State Rehabilitation Council to BRS

Recruitment Fact Sheet


The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) is an important partner with the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS), a division of the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS). BRS administers the Title I Vocational Rehabilitation and Title VI Supported Employment programs of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. This act mandates how employment services for people with disabilities are administered. It requires each designated state unit (BRS in Connecticut) to work closely with its SRC in conducting needs assessments and evaluations and in developing the State Plan, strategic plans, reports, and state goals and priorities.

Mission
The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) provides assessment, advice, and recommendations to the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) and others regarding the coordination and effectiveness of programs and strategies which promote community-based competitive employment for persons with disabilities.


Goals
The State Rehabilitation Council will:

♦ assess the effectiveness and delivery of vocational services provided by BRS to individuals with disabilities;

♦ strive to improve the coordination of vocational services among BRS, the state agencies and public and private entities for the benefit of consumers of BRS.

♦ make recommendations to the Governor, BRS, and others for developing and improving strategies for the employment and vocational services for individuals with disabilities.

Membership

The SRC is comprised of a variety of people including job seekers, family members, advocates, business leaders, community representatives, and professionals who support BRS employment endeavors. A majority of the members have a disability. These Governor-appointed SRC members serve as the voice of jobseekers to assist BRS plan and implement VR services. Any individual willing to serve in this capacity may seek an appointment to become a part of the SRC. Members are appointed to a three-year term following an application process; they may be appointed to a second three-year term.

Per the Rehab Act, the SRC is required to include specific representatives of the following groups:

♦ at least one representative of

  1. the Statewide Independent Living Council,
  2. the Parent Training and Information Center,
  3. the Client Assistance Program - CAP (Section 112),
  4. a qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor,
  5. Community Rehabilitation Providers (CRP),
  6. the State Education Department,
  7. the State Workforce Investment Board, and
  8. Section 121 (VR for native Americans);

♦ four representatives of business, industry and labor;

♦ representatives of disability advocacy groups representing physical, cognitive, sensory, and mental disabilities and individuals who have difficulty representing themselves; and

♦ current or former applicants or recipients of VR services. 

Meetings

The SRC rotates meetings around the state six times per year. Members are provided with accommodations for meetings and are reimbursed for travel expenses to and from meetings and other SRC activities. When needed, expenses for the use of personal care attendants that enable member participation in the meetings may also be reimbursed. Members are asked to join at least one subcommittee that will meet as needed to achieve committee goals. Members conduct their work through the following standing subcommittees: Business Partnership; Consumer Satisfaction; Inter-council Coordination/Nominations; and Legislation, Policy, and Planning. SRC members are also required to attend at least one public meeting when they are held. They may attend other BRS activities or programs as they become available.

Recruitment of New Members

The SRC always seeks new members who have a strong interest in the VR program and/or employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Having the time and willingness to do the work is essential. If you are interested in becoming a member or you would like more information, contact Kerri Fradette, SRC Liaison.

Contact Info:
860-424-4858;
1-800-537-2549 (toll-free);
860-920-7163 (Video Phone);
860-424-4850 (Fax);
kerri.fradette@ct.gov (E-mail)
www.DisabilityWorksCT.org (Web Site)