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FFY2O16 ANNUAL REPORT Dear Colleagues –

As my first full year unfolds before me at the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council (ORC), I am proud to be a part of the ever changing opportunities for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. You will notice in the Annual Report that we have captured the lives of people with disabilities through their personal success stories. We have also shared quotes from them throughout and these quotes provide examples of the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services (OKDRS) counseling services and support along with the ORC’s oversight to help job seekers gain employment.

In Oklahoma, we are entering a unique time for initiatives that have been set before us. OKDRS and ORC both play vital roles in the Governor’s Oklahoma Works Initiative. Oklahoma Works is an initiative to increase the wealth of all Oklahomans through facilitating quality employment for workers and ready availability of highly skilled talent for business and industry. The initiative is a coalition of state agencies, educational institutions, businesses and other partners. This will enable OKDRS and ORC to be utilized as resources and play a major role in helping people with disabilities achieve their personal goals and visions. ORC also has the opportunity to advocate and lead people with disabilities to a better future!

We do have a lot of work ahead of us, but our job is not done here! ORC is extremely honored to be a partner and supporter of the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, the Agency staff and the citizens of Oklahoma.

ORC is affiliated with the National Council of State Rehabilitation Councils (NCSRC) and this premiere national organization of the consumer voice enhances the employment opportunities of persons with disabilities through the public Vocational Rehabilitation system. Oklahoma is very fortunate to be a part of this diverse, honest, inclusive and excellent coalition. The resources available that are made possible through the NCSRC, to the state of Oklahoma, are invaluable.

Sincerely,

Renee Sansom, MS ORC Program Manager Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council 3535 NW 58th St., Suite 500 Oklahoma City, OK. 73112 Phone: 405-‐951-‐3579 Toll Free: 1-‐800-‐569-‐7974 Fax: 405-‐951-‐3532 Email: [email protected]

Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council FFY2016 Annual Report We Are The Voice of the Consumer! Mission The mission of the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council (ORC) is to facilitate consumer education and empowerment, to assure services are of high quality and lead to employment of individuals with disabilities within Oklahoma. Structure DRS (Department of Rehabilitation) contracts with the Department of Wellness at Oklahoma State University (OSU) for the provision of the staff support services for the ORC as set forth in Section 105 and Section 4.2 of the State Plan of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The Director of Sponsored Programs at the Department of Wellness hires, supervises, and evaluates a full-time Program Manager position for the daily operations of the council and a part-time administrative assistant. In addition, OSU manages all contractual financial obligations of the council. In turn, DRS provides in-kind services of office space, phone and computer access to the council staff. Table of Contents Page Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council ...... 4 Program and Planning Committee ...... 4 Goal 1: ...... 4 Goal 2: ...... 7 Executive Committee ...... 9 Goal 3: ...... 9 Policy and Legislative Committee ...... 12 Goal 4: ...... 12 Transition and Employment Committee ...... 15 Goal 5: ...... 15 Goal 6: ...... 17 Goal 7: ...... 18 YEAR IN REVIEW ...... 19 APPENDICES A: Council Members and Staff ...... 32 B: Cost Breakdown by County ...... 34 C: Legislative Primer ...... 36 D: Success Stories ...... 38 E: Sponsorship Program ...... 40 F: Oklahoma’s Workforce Development Boards ...... 41 G: Oklahoma Vocational Rehabilitation Offices ...... 42 H: Support Letters ...... 44 3 Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council Strategic Plan for FFY16

The Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council complies with the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) federal functions and related work tasks as defined in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) – Rehabilitation Act, as Amended 1998. This is accomplished through a strategic plan process that creates a blended document of federal SRC mandates (as defined by WIOA) and ORC specific goals, objectives and activities.

The following FFY16 Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council’s Strategic Plan provides a concisely, blended report of both SRC WIOA mandates and the additional goals, objectives and activities which the ORC undertook to advance the ORC’s mission to facilitate consumer education and empowerment to assure that services are of high quality and lead to employment of individuals with disabilities. The ORC Strategic Plan is created annually and implemented through a coordinated committee process consisting of the following 4 committees: Program and Planning, Executive, Policy and Legislative and Transition and Employment.

Program and Planning Committee

Review, analyze and advise DSU on the SRC WIOA standards and indicators as laid out by Section 106 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; Active participation on the DSU State Plan Meetings; Active participation on the DSU Comprehensive Needs Assessment development initiative and Analyze the trends of the Job Seeker Satisfaction Survey.

Goal 1: In accordance with Section 105 (A)(c)(i), the Program and Planning Committee, will quarterly or as necessary, review, analyze and advise DSU on the standards and indicators, job seeker satisfaction statewide comprehensive needs assessment, and other relevant data.

Program and Planning Committee Objectives Met SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-1:...... Partially Met The Council must, after consulting with the State Workforce Development Board review, analyze, and advise the Designated State unit regarding the performance of the State unit’s responsibilities under this part, particularly responsibilities related to Eligibility, including order of selection. Explanation: The Quarterly review of VR/VS data to review all case data and ensure timeliness of eligibility, writing of plans and all other Performance Measures has been done. Due to the final WIOA regulations not being sent out until August 19, 2016 and the VR portion was not effective until September 19, 2016, this objective is not being met at this time. ORC and DSU have been awaiting the final WIOA regulations in order to move forward with completion. Will continue this effort in FFY 17. Program and Planning Committee Objectives (continued) Met SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-2: ...... No The extent, scope, and effectiveness of services provided; and functions performed by State agencies that affect or potentially affect the ability of individuals with disabilities in achieving employment outcomes under this part. Note: Successful Closures from VR/VS were 2,125 for FY 2016. The closure goal for the DSU was not met. Explanation: 6 Core Indicators – We continue to follow WIOA Regulations. Due to the final WIOA regulations not being sent out until August 19, 2016 and the VR portion was not effective until September 19, 2016, this objective is not being met at this time. Will continue this effort in FFY 17. SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-3: ...... Yes In partnership with the designated State unit — develop, agree to, and review State goals and priorities in accordance with Sec. 361.29(c). Note: Last year’s public hearings; the dates were December 7, 2015, December 8, 2015 and December 9, 2015. Ongoing participation with policy committee and collaboration with agency to promote and host public hearings. Explanation: This objective has been met – Unified State Plan completed by DSU. The CORE partners will work under WIOA regulations. The 4 CORE partner/agencies submitted the Unified State Plan in April of 2016. That team also sent in the 1st round of revisions (pre-regulations) for the Unified State Plan on Monday, June 13, 2016. They are anticipating other rounds of revisions to come. On June 30, 2016 regulations were sent, but not the final. DSU is waiting on partner approvals. The VR portion has been flagged as “approved” on the RSA portal. August 19, 2016, the Final Regs were sent out and the VR Final Rules were effective I feel September 19, 2016. that I have SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-4: ...... Yes gained more Evaluate the effectiveness of the vocational rehabilitation program and submit reports of progress to the Secretary in accordance with Sec. confidence. 361.29(e). I have great Note: What did DSU spend in various counties? Explanation: This objective has been met. This is ongoing throughout the year. support and it is a positive new world.” Angie Davis 5 Bixby, Oklahoma Program and Planning Committee Objectives (continued) Met SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-5:...... Yes Advise the designated State agency and the designated State unit regarding activities carried out under this part and assist in the preparation of the State plan and amendments to the plan, applications, reports, needs assessments, and evaluations required by this part. Note: Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council is a full partner with state plan discussion and preparation as well as the Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment. The DSU and SRC will complete steps one and two and initiate step three. The model CSNA process includes six steps: 1. Defining and establishing CSNA goals; 2. Developing CSNA plan for information and dissemination; 3. Gather the information; 4. Analyzing the results and developing findings 5. Developing the conclusions; Potential action strategies; and 6. Informing state plan goals, priorities, and strategies. Year 1 – The DSU and SRC will complete steps one and two, and initiate step three. Accomplishments: Work and advisory teams were established. Goals were defined. A work plan, timeline and dissemination plan were developed. Possible sources of data were identified including census data, state population estimates; labor and economic data; and VR agency data. Work team initiated data gathering. Year 2 – The DSU and SRC will complete step three. Step 3 continued as described above. Accomplishments: Work team began collection of data from identified sources. Multiple surveys were distributed to stakeholders. Public meetings were held to identify needs of partners such as schools, workforce, CRPs; consumers and the public. Changes to be added to Step 3 due to WIOA: Additional plans were developed to include needs of youth and students with disabilities and job seekers of workforce. These plans include gathering existing data from IDEA/504 reports, existing data from external transition needs studies, data from the workforce development system, and including these topics in the public hearings. SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-6:...... Yes To the extent feasible, conduct a review and analysis of the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with; the functions performed by the designated State agency; the vocational rehabilitation services provided by State agencies and other public and private entities responsible for providing vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities under the Act; and the employment outcomes achieved by eligible individuals receiving services under this part, including the availability of health and other employment benefits in connection with those employment outcomes. Note: Job Seeker success stories were sent in and job seeker satisfaction surveys were completed. This committee will serve as a repository from information groups to make consumer disability recommendations to the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council for potential collaborations, partnerships and/or initiatives. 6 Program and Planning Committee Objectives (continued) Met Explanation: This objective has been met. This is ongoing throughout the year. DSU will start over with the next one once every 3 years. It will be done internally by the Process Improvement (PI) Unit with DSU. The next one is 2017. Upon receiving report in September, 2016, the ORC will review this and break it down or separate it out. This will put DSU ahead of the game.

Goal 2: The Program and Planning Committee will support quality job seeker services, career planning and effective employment.

Program and Planning Committee Activities Met Activity 1 -...... Yes Request the DSU to report the findings of the job seeker satisfaction survey for open and closed cases, annually or every two years as conducted. Explanation: This objective has been met and is ongoing throughout the year. Activity 2 -...... Yes Field Coordinators will continue to report on the performance activities using the standards and indicators data template at the quarterly ORC meetings. Explanation: This objective has been met and is ongoing throughout the year. Activity 3 - ...... Yes Report and Recommend current data to the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council Program Manager for inclusion on the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council website. Explanation: This is done in house through OSU, ORC staff. This objective has been met and is ongoing throughout the year. Activity 4 - ...... Yes Continue to support all disability groups and report any new information regarding them to the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council. Explanation: Candidate Forum, Tech-Now, Endeavor Games, etc. PM shares all information with ORC members. Activity 5 - ...... Yes Collaborate with the DSU through the state plan process to include the development of the goals and priorities. Explanation: This objective has been met and is ongoing throughout the year. Program and Planning Committee Activities (continued) Met Activity 6 - ...... Yes Serve as a repository from consumer disability information groups to make recommendations to the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council for potential collaborations, partnerships and/or initiatives. Explanation: PM shares all WIOA, disability concerns, Workforce issues and other disability groups with ORC. ORC is involved with “Access for All” with DSU and DSU is heavily involved with Workforce initiatives.

DRS has improved my life.” Michael Elgin, Oklahoma

This young man from Elgin, Oklahoma, worked with DSU counselor, Heidi Layton, to find shelter, food, learn two trades and gain employment. When Michael first came to DSU, he was homeless / living in his car and starving. Heidi and Michael discussed options for employment and Michael attended a truck driving school. Unfortunately, this didn’t work out so he then attended Job Corp. where he learned the plumbing trade. He received his plumbing license and his life improved dramatically. Michael really liked truck driving, though, so he enrolled again in another driving school and this time, he received his CDL. In fact, he got a job within 5 minutes of applying. Now, he is a long haul truck driver with a fall-back option of plumbing. Executive Committee

Comprised of the SRC Chair, Vice-Chair, and 3 members-at-large. The Executive Committee also consists of the Associate Director and the Director of Sponsored Programs of the OSU, Department of Wellness, who oversees the contractual administration of the ORC. Ensures that committees are assigned to meet the requirements of Section 105 of the Rehab Act with regard to Public Hearings, State Plan, Comprehensive Needs Assessment, Job Seeker Satisfaction and Annual Report.

Goal 3: Maintain standing committees that address the goals and objectives outlined by the ORC, the DSU State Plan, and the Rehabilitation Act (i.e., Policy and Legislative Committee, Program and Planning Committee, and Transition and Employment Committee). Every ORC member will serve on a committee(s).

Executive Committee Objectives Met SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-1: ...... Yes Prepare and submit to the Governor and to the Secretary no later than 90 days after the end of the Federal fiscal year an annual report on the status of vocational rehabilitation programs operated within the State and make the report available to the public through appropriate modes of communication. Note: Annual Report submitted to the Governor and the U S Department of Education, Rehabilitation Services Administration prior to deadline for FY16. Explanation: This was met as the Annual Report was submitted to the Governor and RSA 2 weeks before the due date of December 31, 2015. SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-2:...... Yes Perform other comparable functions, consistent with the purpose of this part, as the Council determines to be appropriate, that are comparable to the other functions performed by the Council. Note: Given the recent passage of the Workforce Innovations Opportunity Act (WIOA), the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council has closely partnered with the DSU to ensure that appropriate emphasis is being placed on ‘accessibility’ for increased employability of all job seekers. The Council has established quarterly reports on this new initiative which focuses on both physical and technological accessibility at all workforce sites statewide as well as the accessibility of all core partners named in WIOA. Explanation: This is being met through the functions laid out in the Rehab Act. SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-3: ...... Yes Resources. The Council, in conjunction with the Designated State unit, must prepare a plan for the provision of resources, including staff and other personnel that may be necessary and sufficient for the Council to carry out its functions under this part. The resource plan must, to the maximum extent possible, rely on the use of resources in existence during the period of implementation of the plan. Any disagreements between the designated State unit and the Council regarding the amount of resources necessary to carry out the functions of the Council must be resolved by the Governor, consistent with paragraphs (i)(1) and (2) of this section. Executive Committee Objectives (continued) Met The Council must, consistent with State law, supervise and evaluate the staff and personnel that are necessary to carry out its functions. Those staff and personnel that are assisting the Council in carrying out its functions may not be assigned duties by the designated State unit or any other agency or office of the State that would create a conflict of interest. Note: The Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council has an established contract with the DSU through Oklahoma State University’s Department of Wellness. This contract clearly defines an annual Scope of Work and Budget, which addresses contractual deliverables as defined in the Strategic Plan as well as staff salaries. Council staff meets quarterly with the DSU Director and both Division Administrators to ensure seamless execution of the Goals, Objectives and Activities of the Strategic Plan as determined through Section 105 (b)(1)(A) of the Rehabilitation Act. Explanation: This activity has been met. DSU funds ORC staff through a contractual arrangement with the OSU – Department of Wellness. This places ORC in a very good position and gives ORC the opportunity to utilize various resources, which would otherwise not be available. There are many collaborative activities between ORC and DSU. Executive Committee Activities Met Activity 1 - ...... Yes Meet with DSU Division Administrators and the State Director, quarterly, or as needed, to maintain regular communication and collaborate on the development of the agenda. Explanation: This is being met as all Executive Committee Meetings are held quarterly between the dates of the regularly scheduled ORC quarterly meetings. Activity 2 - ...... Yes As a Council vacancy opens, the Program Manager will recruit, recommend, and consult with the Governor’s Deputy of Appointments to ensure membership compliance with the Rehabilitation Act. Explanation: This is being met as PM is constantly recruiting and seeking new potential members to have available going forward and maintains these contacts on an Excel spread sheet. Activity 3 - ...... Yes Actively recruit and outreach with businesses and disability organizations to educate them on the services of DSU as well as the SRC purpose. Explanation: This activity has been met. Mark Kinnison and Melinda Fruendt along with the Business Services Unit are in the process of devel oping a Business Services Model. ORC is and will be assisting with this process. DRS gave my freedom back. I have an accessible van and a job that I enjoy. I am a 5th grade teacher and I absolutely love it.” Jared C a l u m e t , O k l a h o m a ______

Executive Committee Activities (continued) Met Activity 4 - ...... Yes Continue to coordinate with the DSU Division Administrators to ensure attendance of Field Coordinators and associate members to attend quarterly meetings. Explanation: This activity has been met. All Division Administrators and Field Coordinators attend regularly scheduled quarterly ORC meetings. Activity 5 - ...... Yes The Program Manager will participate on the DSU’s WBD Team. Explanation: This activity has been met. PM is very active and participates in the Workforce Development Board Team meetings. Activity 6 - ...... Yes The ORC will send at least one representative to the SILC quarterly meetings and a SILC representative will attend and report to the ORC on SILC activities. Explanation: This activity has been met. ORC PM attends these meetings on a regular basis. Activity 7 - ...... Partially Met Explore opportunities for orientation of SILC members on the role of the ORC. Explanation: This activity has been partially met. ORC PM met with Executive Director of the SILC to review the SPIL. ORC and SILC are partnering with this activity. Activity 8 - ...... Yes Continually review and update the ORC Website.

Explanation: This activity has been met as this is constantly being updated by PM and OSU web designer. Policy and Legislative Committee

Activities include, but are not limited to, advocacy and education, policy and State Plan review, State Plan Public Hearings and Success Stories. Also, responsible for the reviewing/monitoring of pending and current disability-related legislation, particularly with respect to impact on funding; suggest/develop legislation as needed. Active participation on the DSU Policy Re-engineering Committee. Support DSU with both national and state efforts to enhance advocacy activities and services for VR/VS job seekers.

Goal 4: The ORC will build capacity for consumer education and empowerment to showcase awareness and education for both consumers and employers.

Policy and Legislative Committee Objectives Met SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-1: ...... Yes To avoid duplication of efforts and enhance the number of individuals served, coordinate activities with the activities of other councils within the State, including the Statewide Independent Living Council established under 34 CFR part 364, the advisory panel established under section 612(a)(21) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council described in Section 124 of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, the State Mental Health Planning Council established under Section 1914(a) of the Public Health Service Act, the Assistive Technology Act Program and the State Workforce Development Board. Note: Efforts were coordinated to ensure activities with other councils in the state throughout the year for FY16. Disability primer continues to promote education and awareness to Oklahoma Legislators. This shows the partnership with the agency, DSU, to assist Oklahoma Legislators as they review and discuss laws and regulations moving forward. A second primer is still being utilized to use with the general public at various statewide disability-related events. New Brochures and Banner continue to create and promote education and awareness to Oklahomans with Disabilities and those advocating for people with disabilities. Twitter and Facebook continue to be utilized to promote education and awareness to Oklahomans with Disabilities and those advocating for people with disabilities. Explanation: ORC partnered with SILC for the Candidate Forum and the SILC SPIL has been shared with the ORC. Collaboration with ORC and SILC are on all 4 goals noted to the SPIL. ORC partnered with DD (FAR) in regard to parents with disabilities. In May 2016, a proposal was submitted to the Christopher Reeve Foundation for an adaptive baby equipment grant. The award was received in July 2016. SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-2: ...... Partially Met Provide for coordination and the establishment of working relationships between the designated State agency and the Statewide Independent Living Council and Centers for Independent Living within the State. Note: SRC maintained a working relationship with the DSU and the Oklahoma SILC through FY16. Explanation: There has been coordination and planning with the SILC; efforts are underway to strengthen this effort moving forward through report outs and both the ORC and SILC meetings moving forward. 12 Policy and Legislative Committee Objectives (continued) Met SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-3: ...... Partially Met Support DSU with disability-related legislation during the Oklahoma Legislative Session. • Insignia legislation to support new ADA icon project – SB- 1361 • Cell phone surcharge to generate more revenue to support AT purchases for those who are deaf, hard of hearing and/or speech- impaired • Establish Oklahoma Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Savings Plan Act; ABLE savings accounts for individuals with disabilities 26 years of age and above – SB- 1005 and HB- 2686 Explanation: SB- 1361 by Halligan required the Office of Management and Enterprise Services to issue rules to remove the word “handicapped” from any signs or other means of communication where the word appears. It directed OMES to issue rules to require that wherever the current universal accessibility symbol appears on any state property, it would be replaced with a new symbol showing a forward leaning figure in a wheelchair depicting motion. The bill applied to new or replacement signs. The bill was not heard in Senate Health and Human Services. Cell phone surcharge bill was not introduced to the legislation. SB- 1005 and HB- 2686 - ABLE bills would create a structure for savings accounts that could be used by individuals with disabilities to pay for disability-related expenses. Funds in the accounts could be built up to $100,000 without threatening the individual’s eligibility for many federal means- tested programs such as Medicaid and SSI. The accounts were made possible by 2014 federal legislation, the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, which allowed states to adopt legislation making the accounts available to state residents with disabilities that began by age 26. Both bills are on General Order in their respective houses of origin. Of the 8 initial bills introduced to create the ABLE Account, the Governor has signed HB-2821 (Denney; Crain) into law, which will go into effect on November 1st, 2016. ABLE Accounts were permitted by federal legislation in 2014, but states had to adopt enabling legislation to be able to offer the savings options locally. SRC WIOA Mandate - Objective 1-4: ...... Ongoing Support DSU efforts with Access for All Initiative for all job seekers and businesses and employers work sites through all levels of Oklahoma Works. Working with the Governor’s Council for Workforce and Economic Development (GCWED), system partners bring sharper focus on developing and employing more Oklahomans with disabilities. Explanation: The Governor’s Council is trying to fill the gap with Oklahoma citizens and Business Leaders

Policy and Legislative Committee Activities Met Activity 1 - ...... Partially Met Promote and increase the number of Consumer Success Stories (CSS) to be distributed annually to key stakeholders at the DSU Disability Awareness Day, Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation Capitol Hill visits, the Governor, and the Lieutenant Governor. Post new stories quarterly on 13 the ORC website and share with members at the ORC quarterly meetings. Policy and Legislative Committee Activities Met Note: The target would be 50 a year/10 per region (Central, Northwest, Southwest, Northeast and Southeast). Also, in addition to the job seeker success stories, create an ‘employer’ component when possible, making the success story stronger by showcasing successful employment of DSU job seekers with disabilities. Emphasis will be placed on gathering VR, VS and Transition stories. A short video showcasing the more impactful stories will also be created. Explanation: 30 success stories completed this FFY. 50 success stories was very ambitious. The number of success stories will be adjusted for FFY 17. Activity 2 - ...... Yes Continue participation and input with VR/VS Division Staff to ensure the DSU policies are in alignment with the Rehabilitation Act, Oklahoma consumer needs and employment outcomes. Explanation: PM Continues to be a part of these policy meetings. Activity 3 - ...... Yes Partner with DSU on “Disability Awareness Day at the Capitol”, by marketing the event, setting up an exhibitor booth, and assisting consumers by being legislative guides. Explanation: Awareness day was held on April 5, 2016 and this has been met. Activity 4 - ...... Yes Continue to partner with other consumer advocacy groups to host the “Meet the Candidates Forum”, as events occur during the election years. Explanation: This event was held on Saturday, July 23rd, 2016 with over 75 in attendance and 16 Candidates. Activity 5 - ...... Yes The ORC will partner with the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) and National Council of State Administrators of the Blind (NCSAB) on federal legislative initiatives by attending the spring and/or fall meetings and by participating in national sub-committee activities and providing updates to full council. Council members to go as well. Explanation: PM, Chair and Vice Chair attended CSAVR and PM attended NCSAB. This is being met. Activity 6 - ...... Yes Provide public comment on policy changes, promote consumer attendance at all public hearings and distribute flyers with summary of proposed changes and information on public hearings. Explanation: This has been met as the action was completed in December 2015 and February 2016. Transition and Employment Committee

Active participation on the Oklahoma Transition Council. Support DSU with statewide efforts to enhance transition activities and services for youth in secondary settings to increase successful employment outcomes. The primary focus of this committee will be to support activities which provide enhanced services to youth and students with disabilities to help them prepare for life after high school, including, but not limited to, further education/training, competitive integrated employment, independent living and social skills, self-determination, and self-advocacy.

Goal 5: Collaborate with the DSU to address the utilization of in-demand occupation information during the career planning process as well as the enhancement of a job seeker page on the DSU website in accessible formats for all DSU consumers.

Transition and Employment Committee Objectives Met Objective 1-1: ...... Partially Met Partner to add links to the DSU website with live links to host demand occupation information gathered from the Department of Commerce, Bureau of Labor Statistics and other sources. We may have to have examples on how to understand the website information. Gather information regarding programs that are currently missing from the website.

Without VR, I would have been in a nursing home... My well-being is improved and I feel as though my lifespan will be extended.” Marty Tulsa, Oklahoma Marty states that “the overall scope of life has leveled me. My well-being is improved and I have a couple of extra years of life. I have hope and am not giving up. DRS has given me a reason to live and we are so blessed to have had this help to function and feel like members of society. I enjoy advocating for others. Without VR, I would have been in a nursing home. DRS gave us hope and we can still help others. I still get to do what I love as a doctor, I now get to present to other doctors who share the same love for helping others.” Transition and Employment Committee Objectives (continued) Met Note: Develop a mock site that OU Masters students with Transition degrees can have as a directed project. The website will be accessible. DSU website could add a tab to directly link them to ORC where the information about transition can be found. Add skills tabs for teachers, adults and transition. Add a quiz to the website where they will answer questions to determine their needs. Add a tab for In Demand Occupations, Career Techs, Accommodations, etc. 1. Identify existing job preparation tools (e.g., www.okcareerguide.com) to be included as resources on this dedicated page. 2. Create and develop the content of the page to be provided in layout format for DSU Communications Office. 3. Develop partnership buy-in from ORC member organizations to link with this resource from their websites. 4. Market the page. 5. Integrate 2.4 in the Job Seeker page. OK Career Guide replacing OKCIS. Add transition care notebook, increase job shadowing, in demand occupations, host events about these things, list programs available, like Project Search and Ijobs. Embed this information with the new web page. Explanation: This objective has been met and is ongoing throughout the year in regards to adding links to the DSU website. DSU and ORC PM continue to work together to add links on the DSU website to include the job seeker page, In-Demand Jobs, assessing your skills, abilities and goals workbook, transition student questionnaire, values and preferences worksheet, sample resume, tips on explaining possible employment disabilities, how to interview and interview questions as well as other pertinent information throughout the year. The OU Mock Site objective was not met. The committee has decided to work on this in another Program Year due to time restraints within the year and available participants through OU. The committee needs to decide if this is an achievable outcome for FFY17. Objective 1-2: ...... Yes Review DSU successful closure data for adults and transition age youth to determine if there is a correlation between agency closures and demand occupations. Working with DSU to get this information. Explanation: This objective has been met and is ongoing throughout the year. Sandi Wright and Unit provided a comprehensive report regarding demand occupations and the correlation with agency closures to the ORC in March of 2016. Objective 1-3: ...... Yes Identify underutilized in demand occupation areas that could be potential job match for consumers. Develop ways to encourage and support to facilitate training with staff. Where is the gap? Where is our focus? Nationwide? Regional? Statewide? Explanation: This objective has been met and is ongoing throughout the year. Sandi Wright and Unit provided follow-up information with the correlation of persons with disabilities and priority group. The gap is in the jobs. Goal 6: Develop an instrument to assist DSU consumers to inform all disability support organizations in OK. This would complement the Transition Planning Folder and Keeping Track of Your Progress tools. It will be disseminated to parents, students, teachers and other stakeholders. Transition and Employment Committee Activities Met Activity 1 - ...... Yes Invite transition teams to present the progress of their team plans, including best practices, at the quarterly ORC meetings. Explanation: This objective has been met. Multiple teams have been invited to present (i.e., Marcie Stickney from the Norman Transition Team came and spoke to the committee about their work on the team and what their plans are for the future). Activity 2 - ...... Yes The DSU Transition Coordinator will share Indicator 14 – Post-School Outcome reports provided by the Oklahoma State Department of Education, Special Education Services with the committee. Explanation: State Department of Education, Lori Chesnut, provided the committee the findings of this information in September 2016. Activity 3 - ...... Yes ORC will support participation of Oklahoma Transition Council (OTC) including its collaboration with National Centers - National Technical Assistance Center on Transition (NTACT). Note: ORC Program Manager attends monthly meetings to the OTC and continues to help organize and participate in the Oklahoma Transition Institute. Explanation: This objective has been met and is ongoing throughout the year. NTACT’s purpose is to assist State Education Agencies, Local Education Agencies, State VR agencies, and VR service providers in implementing evidence- based and promising practices ensuring students with disabilities, including those with significant disabilities, graduate prepared for success in postsecondary education and employment. NTACT is utilized as a resource for effective practices and predictors that promote positive post-school outcomes for all students with disabilities. Activity 4 - ...... Yes Highlight success stories of transition students with legislators in each region. Explanation: Posters and flyers were made with transition students highlighted. Activity 5 - ...... Yes Annually review the State Department of Education, Special Education Child Count Data, to study trends and report to DSU in order for the DSU to have an awareness of future needs of both consumers and personnel. Explanation: State Department of Education, Lori Chesnut provided the committee the findings of this information in September 2016. Transition and Employment Committee Activities (continued) Met Activity 6 - ...... Yes Invite Workforce Development Board and local youth committee representatives to attend ORC quarterly meetings to report on the efforts made toward employment for persons with disabilities within their region. We should have 1 per quarter and develop partnerships with youth committee representatives and Workforce Development Boards. Explanation: This objective has been met and is ongoing throughout the year. These committee reps are being invited quarterly. Activity 7 - ...... No Develop an instrument to assist DSU consumers to inform all disability support organizations in OK. This would complement the Transition Planning Folder and Keeping Track of Your Progress tools. It will be disseminated to parents, students, teachers and other stakeholders. Develop one document, double sided with the disability specific organizations by disability category, specifically those listed in the IDEA including Mental Health. Explanation: This activity will be condensed to research the organizations another program year and begin the developing process in the years to come. Activity 8 - ...... No Invite the DSU, State Department of Education, and state workforce system partners to discuss the ideas for conducting a needs assessment on transition services. Explanation: This activity was added mid-year. However, there are plans to continue this partnership and discussion during FFY17. Activity 9 - ...... No Collaborate with the DSU Programs Standards staff to develop a timeline, needs assessment instrument, and final report on transition services. Explanation: This activity was added mid-year. However, there are plans to continue this partnership and discussion during FFY17. Activity 10 - ...... No Utilize the needs assessment on transition services final report in the next state planning update. Explanation: This activity was added mid-year. However, there are plans to continue this partnership and discussion during FFY17.

Goal 7: Develop and conduct a needs assessment of individuals with disabilities for transition career services and pre- employment transition services, including services coordinated with transition services provided under IDEA with a Note of: This goal will satisfy the final requirement listed in the VR Services portion of the Unified State Plan – Description – Statewide Assessment. Year In Review

COUNCIL STRUCTURE

During 2016, the ORC fulfilled all membership requirements of Section 105 of the Rehabilitation Act with appointments by the Governor. The council had 19 members, 3 being ex-officio nonvoting members from DSU. Of the voting members, the council had 52% representation from persons with disabilities. The council members are a cross-section of individuals with disabilities who have a stake in vocational rehabilitation services. Members serve three-year terms, with the exception of the Job Seeker Assistance Program representative; no voting member can serve more than two consecutive full terms.

The council structure includes a Chair, Vice-Chair and three members-at-large as Executive Committee members. Each member-at-large of the Executive Committee holds the position of Chair on a committee. At the request of the ORC, the agency has assigned a staff liaison to each committee that acts as a content specialist to that committee called Associate Members. The Associate Members are vital due to the importance of the work of each committee

(See Appendix A, page 28, for biographies and photos of council members)

Quarterly Meetings

In compliance with the Rehabilitation Act, the council scheduled and held four quarterly meetings during FFY15 and held an annual strategic planning meeting. Meeting dates were: • October 8, 2015 (FFY 16 Strategic Planning Meeting) • November 19, 2015 • February 18, 2016 • May 19, 2016 • August 18, 2016 • September 15, 2016 (FFY 17 Strategic Planning Meeting) Committees met at least once per quarter throughout the year or more often if needed to complete the tasks as outlined in the ORC Strategic Plan. To request additional copies or alternate formats of this publication or for more information about the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council please contact: Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council 3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 500 • Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73112-4824 (405) 951-3579 V/TTY • (405) 951-3532 Fax orc.okstate.edu [email protected] PROGRAM AND PLANNING COMMITTEE Chairperson – Diana Garrett DRS Liaison - Melinda Fruendt

Program and Planning Committee – Review, analyze and advise DSU on the standards and indicators as laid out by Section 106 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. Active participation on the DSU State Plan Meetings. Active participation on the DSU Comprehensive Needs Assessment development initiative. Analyze the trends of the Job Seeker Satisfaction Survey.

The assigned liaison for this committee was the DSU Project Coordinator, Executive Division.

• The DSU reported to the committee that the VR/VS open/closed case satisfaction surveys that are done annually are reporting very similar information. The agency performs the closed case annual survey in an effort to conserve resources. It is important to note that the response rate was not high enough to allow inferences to be made about the total population based on the responses received. Therefore, this analysis ought not to be construed as applying to the whole population, but interpreted as the opinions of the • The overall VR/VS satisfaction rate for CY 2015 successful closures was 87.4%. • For CY 2015, 86.7% of VR respondents agreed with the statement “11. Overall, I am satisfied with the services I received from DSU.” This is an increase from the 82.3% agreement rate for CY 2014 successful • For CY 2015, 90.2% of VS respondents agreed with the statement “11. Overall, I am satisfied with the services I received from DSU.” This is an increase from the 87.1% agreement rate for CY 2014 successful • The statements with the lowest agreement rates for both groups were “5. A Job Coach assisted me with obtaining employment” (65.4% VR, 52.0% VS) and “4. DSU staff assisted me with obtaining employment” (68.9% VR, 60.0% VS). Both of these statements have decreased slightly from CY 2014 for VR job seekers. Statement 5 has shown a significant increase for VS job seekers over CY 2014. • The statement with the highest agreement rate for VR was “3. Services I received through DSU were appropriate to meet my needs for employment.” (87.5%). • The statement with the highest agreement rate for VS was “2. I was informed that my Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) could be modified at any time.” (92.3%). • In response to the statement, “While I was a client, I would like to have received more instruction in or assistance with (Check all that apply),” among a list of options, including: Job Search Skills, Interviewing Skills, Vocation-specific Training, and Assistance with College Tuition, Job Search Skills was the most • Although some were no longer employed, 81.0% of the VR respondents and 67.3% of the VS respondents were employed at the time they responded to the survey. For both VR and VS, this is an increase from the CY 2014 successful closure rates of 74.6% and 54.4%, respectively. This committee continues to review and analyze data from the DSU to include, consumer satisfaction surveys, open case surveys, Statewide Comprehensive Needs Assessment, employee engagement surveys and other data reports reported to RSA. The committee has requested the State Employment Leadership Network – Oklahoma Findings and Observations Report from DHS-DDS to review for information and findings relevant to consumers the DSU serves. The model Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment (CSNA) addresses rehabilitation needs of individuals with disabilities, particularly the vocational rehabilitation services needs of: individuals with most significant disabilities, including their need for supported employment services; minorities; individuals with disabilities who have been unserved or underserved by VR; individuals with disabilities served through other components of the statewide workforce development system (other than the vocational rehabilitation program); youth with disabilities, and students with disabilities; and the need to establish, develop, or improve community rehabilitation programs within the state.

The model CSNA process included six steps: 1 . Defining and establishing CSNA goals; 2 . Developing CSNA plan for information and dissemination; 3 . Gathering the information; 4 . Analyzing the results and developing findings; 5 . Developing the conclusions: Potential action strategies; and, 6. Informing state plan goals, priorities, and strategies.

Under the federal WIOA Act, a statewide needs assessment is required. The statewide needs assessment focuses on the needs of individuals in Oklahoma with disabilities and on six specific subpopulations and services, including: Individuals with the Most Significant Disabilities, including Supported Employment; Minorities; Unserved or Underserved Individuals; Service Needs Being Met by WIOA; Need to Establish, Develop, or Improve Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs); and Needs of Youth with Disabilities and Students with Disabilities, including Their Need for Pre-employment Transition Services or Other Transition Services.

The current study was conducted between Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2014 and 2016 and followed the Berkley model. It included 36 research sources: databases (Census, Bureau Labor Statistics, AWARE, 911, 113); surveys – job seekers and staff, both routine and special; Public Forums; literature – peer reviewed journals and practitioner articles; studies published by Oklahoma agencies (Governors Council, Department of Commerce, Department of Corrections, etc.); organizational publications (National Council on Disability, Social Security, Veterans Affairs, etc.). Following are the summary of findings for each of the six subpopulations.

I am very grateful for all the opportunities given to me through DRS.” Domenyk Calumet, Oklahoma Service Needs of those with the Most Significant Disabilities, including Supported Employment include transportation, job skills training, and soft skills training: the majority (70%) of OKDRS VR/VS staff believe the availability of supported employment services for people with disabilities is not adequate to meet the current need.

Analysis of the Service Needs of Minorities revealed that two minorities are disproportionately underserved – Multiracial and Hispanic/Latino. Hispanic/Latino is slightly underserved but not at a level that is statistically significant. Three racial/ethnic groups in Oklahoma have higher than average unemployment rates, including those identifying as African Americans, American Indian/Alaska Natives, and Multiracial (ACS 2014). These racially associated variances are not as significant as those associated with the disabled versus non-disabled employment rate. However, they are important to note and show compounding issues in the search for employment for individuals with disabilities who belong to the racial/ethnic groups that also have higher unemployment rates. Counselors in Oklahoma City and Tulsa could expect to have a higher of African American and Hispanic job seekers based on the state’s racial distribution. And, counselors in Congressional District 2 could expect to have a higher percentage of American Indian/Alaska Native job seekers based on the state’s racial distribution.

Service Needs of those who are Unserved or Underserved: using Geographic Information System mapping analysis, fifteen rural counties across the state were identified as being underserved. Statistics show that in those areas OKDRS is only serving between 0.74% and 2.19% of the working-age disabled adult population. Counties with the highest ratio of service provision to job seekers ranged from 6.7% to 11.18%. Three additional categories of possibly underserved groups were identified. These included offenders, veterans, and transition

Service Needs Being Met by WIOA: there is a need for OKDRS employees to collaborate with Workforce staff to obtain in-demand occupation lists and economic modeling data to better identify useful job training skills in

Need to Establish, Develop, or Improve Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs): survey results indicate that there is a clear need for more CPRs, also a need for CRPs with specialized skills. Respondents expressed concern for the quality of services provided by CRP, particularly satisfaction rates with job coaches.

Needs of Youth with Disabilities, Students with Disabilities including their need for Pre-Employment Transition Services or other Transition Services include need for family support, development of self- determination and increased collaboration with community partners.

A list of 13 recommendations is provided for consideration by DSU leadership:

• OKDRS should place an emphasis on the importance of family support for transition aged youth. Support of the youth’s goals by those the youth trusts is important for successful outcomes. There are opportunities to develop informational or participatory programs to increase family involvement.

I have gained more confidence and my goal is to reach the deaf community.” Audrey Tulsa, Oklahoma

• Opportunities exist for OKDRS to enhance communication DRS counselor, Sandy Keese, assisted between the agency, parents, public schools, and other Audrey, from Tulsa, with her disabilities partners. Increased communication would strengthen the partners’ relationships and cooperation in order to better related to hearing loss. Audrey received serve transition job seekers. occupational training at Paul Mitchell where • OKDRS should work to develop new sources she received her Cosmetology Certificate. of employment and job training opportunities. She now works at a salon in Tulsa. Sandy • OKDRS should focus resources on improving CRP also provided Audrey with counseling and availability statewide, including supported employment. guidance, clothing, and a referral to Jackie Additional efforts should target improvement in existing Scholl for adaptive equipment such as a CRP staff training and skills to enhance the quality of hearing aid for her right ear, re-programming services available to agency job seekers. her old cochlear implant and eventually, • OKDRS should increase the monitoring and analysis getting a new cochlear implant. of current employment vendors, including Supported Employment. Due to her improved hearing and communication • Within financial and staffing limitations, OKDRS skills, Audrey is excited about working and should investigate opportunities to expand services to building a deaf customer base. And, her employer underserved areas of the state and to underserved is excited to welcome a new, diverse population to populations, including former offenders, veterans, and transition age youth. his establishment. • Research indicates that cultural differences may be a factor in services provided to Native American/Alaska Natives populations. Information obtained during the public meetings indicated that some tribal members are more comfortable when working with tribal VR and also more comfortable with a counselor who is also Native American. To the extent possible, these considerations should be taken into account when working with this population. • OKDRS should also continue outreach to this population and collaboration with tribal VR programs. • Counselors in Congressional District 2 should be made aware that 42% of Oklahoma’s Native American/Alaskan Native population resides in their area. While all counselors need to be familiar with the availability of tribal vocational rehabilitation services, counselors serving job seekers in Congressional District 2 may need to develop a closer working relationship with the local tribes and their • Therepresentatives. OKDRS agency should undertake the challenge of rebranding in order to clarify the purpose and mission of the agency as well as eligibility requirements. • Opportunities exist for OKDRS to increase outreach regarding services by 1) having staff available to provide information at city events or regional festivals, including events that are not specific to individuals with disabilities, and 2) more public service announcements to provide information regarding agency services and those who might be eligible for OKDRS assistance. • OKDRS should advocate for increased transportation services and coverage and increase collaboration with transportation providers and communities to help expand the transportation services that are available to job seekers. This should include investigating alternative transportation options: for example, van pooling to job sites and tax incentives for businesses including areas not served by traditional transit and after-hours • OKDRSservice. should provide more information to possible employers to help reduce their fear of employing individuals with disabilities, including information regarding the Federal bonding program for business protection from employee fraud. • OKDRS should continue increasing collaboration with Workforce staff under the new WIOA guidelines. • To see the comprehensive report, follow this link: http://bit.ly/2fUPkCP • The Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council and Department of Rehabilitation Services will begin planning the process and timeline for the next Statewide Assessment. • ORC effectively partnered with DSU in the development of the FFY16 State Plan included developing the goals and priorities for the agency. The ORC co-hosted public hearings on the State Plan during the following dates: February 8, 2016 in Oklahoma City; February 9, 2016 in Tulsa; and February 10, 2016 in Lawton. Flyers were developed and mailed to increase awareness of the agency’s goals and priorities The addressedgoals and prioritiesin the State for Plan.FFY16 have been jointly developed with the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council. The DSU participates in regular SRC meetings and subcommittee activities. The SRC also collaborates in drafting and revision of agency policy development, and meets regularly with the DSU Director and DVR/DVS Administrators. Finally, revisions to the State Plan were developed jointly, as well as, revision to the specific goals Theand prioritiesDSU organizational identified in strategic this section. plan is designed for five years. The ORC is committed to be a full partner with the DSU and offers cooperation in an effort to meet the goals set in the State Plan and Strategic Plan. DSU reported the following FFY16 data to the Commission: • 2,125 cases had successful closure • 2,438 cases were closed without employment after receiving services • 7,773 new applications were received which increased by 8.24 • 5,188 plans were written in the year which increased by 9.66%

• 18% closed as an applicant (896 applicants) • 0% closed from delayed/wait list status (0 job seekers) • 34% closed after eligibility, before services (1,700 job seekers) • 48% closed after services were initiated (2,416 job seekers) Successful Closures 2,125 vs. Unsuccessful Closures 2,438

• Average days in application status 30 • Average months in eligibility 2.2 • Average months receiving services 24.3 • Average months in delayed status 3.6

Cost Per Closure Type • Average cost per successful closure: $7,670 • Average cost per Closed Other (with IPE): $3,368 • The average cost per successful closure decreased by 10% • The average cost per unsuccessful closure decreased by -1% As we look back on federal fiscal year 2016, Oklahoma VR had another strong showing in terms of SSA reimbursement revenue. 208 disability beneficiaries grasped independence through sustained SGA level competitive employment. This resulted in $2,548,436.99 in revenue! So proud of the Counselors and Technicians who made this happen! Great work also by the SSA Reimbursement Coordinator, Ticket to Work Coordinator and the DSU Benefits Planning Team. FFY16 Standards and Indicators Information: DSU met Standards and Indicators, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6 and 2.1. They did not meet indicator 1.1, which is the number of closed cases with employment outcomes and 1.2, which is the number of closed cases with an employment outcome over the previous year’s outcomes. The agency came in with 2,125 successful closures and last year’s number was 2,299 for 1.1. The agency came in with 53.82% and the federal minimum is 55.80% for 1.2.

Order of Selection Information: The DSU agency was not under an Order of Selection for the FY16.

Consumer Satisfaction Survey Key Findings The Rehabilitation Act requires that the State Rehabilitation Council assess vocational rehabilitation services for effectiveness and consumer satisfaction. Each year the ORC works with DSU on the consumer satisfaction survey.

The June 2016 VR/VS Job Seeker Satisfaction Survey was returned by 428 out of 1,997 job seekers, for a response rate of 21.4%. This is not enough for a confidence level of 95%, plus or minus a 5% margin of error, indicating a representative sample.

Key Findings: • The overall valid satisfaction rate for VR and VS is 84.8%, a slight increase from the overall satisfaction rate reported in the 2015 survey (82.4%) and a 5-year high. • The overall valid satisfaction rate for VR (84.2%) rose slightly from last year’s satisfaction rate of 83.1%. • The overall valid satisfaction rate for VS (89.1%) rose 8.6 percentage points from last year’s satisfaction rate of 80.5%. • The highest agreement rates were for statements regarding whether job seekers felt their counselor treated them with respect (95.5%) and whether their counselor helps them clearly understand what the program is • Theabout lowest (89.9%). agreement rate was for Statement 12: I understand the availability and the role of CAP (66.4%). In addition, 56 job seekers did not respond or answered NA to this statement (13.1% of the total respondent • Onlypopulation). 71.0% of respondents agreed with the statement: I am satisfied with the quality of services from my Job Coach. In addition, only 72.8% of respondents agreed with the statement: When my employment plan was developed, I took the lead in its development. • An open ended question regarding unmet needs was included in the survey. The largest categories of responses (in order) focused on job seekers needing more counselor,information/communication equipment, additional medicalfrom their care, cognitive impairment assistance, employment assistance, training/education, transportation, mental health supports, and clothing.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairperson – Bill Dunham Comprised of the SRC Chair, Vice-Chair, and 3 members- at-large. The Executive Committee also consists of the Associate Director and Director of Sponsored Programs of the OSU, Department of Wellness, who oversees the contractual administration of the ORC. Ensures that committees are assigned to meet the requirements of Section 105 of the Rehab Act with regard to the following activities: • Public Hearings • State Plan • Comprehensive Needs Assessment • Job Seeker Satisfaction • Annual Report • The ongoing dialogue between the DSU Director and ORC kept us informed of agency activities. DSU was not under an Order of Selection during the FFY16 year and more than 20,000 job seekers were served in the state of Oklahoma. • The Executive Committee works to oversee council activities in response to the mandated functions. It manages all council operations and ensures council decisions and recommendations are implemented. The Chair serves as the primary point of contact for the council. • The Executive Committee continued to work closely with the Director to build a positive working relationship to accomplish the necessary tasks of the council. This included much involvement with the Designated State Unit (DSU) on their policy development teams, Comprehensive Statewide AssessmentNeeds (CSNA) and development of the state plan. In collaboration with the ORC, the DSU divisions of vocational rehabilitation and visual services continue to incorporate findings from all the CSNA into the state strategies and priorities. POLICY AND LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE Chairperson – William Ginn DRS Liaison – Jean Jones Activities include, but are not limited to, advocacy and education, policy and State Plan review, State Plan Public Hearings and Success Stories. Also, responsible for the reviewing/monitoring of pending and current disability- related legislation, particularly with respect to impact on funding; suggest/develop legislation as needed. Active participation on the DSU Policy Re-engineering Committee. Support DSU with both national and state efforts to enhance advocacy activities and services for VR/VS job seekers. • The assigned liaison for this committee is the DSU Legislative Coordinator. This committee educates, informs and influences the state and federal legislative agenda as it relates to the public vocational rehabilitation program and disability employment policies. • The Policy and Legislative Committee continue to utilize a disability primer for Legislators. Disability primer was created to promote education and awareness to Oklahoma Legislators. This will show the partnership with the agency to assist Oklahoma Legislators as they review and discuss laws and regulations moving forward. The primer was completed prior to the 2016 Oklahoma Legislative Session. A second primer was also created and is being utilized to use with the general public at various statewide disability-related events. Both primer documents were updated in July 2016.– (See Appendix C for the • Theprimer) Policy and Legislative Committee collaborated with the DSU Communication Office with Disability Awareness Day 2016 at the State Capitol. More than 700 people with disabilities and their advocates attended the 2016 event filling the hallways of the State Capitol and sharing their stories with lawmakers. The event drew 74 exhibitors and featured a keynote address by Dr. Terry Cline, Health and Human Services Secretary. There were performances from students from the Oklahoma School for the Deaf Cheerleaders, Oklahoma School for the Blind Jazz Band and Yukon American Sign Language Club as well. Committee members served as legislative guides by providing direction and assistance to participants in visiting their • Thelegislators. Policy and Legislative Committee continued its collaboration with DSU in the implementation of the Consumer Success Story initiative. The ORC utilized this information, which was shared with Congressional members in Washington, DC and their local staff. Consumer Success Stories were shared with state legislators in preparation for the Disability Awareness Day event. • ORC staff and members participated in the CSAVR 2016 spring conference in Bethesda, Maryland, as well as, the 2015 fall conference in Seattle, Washington. While in the DC area, visits were made ‘On the Hill’ to the Oklahoma delegation to advocate for the public VR program and develop relationships with our Congressional members. This has opened doors to key players involved with legislative issues concerning people with disabilities. Our primary focus this year was the issue and concerns regarding the reauthorization of the Rehabilitation Act. • The committee continued its involvement with the DSU Policy Committee, which reviewed and analyzed agency policies to make appropriate recommendations for change to the DSU Commission. The involvement of both ORC and the Job Seeker Assistance Program throughout the entire process helps to ensure better understanding of the barriers that job seekers face regarding proposed changes to DSU policy. • Candidate Forum was held on Saturday, July 23rd, 2016 with a total of 75 + participants and 16 candidates. • SB – 1005 and HB – 2686 - ABLE bills would create a structure for savings accounts that could be used by individuals with disabilities to pay for disability-related expenses. Funds in the accounts could be built up to $100,000 without threatening the individual’s eligibility for many federal means- tested programs such as Medicaid and SSI. The accounts were made possible by 2014 federal legislation, a Betterthe Life Achieving Experience Act, which allowed states to adopt legislation making the accounts available to state residents with disabilities that began by age 26. Both bills are on General Order in their respective houses of origin. Of the 8 initial bills introduced to create the ABLE Account, the Governor has signed HB-2821 (Denney; Crain) into law, which will go into effect on November 1st, 2016. ABLE Accounts were permitted by federal legislation in 2014, but states had to adopt enabling legislation to be able to offer the savings options locally. • The ORC sought community input from program participants, advocates, employers, educators, and other stakeholders on proposed policy changes through one public hearing and through the website and emails. This public hearing was co-hosted by DSU and the ORC on December 7, 2015 in Lawton. Public hearings were also held in Oklahoma City on December 8, 2015 and in Tulsa on December 9, 2015. The ORC sent out notices statewide with non-biased information to explain how the proposed changes may affect consumers. Proposed policy changes were posted on the DSU website to give job seekers and other stakeholders access to this information. ORC also provided public comments on the proposed revisions. Significant rule changes that became effective in 2016 were: • In the FFY16, The Department of Education (DOE) and The Department of Labor (DOL) published final rules, which directly affected the Vocational Rehabilitation Program. • Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Rules through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) became effective on September 19, 2016. • Joint rules affecting Workforce Partners and VR will be effective on October 18, 2016. • The rules implemented several important revisions for the VR program and the WIOA. • These rules placed a huge emphasis on Competitive and Integrated Employment (CIE) as well as services to students and youth with disabilities. • The involvement of the ORC during policy development allows for true consumer contributions, which aligns with the intent of the Rehabilitation Act. Having ORC and the state’s job seeker assistance program involved in the policy development process has proven beneficial, and given individuals with disabilities a greater role in shaping an effective vocational rehabilitation program. TRANSITION AND EMPLOYMENT Chairperson – Lori Chesnut DRS Liaison – Kim Osmani Transition and Employment Committee - Active participation on the Oklahoma Transition Council. Support DSU with statewide efforts to enhance transition activities and services for youth in secondary settings to increase successful employment outcomes. • The assigned liaison for this committee was the DSU Transition Coordinator. • The committee continued participation with the Oklahoma Transition Council, a multi-agency collaboration, for the purpose of promoting enhanced transition outcomes for secondary and post- secondary youth with disabilities. Committee members and ORC staff participated in the planning, development and implementation of the annual statewide Oklahoma Transition Institute. The 2016 OTI statewide meeting had approximately 530 participants and 29 teams. • This committee is still collaborating with the DSU to assist with the enhancement of a job seeker page on the website. This page would identify: existing job preparation tools, interest inventories, resume templates and guides, job seeking tips, interview tips, budgeting information, and common interview • Thequestions committee to assist continues the job to seeker. meet with the DSU staff to Identify underutilized in demand occupation areas that could be potential job match for consumers. The committee will review and compare outcomes with demand occupations with the DSU closure job data for transition outcomes. Another long term goal is to develop an instrument to assist DSU consumers to inform all disability support organizations in OK.

I was ill but not so sickly that I couldn’t work. DRS provided me with motivation and counseling services.” Marla O k l a h o m a C i ty , O k la homa ______“I needed tools and to go to classes and DRS helped me in every way. My income is up and I am not depending on Social Security. I have now purchased a home and I’m not depending on others.” I received great service through DRS and the Delaware Nation Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation. Everyone was very helpful to me.” Johnny O k l a h o m a C i ty , O k la homa ______Johnny received counseling and many services that enabled his attendance at Metro Tech to learn carpentry. He excelled in this environment and earned excellent marks! In fact, he was honored as Student of the Month and holds an OSHA certificate which is the hazard recognition training he’ll need for any job in Oklahoma or other states.

Johnny goes on to say, “I think DRS and the Tribal VR are great organizations and I thank God every day for the help.”

My counselor, Traci, has been very involved with my case. She let me know of job openings and checked on me all the time as well as providing me a clothing allowance for interviews. Traci was a great counselor.” Keri C a c h e , O k la h o m a ______APPENDIX A Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council Members

From left to right, back row: Linda Jaco, Terrisha Osborn, Brenda Fitzgerald, Becky Bradshaw, William Ginn, Melinda Fruendt, Noel Tyler. Left to right, middle row: Renee Sansom, Suzanne Williams, Melinda Bunch, Lori Chestnut, Katie Woodward, Rick DeRennaux, Audrey Farnum. Front row: Haley George, Diana Garrett, Ekutan Dannelley, Jane Ciorba. Not pictured: Bill Dunham, Lisa Graven, Ginger Jaggers, Elizabeth Reeve.

Becky Bradshaw Lori Chestnut Ekutan Dannelley Sr. HR Manager Cintas Special Education Coordinator Current Consumer / Client 5204 SE Corporation State Department of Education 53RD ST 45 N.E. 42nd St. Oliver Hodge Building Oklahoma City, OK. 73108 (87) Oklahoma City, OK. 73105 (405) 2500 North Lincoln Boulevard 832-5269 525-4717 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 (405) [email protected] [email protected] 521-2820 [email protected] Ricky DeRennaux Melinda Bunch President / CEO, Tech-Now Inc. VR Specialist, Department of Jane Ciorba 621 Brookwood Dr. Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services CEO, Council for Development City, OK 73139 (405) 640-7606 300 Northeast 18th Oklahoma Disabilities d/b/a ABLE City, OK. 73105 (405) 521-3899 [email protected] 303 E. Tonhawa [email protected] Norman, OK 73069 (405) 329-3922 [email protected] Bill Dunham Lisa Graven Terrisha Osborn Area Clinic Manager, Amputee Director of Reemployment Services VR Specialist, Department of Rehabilitation Empowerment Regional Coordinator Customer Service Division Oklahoma 8001 S I-35 Service Road, Ste 100 Oklahoma Hanger Clinic, Oklahoma Clinics Employment Security Commission City, OK 73149 6052 South Sheridan Road Tulsa, (OESC) OK 74145 (405) 636-3104 Will Rogers Memorial Office Building 2401 [email protected] Mobile: (405) 761-0346 N. Lincoln Blvd [email protected] PO Box 52003 Elizabeth Reeve Oklahoma City, OK. 73152-2003 Audrey Farnum Ms. Abilities America, Inc., (405) 557-7121 Founder/Director Staff Attorney / Administrative Hearing [email protected] OCCC ESL Instructor Office, Oklahoma Tax Commission 3700 SILC – At –Large Officer N. Classen Blvd. Ginger Jaggars 315 SW 32nd Street Oklahoma Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) Part C Coordinator / Parent Advising and City, OK. 73109 (405) 774- 319-8507 Training Specialist, Oklahoma Parents 0741 [email protected] Center [email protected] 223 N. Broadway Brenda Fitzgerald PO Box 512 Tina Spence Program Director, Cherokee Nation DVR Coordinator, Special Education Services, Program Holdenville, OK. 74848 OK State Department of Education P.O. Box 948 Tahlequah, (405) 379-6015 2500 North Lincoln Blvd., Ste 412 Oklahoma OK 74465 (918) 453-5735 [email protected] City, OK 73105 [email protected] (405) 521-4877 Nancy Landrum [email protected] Diana Garrett Director Executive Director Dynamic Hearing Loss Association 8309 Independence Lakeaire Dr. Noel Tyler 415 S. Dewes, Suite 202 Oklahoma City, OK 73132 Interim Director Bartlesville, OK. 74003 (405) 949-4140 Department of Rehabilitation [email protected] Services (918) 335-1314 3535 WN 58th Street, Ste 500 Oklahoma [email protected] Jack McMahan City, OK 73112-4824 (405) 951-3400 Executive Director, Wilderness [email protected] William Ginn Matters, Inc. CAP Director, 1713 Huntington Ave Nichols Katie Woodward Office of Disability Concerns Hills, OK 73116 (405) 842- Program Manager, OK Durable Medical 2712 Villa Prom 1470 Equipment Reuse Program Oklahoma City, OK 73107-2414 [email protected] 3325 N Lincoln Blvd (405) 521-3756 (800) 522-8224 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 [email protected] (405) 523-4810 Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council Staff [email protected]

Renee N . Sansom, MS Linda Jaco, MS Haley George Programs Manager, ORC Oklahoma Associate Director and Administrative Assistant Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council Director of Sponsored Programs Rehabilitation Council 3535 NW 58th St., Suite 500 Oklahoma Department of Wellness – Oklahoma 3325 N. Lincoln Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK. 73112-4824 Phone: (405) State University City, OK 73105 Office Phone: 951-3579 1514 W. Hall of Fame Stillwater, (405) 523-4807 Fax: (405) 951-3532 OK 74078 [email protected] [email protected] (405) 744-9864 (800) 257-1705 (v/tty) (405) 744-2487 (fax) 33 [email protected] Successful Closures Average Case Costs VR VS VR VS County Transition Adult Transition Adult Transition Adult Transition Adult Adair 3 2 $6,926 $18,828 Alfalfa 2 3 $6,333 $3,942 Atoka 2 3 1 $8,896 $7,691 $2,531 Beaver 1 2 $58,158 $6,945 Beckham 1 5 1 $12,877 $3,680 $1,431 Blaine 1 2 $12,432 $47,116 Bryan 10 10 2 5 $4,073 $9,254 $3,871 $9,373 Caddo 1 14 2 $45,469 $5,984 $3,011 Canadian 17 19 2 1 $6,032 $4,998 $18,473 $4,988 Carter 6 12 1 2 $10,547 $11,029 $14,911 $5,934 Cherokee 20 2 2 $2,807 $39,990 $13,490 Choctaw 4 2 1 3 $5,039 $34,113 $19,329 $3,568 Cleveland 23 68 1 8 $8,317 $7,094 $6,297 $14,368 Coal 7 1 $5,673 $21,608 Comanche 19 32 1 14 $10,449 $5,370 $21,879 $6,224 Cotton 1 $1,552 Craig 4 1 1 $5,499 $6,223 $3,749 Creek 24 55 3 $6,411 $7,314 $2,050 Custer 2 6 2 1 $6,929 $14,929 $5,248 $6,601 Delaware 4 4 3 $1,415 $3,086 $3,925 Dewey 1 1 $2,738 $1,896 Ellis 1 2 $4,239 $5,582 Garfield 11 25 1 8 $9,806 $8,631 $18,727 $4,052 Garvin 8 10 1 1 $7,742 $11,385 $7,972 $16,238 Grady 8 12 1 3 $7,129 $9,793 $3,739 $7,284 Grant 1 $3,495 Greer 1 1 $36,694 $17,994 Harmon 2 $5,898 Harper 13 2 $4,125 $4,327 Haskell 1 9 1 $1,262 $4,366 $389 Hughes 2 2 1 $21,517 $3,087 $3,217 Jackson 3 2 $12,519 $43,343 Jefferson 12 19 3 $12,175 $4,118 $14,118 Johnston 3 2 $1,849 $5,039 Kay 3 6 $19,357 $8,315 Kingfisher 3 $5,587 Kiowa 1 3 1 $400 $2,774 $1,072 Latimer 2 3 $11,935 $4,413

Successful Closures Average Case Costs VR VS VR VS County Transition Adult Transition Adult Transition Adult Transition Adult Le Flore 8 17 1 1 $10,459 $5,567 $12,854 $2,794 Lincoln 3 13 1 $7,605 $5,601 $6,844 Logan 6 3 $2,832 $6,719 Love 1 $990 Major 2 1 $10,016 $3,624 Marshall 4 2 2 $5,431 $7,810 $7,841 Mayes 7 4 1 1 $3,683 $2,896 $1,264 $5,577 McClain 1 2 $15,091 $4,556 McCurtain 8 7 1 4 $20,300 $4,560 $20,528 $7,451 McIntosh 1 5 $4,492 $9,345 Murray 5 $10,319 Muskogee 11 47 1 14 $5,134 $3,546 $372 $7,427 Noble 2 1 $1,735 $200 Nowata 3 4 1 $962 $4,891 $13,389 Okfuskee 3 3 1 $2,849 $8,246 $300 Oklahoma 116 305 7 26 $7,180 $6,767 $14,696 $7,248 Okmulgee 8 27 2 $5,617 $3,508 $8,822 Osage 8 6 2 $5,693 $3,549 $2,114 Ottawa 3 4 5 $1,851 $10,818 $4,613 Pawnee 5 15 4 $10,811 $33,972 $34,514 Payne 4 2 1 $6,606 $15,917 $2,468 Pittsburg 9 26 1 $14,844 $12,148 $4,836 Pontotoc 12 17 2 $8,497 $4,603 $8,543 Pottawatomie 14 10 6 $8,016 $10,049 $21,302 Pushmataha 2 19 2 $13,019 $10,074 $13,373 Roger Mills 8 4 1 $6,476 $7,499 $2,304 Rogers 15 21 1 1 $7,434 $5,813 $22,031 $16,234 Seminole 2 5 1 $354 $1,413 $25 Sequoyah 9 2 2 3 $2,243 $3,253 $30,159 $8,279 Stephens 3 8 2 $1,842 $5,280 $3,898 Texas 5 1 $13,870 $31,247 Tillman 1 1 $9,412 $17,102 Tulsa 134 250 2 53 $7,696 $7,085 $29,164 $7,721 Wagoner 10 12 3 $6,116 $12,291 $4,284 Washington 10 20 $4,555 $6,286 Washita 3 2 2 $5,213 $23,884 $7,499 Woods 3 7 2 $3,371 $10,024 $1,957 Woodward 1 4 $3,203 $7,211 Grand Total 637 1,242 34 212 $7,568 $7,429 $15,351 $8,170

Text of Legislative Primer

Front Side of Card Dear Legislator, are you aware of these facts?

15.6% of Oklahomans have a disability. People with disabilities utilize public transportation, taxis, bicycles, walk, etc. This is two times the rate of those without disabilities. 70% of people with disabilities and of working age are unemployed, contributing to poverty and isolation. People with disabilities WANT to work! Accommodations don’t have to be expensive – in fact, the average cost is only $500.

Back Side of Card Employment opportunities for Oklahomans with disabilities fall considerable short as compared with other regions. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) & Workforce System are to provide access to employment to everyone, ultimately increasing household wealth. The Americans with Disabilities Act adds the piece of legislation that unequivocally improves access to buildings, public services and telecommunications for those with disabilities.

With this small card, we want to introduce, or re-introduce you to The Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council (ORC). ORC’s mission, as a partner with the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS), is to assure the services of DRS are of high quality leading to employment of individuals with disabilities. In FY2015, DRS successfully placed 2,300 job seekers in employment. Additionally, ORC facilitates consumer education and empowerment.

For more information, please review our 2014 Annual Report online @ http:/ orc.okstate.edu or contact us. Thank you.

Renee Sansom, Program Manager 3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 500 Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 951-3579 [email protected]

DRS helped my family substantially. I am now able to pay bills, buy necessities, and pay for my husband’s doctor bills. We are able to survive and live!” Amanda B o s w e l l, O k ______l a h o m a ______Amanda has also overcome some personal barriers and DRS taught her the technique of opposition thinking* which is helping her in her new job. “I am not intimidated and have confidence that I didn’t have before.”

*Opposition thinking is a simple technique of substituting a positive thought each and every time a negative or limiting thought enters the mind. This begins to distract the mind from a negative focus and creates a new pattern of positive thinking.

DRS provided me a laptop to be able to do all of my work for school as well as a printer to ensure all of my assignments are completed.” Diana O k l a h o m a C i ty , O k lahoma ______Diana continues, “DRS also provided me a backpack to carry my books in. Tuition and fees have been paid for by DRS and they pay my transportation to Langston-Tulsa weekly. I was always taught to never quit by my parents and that is why I am still going because of the services that DRS continues to provide me.” I have had many counselors over the years, but Terri was very resourceful and I am grateful for DRS and the opportunities that I was given.” Devon T u l s a , O k l a h o m a ______Devon received services through DRS for the disabilities related to his right hand and amputation that occurred as a very small child. He has undergone at least 15 surgeries to his hand in his childhood and adult life. Terri Schrader, DRS counselor, greatly assisted Devon by providing information on colleges and universities he might attend and building his self- confidence and life skills. Devon completed a Physiology Degree at OSU, a Bachelor of Science and Nursing from OU and a Master’s Degree from OU in Family Nurse Practitioner, Counseling and Guidance.

He now works at his “dream job” – the Utica Park Clinic (UPC), an outpatient facility in Tulsa associated with Hillcrest HealthCare System. Devon sees patients on a daily basis and treats people for their current health conditions. He says, “Knowing how much that surgery helped me, I want to help others with their afflictions or illnesses.” Devon received services from DRS, Workforce Oklahoma, the University of Oklahoma, and Oklahoma State University. APPENDIX E: Sponsorship Program

ORC Sponsorship Support In 2016, the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council’s Sponsorship Fund supported two events: Candidates’ Forum Central Oklahoma residents with disabilities, their family members and friends gathered on Saturday, July 23rd, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., at the Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive in Oklahoma City, to hear the views of more than 14 candidates for the State Legislature. This event is held each election year by area disability organizations, to give citizens with disabilities a chance to learn candidates’ priorities and hear where they stand on issues affecting the lives of people with disabilities.

Sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, materials in Braille and large print, and other accommodations help make candidate speeches and information accessible to individuals with hearing loss, blindness or other disabilities.

ORC provided provided space and food for the forum.

Progressive Independence Thirty Fifth Anniversary Celebration and Networking

Mixer This event was held on August 25, 2016 ORC provided $1,400 to Progressive Independence

TOP | A table full of celebrants BOTTOM | Renee Sansom enjoying the evening and the party favors APPENDIX F: Oklahoma’s Workforce Development Boards

Today, employers and job seekers are plagued by a skills mismatch. Communities that can create an effective, on-going talent pipeline than ensures there are workers with thee right skills to meet the ever- changing needs of business can grow and remain competitive. For Oklahoma to have a truly world-class workforce/talent development system, the Governor, along with State Agency Workforce Partners, realized that all involved must go beyond being a “collection of hard- working, effective individual agencies” and become an “efficient, effective system providing seamless and comprehensive services.” To create this system, the decision was introduced to use the established and proven network of Workforce Development Boards to look at the system holistically and be the convener. The boards, being business driven, recognized that a systems approach for Oklahoma creates not only a more effective service delivery approach for Oklahoma citizens and business, but a true competitive advantage for Oklahoma’s economic development efforts; thus meeting their strategic vision that “Oklahoma’s workforce development system increases profitability for businesses and increases income for all Oklahomans.”

Oklahoma Workforce Development Areas APPENDIX G: Oklahoma Vocational Rehabilitation Offices

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 81) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 12) 1000 W Choctaw, Suite 4, 1802 N.W. Ferris Avenue Lawton, Chickasha, OK 73018 OK 73505 Office Phone: (405) 574-1700 Office Phone: (580) 585-4200 Office Fax: (405) 222-5728 Office Fax: (580) 585-4232 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 1) 1001 E. 14th Street, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 26) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 13) Ada, OK 74820-6912 223 W. Blue Starr Drive Claremore, 321 S. Third, Suite 2 Office Phone: (580) 332-0178 OK 74017-4227 McAlester, OK 74501-5410 Office Fax: (580) 332-4712 Office Phone: (918) 283-8150 Office Phone: (918) 302-4200 Office Fax: (918) 283-8180 Office Fax: (918) 302-4220 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 1) 1001 E. 14th Street, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 6) Visual Services (VS 84) 321 Ada, OK 74820-6912 1105 W. Main, Suite A3 Duncan, S. Third, Suite 2B Office Phone: (580) 332-0178 OK 73533-4550 McAlester, OK 74501-5410 Office Fax: (580) 332-4712 Office Phone: (580) 255-1115 Office Phone: (918) 302-4250 Office Fax: (580) 255-3740 Office Fax: (918) 302-4220 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 86) 1400 Hoppe Blvd, Suite A, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 7) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 77) Ada, OK 74820 801 W. Main, Ste. A 200 I Street NE Office Phone: (580) 310-5300 Durant, OK 74701-5041 Miami, OK 74354-6434 Office Fax: (580) 310-5350 Office Phone: (580) 924-2677 Office Phone: (918) 542-4716 Office Fax: (580) 924-0208 Office Fax: (918) 540-0072 Visual Services (VS 58) 1400 Hoppe Blvd., Suite A, Ada, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 29) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 15) OK 74820 235 W. Dennis Street 1120-10 S. Air Depot Blvd. Office Phone: (580) 310-5301 Edmond, OK 73003-5733 Midwest City, OK 73110-4844 Office Fax: (580) 310-5353 Office Phone: (405) 657-1800 Office Phone: (405) 737-4897 Office Fax: (405) 657-1810 Office Fax: (405) 737-6907 Visual Services (VS 58) 1400 Hoppe Blvd., Suite A, Ada, Visual Services (VS 59) Oklahoma School for the Blind (OSB) OK 74820 124 N. Oakwood Road 3300 Gibson St Office Phone: (580) 310-5301 Enid, OK 73703 Muskogee, OK 74403 Office Fax: (580) 310-5353 Office Phone: (580) 616-7900 Office Phone: (918) 781-8200 Office Fax: (580) 616-7928 Office Fax: (918) 781-8300 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 2) 1121 N. Spurgeon, Suite B Altus, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 8) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 98) OK 73521-2527 611 W. Maine 733 S. 32nd Street Office Phone: (580) 482-8605 Enid, OK 73701 Muskogee, OK 74401-5014 Office Fax: (580) 477-2240 Office Phone: (580) 233-0244 Office Phone: (918) 781-4167 Office Fax: (580) 233-6535 Office Fax: (918) 781-4166 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 63) 1040 8th Street, Suite 113 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 97) Visual Services (VS 62) 733 Alva, OK 73717-0578 508 N. Roosevelt S. 32nd Street Office Phone: (580) 327-1214 Guymon, OK 73942-4225 Muskogee, OK 74401-5014 Office Fax: (580) 327-2443 Office Phone: (580) 338-2043 Office Phone: (918) 781-4162 Office Fax: (580) 338-1169 Office Fax: (918) 781-4177 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 3) 333 W. Main, Suite 430 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 11) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 18) Ardmore, OK 73401-6320 513 E. Washington 733 S. 32nd Street Office Phone: (580) 226-1808 Idabel, OK 74745-3325 Muskogee, OK 74401-5014 Office Fax: (580) 223-4265 Office Phone: (580) 286-3389 Office Phone: (918) 781-4150 Office Fax: (580) 286-3300 Office Fax: (918) 781-4177 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 4) 210 NE Washington Blvd. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 75) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 22) Bartlesville, OK 74006 1802 N.W. Ferris Avenue Lawton, 2227 W. Lindsey, Suite 1400 Office Phone: (918) 332-4819 OK 73505 Norman, OK 73069 Office Fax: (918) 333-3557 Office Phone: (580) 585-4220 Office Phone: (405) 329-6096 Office Fax: (580) 585-4234 Office Fax: (405) 447-5909 Visual Services (VS 85) 1000 Choctaw, Suite 4 Visual Services (VS 60) 1802 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 49) Chickasha, OK 73018-2256 N.W. Ferris Avenue Lawton, 2401 N.W. 23rd Street, Suite 47 Office Phone: (405) 574-1701 OK 73505 Oklahoma City, OK 73107-2431 Office Fax: (405) 222-5728 Office Phone: (580) 585-4250 Office Phone: (405) 522-7976 Office Fax: (580) 585-4232 Office Fax: (405) 522-7980 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 47) Visual Services (VS 73) 300 2401 N.W. 23rd Street, Suite 59 NE 18th Oklahoma City, OK 73107-2431 Oklahoma City,, OK 73105-3212 Office Office Phone: (405) 522-7945 Phone: (405) 522-5516 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 45) Office Fax: (405) 522-7995 Office Fax: (405) 522-2139 8740 E. 11th Street, Suite F Tulsa, OK 74112-7957 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 31) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 38) 1801 Office Phone: (918) 836-5556 2401 NW 23 Street, Suite 51 E. 4th Office Fax: (918) 835-2358 Oklahoma City, OK 73107-2431 Okmulgee, OK 74447-8501 Office Phone: (405) 522-7930 Office Phone: (918) 756-6435 Visual Services (VS 91) 907 Office Fax: (405) 522-7948 Office Fax: (918) 756-7532 S Detroit Ave, Ste 500 Tulsa, OK 74120 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 36) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 42) Office Phone: (918) 551-4900, (918) 551- 2401 NW 23rd Street, Suite 21 Technical-Occupational Building 4933 Oklahoma City, OK 73107-2458 1507 South McKenna Office Fax: (918) 551-4935 Office Phone: (405) 522-2506 Poteau, OK 74953-5207 Office Fax: (405) 522-2554 Office Phone: (918) 647-8121 Visual Services (VS 64) 907 Office Fax: (918) 647-8929 S. Detroit Suite 500 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 95) Tulsa, OK 74120 2401 NW 23rd Street, Suite 47 Visual Services (VS 65) Office Phone: (918) 551-4900 Oklahoma City, OK 73107-2431 3004 E. 6th Office Fax: (918) 551-4936 Office Phone: (405) 522-7918 Stillwater, OK 74074 Office Fax: (405) 522-7980 Office Phone: (405) 743-6900 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 52) 441 Office Fax: (405) 743-6924 N. Wilson Visual Services (VS 61) 300 Vinita, OK 74301-2432 NE 18th Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 44) 3004 Office Phone: (918) 256-5509 Oklahoma City, OK 73105-3212 E. 6th Office Fax: (918) 256-5846 Office Phone: (405) 521-3514 Stillwater, OK 74074 Office Fax: (405) 521-4582 Office Phone: (405) 743-6904 Visual Services (VS 69) Office Fax: (405) 743-6924 1501 Lera Drive, Suite #1 Visual Services (VS 33) 3325 Weatherford, OK 73096-2602 N. Lincoln Blvd Oklahoma Oklahoma School for the Deaf (OSD) Office Phone: (580) 816-4100 City, OK 73105 1100 E. Oklahoma St. Office Fax: (580) 816-4128 Office Phone: (405) 523-4800 Sulphur, OK 73086 Office Fax: (405) 523-4821 Office Phone: (580) 622-4900 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 5) 1501 Lera Drive, Suite #1 State Office Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 78) Weatherford, OK 73096-2602 3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 500 214 S. Muskogee Ave Tahlequah, Office Phone: (580) 816-4100 Oklahoma City, OK 73112 Office OK 74464 Office Fax: (580) 816-4128 Phone: (405) 951-3400 Office Phone: (918) 456-6193 Office Fax: (405) 951-3529 Office Fax: (918) 456-8396 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 56) 2411 Williams Ave., Ste. 111 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 32) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 82) 101 Woodward, OK 73801-5728 5813 S. Robinson N. Greenwood Ave. Office Phone: (580) 256-6738 Oklahoma City, OK 73109-8521 Tulsa, OK 74120-1444 Office Fax: (580) 256-2285 Office Phone: (405) 635-2774 Office Phone: (918) 508-2614 Office Fax: (405) 616-9990 Office Fax: (918) 508-2633

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 23) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 80) 444 5813 S. Robinson S. Houston, Ste 200 Oklahoma City, OK 73109-8521 Tulsa, OK 74127 Office Phone: (405) 635-2750 Office Phone: (918) 581-2301 Office Fax: (405) 631-8115 Office Fax: (918) 581-2624

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 19) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 66) 444 8001 S I 35 Service Rd, Suite 100 S. Houston, Suite 200 Oklahoma City, OK 73149-2906 Tulsa, OK 74127 Office Phone: (405) 636-3100 Office Phone: (918) 581-2366 Office Fax: (405) 636-3125 Office Fax: (918) 581-2270 43

Visual Services (VS 90) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR 67) 444 2401 NW 23 Street, Suite 91 South Houston, Suite 200 Oklahoma City,, OK 73107-2412 Tulsa, OK 74127-8990 Office Phone: (405) 522-3333 Office Phone: (918) 581-2301 Office Fax: (405) 522-3332 Office Fax: (918) 583-9210 APPENDIX H: Support Letters

3535 NW 58th Street, Ste. 500 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73112

November 21, 2016

To: Governor Mary Fallin and RSA Commissioner Janet LaBreck

On behalf of the members of the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council (ORC), we proudly present this 2016 Annual Report—summarizing many of the activities undertaken by the ORC during the past year. Council members are extremely proud to work with and advise the Department of Rehabilitation Services and to represent people with disabilities.

During FY16, Department of Rehabilitation Services closed 7,159 cases;; of those, 2,088 clients found competitive employment. The ORC would like to congratulate Oklahoma’s Department of Rehabilitation Services (which includes both Vocational Rehabilitation and Visual Services) for working hard at meeting the three primary standards and indicators for the reporting period. These accomplishments would not have been achieved without the dedication of the entire DRS staff who works diligently to provide quality services that enhance Oklahomans with disabilities the opportunity to find competitive employment.

The ORC’s three standing committees (Planning & Program Evaluation, Policy & Legislative and Transition & Employment) continue to work with DRS on major program issues as has been expressed in this report. Once again, the ORC membership has continued to increase their understanding of disability concerns by attending national training and education opportunities. Over the past three years, throughout Oklahoma and while in Washington D.C., the Council in partnership with DRS actively provided critical information and support to Oklahoma’s federal legislators. ORC and DRS provided them with the concerns and policy options related to the reauthorization of the Rehabilitation Act and advised on issues related to Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. The council continues to focus on understanding the law and appreciates all the support DRS provides to ensure we are more aware how this law impacts consumers.

It has been an honor and privilege to once again serve as Chair of the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council and I am excited to continue to serve in this capacity through 2017. The ORC members are a diverse and dedicated group who take their advocacy role seriously and are honored to partner and provide leadership to the Department Rehabilitation Services and its clients.

Respectfully,

Bill Dunham, Chairman

Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council 3535 NW 58th St., Suite 500 Oklahoma City, OK. 73112 Phone: 405-‐951-‐3579 Toll Free: 1-‐800-‐569-‐7974 Fax: 405-‐951-‐3532

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Oklahoma Dep of Rehabilitation

V i su a l S e rv ic es

O c t o b e r 20, 2016

Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council 3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 500 Oklahoma City, OK 73112

Att ent ion: Renee Sansom

Dear Oklahoma Re ha b i lit at io n Co u nc il Members:

Alt hough I am new to my position as Division Administrator for Vis u a l Se rv ices , I have worked with members of the Oklahoma Re h a b ili ta t io n Co unc i l for many years in other capacities, as a Visual Services Counselor and as a Programs Manager. I am proud of the partnership between the ORCand the Division of Visual Services, and can see great enhancements in the lives of our blind and visually impaired consumers as a result of the work of the Council. The Council is very conscientious about upholding the Rehabilitation Act and insu ring that consumers are treated with dignity and respect.

The ORCinvolvement in projects such as Disability Awareness Day and various activities involving youth in transition services, along with an unwavering commitment to expand the public awareness of the many services available to citizens through participation in a vocational rehabilitation plan, works toward the betterment of people with disabilities. The ORCpartners with OKDRS to continuously improve relations with consumers as well as other groups that provide services to Oklahomans with disabilities. I am pleased to see ORC represented at various job fairs, transition activities and other events across Oklahoma to raise awareness and educate employers, educators and citizens about the abilities of persons with visual impairments and blindness.

Please accept my sincere thanks for the hard work ORCdoes in educational outreach, to build good relationships with our Congressional Representatives and Senators, resulting in improved lines of communication between DRSand our Washington representatives. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to call on me.

Sincerely,

Teresa McDermott, Division Ad m in ist rat or Divis io n of Vis ua l Services

Empower Oklahomans with Disabilities

th 3535 NW58 , S u it e 500, OKC, OK 73112-4824 IOffice: 405-951-3485 IFax: 405-951-3529 Interim Director Noel Tyler Com m is sioners Lynda Collins, Ap ril Danahy and Jack Tucker

46

To contact the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council: 3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 500 Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 951-3579 www.orc.okstate.edu

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