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 its participants. These services may include:

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

Evaluations to measure the participant’s unique talents, skills, interests, and aptitudes

Financial assistance in the cost of training or education that is necessary to achieve the employment goal

Job development and job coaching services

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 to manage food service facilities in government buildings.

Assistance with résumé writing

Job placement services

Advocacy and information regarding state disability rights and the Americans with Disabilities Act

Assistance in the participant’s job search networking and business contacts

On the Job Training

Financial assistance in the cost of job necessities, such as work clothes, uniforms, tools, and equipment

Referral to the appropriate resources within the community

Financial assistance in the cost of low vision aids

Post-employment and follow-up services