Document Type

Fact Sheet

Publisher

RTC:Rural

Publication Date

4-2024

Disciplines

Economics | Labor Economics | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) programs are funded by the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) to assist individuals with disabilities to obtain, advance, or retain employment. Employment is a valuable outcome because it can increase economic independence and community participation. To achieve employment, VR programs offer a range of services such as assessment, counseling, training, and job placement. We conducted two studies using RSA-911 case-services data to better understand
how VR agencies are serving diverse populations. RSA-911 data includes information about each consumer who enters the VR program, including sociodemographic characteristics and VR services received. In our first study, we used RSA-911 data to examine application rates for VR services across different geographic areas, shedding light on potential barriers faced by rural consumers. In our second study, we used RSA-911 data to examine differences in VR service delivery practices across geographic and demographic groups. Together, these studies provide insights into the equitable distribution of VR services in meeting the needs of diverse populations.

Keywords

rural, disability, employment

Rights

© 2024 RTC:Rural

Granting Agency

National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR)

Acknowledgement

This publication was developed with funding from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR grant numbers 90RTCP0002 and 90RTCP0007). NIDILRR is a Center within the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The contents do not necessarily represent the policy of NIDILRR, ACL, or HHS, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government.

Project Number

90RTCP0002

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