilities. By state law, DORS is a permanent member of the Governor’s Interagency Transition Council for Youth with Disabilities, recently reissued as Executive Order 01.01.2007.13.

DORS collaborates with 26 other Council members, including state agencies (Health and Mental Hygiene, Labor and Licensing, Maryland Technology, Higher Education Commission, Workforce Investment Board), representatives of schools, disability advocacy groups, and individuals with disabilities and their families. The purpose of the Council is to promote effective transition services for students with disabilities throughout Maryland. This includes outreach to students and referral to DORS and other agencies that can be of assistance.

DORS Staff Specialist for Transition. DORS maintains a Staff Specialist position to:

a. Coordinate all transition activities and projects with other state agencies, community organizations, public and private facilities, local DORS field offices, and employers.

b. Lead in developing and assist in implementing federal and state transition requests for proposals.

c. Develop, update and monitor transition documents and cooperative agreements.

d. Provide program information to state level transition personnel and to the local education agencies through in-service training and publications.

e. Serve as lead staff for the Governor’s Interagency Transition Council for Youth with Disabilities.

f. Facilitate an intra-agency transition group for counselors who provide transitioning services for the purpose of information sharing and ongoing training.

State of the art Transitioning.

DORS will facilitate activities to bring state-of-the-art transitioning services to Maryland’s students and families, consistent with the guideposts of evidence-based practice in transitioning program development: Preparatory Experiences, Connecting Activities, Work-based Experiences and Youth Development and Leadership.

a. Administer the Maryland Seamless Transition Collaborative, a USDOE, Rehabilitation Services Administration grant focused on expanding “pockets of excellence” in implementation of evidence-based transition practices to a “system of excellence” throughout the state, in partnership with Transcen, Inc. and local education agencies. The Interagency Transition Council for Youth with Disabilities, (see above) a 27-member board appointed by the Governor, serves as advisor to the Collaborative.

b. Continue to explore and develop new initiatives and methodologies that promote the successful post-school outcomes of: employment, post-secondary education and training and community participation, independent living and healthy lifestyles. This may be accomplished through cooperative agreements, cooperative funding agreements, special grants or other innovative means.

c. Work with local businesses and agencies as needed to expand opportunities for internships and mentoring as a way to prepare students for viable careers.

d. Continue to administer and evaluate the Governor’s Transition Youth Initiative, a program designed for transitioning students with the most significant disabilities, exiting school at age 21 and who can benefit from supported employment services.

e. Identify opportunities to provide information and outreach materials for transitioning students and their families.

The Division utilizes community rehabilitation programs (CRPs) to the maximum extent feasible to provide a wide range of highly skilled vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities around the state. DORS continually assesses the needs of individuals with disabilities and recruits new organizations and expands services with existing ones in order to meet those needs.

DORS Accreditations

Accreditation of CRPs is an important factor in the operation of the state vocational rehabilitation program in Maryland. The purpose of these reviews and accreditations is as follows:

- To improve the quality of services delivered to individuals with disabilities

- To assist the governing board of the community rehabilitation program and other interested groups in the community to better understand what is required for a sound program

- To serve as a means for self-evaluation by the board, administrator and staff.

The Accreditation Process

DORS purchases services from CRPs that are accredited and operate in compliance with federal regulations and operate in compliance with the regulations for Title I, Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program implementing the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992, Section 361.51.

These CRPs must hold accreditations from national organizations such as CARF or The Joint Commission, formerly JCAHO. They may also be in “deemed” status, having been accredited by other Maryland government agencies such as the Department of Health & Mental Hygiene.

Otherwise, the DORS staff specialist for community rehabilitation programs will perform onsite accreditations every three years. The specialist, along with a local DORS staff person, advises the CRPs what is required and then conducts an onsite review to examine all resource documents, consumer files and details about programs. As appropriate, CRP staff may attend the overview and exit conferences.

If the program demonstrates its ability to serve DORS consumers, a cooperative agreement is drafted for approval and signature. The agreement outlines roles, responsibilities and fees.

Services Purchased by DORS

DORS purchases a wide variety of services that assist people with disabilities to reach independence and employment. These may include career assessment services, assistive

technology services, employee development services, non-supported employment job coaching, skills training and specialized services such as those for individuals with acquired

brain injuries.

DORS may also purchase job-coaching services from CRPs that have supported employment programs approved by the Mental Hygiene Administration (MHA) and the Developmental

Disabilities Administration.

DORS will also purchase community based assessment services provided by private vendors who are certified vocational evaluators.

To assure that supported employment remains an option for individuals with the most significant disabilities, the Division has formed partnerships with the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) and the Mental Hygiene Administration (MHA). These partnerships create comprehensive and permanent systems changes. Efforts have been largely guided by jointly developed documents of cooperation.

DORS has an established psychiatric rehabilitation group in which MHA has representation. This long-standing group meets at least bi-annually and enhances ongoing dialogue and cooperation in support of employment services for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness.

The Division maintains cooperative agreements with DDA and MHA that govern the interagency funding and delivery of supported employment services. These documents are the basis for the Division’s interagency efforts in supported employment.

The agreements clearly state that the Division will be responsible for the initial intensive, time-limited, ongoing services while the cooperating agency--either DDA, MHA or another approved agency-- will be responsible for funding the extended support services. Transition to extended services will occur when all IPE and IPE amendments have been met. This will occur on an individual and mutually agreed upon basis between the counselor and consumer.

The newest initiative (see #2 below) enables individuals with acquired brain injuries to receive supported employment services.

1. Evidence-based Practice in Supported Employment (SE)

"Evidence-Based Practice" (EBP) in supported employment is a model that essentially focuses on an employment model as an alternative to other treatment modalities for individuals with serious mental illness.

Since 2001, the Evidence-Based Practice in Supported Employment Initiative -- a funded initiative sponsored by MH and VR -- has crystallized both agencies’ commitment to enhance the design and delivery of SE for individuals with severe mental illness and to improve competitive employment outcomes for shared clients.

More recently, administrators have strengthened systems integration by attention to MH and VR policies, regulations, and protocols related to SE, including a mandatory referral to VR for all individuals requesting SE services in the public mental health system (described below). The principle of informed choice of the individual guides this decision-making.

The SE Initiative in Maryland has enhanced the quality of SE services, honored the preferences of clients for competitive employment and job diversity, increased competitive employment outcomes for SE clients, and increased case closure outcomes for VR counselors. VR outcome data for the recently completed federal fiscal year demonstrate a nearly two-fold advantage in closure outcomes for clients served by evidence-based SE programs versus those served by traditional SE programs (65% vs. 35%).

2. Governor's Employment Initiative for Persons with Acquired Brain Injury

In FY 2007 Maryland's legislature designated $850,000 of new state funds specifically to help DORS serve consumers with acquired brain injuries who require long-term, ongoing support services to become successfully employed. DORS committed an additional $150,000 in federal funding.

The Governor’s Employment Initiative for Persons with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI Project) provides intensive vocational rehabilitation and long-term supports to individuals with acquired brain injuries. This often includes needed neuropsychological and other assessments, training and supported employment services and long-term job coaching.

Previously, individuals with ABI did not qualify for these long-term supports such as those offered through the Mental Hygiene Administration (MHA) for people with chronic mental illness or the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) for individuals with developmental disabilities.

This grant also funds training of DORS staff and community providers. In addition, the University of Maryland, Department of Counseling and Personnel Services provides data collection and analysis to confirm the effectiveness of this service model.

The initiative allows DORS to identify and serve 50 individuals annually with traumatic brain injuries with intensive and continuous service delivery with community partnerships. The project tracks research and evaluation activities to enhance future services. DORS is working with community rehabilitation programs and other organizations to provide the necessary services, including job coaching, to eligible individuals.

A unique aspect of this initiative is that DORS provides the funding for the long-term job coaching support as part of post-employment services for individuals served through this initiative.

The Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) has established policies and procedures for a Comprehensive System of Personnel Development (CSPD) which ensures that all personnel:

• are well qualified

• regularly take part in staff development

• participate in performance-based evaluation systems

• meet required licensing/certification standards

Training, education and developmental activities ensure appropriately skilled staff, with special emphasis given to rehabilitation technology, employer services, transitioning and disability-specific (e.g., blindness) skills. This system strives to fill vacancies with well-qualified and culturally diverse applicants.

As part of the Maryland State Department of Education, DORS is required to adhere to personnel development policies and procedures contained in 34 CFR 300.15, 34 CFR 300-383, 20. U.S.C. 1413 (A) (3) and in the Code of Maryland Regulations 13 A., 05.01.03G.

1. Data System on Personnel and Personnel Development. DORS has a data system to annually obtain information on personnel and personnel development, as follows:

a. The number of personnel who are employed by the state agency in the provision of VR services in relation to the number of individuals served, broken down by personnel category.

By December 31 of each year DORS will:

1. Use the MSDE Personnel Report of September 30 to determine the number of DORS positions in provision of VR services (total number of DORS positions minus total number of DDS positions).

2. Determine the number of positions in the following categories:

a. Rehabilitation Counselors

b. Administrative Staff

c. Staff Supporting Counselor Activities

d. Other

3. Determine the number of individuals served effective September 30 from the AWARE case management system.

b. The number of personnel currently needed by the state agency to provide VR services, broken down by personnel category.

1. Using the MSDE Personnel Report of September 30, analyze DORS vacancy rate and vacancies in the specific categories. Also consider total number of staff needed based on waiting list and other factors.

c. Projections of vacancies in personnel, broken down by personnel category, needed by the state agency to provide VR services in the state in 5 years based on projections of the number of individuals to be served, including individuals with significant disabilities, the number of personnel expected to retire or leave the field and other relevant factors.

1. Ascertain turn over rate for most recent federal fiscal year.

2. Project vacancies over the next five years in light of current staffing and turn-over rate and other relevant factors.

DORS system for collecting and analyzing on an annual basis data on personnel development. Following is a description of DORS system for collecting and analyzing data on personnel development on an annual basis:

a. Annually, compile a list of the institutions of higher education in the state that are preparing VR professionals, by type of program.

A list will be compiled of programs in Maryland preparing VR staff at the bachelor’s, master’s and certificate level.

b. The number of students enrolled at each of those institutions, broken down by type of program.

c. The number of students who graduated during the prior year from each institution with certification or licensure, or with the credentials for certification or licensure, broken down by the personnel category for which they have received, or have the credentials to receive, certification or licensure.

At the conclusion of each academic year, DORS will contact coordinators of programs at Maryland institutions of higher education to obtain information about:

The number of students enrolled in each type of program

The number of employees sponsored by DORS or RSA

The number of employees sponsored by DORS or RSA who have graduated

The number who have graduated

The number who have graduated with certification or licensure or credentials required to achieve certification/licensure.

DORS staff will then determine personnel category of graduates who have certification, licensure or credentials to achieve certification/licensure.

DORS Plan for Recruitment, Preparation and Retention of Qualified Personnel

a. Annually take the information and recommendations from the Data System described above regarding current and projected needs for personnel.

b. Based on findings, design a recruitment plan for the upcoming year in collaboration with colleges and universities, the Maryland Rehabilitation Association (MRA) and the Technical Assistance and Continuing Education (TACE) Center at the George Washington University.

Colleges/Universities in Maryland with Rehabilitation Counseling Programs:

Institution: Coppin State University (Historically Black Institution)

Location: Baltimore, Maryland

Programs: Undergraduate and Masters degrees in Rehabilitation Counseling (both are RSA-funded for minority students); Certificate Program in Assistive Technology

Institution: The George Washington University

Location: Washington, DC

Programs: Ph.D. and Masters degrees in rehabilitation counseling (on-line & on-site) and career assessment; certificate programs in transition services and brain injury

Institution: University of Maryland College Park

Location: College Park, Maryland

Programs: Ph.D., Masters and undergraduate degrees in rehabilitation counseling; certificate program in job placement

Institution: University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Location: Princess Anne, Maryland

Programs: Masters and undergraduate degrees in rehabilitation counseling

The plan may include:

• Active membership on advisory boards of colleges/universities with programs in Rehabilitation Counseling

• Provision of job shadowing opportunities for Masters level students in their first year

• Provision of internship opportunities, both paid and unpaid, in the comprehensive rehabilitation facility and field offices

• Staff presentations to students and classes about the public rehabilitation program

• Collaboration with the MRA training committee to provide on-going in-service training opportunities to current and prospective staff

• Maintain effective partnership with historically black institutions to assure sufficient number of applicants for state agency job vacancies so that the workforce reflects the composition of the state

• To support retention of staff and succession planning, collaborate with university, professional association and TACE partners to provide on-going mentoring and leadership activities

c. Update the Plan on an annual basis, as needed.

Personnel Standards. DORS has policies and procedures in place related to personnel standards to ensure that designated state unit professional and paraprofessional personnel are adequately trained and prepared, including:

a. Standards for hiring vocational rehabilitation specialists/rehabilitation counselors are consistent with standards in Maryland law, Labor and Employment Article which specify that rehabilitation counselors “have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in rehabilitation counseling, human services, psychology, or a related field with at least 1 year of work experience in a human services occupation.” §9-6A-09. DORS considers related fields to include rehabilitation – career assessment, rehabilitation – employer services, education, deaf education, social work, psychology, human services, blind and vision services, employment/career counseling, and community counseling.

b. Standards for achievement of journeyman counselor status include a master’s degree. DORS requires that vocational rehabilitation specialists considered for promotion to rehabilitation technical specialist (the highest level of rehabilitation counseling) have a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or a closely related field, which may include rehabilitation – career assessment, rehabilitation – employer services, education, deaf education, social work, psychology, human services, blind and vision services, employment/career counseling, and community counseling. DORS provides technical assistance in career development for staff, and facilitates staff application for RSA scholarships and also provides tuition reimbursement to support staff in achieving required credentials.

c. DORS encourages and supports through reimbursement of initial certification fees, achievement of CRC or CVE certification, but does not require it.

d. Paraprofessional personnel must meet standards of their specific position in the classified service according to position descriptions developed and updated by the Maryland State Department of Education Personnel Office and the Maryland Department of Personnel.

DORS System of Staff Development. The Division maintains a system of staff development for staff professionals and paraprofessionals that includes (A) identification of training needs, (B) policies and procedures and (C) training activities.

A. Training needs are identified based upon results of a variety of assessment instruments and methods which include: (1) the organizational Planning Process in which training areas are determined by the initiatives identified in the Division’s five year Strategic Plan and Annual Program Plan, (2) DORS Performance Appraisal which allows each professional employee and the employee’s supervisor to identify on a semi-annual basis training needs and develop a plan to assist the employee to meet the essential functions of their position as reflected in their position description. These needs are shared with the Staff Development Specialist and training needs are prioritized, developed, implemented and/or coordinated based on the results of the information, (3) Program Evaluation: Areas of need are identified by the DORS program evaluator, through the case review process and the RSA 107 review. (4) The Division’s Policy Review Committee, the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC), and annual public meetings provide feedback and a continuous evaluation component identifying needs which can be addressed and/or alleviated by training which are submitted to the Staff Development Office for appropriate action. (5) Individual Staff Training Needs Survey: A training needs assessment questionnaire is distributed to all staff annually. The results are tabulated and categorized to prepare for individual and/or group training programs.

B. Policies and Procedures for staff development activities are maintained in the Divisions Rehabilitation Services Manual I, Administrative Manual, section 700, as well as the Staff Development Site on InDORS, the Division’s intranet which allows staff to access information on policies and procedures for in-service training opportunities, tuition reimbursement, reimbursement for fees related to initial achievement of CRC or CVE credentials, mentoring and leadership activities, and provides a training calendar with links to brochures and registration information.

C. Training Activities: The Staff Development program identifies training needs from survey and sources noted above and develops and provides training to professional and paraprofessional staff through quarterly, annual, and customized training activities which include:

(1) Orientation and training on fundamental rehabilitation process and procedures is provided to all new staff through Getting Connected, the Supervisor’s Guide to training new staff through the Divisions Quality Rehabilitation Training program provided to all new staff,

(2) Training for special populations is provided including blindness and vision services, deaf and hard of hearing services, services for individuals with acquired brain injury, transitioning youth, and psychiatric rehabilitation throughout the year,

(3) training in career assessment services is offered semi annually,

(4) rehabilitation technology training is offered throughout the year on a variety of assistive technology and worksite accommodation issues. It is provided through a joint training calendar that is developed by the Division’s Rehabilitation Technology Services department and the Maryland Technology Assistance Program and is disseminated to all staff through the staff development office and maintained on the Division’s InDORS intranet,

(5) Statewide prescriptive training on a variety of topics is delivered to all counselors, including career counseling, employer services, ethics, job placement, case note/case documentation training, ADA training, autism and spectrum disorders,

(6) Staff participate in the annual statewide training conference sponsored by the DORS and the Maryland Rehabilitation Association (MRA),

(7) New supervisors training and ongoing training activities for supervisors and Division administrators are provided during semi-annual statewide supervisors meetings. Staff managers participate in management and leadership training through vendors and the Regional TACE Center.

(8) Paraprofessionals participate in statewide prescriptive training throughout the year with their units, as well as an annual training activity customized to meet the needs of staff and address agency priorities.

The Staff Development office maintains a data base of all training activities attended by Division professional and paraprofessional staff, according to the individual staff member, unit and Office.

2. Acquisition and Dissemination of Knowledge. The Division ensures that professional and paraprofessional staff receive significant knowledge from research and other sources by keeping abreast of the latest information on disability issues, legislation, and current topics and training on rehabilitation. Information is disseminated to staff in a variety of ways including

a. Posting information to staff on the Division’s InDORS intranet and public website www.dors.state.md.us

b. Disseminating email and agency program directives, administrative instructions, and information bulletins

c. Developing agency policy and procedures based on federal and state law and regulation, as needed

d. Revising agency policy and procedures manuals, as needed

e. Providing staff training on new policy and policy and procedural updates

f. Providing staff training on a variety of current topics

g. Attending meetings, conferences, and workshops.

h. Posting training resources and archive presentations on the DORS website and intranet.

a. Meeting the needs of individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or deaf/blind. DORS has personnel skilled in sign language who are assigned to provide services to consumers who are deaf and hard of hearing and deaf/blind who require such communication. DORS has TTYs in offices and has installed video phones within the office locations of our rehabilitation counselors for the deaf (RCDs). DORS hires approved interpreters as needed to assure that consumers have access to the full range of rehabilitation services they may need. DORS supports attendance of consumers at institutions specializing in services for the deaf, as appropriate.

b. Meeting the needs of individuals who are blind or vision impaired. DORS has dedicated counselors who have specialized caseloads working with individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf blind. These staff participate in at least quarterly training on topics specific to blindness and vision services, assistive technology, job development, career counseling, and participate in other Division sponsored training with all staff. DORS collaborates with its partners in the provision of training including the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER), and Helen Keller National Center (HKNC). DORS provides assistive technology, as appropriate and required, for individuals who are blind or vision impaired. DORS provides all information for consumers in the requested alternate format of the individual. DORS website and intranet are fully accessible to users of screen

readers.

c. Meeting the needs of individual with limited English. DORS provides interpreter and translation services to consumers through the state contract for such services and through staff with skills in languages other than English. A DORS workgroup implemented a multicultural initiative which includes identification of staff with language skills in addition to English, enhancing cultural competencies of staff, identification of community resources, and provision of public information and agency forms in alternate languages. The Division will include periodic in-service training opportunities on cultural proficiency.

The Division has personnel who have specialized caseloads serving transitioning youth. These staff participate in quarterly training activities on current transition topics. Staff are also encouraged to participate in ongoing professional development through participation in a variety of workshops, conferences, and in service training opportunities that are disseminated via email to all staff and posted on the Divisions InDORS intranet.

The Division also co-sponsors and coordinates an annual transition conference that is attended by over 500 staff, education partners, stakeholders, parents, and consumers.

Staff are also encouraged to participate in training activities such as the George Washington University’s Master’s level 12 credit online transition certificate program.

Examples of cross-training with secondary school personnel include:

• Training in evidence-based transition practices for LEA staff and DORS staff provided by Transcen, Inc., as part of the Maryland Seamless Transition Collaborative.

• Training on Autism Spectrum disorders provided by DORS in partnership with Pathfinders for Autism and the Maryland Rehabilitation Association.

• Training and presentations on blindness and vision services with LEA and itinerate teachers and DORS staff are held on a regular basis.

A. Comprehensive Statewide Assessment of the Rehabilitation and Career Needs of Individuals with Disabilities.

The Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) along with the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) continually assesses the rehabilitation and career needs of Maryland citizens with disabilities, as part of its state and strategic planning process. DORS in conjunction with the SRC holds public meetings and the SRC regularly provides input on Agency planning and recommendations. The results of consumer satisfaction surveys are also reviewed in order to provide insight into the rehabilitation and career needs of Maryland citizens with disabilities.

This year the Division in conjunction with the SRC undertook the triennial comprehensive needs assessment in compliance with the Code of Federal Regulations CFR (361.29). Two members of the SRC were an integral part of the nine-member team which collected and analyzed the data in order to ascertain the needs of individuals with disabilities throughout the state. The SRC reviewed the final comprehensive needs assessment, The conclusions and recommendations of this assessment are incorporated into DORS’ goals and priorities for the purpose of improving services to persons with disabilities, and more effectively meeting their needs.

DORS collected data from a variety of sources in order to assure that this was a comprehensive statewide assessment. The sources of the data included testimony regarding services for Blind and Vision impaired consumers during the 2004 MD State legislative session; the results of a subsequent statewide taskforce on Blindness and Vision Services; comments from the DORS public meetings in 2004, 2005 and 2006; Consumer Satisfaction survey results from 2004, 2005 and 2006; input from DORS counselors and representatives of specific disability groups regarding the need for community rehabilitation programs to have staff skilled into work with consumers from those disability groups so that they can achieve a successful employment outcome. A survey was conducted of staff of One-Stop Employment Centers to ascertain their view of needs of people with disabilities they serve. In addition, the study group reviewed information from the SRC annual reports from 2004, 2005 and 2006, U.S. Census Bureau data, DORS Employment Retention Surveys, University of MD Career Barrier Study, Cornell University 2005 Disability Status Report for MD, and the annual survey of Community Rehabilitation Programs in Maryland. DORS also utilized data from the AWARE Case Management system regarding provision of services and expenditure of case service funds, as it related to identification of needs.

As a result of the analysis of the data the Division validated a continuing focus on enhancing vocational rehabilitation services to persons who are blind and vision impaired. Several items identified by the task force have already been implemented including establishing a SRC subcommittee for blind and vision impaired services, increased staff training on blindness and vision impairments, and case management by specialists for blindness and vision services. The areas of need identified were (1) an expansion of services provided by the community rehabilitation programs to include vocational and career services for individuals with blindness and vision impairments (see Section B.) and (2) greater access to the vocational and career services provided by the One-Stop Career Centers.

A second area of need demonstrated by the analysis of data was further expansion of evidenced based supported employment to the entire state. Where implemented, this approach to serving persons with severe and persistent mental illness has proven to be highly successful in these individuals obtaining and maintaining a successful employment outcome. The assessment showed that these services need to be expanded and provided in the following geographical areas: Allegany, Garrett, Prince George’s Counties, the middle and lower Eastern Shore, Southern Maryland and Harford County. One lesson learned is that the counselor plays an important role on the treatment team. Another recommendation is to provide ongoing staff training and support in collaboration with the Maryland Mental Hygiene Administration in order to assure that staff are skilled in evidenced based practices.

In addition to expansion of supported employment for person with severe and persistent mental illness, the data showed that the number of persons with developmental disabilities leaving the school system and accessing DORS services has been decreasing. It has been recommended that DORS review its agreement with the Development Disabilities Administration in order to determine if there are barriers in policy that are limiting access. Once completed, there will be a need for joint training by DDA and DORS to enhance understanding of each others’ role and function and to remove the barriers to services access.

A third area identified by consumer groups, the Maryland Department of Disabilities, and the Governor was the need for a different way of providing vocational rehabilitation services to persons with Acquired Brain Injury who need ongoing job coaching in order to sustain a successful employment outcome. A number of the changes that the data indicated were needed have been initiated over the last year. A consortium of providers and counselors serving these consumers was established and meets regularly to assure that necessary services are provided and barriers to access removed. Additionally, a training component is a regular part of the meetings. DORS is required to report to the Governor on the success of this initiative. The area of need identified is to expand to other geographical areas of the state and to develop more partnerships with providers in order to enhance service delivery.

A fourth area of need identified in the public meetings is the impact of the Order of Selection on serving transitioning youth with significant disabilities. DORS has had to close the “significant disability” category due to insufficient funds for services and now has a waiting list of over eight months for individuals in this category. This comes at a time when the request is for DORS to enhance and expand its services to this population. This makes it very difficult for the DORS counseling staff, students with disabilities and their parents and school staff. The recommendation and overriding need for this area is for DORS to seek additional funds that will enable the Agency to reduce the waiting list and to provide the expanded and enhanced services.

In looking at access to VR services by unserved, underserved and minority populations the Census data showed that 40% of Marylanders are identified as belonging to a minority group. The fastest growing minority group is those who identify as Hispanic (6.03% of the Maryland population self-identified as Hispanic or Latino Origin, per Population Estimates 2005, The Governor’s Commission on Hispanic Affairs). Yet when we analyzed the data, the percentage of DORS consumers served who were Hispanic (4.11% per 2005 data) was less than prevalence in the general population. In our 2004 needs assessment this was identified as an area that DORS needed to address. While the Agency has made efforts in this area, it remains an area of need. DORS will continue to provide staff training, attempt to hire bilingual staff and to utilize a multi-faceted approach in order to engage Hispanic consumers in the rehabilitation process, e.g., public information (website; brochures); translation of required forms; identification of resources; and specific outreach activities to the Hispanic community. While because of prevalence in Maryland the Hispanic community is the initial focus area for DORS multicultural initiatives, services and resources for other minority populations, particularly Asians, will be included and expanded over the next several years.

A second underserved population was identified by a SRC member as individuals who are homeless. In analyzing the 2005 10 year Plan to End Homelessness in Maryland, the needs assessment team determined that the best way that we can provide vocational rehabilitation services to this population was to establish linkages with agencies throughout the state which offer transitional residential housing and supportive housing services for homeless individuals.

The last area that was analyzed in the needs assessment was access to employment services. Consumers who are blind and vision impaired report that they have difficulty accessing services at some One-Stops because the One-Stop staff is not familiar with how to use assistive technology in order to work with them. In some areas of the state, there have been co-sponsored cross trainings. The recommendation is that additional training occur with workforce partners to facilitate an integrated approach to providing services to services persons with visual impairments, as well as all persons with disabilities.

A survey was conducted of staff of One-Stop Employment Centers throughout the state. Staff reported working with people with disabilities, including physical, mental health, deaf, back injuries, blind/vision impaired, substance abuse and many with learning disabilities. Some staff reported that they refer all customers with disabilities to DORS, while some indicated that it was up to the individual whether he/she wished to be referred to DORS. Some respondents noted that they have worked with people with disabilities because of the waiting list for DORS services. Many indicated the people they see with disabilities have significant needs for literacy and tutoring services. Most mentioned training about disabilities and resources to be the primary needs they identify in order to improve services provided to customers with disabilities.

Another area of employment access is with the federal government. Consumers report difficulty completing the online application for federal employment and DORS staff report difficulty identifying and accessing selective placement specialists. Even the President’s New Freedom Initiative is not resulting in as many hires as was projected. DORS is asking for assistance from RSA in order to gain greater access to federal employment for Maryland consumers with disabilities.

B. Assessment of the Need to Establish, Develop or Improve Community Rehabilitation Programs Within the State

Maryland DORS currently has 121 Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs) that partner with us to provide an array of vocational services to consumers. The Division has a designated Staff Specialist for Community Rehabilitation Programs, responsible for assuring a statewide network of approved CRPs and to monitor, identify needs, and maintain and improve quality of them. Approval of a CRP for provision of services is based upon the following:

(1) Program capacity and disability population (s) served;

(2) Needs, preferences and informed choice of the individual served;

(3) CRP location;

(4) Cost of the program;

(5) Quality of services provided and staff credentials; and

(6) Program's record of success.

Establishment and development activities focus on certain geographic areas of the state and specific service needs. Based on needs identified during DORS/SRC Public Meetings, recommendations of the State Rehabilitation Council, and public testimony related to blind services, recent efforts have focused on developing more capacity to serve individuals with Acquired Brain injury; Evidence Based Practice Supported Employment for individuals with mental illness; deaf and hard of hearing; blind and vision impaired; and transitioning youth. Regions such as Western and Southern Maryland and the entire Eastern Shore have historically been and remain in need of additional CRPs. This year, two new community based providers were approved – Positive Transitions in Cumberland and one primarily for transitioning youth, Work Opportunities Unlimited, operating primarily the Washington DC suburbs.

The current Comprehensive Needs Assessment also includes identification of primarily Hispanics but also Asians as underserved, as well as the homeless population. This need affects not only the Division but partner agencies. Identification of current capacities of CRPs to provide services to individuals of Hispanic or Asian origin, particularly those with limited English skills, will be undertaken in the coming fiscal year. Initial planning exploring effective rehabilitation services for individuals who are homeless will likewise include partnership efforts with CRPs.

Improvement, monitoring of services, identification of needs and technical assistance occur in several ways. The Division has established a DORS CRP Advisory committee composed of CRP representatives from each region of the state. The committee meets quarterly to give input into DORS policies, share best practices, and discuss issues of mutual concern regarding the provision of services to individuals with significant disabilities, including identification of gaps in available services and specific needs. The Vocational Services Sub-committee, comprised of members of the CRP Advisory Committee and DORS staff, meet to work, research and evaluate selected services identified by DORS and the CRP community. There is also a statewide Career Assessment Services Monitoring Committee which meets to monitor the quality of vocational assessment services throughout the state, discuss methods and approaches in providing assessment to diverse disability populations and to make recommendations for improvement and effectiveness.

DORS often has joint training with our CRP partners, in areas of mutual interest. The Region III CRPRCEP, the MD chapter of VECAP (Vocational Assessment and Career Professionals), the Univ. of MD Evidence Based Practice Center, the Mental Health Training Center, Mental Hygiene Administration, Developmental Disabilities Administration, and DORS collaborate together to offer training in areas of Supported Employment, Job Placement, Career Assessment Services, Transition services, etc. The benefit to joint training ensures that all rehabilitation staff are hearing the same consistent message and communication is facilitated. Evaluations and surveys completed at the conclusion of training are looked at to respond to staff and agencies’ needs.

Technical assistance is given via mail and /or email correspondence, site visits, meetings, phone calls and distribution of journal articles. Trainings are arranged as needed through CARF, CRPRCEP, etc in areas such as outcomes reporting, financial, and staff management.

The goal of training and technical assistance is to increase employment outcomes for individuals with all disabilities, particularly those with developmental disabilities, chronic mental illness, acquired brain injury, deaf/hard of hearing, blind/vision impaired, transitioning youth, and individuals with disabilities of Hispanic or Asian origin.

Based on needs identified, the Division will

• Continue to promote quality CRP services for individuals with disabilities who are underserved;

• Continue expansion of services to underserved areas of Maryland;

• Continue to promote services at CRPs for individuals with developmental disabilities, chronic mental illness, ABI, deaf/hard of hearing, blind/vision impaired and transitioning youth.

Individuals eligible for services under Title I of Rehabilitation Act

Projected number of eligible persons: 21,000:

Individuals receiving services under an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE): Title I – 14,000; Title VIB – 2,450

(Category 1)

Most Significant: 11,970

(Category 2)

Significant: 4,480

(Category 3)

Non-Severe: 0

Fiscal Year 2010 Agency Program Plan (October 1, 2009 to September 30, 2010)

Goal 1: Assure high-quality employment outcomes for individuals with significant and most significant disabilities in Maryland through the vocational rehabilitation program.

Objective 1.1

Provide rehabilitation services in partnership with local education agencies that lead to successful outcomes in post-secondary education and employment for students with disabilities.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Ensure that VR counselors and staff work with students, families and school personnel to help students achieve employment and self-sufficiency.

2. Provide/fund in-school transition services including career assessment and planning, summer employment and assistive technology.

3. Expand and enhance transitioning services at the Workforce & Technology Center (WTC), including training services for consumers not planning to attend college.

4. Participate in and support programs and projects that develop emerging leaders, including Disability Mentoring Day.

5. Expand partnerships with LEAs through the Maryland Seamless Transition Collaborative (MSTC).

6. Provide training and support to DORS transition counselors through the Transition Specialists Group and other meetings, conferences and training programs.

7. Through the Transition Specialists Group, identify and develop tools and resources for transitioning students related to post-secondary education.

8. Continue to develop programs to meet the needs of students with autism spectrum disorders.

9. Explore means to assure appropriate referral of students with disabilities not served through Special Education.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• The number of transitioning individuals served will match or exceed those served in 2009.

• Six hundred and ten (610) transitioning students will achieve employment.

• Grants and funding will be provided to support leadership programs for youth with disabilities.

• One hundred thirty-five (135) students will be served through MSTC.

• The DORS Transition Specialists Group will meet at least semiannually and include staff training on pertinent topics, and will identify, develop and disseminate tools and resources for transitioning students related to post-secondary education.

• DORS will fund and provide technical assistance for a statewide transitioning institute

Objective 1.2

DORS will provide high quality services and outcomes for individuals with disabilities served by the Office of Field Services.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Provide effective training for all staff, including target areas such as personal assistance services, deaf and hard-of-hearing issues and building effective business relationships.

2. Evaluate the consumer referral process, including on-line referral, to ensure that individuals are able to apply for and, if eligible, receive services in a timely manner.

3. Identify and implement strategies to streamline processes and enhance staff retention, including pilot unit design/sharing of responsibilities.

4. Identify and implement strategies to assist consumers in achieving professional, managerial and technical positions and higher earnings.

5. Enhance linkages with businesses and employers to include customized training, use of OJT and internships, education and disability awareness.

6. Ensure that findings and outcomes of the Governor’s Employment Initiative for Individuals with Acquired Brain Injury are assimilated into general case management practices for individuals with this disability.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Meet or exceed federal performance indicators for VR services.

• OFS will achieve 2,300 employment outcomes.

• OFS will have an open caseload of 15,750.

• Achieve at least 90% in presumption of eligibility.

• Formal training on emerging issues in rehabilitation will be provided to staff locally and through the HRD office.

• Streamlining strategies will be identified and implemented.

• Consumers will achieve average hourly earnings of $12.00.

• More consumers will achieve professional, technical and managerial positions than in FY 2009.

Objective 1.3

DORS will provide high-quality services and outcomes for individuals who are blind and vision impaired (B/VI).

Strategies: OBVS will

1. Maintain and expand ongoing professional development activities for staff that serve consumers who are B/VI including quarterly in-service training, graduate training coursework and practicum to support master’s degrees and certification.

2. In collaboration with WTC, expand OBVS services at the Center.

3. Maintain an assistive technology service delivery system that supports the employment and independent living goals of individuals who are B/VI.

4. Support the Maryland State Rehabilitation Council‘s Blindness & Vision Services Committee, charged with oversight of services to individuals who are blind and vision impaired.

5. Enhance linkages with businesses and employers to include customized training, education and disability awareness, work site AT services and mentoring/internship activities.

6. Increase services to individuals who are deaf/blind and provide technical assistance to staff serving this population.

7. Provide services to older individuals who are blind.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Meet or exceed federal performance indicators for services for blind/vision impaired.

• OBVS will achieve 175 employment outcomes.

• Increase the B/VI active VR caseload to 830 consumers.

• The Business Enterprise Program will train/license four new managers and establish new vending sites where available.

• Serve 350 consumers who are blind or vision impaired at WTC.

• Provide services to 950 individuals in the Older Blind Independent Living program.

• Achieve a consumer satisfaction rate of 90%.

Objective 1.4

Provide effective employment services at the Workforce & Technology Center using state-of-the-art interdisciplinary strategies.

Strategies:

1. Continue to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of programs and services and develop programs that address evolving disability employment issues and trends.

2. Expand programs that support individuals who are deaf.

3. Continue to utilize the Center Services Advisory Group (CSAG) as a means to enhance communication with the field program and utilize feedback.

4. Enhance the continuum of services through the use of interdisciplinary strategies for program development to ensure consumers are job ready.

5. Enhance linkages with employers and the business community through customized and partnership trainings.

6. Increase capacity to provide Benefits Planning Services.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Increased number of consumers achieving employment outcomes compared to FY 2009.

• Increased number of deaf consumers will be provided services.

• Increased consumer satisfaction with services compared to FY 2009.

• Meet or exceed WTC utilization levels from prior year.

• A baseline will be established of Benefits Planning Services provided to DORS consumers.

Goal 2: Assure that funds provided to DORS through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 are spent consistent with principles in the law and RSA guidance to provide a short-term investment with the potential for long-term benefits to individuals with disabilities in Maryland.

Objective 2.1

Provide enhancements to the VR program through strategic, targeted use of ARRA funds.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Reduce DORS waiting list for services by using ARRA funds for case services and support of contractual staff to mitigate the increase in the size of caseloads.

2. Enhance services to eligible consumers, including support of the QUEST internship program.

3. Expand services to traditionally underserved and unserved populations through provision of grants to community programs. These individuals may include non-college degree seeking persons who are blind or vision impaired, non-college degree seeking persons who are deaf or hard of hearing, persons on the autism spectrum, persons with significant disabilities who are non-or limited English speakers, persons with acquired brain injuries, persons with military service connected disabilities, and persons with significant disabilities and criminal backgrounds.

4. Enhance services to transitioning students through expansion of Summer Youth Employment programs.

5. Enhance agency infrastructure to support employment services for individuals with disabilities through (a) purchase of updated equipment for training programs at the Workforce & Technology Center consistent with current industry standards; and (b) purchase of computers and software to support the agency’s distributed IT network to increase efficiency in serving consumers and supporting agency functions.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• The waiting list for individuals with most significant disabilities will be discontinued and the waiting list for individuals with significant disabilities will be reduced to 1000 or fewer and will last no longer than 4 months.

• At least 20 DORS consumers will complete QUEST internships in state offices in 2009 and 2010 (40 total).

• At least four grants to community programs focusing on innovative practices for underserved and unserved populations will be awarded by October 1, 2009; 60 consumers will be served in these programs with 40 achieving employment by 2010.

• At least 100 transitioning students will take part in Summer Youth Employment programs during the summers of 2009 and 2010 (total of 200).

• Updated equipment will be in place in WTC training programs and in use by consumers.

• Identified staff will have updated computers and training to use them efficiently.

Objective 2.2

Provide enhancements to the Independent Living Older Blind program through strategic, targeted use of ARRA funds.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Provide grant funding to approved community providers to expand independent living services to older individuals who are blind.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Four hundred and twenty-five (425) older individuals who are blind will be provided services and achieve their goals with ARRA funding.

Objective 2.3

Provide enhancements to the Independent Living program through strategic, targeted use of ARRA funds.

Strategies:

1. Grant funding will be provided to Maryland Centers for Independent Living and the Statewide Independent Living.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Reports from the CILs and SILC will confirm expenditures on independent living core services and achievement of outcomes.

Goal 3: DDS (Not supported with Title 1 Funds)

Goal 4: Partner and collaborate with public agencies, private organizations, employers, community groups and individuals to advance the employment and independence of individuals with disabilities.

Objective 4.1

Enhance/expand services provided to individuals in special populations, within the capacities of the agency.

Strategies:

1. Continue the inter-agency consortium dedicated to the Governor's Employment Initiative for Persons with Acquired Brain Injuries (ABI Project); establish protocol for provision of services to individuals with ABI outside of the Project when it has reached capacity.

2. Continue to provide staff resources and staff training to support Evidence-Based Supported Employment (EBPSE) for individuals with serious mental illness; implement expansion of the Milestone payment system statewide.

3. Continue to develop partnerships with community groups and resources to enhance access to DORS services by individuals in underserved populations, including ethnic minority groups, ex-offenders, and homeless individuals.

4. Continue strategic activities that will prepare DORS to meet the unique needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorders preparing for employment.

5. Develop a Maryland VR Plan for Services to the Deaf, Hard-of-hearing and Late-deaf and begin implementation of selected recommendations as resources allow.

6. Enhance collaboration with DDA to increase appropriate referrals.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Serve 1,100 Individuals who have ABI (stroke & TBI).

• Fifteen (15) EBPSE sites will participate in the Milestone Payment system.

• Eleven hundred (1,100) consumers will be served through EBPSE sites.

• Eleven hundred (1,100) consumers will be served in the Governor’s Transition Youth Initiative.

• Demonstrate specific outreach strategies to consumers in populations underserved by DORS.

• Serve 750 individuals with Autism.

Objective 4.2

Enhance collaboration with and services to Maryland businesses.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Support activities of the Director’s Employer Services Implementation Council.

2. Participate in the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) national business network and consider how national efforts, i.e., the Net, might be applicable to Maryland.

3. Continue to review and realign resources that support employment partnerships and internships for DORS consumers.

4. Review effectiveness of programs and practices in job development and placement.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Minutes of Employer Council and CSAVR national business network meetings will confirm activities and progress.

• WTC will conduct six partnership and customized training programs.

• Program development strategies will be considered and implemented, as appropriate, concerning job development and placement programs and practices.

Objective 4.3

Work with community partners to improve transportation for individuals with disabilities in support of competitive employment.

Strategies:

1. Explore partnering with non-profit organizations that provide basic vehicles to individuals in need, e.g., Cars for Careers.

2. Partner on the interagency team led by Maryland Department of Disabilities, with Rutgers NTAR on transportation issues for individuals with disabilities anticipated with Base Realignment and Closure initiatives in Maryland.

3. Maintain participation on the Maryland Coordinating Committee for Human Services Transportation.

4. Identify means to facilitate collaboration between transportation networks.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Recommendations will be provided to DORS management regarding partnering with organizations that provide vehicles to individuals in need.

• DORS staff will participate in NTAR meetings and identify appropriate actions to be taken to improve transportation for individuals with disabilities.

• DORS staff will attend quarterly meetings and assist in identification of ways to improve the transportation system in Maryland.

Objective 4.4

The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) will maintain and enhance its leadership role in the oversight of vocational rehabilitation service delivery in Maryland.

Strategies:

1. DORS will invite and support Council participation and representation on DORS committees and workgroups.

2. The Council, in collaboration with DORS, will conduct annual public meetings throughout the state to promote community and consumer input related to the administration of the VR program.

3. Council members will review and monitor the Division’s client satisfaction system, as well as annual finding of satisfaction surveys, appeal requests and outcomes, and Client Assistant Program (CAP) data and findings.

4. The Council will be a full and active partner in the development of agency regulations, policies and procedures relating to Maryland VR program.

5. Council members will review and comment on the annual agency action plan, DORS progress in meeting its performance goals, and DORS program accomplishments.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• The Maryland SRC will conduct four (4) quarterly meetings including a meeting during the legislative session in Annapolis.

• The Maryland SRC and DORS will conduct annual public meetings attended by at least 180 individuals.

• The Maryland SRC will submit its annual report to the Governor and the Regional RSA Commissioner.

Goal 5: Promote and enhance quality independent living outcomes for individuals with disabilities in Maryland through independent living programs, including the older blind program.

Objective 5.1

Participate as a Maryland Independent Living partner in accomplishment of goals and objectives specified in the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) 2008-2010.

Strategies:

1. Provide support to the Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC), through supervision and support of the SILC Administrative Officer; monitor implementation of the State Plan for Independent Living.

2. Manage DORS grants to Centers for Independent Living (CILS), including providing technical assistance and monitoring regarding both the IL program and fiscal responsibilities.

3. DORS, the SILC and CILs will continue to evaluate implementation of new collaborative efforts such as cross-training opportunities, strengthening VR and IL service provision to transitioning youth, benefits planning, and addressing costs of AT services.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Review of minutes and other evidence will confirm that the SILC has required membership and is accomplishing its statutory responsibilities.

• Monitoring of the SPIL will confirm accomplishment of goals and objectives supporting enhancement of independent living for individuals with disabilities in Maryland.

• Evidence of record will confirm provision of technical assistance and oversight of grants as appropriate, from a program and fiscal perspective.

Objective 5.2

Provide IL rehabilitation technology services through grants to CILs.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Evaluate performance of the CILs in providing IL AT services for the first year of grants from DORS; revise MOUs and grant expectations and awards as appropriate.

2. Monitor grants to CILs from a fiscal and program perspective.

3. In collaboration with Maryland TAP, assure annual AT training is provided to CILs.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• CILs will meet performance measures established in the RFP and MOU for this program.

• The Third Annual CIL-DORS AT Planning Meeting will occur in September, 2010.

Goal 6: Promote recruitment and retention of qualified rehabilitation staff

Objective 6.1

Take measures, within the authority of the Department and the Division, to make the workplace more welcoming and flexible in meeting the needs of staff.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Review and implement, as appropriate, the recommendations of the Workforce 2010 committee, assuring that changes are in the best interest of consumers as well as staff

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• An implementation plan will be completed and steps taken to make recommended changes.

Objective 6.2

Expand leadership activities for staff

Strategies:

1. Establish the Executive Leadership Institute that will provide a six-month diversified senior leadership experience for mid-level career DORS staff.

2. Conduct a Supervisory Retreat for front line supervisors.

3. Continue the Supervisory Training Series

4. Support staff to attend local, non-DORS leadership programs as appropriate.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• The first DORS Executive Leadership Institute will be completed

• A Supervisory Retreat will be planned and will occur

• At least three topics will be presented in the ongoing Supervisory Training Series

• Up to four DORS staff will attend local, community-based leadership programs

Objective 6.3

Explore innovative approaches to recruiting and retaining qualified staff

Strategies: DORS will

1. Consider various ways of advertising DORS openings beyond the traditional sources

2. Encourage and facilitate unit-based changes in practices and division of labor which will benefit consumers and staff

3. Explore opportunities to give staff more diversified work experiences

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Recommendations will be made to DORS management regarding outreach to potential employees

• Proposals from units to change practices will be considered and implemented as appropriate.

Goal 7: Use technologies to the fullest extent in accomplishing the agency’s mission.

Objective 7.1

Explore how technologies can develop better communication, consumer services and staff support.

Strategy: DORS will

1. Establish a workgroup that will plan web-site redesign as well as web-based applications to survey satisfaction, provide online service support and agency feedback.

Performance Measure by September 30, 2010:

• Workgroup recommendations will be presented to DORS management for consideration.

Objective 7.2

Assure that staff is current in knowledge of technologies, software and applications.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Provide training in updated applications to staff as needed.

2. Survey staff to assure full competence in using AWARE version 5.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2010:

• Training will be provided to staff with updated software, as needed.

• Formal and informal staff training in AWARE will be considered based on findings of the survey.

Due to limited personnel and financial resources, DORS has been unable to provide services to all eligible individuals. Based on projected fiscal and personnel resources, an order of selection will remain in effect. The Division’s order of selection ensures that eligible individuals with the most significant disabilities receive priority.

The Order of Selection categories are as follows:

I. Individuals with Most Significant Disabilities.

II. Individuals with Significant Disabilities.

III. Individuals with Non-Severe Disabilities.

Under the order of selection specified above, the Division will continue to emphasize and enhance services to students with disabilities transitioning from school to work.

An individual with a most significant disability is an eligible individual:

a. Who has a severe physical or mental impairment which seriously limits three or more functional capacities such as mobility, communication, self-care, self-direction, interpersonal skills, work tolerance, or work skills, in terms of an employment outcome;

b. Whose vocational rehabilitation can be expected to require multiple vocational rehabilitation services: at least two from the main services of guidance and counseling, medical rehabilitation services including technology services, job placement and vocational training; and

c. Whose vocational rehabilitation is projected to require an extended period of time of at least 6 months.

An individual with a significant disability is an eligible individual whose severe physical or mental impairment seriously limits one or two functional capacities, and also meets requirements in b and c above.

An individual with a non-severe disability is an eligible individual who does not meet the definition of significant or most significant disability.

Individuals shall be placed in priority categories at the time of eligibility determination. Depending upon Division resources, the categories shall be closed for services in ascending order beginning with Category III and proceeding to Categories II and I. Services shall be provided only to those individuals in an open category. However, the Division shall continue to plan for and provide services to any individual determined eligible prior to the date on which the Order of Selection category to which the individual has been assigned has been closed, irrespective of the severity of the individual’s disability.

DORS staff will be advised via formal issuance when categories are closed or reopened.

The Division's case management system is designed to assure that individuals with the most significant disabilities are selected for services before all others.

Supported employment services are provided on a statewide basis through the Title VI, Part B funds. Supported employment is competitive employment or employment in integrated work settings in which individuals are working toward competitive work, with ongoing support services for individuals with the most significant disabilities for whom competitive employment has not traditionally occurred or for whom competitive employment has been interrupted or intermittent as a result of a significant disability. Fund allocation on a statewide basis ensures an equitable statewide service delivery.

The Division of Rehabilitation Services will continue to encumber Title VI, Part B funds on a fee-for-service basis. When supported employment services exhaust Title VI, Part B funds, DORS counselors shall be instructed to encumber Title I funds. In that way, individuals in need of supported employment services will continue to be served, even if Title VI, Part B funds are exhausted.

DORS counselors will expend Title VI, Part B funds after receipt of documentation confirming the provision of extended services. In compliance with the Rehabilitation Act, as amended, DORS will expend Title I dollars until an extended source of funding has been obtained. The goal of the State’s supported employment program is to maintain a system whereby individuals with the most significant disabilities are afforded the opportunity to participate in integrated competitive employment.

It is estimated that 2,350 individuals with the most significant disabilities will be served in FY10 in supported employment. It is estimated that 425 transitioning students will be served in supported employment from special state funds through the Governor’s Transitioning Youth Initiative. Funds expected to be spent exceed $1.2 million.

There has been a steady growth in the numbers of individuals with serious and persistent mental illness being served in supported employment.

DORS, the Maryland Mental Hygiene Administration and the Evidence-Based Practice Center at the University of Maryland continue to collaborate on the Evidence-Based Supported Employment initiative. The initiative now includes over 30 sites (which represent 68% of all SE programs) throughout the state. Fifteen of these sites meet Evidence-based Supported Employment (EBSE) fidelity.

The Division supports the use of supported employment models that maximize integration of persons with the most significant disabilities in real work sites, doing meaningful work. The Division encourages expansion of models beyond enclaves and does not support the use of bench work models.

The estimated number of individuals who will achieve a supported employment outcome during 2010: 510.

Maryland engages in ongoing strategic planning and focuses on continual improvement activities to enhance services and maximize the number and quality of employment outcomes, especially for those identified as priority populations. Strategic planning takes place with semi-annual statewide planning meetings, regularly scheduled executive staff meetings, formal and informal needs assessments, review of grant proposals, satisfaction surveys and other program evaluation initiatives.

The Division maintains quality and continuous improvement with staff development training and quality assurance reviews. Over the last few years, staff realignments have resulted in the assignment of counselors to specialty areas such as transitioning, assistive technology, blindness and vision disabilities and business services. DORS maintains an electronically-based information dissemination system to keep staff and stakeholders informed of policy, special initiatives and news.

Maryland sets aside a portion of funds allotted under section 110 of the Act for development and implementation of innovative approaches to improve the provision of VR services, particularly for individuals with the most significant disabilities. Due to overall resource limitations, DORS has recently used these funds for improvement of services to priority populations, rather than expansion of services.

DORS recent strategic planning has concentrated on principles of efficient uses of personnel, technology, and financial resources to deliver quality rehabilitation services to persons with disabilities in Maryland.

Strategies with American Recovery & Reinvestment Act funds

With input from many stakeholders, and consistent with statute and RSA guidance, DORS is using funding from the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 for many strategic activities, including:

1. Elimination of the waiting list for individuals with the most significant disabilities; reduction of the waiting list for individuals with significant disabilities

2. Support for summer youth employment

3. Support of the Governor’s QUEST Internship for Individuals with Disabilities

4. Grants to community rehabilitation programs to provide services to unserved and underserved populations

5. Upgrading of equipment for employment training programs for consumers at the Workforce & Technology Center

6. Enhancing the information technology infrastructure for staff to achieve greater efficiencies in providing services.

Expanding and improving services to individuals with disabilities

Expanding and improving services remains an agency priority as the needs and demographics of individuals with disabilities evolve.

I & E funding has been utilized to expand career-connected experiences for high school students, to expand knowledge and awareness of autism and to provide support for Disability Mentoring Day and the Governor’s Quest Internship program.

These funds also support the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC). The SRC is a full and active partner in the development of agency policies, regulations and procedures.

The SRC collaborates with DORS to hold public meetings in areas around the state each year. These meetings are another way for DORS to identify needs and to gather trend information for strategic planning.

The Division supports the SILC with technical assistance, an administrative officer, office space and business support. A DORS representative attends meetings. DORS has a key role in the development of the State Plan for Independent Living.

DORS strategic Agency Program Plan shows that there is considerable attention paid to continual expansion of transition outreach and services, including participation in a regular schedule of transition fairs, designed to educate students, parents and school personnel.

Other activities designed to expand and improve services include:

1. Customized and partnership training programs at WTC, designed to meet the immediate needs of local employers. Recent examples are warehouse workers, child care workers and nurse’s assistants.

2. The Director’s Business Services Implementation Council, designed to expand relationships with businesses included new outreach materials, resource re-alignment, staff training and a database that matches job openings with job-ready consumers. The Council has also developed recommendations for staff training and expanded public information outreach, which have been completed.

3. The Governor’s Employment Initiative for Persons with Acquired Brain Injury provides intensive vocational rehabilitation and long-term supports to individuals with acquired brain injuries (ABI). This includes assessments and training as well as supported employment services and long-term job coaching.

4. The Maryland Seamless Transition Collaborative, supported by a $2.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to the Maryland State Department of Education, will help about 400 Maryland high school students. These students with disabilities will participate in enhanced career assessments, paid job experiences, support services and leadership activities. DORS is providing leadership and technical assistance for this 5-year grant.

5. DORS is providing leadership and support in development of a plan to enhance agency services to consumers who are deaf, hard of hearing or later deafened, based on the Model State Plan (2008) developed by the University of Arkansas RRTC for Persons who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.

DORS Office for Program and Community Support and regional offices designate staff and activities to maintain the value of partnerships with consumer organizations, employers and institutions of post-secondary education.

How assistive technology is provided to individuals on a statewide basis at each stage of the rehabilitation process

DORS has devoted extensive strategic planning and workgroup time to developing an assistive technology delivery system that provides the assessment, training and product delivery needed by individuals during career planning and testing, training and in job placement. The Division has designated staff who specialize in assistive technologies. The Workforce & Technology Center serves as a key resource where staff experts and products can be accessed on a statewide basis.

Policies regarding assistive technologies are continually updated and distributed to staff.

The Director’s Business Services Implementation Council has facilitated streamlining of service delivery to employers which includes a no-cost worksite assessment. This is an effort to expand new job opportunities for individuals with disabilities as well as to assist workers with disabilities to retain their jobs.

The Office for Blindness & Vision Services makes extensive use of resources at the Workforce & Technology Center and in AT community programs. They have also supported summer programs for students with blindness as they transition to employment or higher education.

Outreach to identify and serve individuals who are minorities, including those with the most significant disabilities

To respond to the needs of people in Maryland who do not speak English, DORS has embarked on a strategic process of needs assessment and workgroup projects. Based on outcomes from the needs assessment and census data, DORS is concentrating on Spanish-speaking populations in the state.

The Division focuses on making sure that minorities are given full opportunity to take part in all programming. The DORS website includes information in Spanish. The agency has a contract with a provider who can provide real-time translation, on or off-site. The service also translates printed and electronic materials.

DORS marketing materials reflect our commitment to, and belief in, equal opportunities for all. DORS website reflects the diversity of Maryland citizens and consumers served, and the depth and breadth of services available to individuals with disabilities in Maryland.

DORS also works with community rehabilitation programs to ensure that they have the staff training, outreach capacity and commitment to meet the needs of all, including those who are minorities.

Outreach to serve those who are unserved and underserved by the VR program

In the most recent comprehensive needs assessment (see attachment 4.11 (a)), the Division has determined that people who are homeless are underserved individuals in Maryland. The agency will respond with activities that include staff awareness, resource identification and career counseling for this population and well as developing competencies that will address the barriers faced by this particular group of individuals.

Strategies to assist other components of the workforce investment system to serve individuals with disabilities.

The Division maintains active participation on both state and local planning groups formed to develop and implement Maryland’s workforce investment systems and will promote universal access to core employment services by all consumers, including minorities.

The Division works closely with one-stops as possible to assure access to people with disabilities. DORS is co-located with One-Stop Career Center in various areas of Maryland. When appropriate, DORS performs training and consultations to ensure excellent customer service to one-stop customers with disabilities.

DORS supports the activities and mission of disability navigators who assist people with disabilities at one-stop centers to make informed choices about employment.

Establishing, developing and improving Community Rehabilitation Programs

DORS employs a staff specialist to support and enhance the unique relationship between the state agency and various community rehabilitation programs. This staff specialist maintains ongoing communications, assesses needs, provides training opportunities as well as formal and informal consultations. The specialist reviews and accredits the programs on a regular rotation and develops co-operative agreements.

Overcoming Identified Barriers to Equitable Access to and Participation of Individuals with Disabilities in the State Vocational Rehabilitation Program and the State Supported Employment Services Program

The Division plans programs that are accessible to all people in Maryland and sees its role as pivotal in helping individuals overcome barriers that include gender, race, national origin, color, disability or age.

The following goals and strategies related to access to and participation in the VR and Supported Employment programs are being implemented:

A. Include review of minority access to services as an agenda item for the DORS CRP Advisory Committee.

B. Collaborate with MHA and DDA to have common standards and indicators for supported employment programs & services, to streamline access for people with disabilities, including minorities.

C. Provide services and opportunities to persons with disabilities from minority populations that result in competitive employment and independent living consistent with their unique abilities and informed choice.

D. Expand collaboration with community rehabilitation and disability partners to assure consumer participation, the input of key stakeholders, and program accountability to assure minority population access to services.

1. Implement and monitor activities and outcomes achieved though the Employment Program Fund (state funds designated for employment services provided to DORS consumers by community rehabilitation programs) and associated programs and services; maintain linkages with community rehabilitation providers.

2. A consumer/claimant inquiry system is maintained; consumer satisfaction is evaluated and monitored; a Client Assistance Program, access to legal services, option for mediation and liaison with the Office of Administrative Hearings to conduct due process hearings will be maintained. Particular attention is paid to assuring access to services for minority groups.

This past year, 2,290 people who participated in DORS programs went to work – many for the first time. Based on what we know about retention rates from previous years, approximately 84% of them will still be working 12 months from now. This is the highest retention rate in Maryland’s workforce system.

These new workers no longer rely on public benefits and family for economic support. Instead, they contributed over $35.6 million to the state’s economy during their first year of employment. They have brought new skills, as well as diversity, to businesses all over the state.

While DORS has clearly positively influenced the lives of many people in this fiscal year, our outcomes were far below those projected. The economic recession made it much more difficult to find competitive employment for consumers. And while DORS was fortunate to receive additional state funds this year enabling reduction of the waiting list by approximately one half, the agency has experienced unprecedented fiscal impact from federal funding not keeping up with inflation or need. The immediate future, however, is bright for Marylanders with disabilities in need of employment services with the influx of funds for the VR program through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Despite these challenges, DORS continued to provide innovative programs and services to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Highlights included:

• Implementation of the first year of a five-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education that focuses on seamless transition services to high school students

• Summer employment programs for high school students, some in collaboration with local One-Stop Career Center

• The Governor’s QUEST Internship Program, which provides 3-month paid internship programs in state agencies

• New partnership employment programs at the Workforce & Technology Center

• Staff training and program development for individuals with autism

In good economic times and bad, the Division remains committed to supporting the employment and economic independence of people with disabilities in Maryland.

Evaluation & Report on Progress on Achieving FY 2008 Goals and Objectives:

Goal 1: Assure high-quality employment outcomes for individuals with significant and most disabilities in Maryland through the vocational rehabilitation program.

Objective 1.1

Provide rehabilitation services in partnership with local education agencies that lead to successful outcomes in post-secondary education and employment for students with disabilities.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Ensure that VR counselors and staff work with students, families and school personnel to help students achieve employment and self-sufficiency.

2. Expand and enhance transitioning services at the Workforce & Technology Center

3. Participate in and support programs and projects that develop emerging leaders, including the annual Youth Leadership Forum and Disability Mentoring Day.

4. Establish a steering committee to monitor and enhance transitioning services including a review of the role of the Transition Advisory Council, a group of DORS staff who are responsible for transition services.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

• The number of transitioning individuals served will match or exceed those served in 2007.

2007 students served: 6,855

2008 students served: 6,330

DORS has made serving high school students with disabilities a high priority. In the past several years, we have reorganized resources, provided staff training and obtained a major grant from the U.S. Department of Education to improve transitioning services to students, educators and families. The decrease in actual numbers served reflects a significant waiting list caused by funding issues during this fiscal year.

• 650 transitioning students will achieve employment.

2007 students achieving employment: 679

2008 students achieving employment:: 590

DORS Office of Field Services, Office for Blindness & Vision Services and the Workforce & Technology Center are all taking part in the Director’s Employer Services Council. This workgroup collaborates on business outreach to develop employment, OJT and internship opportunities for DORS consumers, including students. continues to work with Maryland

• Grants and funding will be provided to support leadership programs for youth with disabilities

DORS provided $18,000 to support the annual Youth Leadership Forum, which takes place each summer at Bowie State College. In 2008, twenty-one youths took part in this program. It includes overview of leadership principles, career presentations, assistive technology demonstrations and meetings with state legislative representatives.

• The DORS Transitioning Steering Committee will be established and meet at least quarterly. Vision and strategies for the Transition Advisory Council will be in place.

The Office of Field Services Senior Management Team, which met monthly, has provided leadership and direction to the Transition Specialists Group.

• DORS will fund and provide technical assistance for an annual statewide transitioning conference

The Annual Statewide Transitioning Conference took place on December 3 – 4, 2008. There were 600 attendees and 40 workshops. DORS Staff Specialist for Transitioning Services provides technical support and direction for this event. The Division contributed $5,000.

Objective 1.2

Achieve consumer average hourly earnings of $10.73.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Assist consumers in preparing for and pursuing professional, technical and managerial careers in demand in Maryland.

2. Assist consumers in securing employment with federal agencies within commuting distance from their homes.

3. Inform staff, community rehabilitation programs, referral sources and other community partners about goals to increase employment options and average hourly wages so that all parties can collaborate on ways to achieve these goals.

4. Support as appropriate, participation in post-secondary education through facilitation of informed career decision-making.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

• DORS consumers closed in competitive employment will achieve an average hourly earnings of $10.73.

2008 average hourly wages: $10.69

• The percent of DORS consumers with wages as the primary source of support at the end of the rehabilitation process will increase from the FY2007 outcome (Performance Indicator 1.6).

Percent of individuals with wages as their primary source of support:

FY 2007: 12.9% at application; after rehabilitation services 78.2%.

FY 2008: 13.1% at application; after rehabilitation services 73.4

• The number of students in postsecondary education will increase from the previous fiscal year.

FY 2007: 542

FY 2008: 487

DORS supports higher education whenever this supports an individual’s vocational goal. We also recognize that higher education will enhance lifetime earnings and career development for individuals with disabilities. The decline noted is a result of the extensive waiting list for services.

• Increase in the percentage of successful closures in professional, technical and managerial positions from FY 2007.

FY 2007: 16.3%

FY 2008: 16.1%

NOTE: The above outcomes are significantly affected by funding shortages and a resulting waiting list for all consumers in this fiscal year.

Objective 1.3

DORS will provide high-quality services and outcomes for individuals who are blind and vision impaired (B/VI).

Strategies

1. Maintain and expand ongoing professional development activities for staff that serve consumers who are B/VI including quarterly in-service training, graduate training coursework and practicum to support master’s degrees and certification.

2. Maintain an assistive technology service delivery system that supports the employment and independent living goals of individuals who are B/VI.

3. Establish an OBVS office and satellite AT location in suburban Washington.

4. Support the Maryland State Rehabilitation Council‘s Blindness and Vision Services Committee, charged with oversight of services to individuals who are blind and vision impaired.

5. Enhance linkages with businesses and employers to include customized training, education and disability awareness, work site AT services and mentoring/internship activities.

6. Increase services to individuals who are deaf/blind and provide technical assistance to staff serving this population.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

• Meet or exceed federal performance indicators for services for blind/vision impaired.

FY 2008 DORS – Blind as Primary Disability.

Both standards and all indicators with the exception of 1.1 have been met:

Standard 1.1. Number of closed cases with an employment outcome

Current Year 2008: 150

Previous Year 2007: 227

2008 Objective: 227

Standard 1.2. Of closed cases that received services, percentage with employment outcome

Current Year 2008: 83.8%

Previous Year 2007: 67%

2008 Objective: 68.9%

Standard 1.3 Of closed cases with an employment outcome, percentage that have a wage greater than or equal to the minimum wage

Current Year 2008: 66.7%

Previous Year 2007: 67%

2008 Objective: 35.4%

Standard 1.4 Of closed cases with an employment outcome, percentage that have a wage greater than or equal to the minimum wage and have significant disabilities

Current Year 2008: 100%

Previous Year 2007: 100%

2008 Objective: 89%

Standard 1.5 Ratio of average state wage to the average wage of closed cases with employment outcome that have wages greater than or equal to minimum wage.

Current Year 2008: 0.69

Previous Year 2007: 0.66

2008 Objective: 0.59

Standard 1.6 Difference between the percentage of closed cases with employment outcomes that have wage greater than or equal to the minimum wage that are self support at application and the percentage of closed cases with employment outcomes that have a wage greater than or equal to the minimum wage that are self support at closure.

Current Year 2008: 50.0

Previous Year 2007: 49.3

2008 Objective: 30.4

Standard 2.1 Ratio of minority service rate to non-minority service rate.

Current Year 2008: 0.92

Previous Year 2007: 0.80

2008 Objective: .80

• Increase the OBVS active VR caseload by 10%.

2007 OBVS Active VR caseload: 718

2008: OBVS Active VR caseload: 716

OBVS established ambitious goals for expansion in FY 2008. However, due to the continuing waiting list, staff vacancies and limited resources we maintained as opposed to expanding services.

• The Business Enterprise Program will train/license five new managers and establish new vending sites where available.

In FY 2008, MBEP trained 3 new vendors.

OBVS continues to struggle with identifying suitable candidates for MBEPB vendor positions. This is partly related to increased need for security clearances to operate facilities within the Federal Government.

At this time, 59 licensed vendors operate 78 facilities. The annual sales for these facilities is $26,414,558. Average Vendor Earnings is $53,008 per year.

• Serve 400 consumers who are blind or vision impaired at WTC.

OBVS consumers served at WTC: 291

Capacity to serve consumers in the OBVS program at WTC has declined resulting in fewer consumers being served. Although WTC provides the majority of Assistive Technology Assessments for OBVS consumers, the availability of community resources has expanded resulting in a reduced number of consumers being served at WTC. Additionally, the waiting list resulted in fewer referrals for services.

• Provide services to 1,200 individuals in the Older Blind Independent Living program.

Persons served in the OBIL program: 864

Reduced referrals received, limited outreach during this period resulted in fewer consumers served. Sub-grantees were somewhat delayed in starting up their programs for the new grant cycle, serving fewer consumers.

• Achieve a consumer satisfaction rate of 90%.

2008 Consumer Satisfaction Rate: 80.2 (July 2007-June 2008)

The area with the largest decline from the previous year was related to the relationship with the counselor. OBVS had two counselors who had many complaints that left the agency since the time period evaluated. The result at that time was 78.7% were satisfied with their relationship with their counselor. Since these counselors have left the agency, the quarterly report ending December 2008 shows a 87% satisfaction in that specific area. In addition, we anticipated a reduction in satisfaction due to consumers having services delayed for a number of months due to the waiting list.

Objective 1.4

Increase the staff time available for DORS to provide improved service delivery to

consumers.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Educate all referral sources on the need to refer individuals with significant and most significant disabilities who are interested in obtaining and maintaining employment.

2. Utilize benefits planning services early in the rehabilitation process to facilitate consumer informed choice regarding achievement of an employment outcome.

3. Target outreach efforts to individuals with significant and most significant disabilities.

4. Evaluate staffing patterns, work roles and business processes to determine improvements in service delivery that reduce response time to consumer contacts/requests and facilitate progress throughout the rehabilitation process

5. Review and revise, as appropriate, along with the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) DORS quality assurance system to further develop the consumer satisfaction survey and other methods to collect continuous improvement, needs assessment focused feedback and consumer satisfaction information.

Performance Measures:

• By August 1, 2008, using the service record review process, DORS will collect data and establish performance baselines on:

o The cycle time in number of days for: Application, Eligibility, Service Plan initiation.

o Delays or gaps in service such as time lapse between request for service and initiation of service and frequency of DORS staff direct engagement with the consumer.

Performance baselines were established.

• Establish new strategies and targets for improved timeliness of services using the baseline data.

New strategies were liimited during FFY 2008 because of the extensive waiting list for services. Over 5,000 eligible individuals with significant and most significant disabilities were in delayed status lasting from 6 to 14 months before plans could be developed and services implemented. Management focused on greater use of the “Activity Due” module in AWARE.

New strategies and targets for improved timeliness will be implemented once there is a significant reduction in the number of consumers affected by and the length of the waiting list.

Objective 1.5

Increase the number of individuals with significant and most significant disabilities served by DORS who are members of minority populations in Maryland.

Strategies

1. Identify, secure and implement effective outreach strategies and supporting resources with the assistance of community partners with strong associations to minority populations.

2. Identify resources for interpreters, translation of VR materials, cultural awareness and serving individuals with limited English proficiency

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

• Increase percentage of minorities served with particular focus on target groups of Hispanic and Asian. Baseline: FY 2005 Hispanics served (4.11%); Asian served (3.41%).

Asians served:

2006: 201

2007: 305

2008: 320

Hispanics served:

2006: 238

2007: 388

2008: 425

DORS has focused on increasing staff awareness and outreach to the wide variety of cultures that live in various parts of Maryland. These efforts included a multi-cultural workgroup and statewide training.

Goal 2: Partner and collaborate with public agencies, private organizations, employers, community groups and individuals to advance the employment and independence of individuals with disabilities.

Objective 2.1 Establish and/or enhance effective working relationships with a broad range of organizations that assist individuals with disabilities in achieving employment.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Develop and enhance working relationships with public and private organizations, state agencies and organizations such as the State Rehabilitation Council, Developmental Disabilities Council, Interagency Transition Council, the Workforce investment Board and consumer advocacy groups.

2. Assign a DORS liaison to appropriate organizations, committees and councils to promote mutual goals and achievements.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

• Evidence of record (e.g., minutes; agendas; agreements) will confirm the participation of DORS in partnerships and collaborative activities directed at enhancing the employment of individuals with disabilities.

A review of a large variety of documents and activities will show that DORS regards partnerships as an essential part of doing business. Prominent examples include the State Rehabilitation Council, the Workforce Investment System, a MOU with the Department of Health & Mental Hygiene, financial and program support for benefits counseling programs, the Maryland Seamless Transition Collaborative and more.

Objective 2.2 Expand provision of evidence-based supported employment services to individuals with chronic mental illness

Strategies: DORS will

1. Encourage, through partnerships with the Mental Hygiene Administration, additional Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs) to become certified in Evidence-based Supported Employment (EBSE)

2. Provide ongoing information and training to support continued implementation of EBSE through the Psychiatric and Addictions Rehabilitation Group (PARG).

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

• Increase the number of consumers served by EBSE programs.

2007 EBSE served: 1,221

2008 EBSE served: 1,002

DORS is a recognized leader in the nation in its support and operation of Evidence-based Supported Employment. The DORS Community Rehabilitation Specialist develops resources and partnerships in order for eligible DORS consumers to participate in these opportunities. The reduction reflects the DORS waiting list.

• Agendas and minutes of PARG meetings will reflect training and information provided to staff assigned to EBSE sites.

The DORS Psychiatric-Addictions Rehabilitation Group (PARG) met on these dates: January 29, 2008 and June 27, 2008. Major training and information exchange focused on effective implementation of Evidence Based Practices in Supported Employment.

Objective 2.3 Expand services to individuals with acquired brain injury.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Continue the inter-agency consortium dedicated to the Governor's Employment Initiative for Persons with Acquired Brain Injuries (ABI Project).

2. Establish the ABI Project in other subdivisions and areas of the state.

3. Develop the concept of mentoring as a successful aid to assist individuals with brain injuries to become employed.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

• Seed grants will be provided to expand local capacities

DORS provided a seed grant to Mosaic in Carroll County. Due to funding limitations, DORS did not solicit additional proposals.

• Twenty-five individuals will move into long-term supported employment

At the end of FY08, 33 people were participating in supported employment. DORS counselors provide case management services for these individuals.

• Mentoring proposal will be submitted to the ABI consortium for consideration & action.

No action was taken on this objective due to time and funding limitations.

• The ABI consortium will meet regularly throughout the year.

The consortium, which includes DORS staff and community providers, met twice during FY08.

Objective 2.4 Expand service provision for individuals served by Departments of Social Services

Strategies: DORS will

1. Implement agreements with local Departments of Social Services (DSS) concerning provision of VR services to individuals receiving TCA and other state benefits

2. Identify DORS staff and hire additional contractual staff to work with DSS referrals

3. Develop referral procedures for those served

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

DORS and DSS will implement agreements

DORS and DSS implemented an overall agreement to cover Anne Arundel County, Calvert County, Charles County, St. Mary’s County, Baltimore City, Wicomico County, Somerset County, Worcester County, Caroline County, Talbot County, Queen Anne County, Dorchester County, Kent County, Baltimore County, Harford County, Montgomery county, and Prince Georges County.

DORS will accept referrals for 675 DSS project individuals

The number of referrals for FY 2008 was only for three months – 126. Subsequently this project was discontinued due to funding difficulties at the Maryland Department of Human Resources.

Objective 2.5 Expand programming and staff knowledge about serving individuals who have Autism Spectrum disorders

Strategies: DORS will

1. Implement WTC program with community colleges to support students who have Autism Spectrum disorders.

2. Continue collaborative staff training plan with Pathfinders for Autism.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

• WTC and the Community College of Baltimore County will serve 12 individuals with autism spectrum disorders

The WTC and CCBC served 12 students. The students (and their families) received personal follow-up and consultation throughout the semester. The caseworker assists these consumers with academic decision-making, adjustment issues and community referrals as needed.

• Minutes and training agendas will confirm continuation of staff training related to Autism.

DORS, Pathfinders for Autism and the Maryland Rehabilitation Association sponsored four statewide training programs that focused on critical topics relevant to the rehabilitation of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Attendance at each session averaged 149, with a high attendance at the first session of 214. They included DORS counselors, educators and community rehabilitation providers.

Objective 2.6 Design and implement a pilot program of services for the homeless population.

Strategies: DORS will

1. Identify a community partner with expertise in assisting homeless individuals

2. Assign DORS staff to the pilot project

3. Identify resources and services protocol

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

• A summary report of the homeless project will identify service protocols and procedures.

The DORS Homelessness Work Group met twice during FY 2008 and began addressing issues related to resource identification, training needs, and effective protocols for working with homeless individuals with disabilities. Developing a pilot during FY 2008 was particularly challenging because of the extensive waiting list for services and because of the immediacy of the needs of the homeless. The committee is continuing.

Objective 2.7 Enhance collaboration with and services to Maryland businesses

Strategies: DORS will

1. Support activities of the Director’s Employer Services Implementation Council

2. Participate in the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) national business network

3. Roll out pilot job match data base to additional regions

4. Expand customized and partnership training programs at WTC.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008

• Minutes of Employer Council and CSAVR national business network meetings will confirm activities and progress.

DORS Director led the meetings of the Employer Council, which met regularly. The council members planned and carried out training, formulated new business outreach policies and procedures, established and tested a jobs database, developed and improved public information materials and tested new ways to manage large business accounts. The group is a standing committee and continually responds to changing needs of business liaisons and DORS counselors.

• The DORS job match pilot database will be expanded to other state areas.

The job match database is now operational across the state.

• WTC will conduct six partnership and customized training programs.

The WTC has developed six partnership and customized training programs. They include Warehouse, Auto Lube Technician, Cashier/Courtesy Technician and Bank Teller.

Goal 3: Maximize the self-sufficiency of people with disabilities through the disability determination program.

(Program not supported by Title 1 funds.)

Goal 4: Promote and enhance quality independent living outcomes for individuals with disabilities in Maryland through independent living programs, including the older blind program.

Objective 4.1

Participate as a Maryland Independent Living partner in accomplishment of goals and objectives specified in the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) 2008-2010.

Strategies

1. Manage DORS grants to the Statewide Independent Living Council and Centers for Independent Living, including providing technical assistance and monitoring regarding both the IL program and fiscal responsibilities.

2. The ex-officio DORS representative member and the DORS grant manager will participate in the development and implementation of a SILC capacity-building plan focused on fulfillment of SILC duties, responsibilities and other requirements

3. DORS, the SILC and Centers for Independent Living will participate in a forum to explore new collaborative efforts such as cross-training opportunities, strengthening VR and IL service provision to transitioning youth, benefits planning, and transfer of funds and service provision for IL services provided by DORS to CILS.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008:

• Monitoring of the SPIL will confirm accomplishment of goals and objectives supporting enhancement of independent living for individuals with disabilities in Maryland.

Goals and objectives related to enhancing working relationship between DORS and CILs have seen good strides, including granting by DORS to CILs of funds for provision of IL AT services and discontinuation of DORS direct provision of IL services. Continuing issues with the support entity for the SILC resulted in discontinuation of the grant to the non-profit SILC, inc., effective 10/1/08 with DORS assuming responsibility to directly support the Council. There were continuing issues around meeting Membership requirements which were addressed; it was planned that an administrative officer would be hired to provide support to the Council and enable maintenance of a “semi-autonomous” position.

• Evidence of record will confirm provision of technical assistance and oversight of grants as appropriate, from a program and fiscal perspective.

Grant oversight and technical assistance have been provided related to DORS grants to 4 CILs to provide core and other IL services, including review of quarterly reports and invoices; responding to inquiries; and conducting on-site visits of 3 of the CILs. FY 2008 also saw development of RFPs and grants to all 6 Maryland CILs regarding provision of IL AT services as effective 7/1/08 DORS no longer provides IL services directly to consumers.

Objective 4.2

Manage the costs of expensive assistive technology in the ILOB and other DORS programs.

Strategies

1. DORS and the Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MD-TAP) will collaborate to identify AT cost management strategies and solutions.

2. Provide MD-TAP training to CIL and appropriate DORS staff regarding low-cost AT alternatives, AT resources and cost-management practices.

3. Collaborate with SILC, CILs and MD-TAP to identify, share and distribute community resources for AT, such as businesses that donate computers to non-profits, such as CILs, as they are replaced.

Performance Measures by September 30, 2008:

• Demonstrate identification of low cost AT strategies and solutions.

All day training was provided on AT to 22 CIL employees and several DORS staff on September 16, 2008, presented by DORS WTC Rehabilitation Technology Services and the Maryland Technology Assistance Program. It was well received by all.

• Demonstrate CIL and DORS staff participation in training.

Twenty-nine CIL and DORS staff participated in training as noted above.

• Develop a method of identifying local AT resources and coordinating distribution to individuals with disabilities in Maryland.

Local DORS staff and CILs have begun to collaborate on provision of AT to consumers, particularly related to identifying sources for hearing aids.

2008 Supported Employment Goals for 2010 State Plan

The Maryland State 2008 State Plan, Attachment 4.11(c)(4) included the following goals:

1850 individuals with most significant disabilities would be served in supported employment in fiscal year 2008.

500 youth would be served in the Governor’s Transitioning Youth Initiative.

$1.2 million would be spent on supported employment.

450 individuals would achieve supported employment outcomes.

Achievements during 2008 were as follows:

2268 individuals with most significant disabilities were served in supported employment in fiscal year 2008.

398 students were served in the Governor’s Transitioning Youth Initiative (the lower number was due to the extensive waiting list for VR services because of limited funding).

$5.4 million in funds were expended for supported employment.

443 individuals achieved supported employment outcomes.

The most important strategy in achievement of the goals was the close working relationship DORS has with the Maryland Mental Hygiene Administration and community rehabilitation programs throughout the state. Maryland DORS and MHA have been national leaders in implementing Evidence Based Practice in Supported Employment, an effective, research-based approach to working with individuals with chronic mental illness to achieve supported employment.

The primary factors impeding achievement of goals and priorities during FY 2008 was the extensive waiting list for services due to substantial limitations in funding. A waiting list is in direct opposition to the philosophy of evidence based practices in supported employment in that a prime tenet is to provide employment services as soon as an individual expresses interest in employment.

DORS 2008 Standards and Indicators

Standard 1.1. Number of closed cases with an employment outcome

Current Year 2008: 2,290

Previous Year 2007: 3,097

2008 Objective: 3,097

Standard 1.2. Of closed cases that received services, percentage with employment outcome

Current Year 2008: 78.9%

Previous Year 2007: 52.4%

2008 Objective: 55.8%

Standard 1.3 Of closed cases with an employment outcome, percentage that have a wage greater than or equal to the minimum wage

Current Year 2008: 90.1%

Previous Year 2007: 93.1%

2008 Objective: 72.6%

Standard 1.4 Of closed cases with an employment outcome, percentage that have a wage greater than or equal to the minimum wage and have significant disabilities

Current Year 2008: 100%

Previous Year 2007: 100%

2008 Objective: 62.4%

Standard 1.5 Ratio of average state wage to the average wage of closed cases with employment outcome that have wages greater than or equal to minimum wage.

Current Year 2008: 0.48

Previous Year 2007: 0.46

2008 Objective: 0.52

Standard 1.6 Difference between the percentage of closed cases with employment outcomes that have wage greater than or equal to the minimum wage that are self support at application and the percentage of closed cases with employment outcomes that have a wage greater than or equal to the minimum wage that are self support at closure.

Current Year 2008: 66.9

Previous Year 2007: 70.2

2008 Objective: 53.0

Standard 2.1 Ratio of minority service rate to non-minority service rate.

Current Year 2008: 0.921

Previous Year 2007: 0.851

2008 Objective: .80

The Division met 4 of 6 Federal Standards and Indicators for FFY 2008, missing indicators 1.1 and 1.5. The reduction in the number of cases with employment outcomes reflects a difficult fiscal environment for the agency resulting in an extensive waiting list for services for individuals with significant and most significant disabilities. The waiting list was over 5000 and lasted for 6 to 14 months, depending on the priority category of the individual. In addition, since Maryland has a high per capita income, DORS struggles to approach the requirements of standard 1.5 and has for a number of years. Given the magnitude of the challenges, DORS was gratified with the accomplishments realized by individuals with disabilities during this difficult year and with meeting both federal standards 1 and 2.

Innovation and Expansion Activities for 2008 included the following:

Support of the State Rehabiliation Council: $9,945.77

Support of Summer Youth Employment Programs: $78,123

Support of the Statewide Independent Living Council, Inc., $72,506

Total: $160,574.77

The quality, scope, and extent of supported employment services are consistent with the definition of supported employment as it is contained in the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

The quality of supported employment services is assured through the Division’s case review process. Records are reviewed in terms of eligibility, Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE), service delivery, case closure and expenditures. The review emphasizes technical compliance with the Title I and Title VI-B regulations. DORS uses case review findings to identify policies that may require modification or clarification and to identify staff training needs. The Division also conducts periodic onsite reviews of supported employment providers and regularly updates cooperative agreements with these facilities.

Supported employment means competitive work in integrated work settings, or employment in integrated work settings. Individuals with the most significant disabilities are working toward competitive work consistent with their strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests and informed choice. These are persons:

A. For whom competitive employment has not traditionally occurred or for whom competitive employment has been interrupted or intermittent as a result of a significant disability, and

B. Who, because of the nature and severity of a disability, need intensive supported employment services from the designated State unit (DORS) and extended services after transition in order to perform this work, or

The scope of supported employment services is contained in the Agency’s Rehabilitation Services Manual II, Section 800. The Division provides ongoing training to counselors about supported employment policy and best practices, including to new staff at the Quality Rehabilitation Training Program conducted at least twice a year.

Supported employment services are defined in the regulations as ongoing support services and other appropriate services needed to support and maintain an individual with the most significant disability in supported employment.

In recognition of the time required to develop employment opportunities and place individuals with the most significant disabilities in employment, Division policy permits payment of job development and placement as discrete activities within “job coaching”. Supported employment services are any services that assist an individual in entering or maintaining integrated, competitive employment. They also include services necessary to establish and maintain a supported business enterprise. They may include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Development of and placement in jobs or businesses in integrated settings for the maximum number of hours possible based on the unique strengths, resources, interests, concerns, abilities, and capabilities of individuals with the most significant disabilities.

2. Intensive on-site job skills training and other training provided by skilled job trainers, coworkers, and other qualified individuals.

3. Off-site supports to address issues and concerns

4. Follow-up services, including regular contact with employers, trainers, parents, guardians, or other representatives of trainees, and other suitable professional and informed advisors to reinforce and stabilize the job placement.

5. Other services specified in the regulations needed to achieve and maintain job stability.

6. Discrete post-employment services following transition that are unavailable from an extended services provider and that are necessary to maintain the job placement.

All supported employment services are available to all individuals determined eligible to receive supported employment services. Individuals are eligible if:

1. The individual is eligible for vocational rehabilitation services.

2. The individual is determined to be an individual with a most significant disability.

3. A comprehensive assessment of rehabilitation needs of the individual, including an evaluation of rehabilitation, career, and job needs, identifies supported employment as the appropriate rehabilitation objective.

1. Time-limited Phase (DORS)

C. Supported employment services are provided by DORS for a period not to exceed 18 months, unless under special circumstances the eligible individual and the rehabilitation counselor jointly agree to extend the time in order to achieve the rehabilitation objectives identified in the Individualized Plan for Employment.

i. Services must occur at least twice monthly to assess the employment situation at the job site; at the request of the consumer, they may be conducted off-site.

ii. Service providers coordinate and provide intensive services, at or away from the job site, that are needed to maintain employment stability.

D. Following transition, these services are only provided by DORS as post-employment services that are unavailable from an extended services provider and that are necessary to maintain or regain the job placement or advance in employment.

2. Extended Phase (Extended Service Provider)

Transition to extended services occurs when all objectives on the IPE and any IPE amendments have been met. This will occur on an individual and mutually agreed upon basis between the rehabilitation counselor, the consumer and the provider.

In the extended phase, ongoing support services and other appropriate services are defined as extended services. The provision of extended services in supported employment is made possible with cooperative agreements. Extended services include:

A. Any service(s) needed for an individual to maintain integrated, competitive employment after the individual has transitioned from time-limited support provided by DORS.

B. Such services are based on the needs of an eligible individual as specified in an IPE, which includes a statement of the source of the extended services.

Funding

The supported employment services made possible by the anticipated State allotment means that hundreds of individuals with the most significant disabilities will have an opportunity for competitive employment. An allotment of funds to provide supported employment services will be met with similar increases in other agencies’ ongoing funds to maintain supported employment services when the Division’s time-limited services are completed.

Evidence-based Supported Employment

The Mental Hygiene Administration and DORS engaged national consultants and convened an interagency workgroup with joint stakeholders and constituencies to realign policy regulations and protocols related to SE consistent with evidence-based and recovery-oriented principles and practices. Recommendations from this workgroup led to an integrated web-based portal as a single point of entry for application, referral, and eligibility determination for clients and providers requesting SE services.

The managed care organization, under contract with MH, with funds appropriated by the Maryland Medicaid Infrastructure Grant, embedded critical ingredients of the VR referral and application into an existing web-based proprietary care management system. System prompts and data fields were revised and realigned to permit access by VR counselors to MH authorization requests and to client mental health treatment and psychiatric rehabilitation plans. Other policy changes allow VR counselors to presume eligible for VR services any individual who had been determined to be eligible for SE in MH.

The web-based system safeguards the confidentiality of information and grants limited access to VR counselor liaisons who, in turn, can verify online application, referral, and eligibility for SE services; access long-term funding; and review relevant MH rehabilitation and treatment records. The system reduces administrative burden and duplication of effort and expedites SE service delivery.

DORS has a strong partnership with Maryland’s mental health system that Evidence-based Practice in Supported Employment. This is based on overwhelming evidence that supported employment is the most effective route to competitive employment for consumers with severe mental illness.

Supported Employment for Individuals with Acquired Brain Injuries

The Governor’s Employment Initiative for Persons with Acquired Brain Injury continues to provide intensive vocational rehabilitation and long-term supports to individuals with acquired brain injuries. A consortium of community providers and stakeholders participate in quarterly meetings that include a training component to support the enhanced collaboration and service delivery model. A steering committee provides oversight of activities and data collection/analysis in conjunction with the University of Maryland. Long-term, ongoing employment supports are funded by DORS as this population has traditionally not qualified for DDA or MHA supported employment services.