Agencies to Know
There is no law that prevents your child from beating the bushes to find employment just like his siblings. Getting a job on his own would be a great boost to his confidence, as well it should be. However, if his disability is severe or if he has extreme communication needs, your child may benefit from the assistance of an agency.
Social Security Administration
Some children receive Supplemental Security Income their entire lives because of the severity of their disabilities. Some who did not qualify for SSI as young children because of family income may be eligible when they turn 18 years of age.
Check with the Social Security Office to see if your child qualifies for any funding. Note that although your child may qualify for SSI, he can still work. His income will affect the amount of SSI he receives.
Fact
The Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act (2008) safeguards against employment discrimination based on disability (that “substantially limits a major life activity”). The Act applies to places of work with more than 15 employees, and covers reasonable physical accommodations, training modifications, and job placement. The Act addresses fair hiring and treatment on the job, but does not guarantee employment.
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
The Rehabilitation Services Administration is a government agency that oversees some types of job training, independent living centers, supported employment, and the protection of individual rights of the disabled. The Rehabilitation Services Administration is under the U.S. Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services.
Its mission statement reads: “To provide leadership to achieve full integration and participation in society of people with disabilities by ensuring equal opportunity and access to, and excellence in, education, employment and community living.”
Essential
The Division of Rehabilitation Services offers programs and services to transition youth (ages 14 to 24) into careers or post-secondary education. These high school/high tech (HS/HT) programs include “school-based preparatory experiences, career preparation and work-based learning experiences, youth development and leadership, connecting activities, and family involvement and support.”
Individuals are taken into state Vocational Rehabilitation programs (often referred to as Voc Rehab, VR, or DORS [Division of Vocational Rehabilitation]) based on the severity of their need. Severe physical needs, mental disabilities, or the extreme communication needs of most deaf people are among some of the first to be considered. Funding for various training and supports is given to individuals based on need.
Through VR an individual might be eligible for a range of services, from training for a skilled job to college funding. A counselor within the VR program works with qualified individuals to attain independent living and work goals.
