University of North Texas

During the 2012 fall semester, rehabilitation counseling student Rebecca Vrla-Fry in the College of Public Affairs and Community Service, will complete an internship at the Austin Street Center in Dallas to provide supported employment services. 

The internship is made possible by a $17,000 grant from the Dallas Foundation. Vria-Fry will work as an intern under the leadership of Linda Holloway, professor and chair of the Department of Rehabilitation, Social Work and Addictions.

The Austin Street Center provides emergency shelter and related services to the homeless. It works to assist individuals learn to make responsible choices, positive changes and gain economic self-sufficiency.  

Over the past three years, the department has partnered with Austin Street and provided more than 1,500 student hours of training to assist residents in rebuilding their lives.

UNT’s philosophy is that anyone can work with the right supports.  We know the positive impact of employment on an individual’s quality of life, self-esteem, and independence. 

This program is in support of UNT’s Four Bold Goals in creating a university which is engaged in the community and is providing hands-on learning for our students.

- Jamie Young, College of Public Affairs and Community Service