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Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects.
Research and Technical Assistance Center on Vocational Rehabilitation Program Management.
University of Massachusetts Boston.
100 Morrissey Boulevard.
Boston, MA 02125.
E-mail: ici@umb.edu.
URL(s): http://www.communityinclusion.org.
Principal Investigator: William E. Kiernan, PhD.
Public Contact Phone: 617/287-4300.
Fax: 617/287-4352.
Project Number: H133A090002.
Start Date: October 1, 2009.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Leslie J. Caplan, PhD.
NIDRR Funding: FY 09 $1,500,000; FY 10 $1,500,000; FY 11 $1,500,000; FY 12 $1,500,000; FY 13 $1,500,000.
Abstract: This Center uses a three-stage process to develop and test a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program Management Model. In the model development stage, project staff conduct research activities that build on of existing management models, integrate knowledge generated from other public systems and the private sector, and review evidence indicating associations between management practices and organizational outcomes. In the second stage, model verification and transfer, staff coordinate three research projects that emphasize the collection and evaluation of knowledge generated directly by the VR program, translate findings from the development phase into actionable management strategies, and finalize the VR Program Management Model. In the third stage, the management practices laboratory, the VR Program Management Model, its implementation, and validation are studied at seven Partnering State VR Agencies. An Advisory Committee ensures the VR Program Management Model is technically sound, relevant, and functional for the VR system. Training and technical assistance (TA) activities are integrated into the research agenda and designed for replication and distribution by the VR TA Network. Tools developed by the Center will promote effective and efficient VR management practices that ultimately lead to improved organizational performance and high quality employment outcomes for people with disabilities.
Descriptors: Program management, Vocational rehabilitation.
Vocational Rehabilitation: Transition Services that Lead to Competitive Employment Outcomes for Transition-Age Individuals with Blindness or Other Visual Impairments.
Mississippi State University.
P.O. Box 6189.
Mississippi State, MS 39762.
E-mail: lgoleman@colled.msstate.edu.
URL(s): http://www.blind.msstate.edu.
Principal Investigator: Brenda Cavenaugh.
Public Contact Phone: 662/325-2001 (V), 662/325-8693 (TTY).
Fax: 662/325-8989.
Project Number: H133A070001.
Start Date: October 1, 2007.
Length: 36 months.
NIDRR Officer: Joseph A. DePhillips.
NIDRR Funding: FY 07 $450,000; FY 08 $450,000; FY 09 $450,000.
Abstract: This project conducts scientifically based research on transition services that lead to competitive employment outcomes for transition-age individuals with blindness or other visual impairments. The project includes four major research projects and a plan of dissemination. Project 1 involves conducting an integrative (systematic) literature review to identify and synthesize research on services leading to successful employment and other postsecondary outcomes for blind youth. The review process is considered empirical research and is approached with the scientific rigor used when conducting primary research. Project 2 includes analysis of five national, cross-sectional, and longitudinal data sources to explore relationships between potential causes or influencing factors and positive transition outcomes of youth who are blind or visually impaired. Specialized approaches used in analysis of the longitudinal data sources allow opportunity for causal inferences. Project 3 uses qualitative and quantitative methods in the collection of data from a variety of sources (focus groups with rehabilitation professionals, teachers, post-secondary support service providers, SSA representatives, and others; interviews with consumers; VR case records). The research identifies factors that impact the employment status of transition-age youth. Project 4 involves using knowledge gained from Projects 1, 2, and 3 to identify and develop, demonstrate, and evaluate the effectiveness of two interventions—one targeting youth who are preparing to transition from high school to employment or college and the other targeting youth who are preparing to transition from college to employment. In implementing the plan of dissemination, a variety of methods help ensure that the quality, clarity, and accessibility of products are appropriate for the target population.
Descriptors: Blindness, Employment, Outcomes, School-to-work transition, Visual impairments, Vocational rehabilitation.
Center on Effective Delivery of Rehabilitation Technology by Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies.
Syracuse University.
900 South Crouse Avenue
Crouse-Hinds Hall 300.
Syracuse, NY 13244.
URL(s): http://bbi.syr.edu/.
Principal Investigator: Peter D. Blanck, PhD, JD.
Public Contact Phone: 202/296-5393.
Fax: 202/296-2047.
Project Number: H133A090004.
Start Date: October 1, 2009.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Shelley Reeves.
NIDRR Funding: FY 09 $499,630; FY 10 $499,455; FY 11 $499,601; FY 12 $499,492; FY 13 $499,969.
Abstract: This Center uses quantitative and qualitative research methods to identify and document indicators of effective rehabilitation technology (RT) service delivery. Effectiveness is defined by quality indicators incorporating variables of structure, policy, decision making processes, and costs related to outcomes and counselor and consumer satisfaction. The Center also analyzes supports necessary for effective RT delivery, including counselor education, assessment tools and measures, information management, consumer education, quality assurance mechanisms, and public and private sector relationships. Selection and analysis of “effective RT service delivery models” takes into account variances related to urban versus rural areas, different types of disabilities, and programs administered within and outside State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies. The Center’s research team conducts in-depth evaluation of six State VR programs and six outside programs. The goal of the Center is to develop a new validated instrument and system of measurement to improve RT service delivery and reduce RT non-use and poor employment outcomes. The tool is accompanied by an interactive training program for VR counselors to build knowledge of RT solutions and an improved assessment process, including a set of exemplars, tools, and guidance that VR agencies and other programs can use to improve RT service delivery.
Descriptors: Measurement, Service delivery, Technology, Vocational rehabilitation.
Demand-Side Employment Placement Models.
Syracuse University.
900 South Crouse Avenue
Crouse-Hinds Hall 300.
Syracuse, NY 13244.
E-mail: wmyhill@syr.edu.
URL(s): http://bbi-empdemand.syr.edu/.
Principal Investigator: Peter D. Blanck, PhD, JD.
Public Contact Phone: 315/443-1367.
Fax: 315/443-9725.
Project Number: H133A060033.
Start Date: July 1, 2006.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Shelley Reeves.
NIDRR Funding: FY 06 $500,000; FY 07 $500,000; FY 08 $500,000; FY 09 $500,000; FY 10 $500,000.
Abstract: Americans with disabilities have significantly lower levels of employment than their peers without disabilities. Prior study of employment rates among people with disabilities generally has relied on a "supply-side" approach, analyzing how personal characteristics predict employment and earnings. These models have not sufficiently analyzed variables related to employer demand (and the interaction of employer demand/supply and the environment) as predictors of employment outcomes for people with disabilities. Thus, there is a need to systematically understand demand characteristics for qualified workers with disabilities, particularly as work requirements change over time. This project sets out scientifically rigorous and evidence-based methods to develop, identify, and evaluate employment demand-side models. It translates the findings into valid and practical tools for large and small businesses in different market sectors to improve employment outcomes. It evaluates the relative efficacy of these tools alongside supply-side research outcomes. The project is a nationwide collaboration of economists, statisticians, and leading experts in law, public and disability policy, corporate culture, applied life studies, technology, and education, as applied to disability employment policy and law. Project leadership includes disability scholars from universities around the country, with combined decades of research, training, and knowledge dissemination experience. The project builds fresh partnerships among disability policy and law experts, the business community, researchers, and national disability organizations such as the National Organization on Disability and the National Council on Independent Living. The project generates new knowledge to better understand market-driven workforce trends in large and small firms and different market sectors, and to inform employment practices to prepare individuals with disabilities for the present and future workforce. The project has a systematic plan and logic model for knowledge translation and dissemination aimed at providing employers best practice and practical tools to improve employment outcomes of people with disabilities.
Descriptors: Employers, Employment, Placement.
SEDL’s Vocational Rehabilitation Service Models for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
SEDL.
4700 Mueller Boulevard.
Austin, TX 78723.
E-mail: john.westbrook@sedl.org.
URL(s): http://www.autism.sedl.org.
Principal Investigator: John Westbrook, PhD.
Public Contact Phone: 512/476-6861.
Fax: 512/476-2286.
Project Number: H133A080007.
Start Date: October 1, 2008.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Leslie J. Caplan, PhD.
NIDRR Funding: FY 08 $350,000; FY 09 $350,000; FY 10 $350,000; FY 11 $350,000; FY 12 $350,000.
Abstract: For this project, SEDL partners with the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University of Central Florida (UCF CARD) to create a knowledge translation initiative to address the growing need for improvement in vocational rehabilitation (VR) and transition services for persons with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). SEDL and UCF CARD conduct a multifaceted set of research activities to identify and document VR and transitional behavior management practices that are linked to employment successes for people with ASDs, to identify factors that are strongly predictive of such success, to study the activities and impact of a statewide VR service provider network, and to document examples of success among individuals with ASDs in long-term employment placements. Research activities include conducting two major systematic reviews, implementation of a rigorous process for identifying and validating VR best practices, a study of the university-based statewide network of CARD centers in Florida, and case studies of individuals with ASDs and their families. Additionally, this project develops and disseminates an array of information products to inform both policy and practice, and to support implementation of best practices in VR settings throughout the US with existing national VR, service provider, advocacy, and research networks. This project is guided by a national advisory panel comprised of representatives from NIDRR-funded research initiatives addressing ASDs, VR professionals, ASDs service providers, and people with ASDs and/or their family members. The project outcomes include new knowledge and understanding, and allow for on-the-ground changes within the VR system, increasing employment among persons with ASDs.
Descriptors: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Employment, Knowledge translation, Service models, Vocational rehabilitation.
Vocational Rehabilitation Service Models for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (VCU ASC Career Links).
Virginia Commonwealth University.
P.O. Box 842011.
Richmond, VA 23298.
URL(s): http://www.worksupport.com.
Principal Investigator: Paul Wehman, PhD.
Public Contact Phone: 804/828-1852 (V), 804/828-2494 (TTY).
Fax: 804/828-2521.
Project Number: H133A080027.
Start Date: October 1, 2008.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Leslie J. Caplan, PhD.
NIDRR Funding: FY 08 $350,000; FY 09 $350,000; FY 10 $350,000; FY 11 $350,000; FY 12 $350,000.
Abstract: VCU ASD Career Links conducts evidence-based research on vocational rehabilitation (VR) service models for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The project is based at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and is a collaborative initiative between VCU and the Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services (DRS). The scope of research covers four areas: (1) the impact of intensive, community-based work experiences on the employment outcomes of youth with ASDs; (2) the postsecondary school participation and ultimate employment of college students with ASDs; (3) the impact of personal digital assistants (PDAs) on the employment outcomes of individuals with ASDs; and (4) a longitudinal analysis of VR service delivery and employment outcomes among DRS clients with ASDs. While the primary target population is persons with ASDs, there is an emphasis on youth and young adults who are unemployed, under-employed, or under-served in postsecondary education. Additionally, this project targets persons from traditionally under-represented populations with diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. This project works collaboratively with four local school districts in the Richmond area and the Faison School for Autism to enroll youth with ASDs into the project. The project also works with colleges and universities throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. Dissemination activities include web casts, fact sheets, evidence-based journal articles, and a toolkit on how to enhance VR employment models for youth with ASDs.
Descriptors: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Community based services, Education, Employment, Outcome, Service models, Vocational rehabilitation.
Field Initiated Projects (FIPs).
Beyond Hearing Aids: Training Resources to Improve the Capacity of VR Professionals Serving Consumers who are Hard of Hearing and Late Deafened.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.
4301 West Markham, # 595.
Little Rock, AR 72205.
E-mail: seboone@uams.edu.
Principal Investigator: Steven E. Boone, PhD; Alan VanBiervliet, PhD.
Public Contact Phone: 501/686-7348.
Fax: 501/686-7348.
Project Number: H133G090170.
Start Date: October 1, 2009.
Length: 36 months.
NIDRR Officer: Leslie J. Caplan, PhD.
NIDRR Funding: FY 09 $199,769; FY 10 $199,869; FY 11 $199,145.
Abstract: This development project produces training resources designed to meet needs expressed by vocational rehabilitation (VR) professionals and consumers for increased knowledge and capacity to improve services to a growing population of 30.6 million persons with hearing loss. This project includes four steps: (1) empirically prioritize training content, (2) develop a multimedia training resource, (3) field-test its efficacy, and (4) train and disseminate the resource to a workforce of over 15,000 general and specialized counselors as well as approximately 1,100 annual graduates of over 85 rehabilitation counselor training programs. The developed materials will enhance the knowledge of general and specialized rehabilitation counselors who serve working age consumers who are hard of hearing or late deafened. The project collaborates with the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) and content experts (VR providers, educators, consumers, and advocates) for the target population to produce and evaluate the needed resources.
Descriptors: Deafness, Hearing aids, Hearing impairments, Training materials, Vocational rehabilitation.
Cognitive Remediation, Illness Self-Management, and Supported Employment in Severe Mental Illness.
Dartmouth College.
11 Rope Ferry Road, #6210.
Hanover, NH 03755.
E-mail: susan.r.mcgurk@dartmouth.edu.
Principal Investigator: Susan McGurk, PhD.
Public Contact Phone: 603/271-5747.
Fax: 603/271-5265.
Project Number: H133G090206.
Start Date: October 1, 2009.
Length: 36 months.
NIDRR Officer: Bonnie Gracer.
NIDRR Funding: FY 09 $198,738; FY 10 $199,955; FY 11 $199,152.
Abstract: The goal of this project is to test the effectiveness of a bundle of services, including supported employment, cognitive rehabilitation (Thinking Skills for Work [TSW] program), and illness self-management (Illness Management and Recovery program), on improving employment outcomes and satisfaction of individuals with severe mental illness. The plan of evaluation is multidimensional with six parts that include assessing: (a) stated objectives, (b) two interventions being implemented with high fidelity to their models, (c) effectiveness of the TSW program on cognitive functioning, (d) recovery intervention having intended effect on improving illness and self-management, (e) long term effects on improving employment outcomes, and (f) perceived consumer experience. Assessment occurs throughout the project with the first already in place due to the implementation of a current piloted program. Project outcomes include: (1) knowledge that leads to improved work outcomes for consumers with severe mental illness who are enrolled in a supported employment programs; and (2) improvement of cognitive functioning and illness self-management skills in people with severe mental illness who are participating in supported employment program, in order to help them achieve their vocational goals and more effectively integrate into the community.
Descriptors: Cognitive rehabilitation, Employment, Psychiatric disabilities, Self Management, Supported employment, Vocational rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers (RRTCs).
Improved Employment Outcomes for Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities.
Boston University.
940 Commonwealth Avenue West.
Boston, MA 02215-1203.
E-mail: mfarkas@bu.edu erogers@bu.edu.
Principal Investigator: Marianne Farkas, ScD; E. Sally Rogers, ScD.
Public Contact Phone: 617/353-3549.
Fax: 617/353-7700.
Project Number: H133B090014.
Start Date: October 1, 2009.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Leslie J. Caplan, PhD.
NIDRR Funding: FY 09 $849,535; FY 10 $850,000; FY 11 $847,289; FY 12 $850,000; FY 13 $848,218.
Abstract: This project develops and tests innovative interventions, identifies barriers to and facilitators of effective partnerships among providers of employment services, and develops and tests adaptations of evidence-based employment interventions for individuals with psychiatric disabilities from traditionally underserved groups. Additionally, this project incorporates research findings into practice and policy by developing, evaluating, and implementing strategies to increase utilization of research findings; and conducts training, technical assistance, and dissemination activities (TDTA) with the same purpose. TDTA projects are organized into programmatic areas which together focus on the development and implementation of practices and services to improve employment outcomes. Using the knowledge transfer framework, TDTA projects produce usable, new technologies for improving employment outcomes.
Descriptors: Employment, Evidence-based practice, Intervention, Outcomes, Psychiatric disabilities, Rehabilitation, Underserved populations, Utilization.
Learning and Working During the Transition to Adulthood.
University of Massachusetts Medical School.
UMMS 55 Lake Avenue.
Worcester, MA 01655.
E-mail: maryann.davis@umassmed.edu.
Principal Investigator: Maryann Davis, PhD.
Public Contact Phone: 508/856-8718.
Fax: 508/856-8700.
Project Number: H133B090018.
Start Date: October 1, 2009.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Leslie J. Caplan, PhD.
NIDRR Funding: FY 09 $800,398; FY 10 $800,398; FY 11 $800,392; FY 12 $800,380; FY 13 $800,388.
Abstract: This project focuses on school-to work transitions and develops an integrated research program examining this developmental stage for individuals with severe psychiatric disabilities. The transition to adulthood is a critical life stage when the learning that occurs, both in school and in the larger world, lays an important foundation for individuals’ future work life. Severe psychiatric disability issues can disrupt the school-to work pathway and contribute to school dropout, psychiatric hospitalization, homelessness, and jail. The Learning and Working During the Transition to Adulthood Research and Training Center provides national leadership to researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and consumers and their families on the school to work transition of transition-age youth and young adults with serious mental health conditions. The Center develops and translates knowledge from state-of-the-art rigorous research on education and work experiences for 14-30 year olds. The research is informed by consumer and family input and is carried out in real world settings. This project contributes to new knowledge about interventions for this population who are from disadvantaged backgrounds, and improves coordination between child and adult mental health services. The translation of this knowledge speeds capacity building for service providers and the movement of findings into practice and policy.
Descriptors: Learning, Mental disabilities, School-to-work transition, Work transition.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center for Vocational Rehabilitation Research.
University of Massachusetts Boston.
100 Morrissey Boulevard.
Boston, MA 02125-3393.
E-mail: Susan.Foley@umb.edu.
URL(s): http://www.communityinclusion.org/project.php?project_id=50.
Principal Investigator: Susan Foley, PhD.
Public Contact Phone: 617/287-4317.
Project Number: H133B070001.
Start Date: October 1, 2007.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Phillip Beatty, PhD.
NIDRR Funding: FY 07 $649,999; FY 08 $649,999; FY 09 $650,000; FY 10 $650,000; FY 11 $650,000.
Abstract: The RRTC for Vocational Rehabilitation Research provides a comprehensive description of the vocational rehabilitation (VR) program, collects best practices, and addresses the need for information that will assist administrators, researchers, and advocates to make data driven policy and practice decisions. The RRTC (1) conducts an exhaustive, systematic research literature search in Year 1, modeled after the Campbell Collaboration reviews, to provide a comprehensive platform for future research activities of the RRTC and for other researchers and policy-makers; (2) collects descriptive data from a wide range of sources including existing administrative datasets and official documents, and launches the RRTC survey of state agencies for vocational rehabilitation, mental retardation/developmental disability, mental health, and welfare, and community rehabilitation providers in Years 2 and 3 to develop state-by-state profiles of employment services and the context of VR service delivery; (3) interviews VR directors of all 80 VR agencies in Years 2 and 3 to collect descriptive information about key characteristics related to operational and programmatic decisions, policies, and practices; (4) uses the Delphi Method in Years 3 through 5 to identify, evaluate, and describe best practices in the implementation of (a) Order of Selection policies and the prioritization of individuals with the most significant disabilities for VR services, (b) employment services for individuals with developmental disabilities, and (c) employment services for individuals with mental illnesses; (5) institutes a training and technical assistance agenda that uses Communities of Practice mechanisms to create interactive participant-driven opportunities for translation, information sharing, and policy development; and (6) widely disseminates products, curricula, and knowledge throughout the vocational rehabilitation system, employment services system, and to a wide array of disability and advocacy organizations. The RRTC develops a knowledgebase on VR that informs policy and practice at the federal, state, and local levels, encourages data-based decision-making, results in the development of a research base that future investigators can use for analyzing the consequences and outcomes of variations in State VR agencies' internal arrangements and operations, documents best practices in detail, identifies their key features, and investigates their transferability into other contexts. The RRTC is a partnership of the Institute for Community Inclusion at the University of Massachusetts Boston, the Center for the Study and Advancement of Disability Policy, and InfoUse, a woman-owned business.
Descriptors: Best practices, Employment, Knowledge translation, Vocational rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Disability in Rural Communities.
University of Montana.
52 Corbin Hall.
Missoula, MT 59812-7056.
E-mail: rural@ruralinstitute.umt.edu.
URL(s): http://rtc.ruralinstitute.umt.edu.
Principal Investigator: Tom Seekins, PhD.
Public Contact Phone: 888/268-2743 (V), 406/243-5467 (V), 406/243-4200 (TTY).
Fax: 406/243-2349.
Project Number: H133B080023.
Start Date: October 1, 2008.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Joyce Y. Caldwell.
NIDRR Funding: FY 08 $850,000; FY 09 $850,000; FY 10 $850,000; FY 11 $850,000; FY 12 $850,000.
Abstract: Nearly 20 percent of the 56 million Americans living in rural areas live with a disability. Compared to their urban counterparts, rural Americans with disabilities experience higher unemployment and poorer health. The RTC: Rural at The University of Montana conducts research that advances a science of rural disability and rehabilitation, improves the health of rural Americans with disabilities, and increases their opportunities for employment and community integration. The research and training program provides contextually appropriate, evidence-based solutions that rely on resources available in most rural communities, while respecting their diversity and values. The project: (1) conducts detailed statistical analyses of state Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) data to identify promising, evidence-based rural service practices; (2) develops and evaluates telecommunications protocol for providing rural VR services; (3) conducts a longitudinal study to determine why rural VR clients might exit services prematurely, and to evaluate retention strategies; (4) evaluates rural health promotion strategies that could lead to improved employment outcomes; (5) conducts a randomized controlled trial to evaluate ways to improve rural consumers’ use of health care services; (6) conducts a randomized controlled trial to evaluate a mental health peer support model for rural individuals with mobility or sensory impairments; and (7) identifies strategies to improve rural transportation. The knowledge translation program disseminates research findings and sparks the use of evidence-based rural practices by policy makers, advocates, service providers, and persons with disabilities. The project web site, which is a central component of the dissemination program, includes the first rural disability "wiki," building a rural disability knowledge base. The project includes three focused training initiatives: (1) promoting economic development in rural southwest Texas; (2) facilitating linkages between Utah Small Business Development Centers and VR services; and (3) implementing the Living Well with a Disability health promotion program in rural South Carolina. The project also includes an innovative, web-based state-of-the-science conference on rural disability and rehabilitation.
Descriptors: Employment, Mental health, Rehabilitation, Rural services, Service delivery, Transportation.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Employment Service Systems.
Hunter College of CUNY.
695 Park Avenue.
New York, NY 10021.
E-mail: joneill@hunter.cuny.edu.
URL(s): http://www.essrtc.org.
Principal Investigator: John O'Neill, PhD.
Public Contact Phone: 212/772-5188.
Fax: 212/650-3198.
Project Number: H133B040014.
Start Date: October 1, 2004.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: David W. Keer.
NIDRR Funding: FY 04 $699,981; FY 05 $699,973; FY 06 $699,990; FY 07 $849,982; FY 08 $699,975; FY 09 $ 0.
Abstract: This Employment Service Systems Research and Training Center develops, enhances, and utilizes partnerships to improve the quality of employment services, opportunities, and outcomes for people with disabilities. Five research projects have been designed to meet this goal and examine partnerships across public agencies, between not-for-profit and public agencies, and between rehabilitation agencies and businesses. The Consortia for Employment Success (CES) creates and evaluates fully integrated disability service provider networks in three local communities. The CES increases access for people with disabilities to both effective, comprehensive placement services, and a well-managed and centralized employer network that will increase employment and career advancement opportunities for persons with disabilities. The Workplace Socialization Model (WPS) supplements the CES Model by focusing on job enhancement and retention. The WPS aims to extend the job tenure of employees with disabilities and other positive work outcomes including the employee's job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and level of work culture competency, as well as the employer's satisfaction with the employee's job performance. Identification of "Good Practices" within Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is designed to identify a variety of good practices currently being used in the State-Federal VR system across the US that facilitate consumer access to services and enhance employment outcomes. Designing and Testing Comprehensive Employment Practice and Policy Initiatives within a Vocational Rehabilitation State Agency develops and tests a model that leads to enhanced employment outcomes. The model includes the "human capital" characteristics of persons with disabilities as well as what VR delivery systems add to these human capital factors to improve outcomes. A study of collaboration between Workforce Investment Act (WIA) partners in One-Stops collects data within 16 Iowa regions and correlates different levels of collaboration with customer satisfaction and employment outcomes.
Descriptors: Community-based services, Employment, Service delivery, Vocational rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Substance Abuse, Disability, and Employment.
Wright State University.
3171 Research Boulevard, Room 255.
Kettering, OH 45420.
E-mail: mary.mcaweeney@wright.edu.
URL(s): http://www.med.wright.edu/citar/sardi/rrtc_about.html.
Principal Investigator: Dennis C. Moore, EdD.
Public Contact Phone: 937/775-1484 (V/TTY).
Fax: 937/775-1495.
Project Number: H133B040012.
Start Date: December 1, 2004.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Leslie J. Caplan, PhD.
NIDRR Funding: FY 04 $699,998; FY 05 $699,983; FY 06 $699,981; FY 07 $699,984; FY 08 $699,989; FY 09 $ 0.
Abstract: This RRTC builds on previous findings to positively impact persons with disabilities who also experience substance use disorders, as well as the service providers upon whom they depend. The highly integrated program of research addresses the following goals and objectives: (1) Promote widespread use of substance use disorder screening among persons with disabilities who utilize disability-related employment services. This is accomplished by developing and validating a new substance abuse screener called the "SASSI-VR". Following two stages of development and validation, the SASSI-VR is evaluated in three vocational rehabilitation (VR) programs on a statewide basis. (2) Conduct a randomized clinical trial of a model of supported employment, Individualized Placement and Support (IPS), to test its efficacy among persons with traumatic brain injury or other severe disabilities that also have a substance use disorder. The two trial sites are affiliated with rehabilitation programs in the Wright State and Ohio State medical schools. Utilization of the IPS model with the study populations holds tremendous potential for impacting services delivery for consumers who experience very low rates of employment. (3) Research policy and practices relative to their impact on VR services for persons with a disability and coexisting substance abuse. Serving as a critical complement to the first project, the roles of policies, statutes, guidelines, and VR service delivery practices will be investigated within the larger community of public agencies. (4) Investigate factors that specifically contribute to unsuccessful case closure among consumers of VR services. This component studies recent unsuccessful closures and their VR counselors, and the study has particular sensitivity to the role of "hidden" substance abuse among unsuccessful closures.
Descriptors: Emergent disabilities, Employment, Substance abuse, Vocational rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Workplace Supports and Job Retention.
Virginia Commonwealth University.
1314 West Main Street, Box 842011.
Richmond, VA 23284-2011.
E-mail: vbrooke@vcu.edu.
URL(s): http://www.worksupport.com.
Principal Investigator: Paul Wehman, PhD.
Public Contact Phone: 804/828-1851 (V), 804/828-2494 (TTY).
Fax: 804/828-2193.
Project Number: H133B040011.
Start Date: November 1, 2004.
Length: 60 months.
NIDRR Officer: Leslie J. Caplan, PhD.
NIDRR Funding: FY 04 $699,981; FY 05 $699,973; FY 06 $699,990; FY 07 $699,988; FY 08 $699,999; FY 09 $ 0.
Abstract: The purpose of the RRTC on Workplace Supports and Job Retention is to study those supports which are most effective in the workplace for assisting persons with disabilities to maintain employment and advance their careers. Research includes two long-term prospective randomized experimental control research projects: (1) determining the efficacy of public/private partnerships, and (2) determining the efficacy of business mentoring and career based interventions with college students with disabilities. The RRTC is partnered with Manpower, Inc., several community rehabilitation programs, and the VCU Business Roundtable. Additional projects look at disability management practices, extended employment supports, job discrimination in employment retention, benefits planning and assistance, and workplace supports. These studies are done in conjunction with Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Society of Human Resource Professionals, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Descriptors: Employment, Training, Research, Remote service delivery.
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