Washington State Department of Services for the Blind

List of Vocational Rehabilitation Services

The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program of the Department of Services for the Blind provides many no-cost services for employers and VR participants.

For participants, the VR program can:

Assist with the exploration of career options, career-goal planning and strategies, and job search

Conduct evaluations to measure one’s unique talents, skills, interests, and aptitudes

Fund or help subsidize the cost for training or education that is necessary to achieve the employment goal

Provide job development and job coaching services

Make referrals to other programs within the agency, such as:

The Assistive Technology Program for technology and skill development evaluation, consultation, and training
The Orientation and Training Center for comprehensive and intensive training in alternative forms of communication (e.g. Braille, computers with speech output, etc.), orientation and mobility, home management, and adjustment to blindness
The Business Enterprise Program for training and licensing vendors who are blind or visually impaired to manage food service facilities in government buildings.

Assist with résumé writing

Provide job placement services

Advocate and supply information regarding state disability rights and the Americans with Disabilities Act

Promote the individual’s job search networking and business contacts

Provide On-the-Job Training

Fund or help subsidize the cost for job necessities, such as work clothes, uniforms, tools, and equipment

Provide referral to the appropriate resources within the community

Fund or help subsidize the cost for low vision aids

Provide post-employment and follow-up services