What is the Department of Rehabilitation?

The purpose of the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is to assist clients in fulfilling their employment goals and achieve independence.  Some of the services available include:

• Counseling and Case Management
• Interpreter Services
• Job Search and Placement Assistance
• On-the-Job or Personal Assistance Services
• Resume and Portfolio Development
• Financial Assistance for Education/Training (Books, Tuition, Transportation, etc.)
• Vocational Assessment

Department of Rehabilitation Overview

The transition from high school to beyond can often times be very difficult.  The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) provides vocational services to assist clients into the next stage of their lives.

Available training includes education and/or on-the-job training leading towards employment in their specific goal.  That may include a short-term training program, certificate program at a community college, preparation for transfer to a four-year university or a bachelor’s degree. 

What Does This Training Look Like

For those looking for employment, clients work with their DOR counselor to develop the skills necessary to attain and retain employment based on the plan they develop with their counselor.

If, however, the goal requires further education, clients and their counselors would develop a plan to support that.  It may require that clients attend classes in Adult Education, a community college or university.  The goal must support furthering education to receive financial support from DOR.

Important Things to Know

Each client’s program is tailored to their specific needs.  When those referred become a client, they will meet with their counselor and discuss the things they will need to reach their individual goal.  They will stay with the same counselor for the duration of their program unless a change is made.

Who Qualifies for Services?

Anyone with an active IEP or documented disability (learning, physical or emotional) may qualify for services.  Not every person who applies for services is selected for program participation.  However, most people who apply to DOR are accepted into the program.  The family’s income level is not a consideration.  Clients may receive services as long as they are needed to reach their goal.  If clients close their case and require services in the future, they may reapply at any time.

How Do I Apply for Services?

1. Students will need to pick up an application from Miss Bloomfield in the Wolverine Center.  Applications are available beginning February 28, 2011.  If students will not be attending school in San Diego County, please see Miss Bloomfield for contact information.
2. Return your completed application to Miss Bloomfield.  She will review your application materials for completeness and eligibility.  Please do not submit your materials online as this will delay the process.
3. You will be contacted regarding the next step in the process, including scheduling an intake interview with the DOR counselor.

Please be prepared to have documentation available, such as your IEP and any reports that may verify your information.  You must have a specific goal prior to applying for services. 

If you have any questions, contact Kathy Bloomfield at kbloomfield@powayusd.com.