Overview
What Is the Commission on Rehabilitation Services?
The Commission on Rehabilitation Services is the federally mandated state rehabilitation council, as described in Section 105 of the Rehabilitation Act. The Commission is comprised of a group of citizens appointed by the Governor representing the disability community. The Commission works with the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services’ Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) program, on matters such as the effectiveness and customer satisfaction with the services provided to Indiana’s citizens with disabilities participating in the VRS program. The Commission is also involved in matters effecting VRS program policies/procedures, goals and priorities, and the State Plan.
Who Are Commission Members?
The majority of the Commission members are individuals who have a disability, and are not employed by Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS). As required by the Rehabilitation Act, the Commission is comprised of individuals representing the Statewide Independent Living Council, Parent Training and Information Center, Client Assistance Program, Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) Counselors, Community Rehabilitation Program Providers, Business, Industry, and Labor, Disability Advocacy Groups, Current or Former Applicants or Recipients of services through VRS, the Workforce Investment Board, and the Department of Education.
What are the Responsibilities of Commission Members?
Members of the Commission are appointed by the Governor to serve a three-year term with the opportunity to be reappointed for one additional three-year term. Members must be able to attend meetings on a regular basis, and must be able to actively participate in committee work. Mileage reimbursement for meeting attendance is provided to Commission members.
What Does the Commission Do?
The Commission assists the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services’ Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS), with developing, providing and coordinating services toward employment for people with disabilities in the State of Indiana. The Commission serves citizens with disabilities by:
• Assisting VRS in developing its goals and priorities
• Evaluating the effectiveness of the VRS program, and preparing an annual report
• Providing input on the development of the VRS customer satisfaction survey
and analyzing the results
• Reviewing and providing comments on the VRS State Plan.
• Making Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) policy recommendations
• Advocating for quality services
• Making funding recommendations
• Collaborating with other Governor appointed councils
• Increasing public awareness of disability issues
Commission Meetings
Meetings are held in Indianapolis four (4) times per year, with one (1) additional meeting held outside the Indianapolis area. The meetings are open to the public. At each meeting, there is a regularly scheduled open forum time period for public comments.
Commission on Rehabilitation Services
- Overview
- History & Regulations
- Commission Members
- Committees
- Publications
- Calendar of Meetings
- Contacts
- Membership Inquiry
Community Services
