State Seeks Input for Vocational Rehabilitation Plan from Clients, Families, Public

For Release: Immediate Date: March 29, 2010

Contact: Phil Protz 919-855-3567

State seeks input for vocational rehabilitation plan from clients, families, public

RALEIGH - The N.C. Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VR) and the N.C. State Rehabilitation Council are seeking public input to help update the state plan for the delivery of VR services. The annually updated plan will become effective Oct. 1.

Those who may find the meetings of interest are people who receive VR services and their families, individuals who work in human services programs or advocacy groups for people with disabilities, and employers. The 2010 State Plan may be viewed online via the VR homepage, http://dvr.dhhs.state.nc.us/.

Three regional meetings are scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the following dates, at the listed locations:

·  May 10, Henderson VR Unit Office, Conference Room, 10 Medical court, Henderson.

·  May 11, New Bern VR Unit Office, 2832 Neuse Blvd., New Bern.

·  May 17, Charlotte VR Unit Office, Conference Room, Executive Center Drive, Suite 101, Charlotte.

The topics of discussion may include strategies to improve outreach to minority populations and individuals with the most significant disabilities; priorities that individuals with disabilities would like the public VR program to address; eliminating barriers to participation of individuals with disabilities in the VR program and the state’s supported employment program; the responsiveness of VR services to its consumers; and improving school transition services to individuals with disabilities.

The scheduled locations are accessible to people with disabilities. Attendees may register to speak upon arrival at the meetings or in advance by calling Patsy Owens at (919) 855-3527. Speakers are encouraged to bring a written copy of their comments.

People who are unable to attend one of the meetings may provide input by sending written comments by June 1 to: Phil Protz, 2801 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-2801, Attn: Planning Unit-State Plan Comments.

Comments may also be e-mailed to or faxed to: State Plan Comments at (919)715-1050.

Sign-language interpreters will be present at the hearings. If you plan to attend and need other accommodations, please contact Ms. Owens at (919) 855-3527 by April 22.

For additional information, contact Phil Protz at (919) 855-3567 or e-mail

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