2006Annual Report
WyomingDivision of Vocational
Rehabilitation
Department of Workforce Services
Jim McIntosh, Administrator
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Department of Workforce ServicesMISSION
Building a workforce to meet thechanging demands of Wyoming’s
diverse businesses, citizens and economy.
Division of Vocational Rehabilitationis dedicated
to advance opportunities for persons withdisabilities in Wyoming
to be employed and independent.
VALUES
I. We value people with disabilities;II. We value staff and their contributions;III. We value responsible leadership and management;IV. We value an efficient and effective rehabilitation
program;V. We value financial and human resources that meet
the needs of people with disabilities.
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
From the Administrator
On behalf of the Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), it is a pleasureto present the 2006 Annual Report. The accomplishments of this past year serve to substantiatethe dedication, expertise and professionalism of staff in efficiently and effectively advancingopportunities for individuals with disabilities to enter into successful employment outcomes. Withemphasis on quality outcomes for clients, performance management remains the cornerstone ofDVR’s continuous improvement process. Wyoming DVR exceeded all seven performanceindicators in State Fiscal Year 2006.
The public Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program remains one of the most cost effectiveprograms ever created by Congress. It enables individuals with disabilities to work and becometaxpaying citizens. In State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2006, a total of 3,759 Wyoming citizens with disabilitiesreceived a broad array of VR services, 555 of whom secured, regained or retained employmentwith estimated annualized earnings in excess of $9,276,000. The Disability DeterminationServices (DDS) served 4,187 clients in Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2006. Claims processing timesfor Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability applicants were significantly betterthan the national average while exceptional accuracy and productivity were maintained.
All eligible clients are being served with access to a broad array of individualized services.The growing demand for client services, spiraling medical costs, initiatives in Special Education,transition from school to work, Assistive Technology, Workforce Investment Act, OlmsteadDecision, and Comprehensive Personnel Development Standards contribute to the mountingfiscal challenges confronting the VR program.
Increased focus on integration within the Department of Workforce Services, creatingfluid teams, developing cross education philosophies, and shared access will further facilitatenetworking opportunities with colleagues, employers, individuals with disabilities, and membersof the State Rehabilitation Council. Through ongoing effort, cooperative initiatives and partnershipswill be forged and enhanced to provide comprehensive, client-centered services that promoteopportunities for quality employment outcomes.
We encourage your review of this report, which demonstrates the positive impact DVR’sprograms have in Wyoming. Thank you for your continued support.
Respectfully,
Jim McIntoshAdministrator
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
CONTENTSSuccess Stories ..................................................................................................................... 1
Program Highlights ............................................................................................................. 6
ProgramsGeneral Rehabilitation ........................................................................................................................ 7Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities ......................................... 7Business Enterprise Program ............................................................................................................ 8Transition from School to Work ....................................................................................................... 9Post Secondary Education ............................................................................................................... 10Supported Employment ................................................................................................................... 10Acquired Brain Injury ....................................................................................................................... 11Independent Living ........................................................................................................................... 12Wyoming Relay Service .................................................................................................................... 14
ResourcesEconomic Benefit ............................................................................................................................ 16Employment Data ............................................................................................................................ 17Expenditures by Funding Source ................................................................................................... 18Performance Standards.................................................................................................................... 19
Social Security Disability Determination Services ....................................................... 20
State Rehabilitation Council ............................................................................................ 21
Wyoming DVR Offices .................................................................................................... 25
Wyoming Business Leadership Network....................................................................... 27
This Annual Report is a publication of the Wyoming Department of Workforce ServicesDivision of Vocational Rehabilitation
1100 Herschler Building, Cheyenne, WY 82002
Jim McIntosh, AdministratorMerle Derdall, Editor
Velta K. Spear, Production
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Sonya D. Clark applied for services withthe Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)on July 25, 2000. She was found eligible forDVR services in August 2000 after it wasdetermined that she had a disability that wasconsidered to be a substantial impediment tocompetitive employment. Sonya graduatedfrom Green River High School where shereceived DVR services prior to relocating toEvanston, Wyoming.
What a Success!Sonya successfully completed four years
of college and graduated from the Universityof Wyoming with a degree in Criminal Justice.She worked to meet all of the objectivesidentified in her IPE for treatment, training andemployment throughout the time she workedwith DVR. In August 2005, Sonya was hired towork as a Case Work Specialist at theDepartment of Family Services in Rock Springs,Wyoming. Her case file with DVR was closedsuccessfully on February 9, 2006.
I had the privilege of speaking withSonya via telephone on August 8, 2006, at herplace of employment. She indicated that sheloves her career as a Case Work Specialist. Sheearns $2,907.00 per month in wages for an annualsalary of $34,884. She shared that she justpurchased a new home and she thanked DVRfor all the assistance this agency provided to helpher gain the skills that now enable her to be self-sufficient in life.
What a success! This is the kind of goodnews that makes working as a DVR Counselorextremely rewarding and reminds us of theimportance that all people with disabilitiesdeserve the right to enter into and sustain gainfulemployment. Rehabilitation clients contributesignificantly to the communities in which theylive.
“Congratulations Sonyafor a job well done!”
(Submitted by Glenn Roach, MS, CRC, VR Counselor,Evanston, Wyoming.)
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Sonya worked with her VocationalRehabilitation Counselor to explore vocationaloptions and to develop her Individual Plan forEmployment (IPE). She and her VR Counselorworked to identify ways she could progress anddeal with rehabilitation issues in her IPE. Sonyabecame more and more determined toparticipate in treatment and to strive towardsreaching her IPE goal to work in the HumanServices’ field. In January 2001, with thesupport of DVR, Sonya began to participate incollege to obtain the skills that would enableher to one day work in her chosen field.
Sonya D. Clark
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
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Adaptive Equipment Brings Employment Success!
Dawn Ragsdale applied for VocationalRehabilitation (VR) services in July 2004. Dawnhad been doing data entry and office assistantwork, but gave up her position due to severetendonitis in her elbow. Dawn’s injury andunemployment caused her to experiencepsychological adjustment issues which presentedher with barriers in her search for employment.Initially, Dawn focused on finding a differentline of work due to her physical limitations. Hervocational rehabilitation counselor thenredirected her to her originial line of work, byusing adaptive technologies to limit the physicalpain and discomfort she experienced fromworking on the computer.
Dawn and her VR Counselor developedan Individualized Plan of Employment (IPE)with the vocational goal of becoming an officeassistant. VR counseling, individual counseling,job development services, vocational siteassessment and adaptive, ergonomically correctequipment were provided to assist Dawn inbeing successful as an office assistant.Equipment provided to Dawn included a fingertrackball, wrist supports for the trackball,footrests, an ergonomically correct keyboardand a chair with lumbar support and armrests.
In December 2005, Dawn becameemployed as an office assistant earning $13.30an hour, with insurance and retirement benefitsincluded. Having health insurance benefitsthrough her employment was very important forDawn and has given her some peace of mind,knowing that she will be able to provide themedical care her children may need.
Dawn has indicated she really likes herposition and the people she works with. Shefeels she is a valued employee and her employerhas been very willing to work with her limitationsso she can be successful.
Dawn has expressed appreciation andgratitude for the services she received fromWyoming Vocational Rehabilitation. Dawn nowsees a bright future as a result of being in anemployment setting she’s comfortable with.Dawn’s case was closed in successfulemployment in May 2006, and she continues toremain employed in this position today.(Submitted by Clay Dokken, VR Counselor, Cheyenne,Wyoming).
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Worland, Wyoming, population 5,250is the scene of a young man’s success story. Thisstory is a reflection of the teamwork,coordination and collaboration that came frommany people. Congratulations to Tim Heckertfor his dedicated efforts to continue on with hisemployment.
Tim Heckert, while previously living inSheridan, Wyoming, received DVR services. Itis true that Tim once struggled with employmentsituations and in 2004 Tim decided to relocatefrom Sheridan to his hometown of Worland.
Tim was referred to the Worland DVRoffice by Big Horn Enterprises, Inc. an areacommunity rehabilitation program (CRP). BigHorn Enterprises has been an important partnerin Tim’s successful employment. Workingtogether with Big Horn Enterprises staff, Timand DVR were able to address criticalrehabilitation issues. All through the course ofa successful rehabilitation program, Timaddressed issues relating to his disability.
With the help of a job coach, his familyand support staff, Tim was able to understandhow impulsivity, lack of social awareness,hygiene and other issues might affect hisemployability.
Once Tim agreed to address hisbehavior issues, he and his VR Counselor wereable to complete an Individual Plan forEmployment (IPE). Tim did not want to workmore than 20 hours per week and he wasinterested in work with limited customer contactbecause of his tendency to “talk too much.”
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Community Partners CreateCommunity Employment
Nevertheless, Tim also wanted a job where hecould interact with co-workers and where hewould be recognized for doing good work.
Tim was willing to learn new job skillsfor the sake of having employment. A workexperience at the local Comfort Inn wasplanned, and Tim was pleased to be working.
Although not all initial work experienceswere smooth, many thanks to the Comfort Innstaff and to Big Horn Enterprises staff insupport of Tim learning the requirements ofthe job and moving him successfully throughan on-the-job training.
Some additional job coaching wasprovided to help Tim “polish” his ability to foldtowels, fold sheets, run commercial laundrymachines, and maintain supply carts. Tim hasbeen able to maintain his employment and securegainful work activity.
Counselor Will Tempany (right)congratulates Tim (left) for staying with his workand taking pride in his ability to keep theComfort Inn’s laundry in order. (Submitted by WillTempany, VR Counselor, Worland, Wyoming).
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
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Peggy Akin is a Registered Nursesuccessfully employed at Sage View Care Centerin Rock Springs, Wyoming. She exudes anattitude of happiness and satisfaction witheveryone she encounters.
Two years ago, Peggy was overwhelmedwith the barriers facing her in her life and hadreached a point of significant despair. Peggywould cover up her anxiety and depression withalcohol and methamphetamine abuse. A longemployment history of strenuous heavy physicallabor in the oilfield had taken its toll on her body.Peggy says that because VocationalRehabilitation believed in her, she has receiveda “whole new beginning.” “Who would thinkthat this 48 year old pipeline laborer would havethe opportunity to obtain the nursing skills thatallow me to go any where and find employment?If I would have been left to my own devices, Iwould have walked out and not taken on thechallenges.”
Peggy is very committed to herrehabilitation and possesses a deepunderstanding of her disabilities and what partshe plays in managing the symptoms. Peggycompleted nursing school at Western WyomingCommunity College.
“Whole New Beginning”
The path to this employment goal wasnot always easy to navigate. In addition toattending school full time and maintaining parttime employment, Peggy was required to attendcounseling sessions and also NarcoticsAnonymous meetings. As her VocationalRehabilitation Counselor, I take great joy inknowing that Peggy is now doing something shetruly loves. The lives of the patients she servesare enriched every day because of her dedicationand commitment to her rehabilitation and theopportunity she seized for a “whole newbeginning” in her life. (Submitted by Marsha Krotz,VR Counselor, Evanston, Wyoming)
Peggy Akin, RN
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
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Dennis Dudgeon is a successful DVRclient from Glenrock, Wyoming. He firstcame to VR while living in Douglas, Wyoming.Dennis had fallen on the ice while carryingsheet rock. Since then he had jobs workingas a driver for car dealerships, providingtransportation to and from airports, and hehad worked as a carpenter. Dennis hadproblems with his shoulder that preventedhim from doing the heavy lifting needed as acarpenter/construction worker.
Dennis is very creative, which led himto consider working with small woodworkingprojects, such as picture frames. In this way,he would be able to use his woodworking skills,but not further injure himself by the heavylifting. Dennis began working with DVR’sBusiness Enterprise Program to develop abusiness plan. Dennis and his wife, J’Lynn,have created a wonderful business inGlenrock, Wyoming.
Here is what Dennis wrote about hisexperience with DVR:
Dreams Become Reality
“I have always loved working with woodand for the first time in my life I am getting paidto do something I love. The Division ofVocational Rehabilitation has made this possiblefor me. I had dreamed of having my own businessfor years, but was unable to decide how to goabout bringing my dreams and ideas into reality.In June 2005, Earth Treasures became anoperating business. Our specialty is creatingcustom picture frames and matting, but we alsooffer photographic services, jewelry, rocks, fossils,gems and gifts. Our company slogan is “UsingTreasures of the Earth to create treasures for you!”Our website, www.wyearthtreasures.com, offerspeople a chance to look through an on-lineportfolio of custom framing we have made forothers, purchase walking sticks, canes, jewelry,jewelry boxes and frames already made.
Prior to seeking DVR services, I had beenemployed as a carpenter but was injured on thejob and had to have surgery. I was told I wouldno longer be able to continue in that line of work.I had talked about going back to college, butbecame discouraged with the amount of remedialclasses I would need. I began working with mycounselor, Stephanie, at DVR. She was extremelyhelpful in assisting me to figure out what I wantedto do and helping it become a reality. EarthTreasures would not have come into being withouther assistance.” (Submitted by Stephanie McCawley,VR Counselor, Douglas, Wyoming )
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Program HighlightsState Fiscal Year 2006
July 1, 2005 through June 30, 2006
√√√√√ 3,759 Wyoming citizens with disabilities received services ranging from vocational rehabilitationevaluation and eligibility determination to medical treatment, counseling, training and job placement;555 persons were successfully rehabilitated by DVR.
√ √ √ √ √ Sixty-two percent (62%) of the individuals served were significantly disabled.
√√√√√ Sixty-nine percent (69%) of the individuals who were successfully rehabilitated (returned towork) were significantly disabled.
√ √ √ √ √ The annualized earnings for 555 individuals rehabilitated during State Fiscal Year 2006 is estimatedat $9,276,000.
√ √ √ √ √ The annual savings to taxpayers, as a result of reduced public assistance payments to rehabilitatedindividuals, is estimated to be $1,403,000.
√√√√√ Disability Determination Services (DDS) processed 4,187 claims during Federal Fiscal Year2006. Processing times continue to be some of the lowest in the nation while processing accuracyremains exceptionally high.
√ √ √ √ √ 628 persons with the most significant disabilities received supported employment services; 174supported employment clients were successfully rehabilitated this year.
√ √ √ √ √ The Wyoming Independent Living Programs directly served 1,312 individuals. These programsresponded to 9,925 requests for information during the fiscal year.
√√√√√ 142 DVR clients received assistance in the planning and establishment of a small businessthrough Business Enterprise Program services; 30 individuals were successfully self-employed.Twenty-one clients with a significant disabling condition received financial assistance through theSmall Business Development Fund.
√√√√√ 15 text telephones (TTYs), 15 amplified telephones/devices, 10 captioned telephones (CapTel™),2 Voice Carry Over (VCO) devices, and 34 signaling devices were distributed free of charge toindividuals with communication impairments through the Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS)Program.
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Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
GeneralRehabilitation
Employment for people with disabilitiesis the primary objective of the GeneralRehabilitation program. In this program, eachState dollar is matched with approximately fourFederal dollars.
The conditions of eligibility for theGeneral Rehabilitation program are definedunder the Rehabilitation Act as individualshaving:
♦ a physical or mental impair-ment which constitutes or resultsin a substantial impediment toemploy ment; and
♦ the ability to benefit in termsof an employment outcome fromvocational rehabilitation services.
General Rehabilitation services aredelivered through 16 field offices staffed by 29VR counselors and 20 assistants. These officesare managed by area consultants in five serviceregions. Evaluation of rehabilitation needs,rehabilitation counseling and guidance, referralservices, assistive technology, and jobdevelopment are core services available to clients.
Other major services include diagnosticsand evaluation, training, and transportation. Theclient and counselor work together to developan Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE)that outlines the objectives and services requiredto accomplish the client’s vocational goal.
Governor’s Committeeon Employment
of People with Disabilities
Creating a positive environment for theindependence and employment of people withdisabilities is the primary focus of theGovernor’s Committee on Employment ofPeople with Disabilities (GCEPD). TheGCEPD focuses on employment and theremoval of barriers to employment for peoplewith disabilities. This is accomplished in part byserving as a resource for employers, employees,and people who want information about theneeds of persons with disabilities.
The GCEPD serves as a coordinatingunit for mayors’ and advocacy committees incommunities throughout Wyoming. TheGCEPD also serves as a liaison between DVRand the Independent Living Programs, theVisually Impaired Program and the StateIndependent Living Council.
The GCEPD provides Americans withDisabilities Act (ADA) technical assistanceinformation to people with disabilities,employers, state and local governments,businesses and the general public.
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“We must scrupulously guard the civil rights and civilliberties of all citizens, whatever their background. Wemust remember that any oppression, any injustice, anyhatred is a wedge designed to attack our civilization.”
--Quote from President Franklin D. Roosevelt
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Business Enterprise Program
Self-Employment Assistance
The Business Enterprise Program(BEP) in State Fiscal Year 2006 provided trainingand self-employment assistance to 142 currentlyactive DVR clients from 30 Wyomingcommunities. Twenty-one individuals startedsmall businesses. The businesses include doggrooming, retail stores, saddle making and gunsmithing.
Vending Services
BEP is responsible for the managementof vending machine services in State buildings.Vendor contracts are awarded to privateenterprises through a competitive bid process.Commissions from the vending machines arethe primary source of revenue for the BusinessEnterprise Program. Proceeds are held in aspecial Small Business Development Fund.These funds are available to individuals whohave a significant disabling condition and wantto operate their own business.
The Business Enterprise Program(BEP) serves those DVR clients who areinterested or involved in self-employment. Self-employment includes various types of businessventures, from home-based micro-enterprises tomuch larger ventures.
BEP can provide both technical andfinancial assistance, from helping a client start anew business that may be home-based toacquiring an existing business. Occasionallyassistance in modifying a business for its owneris necessary when modifications are needed toaccommodate the client’s disability or improveaccessibility.
BEP funds are obtained from thevending serivces in State buildings. These fundsare matched by Federal dollars and comprise theSmall Business Development Fund.
In State Fiscal Year 2006, training andself-employment assistance were provided to142 clients. Thirty of these clients are nowsuccessfully employed.
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The Many Hands of
Self-Employment Success!
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Transition from School to Work
The Wyoming Division of VocationalRehabilitation maintains its commitment totransition services as defined by a Memorandumof Understanding (MOU) with the WyomingDepartment of Education. The MOU serves asa guide to enhance working relationshipsbetween the two agencies.
Additionally, at the local school districtlevel, local DVR counselors meet with teachersand students to help develop Individualized Plansfor Employment (IPE’s) with eligible students.
Seven key componentsof the Vocational Rehabilitation –
Department of EducationAgreement:
» Joint training for agencies’ personnel;
» Uniform referral procedures;
» Technical assistance to schooldistricts;
» Monitoring transition students’progress;
» Interagency sharing of client statisticaldata;
» Transfer of ownership and sharedpayment for assistive technologydevices and services; and
» DVR provision and coordination ofvocationally-related services whichinclude situational assessment, careerexploration, job shadowing,rehabilitation counseling, and workexperience for students determinedeligible for DVR services.
DVR collaborates with the Departmentof Education (DOE) in a number of ways:
» DVR is a member of the Departmentof Education’s Partnership AdvisoryTeam concerning DOE’s StateImprovement Grant; and
» DVR is a member of DOE’sWyoming Advisory Panel for Studentswith Disabilities.
SCHOOL TO WORK
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Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Post Secondary EducationDuring State Fiscal Year 2006, 673 DVR
clients were enrolled in post secondary trainingat Wyoming’s Community Colleges, theUniversity of Wyoming and other institutionsof higher education:
Institution # Enrolled
Casper College 85Central Wyoming College 34Eastern Wyoming College 19Laramie County Comm. College 99Northwest College 50Sheridan College 42Western Wyoming Comm. College 106University of Wyoming 82Out of State Institutions 23Other Institutions 133
DVR does not normally pay the full costof a client’s post secondary education; maximumefforts are made to secure scholarships and grantassistance, and clients must apply for a FederalPell Grant to assist with the cost of training. Inaddition, DVR’s rules and regulations onfinancial assistance require that if a trainingprogram is available in Wyoming, payment forout-of-state educational expenses will becalculated at the same rate available at publicin-state institutions.
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Supported EmploymentIn the past ten years, 2,069 supported
employment clients have been successfullyemployed:
Number Number SFY Clients SFY Clients
2006 174 2001 260 2005 158 2000 255 2004 216 1999 219 2003 200 1998 150 2002 283 1997 154
The purpose of supported employmentservices is to provide rehabilitation services forindividuals with the most significant disabilitiesto enable such individuals to achieveemployment. An individual shall be eligible toreceive supported employment services when:
1) The individual is eligible forvocational rehabilitation services; 2) Theindividual has a most significant disability; and3) A comprehensive assessment of rehabilitationneeds of the individual identifies supportedemployment as the appropriate employmentoutcome for the individual.
The State Vocational RehabilitationProgram is designed to assess, plan, develop andprovide vocational rehabilitation services forindividuals with most significant disabilitiesconsistent with their strengths, resources,priorities, concerns, abilities, interests andinformed choice, so that such individuals mayprepare for and engage in gainful employment.
Interested qualifying individuals mayapply for services at their nearest DistrictDivision of Vocational Rehabilitation Office.
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Acquired Brain Injuries
Studies indicate that individuals withAcquired Brain Injuries (ABI) in Wyoming donot receive optimal services on a sustainedbasis. The Acquired Brain Injuries (ABI)population is underserved in many areas ofthe state. This under service arises fromseveral factors, including:
♦ a failure of other serviceproviders (the medical community inparticular) to identify and refer individualswith acquired brain injuries; and
♦ a lack of awareness of theexistence of Vocational Rehabilitation serviceson the part of persons with Acquired BrainInjuries (ABI).
Presently there is no coordinated,statewide system serving individuals with ABI.There is a continuing need for a structuredsystem to assure “early” identification andtreatment planning for persons with ABI inWyoming.
In 2006, the Wyoming Division ofVocational Rehabilitation (DVR) took actionto support expansion and enhancement of thecapacity to serve individuals with AcquiredBrain Injuries.
In 2006, DVR accepted acomprehensive proposal with a five yeartimeline designed to address the statewide ABIrehabilitation needs.
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The nationwide socio-economic impactof ABI is more significant than most citizensrealize. According to the Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention (2004), ABI’s contributeto a substantial number of deaths and cases ofpermanent disability annually.
1. Each year in the United States, an estimated:
♦ 1.4 million people sustain an ABI,
♦ 50,000 people die from ABI; and
♦ 80,000 to 90,000 peopleexperience the onset of a lifelong disabilityassociated with an ABI.
2. Among children ages 0 to 14 years, ABI resultsin an estimated:
♦ 2,685 deaths;♦ 37,000 hospitalizations; and♦ 435,000 emergency room visits.
3. An estimated 300,000 sports-related braininjuries, of mild to moderate severity, occur inthe United States each year.
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Independent Living (IL)
Wyoming is served by two Centers forIndependent Living (CIL): 1) WyomingIndependent Living Rehabilitation, Inc. (WILR)in Casper, Wyoming and 2) Wyoming Servicesfor Independent Living (WSIL) in Lander,Wyoming. These CIL programs provide servicesto persons with significant disabilities that includemaintaining employment. The purpose of theCIL is to help people with disabilities to continueliving in their homes and communities. InFederal Fiscal Year 2005, the CIL programsdirectly served 1,312 people and providedanother 9,925 with information. IndependentLiving services in Wyoming are funded by TitleVII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, asamended.
Chapter 1, Part B funds are awarded toDVR as a formula grant based upon the State’spopulation. The 90% Federal funds are matchedby 10% State General funds and are contractedout to the two CIL programs in Wyoming. Thetwo Centers use these funds to provide caseservices, information and referral, andconsumer/system advocacy for people withsignificant disabilities throughout the State ofWyoming. Part B funds are also used by theWyoming State Independent Living Council(SILC). These funds are used by SILC primarilyto review, evaluate and monitor the IndependentLiving State Plan.
Chapter 1, Part C funds are granted toWyoming’s two independent living centers. Thefunds are used to cover administrative expenses,support benefits, and direct client services. Thisprogram is 100% Federally funded.
The Independent Living - Chapter 2 -Visually Impaired Program (VIP) providesindependent living services to individuals age 55and over who are blind or have a severe visionloss affecting their ability to live independently.The program provides support groups,orientation and mobility training, daily livingtraining, personal counseling, and adaptiveequipment. The Federal program is awarded toDVR with a required 10% State match. Thematch is provided by a combination of fundsfrom DVR and the contracting agency. DVRcontracts with WILR to deliver these servicesstatewide. In State Fiscal Year 2006, 549individuals received direct services from the VIPproject and another 3,599 received informationand referral services.
For additional information contact:
WY Services for Independent Living (WSIL) 1156 South 2nd Street Lander, Wyoming 82520 (307) 332-4889
WY Independent Living Rehabilitation, Inc. (WILR) 305 West 1st Street Casper, Wyoming 82601 (307) 266-6956 http:www.wilr.org
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Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Wyoming State Independent LivingCouncil Members
The State Independent Living Council (SILC) serves in an advisory capacity to Wyoming’sDVR and it’s two Independent Living Centers. A majority of SILC members are individuals withdisabilities representing various organizations and associations who assist people with disabilities.Members are appointed by the Governor and serve no more than two three-year terms.
Terms Expiring January 2007
Dorothy CroninCasper, Wyoming
Becky S. HollowaySheridan, Wyoming
Edwin HeimerCody, Wyoming
Ken HoffCasper, Wyoming
Liz LadeburgCasper, Wyoming
Terms Expiring January 2008
Carol FontaineLander, Wyoming
Tom AndersenCasper, Wyoming
Louise GreenCasper, Wyoming
William “Bill” MarshRawlins, Wyoming
Terms Expiring January 2009
Carol Ann MarshRawlins, Wyoming
Dianne CulhaneSheridan, Wyoming
For more information on the State IndependentLiving Council, please visit their web site:http://wyomingsilc.com
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Woody AbsherDivision of Vocational RehabilitationCheyenne, WyomingJanuary 2007
Lee BeidlemanClient Assistance ProgramProtection and AdvocacyCheyenne, WyomingJanuary 2007
Ex-Officio Members
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Wyoming Relay Service
The Telecommunications Relay Service(TRS), pursuant to Title IV of the Americanswith Disabilities Act (ADA), is designed toprovide universal telephone service for allAmericans, including people who are deaf, hardof hearing, deaf-blind, and/or speech-impaired.Wyoming law provides authorization for theTelecommunications Relay Service and anEquipment Distribution Program funded by atelephone line surcharge. The surchargeremained at six cents per access line.
The fastest growing Wyoming RelayService is CapTelTM. CapTelTM is an enhancedvoice carry over service that allows individualswith hearing loss to view word-for-wordcaptions of their telephone conversations. Theaverage number of CapTelTM minutes of serviceeach month increased from 1,487 in State FiscalYear 2005 to 1,981 in State Fiscal Year 2006.
Hamilton Telecommunications wasselected as Wyoming’s TelecommunicationsRelay Service provider as the result of acompetitive bidding process in 2004, andcontinues to provide relay services to the citizensof Wyoming.
In addition to Wyoming, HamiltonTelecommunications, based in Aurora,Nebraska, currently provides relay services toNebraska, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana,Wisconsin, Rhode Island, Maine, Iowa, Georgia,Montana, the District of Columbia, Saipan andthe Virgin Islands. Hamilton gives relay usersmore control in how their calls are processedthrough their customized “Relay Your Way”programs.
Wyoming Relay ran radioadvertisements, newspaper advertisements andbillboard advertising to educate the public aboutrelay so they do not hang up when they get relaycalls and also about 711 so they are aware ofhow easy it is to make a relay call. WyomingRelay also ran radio advertisements to educatecitizens who have recently lost their hearingabout relay in general and about CapTelTM.Wyoming Relay also had booths at health fairsaround the state. Finally, Wyoming Relayworked with the Department of Eucation toprovide information about relay statewide tostudents, their parents and service providers.
Individuals and organizations whowould like more information, or training onthe Wyoming Relay or specialized telphoneequipment for individuals with hearing loss cancan call Wyoming Relay Customer Service at1-888-694-4450 (V/TTY) or [email protected].
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Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Telecommunications Relay ServiceAdvisory Committee
In 1991, the Wyoming Statutes 16-9-202 through 16-9-204 created the TelecommunicationsRelay Service Advisory Committee. This is a seven member committee appointed by the Governorfor three year terms. The Committee provides advice concerning the administration of the WyomingRelay Program and annually determines the amount of the telephone surcharge per access line.Members are selected from appointment districts.
Angela S. Joannides (Cheyenne)District 1 - Goshen, Platte & Laramie Counties
Susan M. Fanning (Laramie) District 2 - Sweetwater, Carbon & Albany Counties
Carma Jackman (Lyman) District 3 - Teton, Sublette, Lincoln & Uinta Counties
John D. Cosner (Gillette) District 4 - Sheridan, Campbell & Johnson Counties
Larry Paulsen (Powell) District 5 - Park, Big Horn, Hot Springs & Washakie Counties
Paul S. Brooks (Sundance) District 6 - Crook, Weston & Niobrara Counties
Heather Parsons (Casper) District 7 - Fremont, Natrona & Converse Counties
Wyoming Relay NumbersAll Call Types 7-1-1 OR Dial:
TTY (Text Telephone) 1-800-877-9965Voice 1-800-877-9975Voice Carry Over (VCO) 1-877-877-1474To reach CapTel User 1-877-243-2823Speech to Speech (STS) 1-877-787-0503Spanish Language Service (Servicio en Español) 1-800-829-2783Wyoming Relay State Office 1-800-452-1408Relay Service Information 1-800-452-140824 Hour Customer Service Center 1-800-694-4450Customer Service Email [email protected] Relay Service www.hiprelay.comVideo Relay Service www.wyvrs.com
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Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Prior to receiving DVR services, many people withdisabilities rely on public assistance. With the helpof Vocational Rehabilitation, these individuals canbecome employed and substantially reduce theirdependence on public assistance.
The following information describes characteristics of the 3,759 individuals who were servedby the Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Program during SFY 2006.
Public Assistance Costs Go Down
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$991,000Remaining Public
Assistance
Wyoming Economic Benefit
In 2006, Wyoming DVR rehabilitated 555 individuals with disabilities, resulting in estimatedannualized earnings of $9,276,000. In addition, the annualized savings to taxpayers as a result ofreduced public assistance payments to rehabilitated individuals is estimated to be $1,403,000.
Public Assistance
$1,403,000Savings to TaxpayersPost Rehabilitation
41%59%
gnilbasiDrojaMnoitidnoC % ecaR % redneG %
cidepohtrO 5.33 etihW 6.49 elaM 7.25
cirtaihcysP 8.03 naidnInaciremA 1.3 elameF 3.74
seitilibasiDlatnempoleveD 2.61 kcalB 8.1
gniraeH 7.4 naisA 4.0
lausiV 5.2 cificaP/naiiawaHrednalsI 1.0
snoitidnoCrehtO 3.21 )ecaryna(cinapsiH 1.7
ecnatsissAcilbuPstneipiceR
ecnatsissAcilbuPstsoC
secivreSRVDerofeB 962 000,493,2$
secivreSRVDretfA 331 000,199$
ecnatsissAcilbuPnisgnivaS 000,304,1$
Characteristics of Individuals Served
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Number of Individuals Employed
Occupations of 555 Rehabilitated Individuals
Based on data from the 2000 Census, over 46,000 Wyoming residents between the agesof 21 and 64 have a disability; nearly 40% of these individuals are unemployed. The followingchart illustrates the placement occupations for the 555 individuals employed during SFY 2006.
17
noitapuccOrebmuNdeyolpmE
ecivreS 141selaS/lacirelC 431
laireganaM/lacinhceT/lanoisseforP 331kroWlarutcurtS 64
sedarTenihcaMdnakrowhcneB 72gnissecorP 91erutlucirgA 81
suoenallecsiM 73latoT 555
0 50 100 150
Persons
AgricultureProcessing
Benchwork/Machine TradesMiscellaneous Occupations
Structural WorkProfessionalClerical/Sales
Service
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Expenditures byFunding Source
Expenditures by Federal Funding
General (State) Funds15.20%
Federal Funds80.31% Special Revenue Funds
3.00%Enterprise & Agency Funds
1.49%
GeneralRehab
Disability Determination Services
Independent LivingSupported Employment
Social Security ReimbursementIn-Service Training
WC: Workers’ Compensation FundsBEP: Business Enterprise Program FundsWBLN: WY Business Leadership Network Funds
18
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lareneGsdnuF
.veRlaicepSsdnuF
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latoTserutidnepxE
dnarGfo%.dnepxElatoT
hctaMrehtO/wbaheRlareneG 288,486,7$ 056,317,1$ 0$ 581,08$ 108,201$ 815,185,9$ %11.07
secivreS.mreteDytilibasiD 991,783,2$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 991,783,2$ %74.71
.cvSyaleR.moceleT 0$ 0$ 569,904$ 0$ 0$ 569,904$ %00.3
BtraP-LI 700,633$ 922,73$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 632,373$ %37.2
noitartsinimdA 0$ 510,323$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 510,323$ %63.2
tnemyolpmEdetroppuS 100,052$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 100,052$ %38.1
2retpahC-LI 001,022$ 110,1$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 111,122$ %26.1
tnemesrubmieRytiruceSlaicoS 891,47$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 891,47$ %45.0
ecivreS-nI 169,22$ 409,1$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 568,42$ %81.0
esirpretnEssenisuB 0$ 0$ 0$ 0$ 234,12$ 234,12$ %61.0
LATOTDNARG 843,579,01$ 908,670,2$ 569,904$ 581,08$ 332,421$ 045,666,31$ %00.001
.pxElatoTtnarGfo% %13.08 %02.51 %00.3 %85.0 %19.0 %00.001
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Performance Standards
The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) has established Evaluation Standardsand Performance Indicators for the Vocational Rehabilitation Program. Wyoming DVR exceededall seven indicators in State FY 2006.
19
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YW RVDstluseR
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.1.1rotacidnIecnamrofreP nadeveihcaohwslaudividniforebmunehTmorfrebmunehtdeecxerolauqetsumraeytnerrucehtniemoctuotnemyolpme
.raeysuoiverpeht
455 555
.2.1rotacidnIecnamrofreP RVehtdetixeohwslaudividnifoegatnecrepehT.emoctuotnemyolpmenadeveihcaohwsecivresgniviecerretfamargorP %8.55 %8.17
.3.1rotacidnIecnamrofreP nadeveihcaohwslaudividnifoegatnecrepehT.egawmuminimehttsaeltagninraeeradnaemoctuotnemyolpme %6.27 %4.89
.4.1rotacidnIecnamrofreP eht,egawmuminimehttsaeltagninraeesohtfO.seitilibasidtnacifingishtiwslaudividnieraohwegatnecrep %4.26 %1.86
.5.1rotacidnIecnamrofreP gninraeslaudividnifosgninraeylruohegarevaehTllarofsgninraeylruohegarevaehtotoitarasa,egawmuminimehttsaelta
.deyolpmeeraohwgnimoyWnislaudividni%25 %26
.6.1rotacidnIecnamrofreP eht,egawmuminimehttsaeltagninraeesohtfOfoecruostsegralriehtsiemocninwoesohwegatnecrepehtneewtebecnereffid
emocninwoesohwegatnecrepehtdna,margorPRVehtdetixeyehtnehwtroppus.secivresRVrofdeilppayehtemitehttatroppusfoecruostsegralriehtsaw
%0.35 %7.56
.secivreSotsseccAlauqE-2dradnatSnoitaulavE tahterusnetsumRVD.secivresRVotsseccalauqeevahsdnuorgkcabytironimmorfslaudividni
.2.1rotacidnIecnamrofreP seitilibasidhtiwslaudividnirofetarecivresehTseitirionim-nonllarofetarecivresehtotoitarasasdnuorgkcabytironimmorf
.seitilibasidhtiw
%08 %38
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Social Security Disability Determination ServicesDisability Determination Services
(DDS) makes decisions of disability andblindness for both Titles II and XVI of theSocial Security Act on behalf of theCommissioner of the Social SecurityAdministration (SSA). Following preliminaryclaim preparation, DDS completes thedevelopment and adjudication of the medical,psychological and vocational factors ofeligibility. Two levels of appeal concerningdenied claims are adjudicated in the agency.DDS provides a Certified Hearing Officer toadjudicate appeals when benefits are terminatedrelated to continuing claim review and updateshowing cause for end of awarded benefits.
DDS is 100% federally funded. The2006 Federal Fiscal Year budget wasapproximately $2.3 million. The Federalgovernment pays the State of Wyoming foradministrative costs.
Wyoming DDS served 4,187 clientsduring Federal Fiscal Year 2006 and has thesecond highest production per work year in theregion at this time. The Presumptive DisabilityDecision on Title XVI cases was in the top fourin the country. SSA has migrated to a fullyelectronic processing system. This means thatSSA and DDS records are being maintained in
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an electronic folder that is entirely paperless.Wyoming DDS participated in an electroniccertification process in September 2005 and wasoffically certified on October 19, 2005 to processall initial claims electronically. SSA hasimplemented the Electronic Records Express(ERE) initiative by which SSA is attempting toreceive medical records from medical vendorselectronically, thereby creating a paperlessprocess. Wyoming DDS continues to marketERE effectively and continues to lead the regionin ERE usage. Ree Lindgren, DisabilitySupervisor, received the Commissioner’sCitation in April 2006, for her outstandingleadership. The Commissioner’s Citation is thehighest award given by SSA to an employee.
Several members of the Wyoming DDSstaff are certified by the National Associationof Disability Examiners (NADE). Recently,Karyn Speight, Disability Examiner, successfullycompleted the recertification process throughNADE.
Wyoming DDS continues to implementspecific protocols for the Homeless InitiativeProgram, terminal illness cases, and low birthweight cases. When a claim is received by DDSit is reviewed and expedited according to theseinitiatives and protocols.
What You Can Do Online http://www.socialsecurity.gov/online services/
Apply for benefits: Social Security Retirement, Spouse’s, or disability benefits;Begin or continue the Adult Disability and Work History Report;Continue the Online Appeal Disability Report;Apply for extra help with your Medicare prescription drug costs;Check the status of your online application;Find out what benefits you can apply for; plus much, much more....
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
State Rehabilitation Council MembersJuly 1, 2005 - June 30, 2006
Debbie Smith-Terech, ChairpersonExecutive CommitteeEvanston, Wyoming
Shannon Bodin, Chairperson ElectExecutive CommitteeCasper, Wyoming
Lee Beidleman, Vice ChairmanClient Assistance ProgramExecutive CommitteeCheyenne, Wyoming
Terri DawsonParent Information NetworkCommunications CommitteeBuffalo, Wyoming
Kathy EmmonsState Workforce Investment BoardCommunications CommitteeCheyenne, Wyoming
Nancy GeehanReview CommitteeBuffalo, Wyoming
Louise GreenState Independent Living CouncilReview CommitteeCasper, Wyoming
Linda KesslerReview CommitteeLaGrange, Wyoming
Jim McIntosh, Administrator (non-voting)Division of Vocational RehabilitationExecutive CommitteeCheyenne, Wyoming
Becky TaggartCommunications CommitteeLyman, Wyoming
Donna ThompsonDepartment of Education (IDEA)Communications CommitteeRiverton, Wyoming
Joe ThomasReview CommitteeReliance, Wyoming
Martin V. Thone, Ph.D.Executive CommitteeCasper, Wyoming
Jerry VoigtReview CommitteeCheyenne, Wyoming
Shawna WashakieNative American Rehab. (121 Project)Fort Washakie, Wyoming
Christi While, VR CounselorReview CommitteeRock Springs, Wyoming
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Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
State Rehabilitation Council2006 Annual Report
The responsibilities of the StateRehabilitation Council (SRC) are defined inSection 105 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.The SRC is authorized to review, analyze andadvise the Wyoming DVR on the performanceof the Vocational Rehabilitation program. Inpartnership with DVR, the SRC develops andreviews state goals and priorities, evaluates theeffectiveness of the vocational rehabilitationprogram, assists in the preparation of theUnified State Plan, and reviews customersatisfaction.
Members are appointed by and serve atthe pleasure of the Governor, and are based onpersonal qualifications and the needs of theCouncil. Members are a representation ofpersons with disabilities; disability advocacyorganizations; current and former consumersof vocational rehabilitation services; medicalprofessions; state educational agencies; andrepresentatives of business, industry and labor.
The SRC meets four times per year ona quarterly basis. Meetings are held in variouscommunities throughout Wyoming. All SRCmeetings are open to the public. Locations andtimes are published in the Casper Star Tribunenewspaper; one of Wyoming’s statewidepublications.
The SRC is dedicated to ensuringpersons with disabilities, throughout the stateof Wyoming, receive needed services byconducting and reviewing a needs assessmentsurvey; reviewing programs and policies beingimplemented; developing a consumer friendlyclient satisfaction survey; and by working incooperation with such groups as the Wyoming
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, WyomingStatewide Independent Living Council, ParentTraining and Information Center, ClientAssistance Program, and other agencies todevelop a proactive approach for the bettermentof persons with disabilities.
The State Rehabilitation Council invitesyou to become a member. If you are interestedin becoming a member of the SRC, anapplication form can be obtained by calling (307)777-7389.
SRC Contact InformationShannon Bodin, Chairperson-Elect
2045 S. Fairdale AvenueCasper, Wyoming
[email protected](307) 234-4535
22
Message from Debbie Terech, ImmediatePast Chair: It has been an honor to serve theGovernor and the people of Wyoming as yourSRC Chairperson. I am proud of the strongpartnership the SRC has forged with partnersacross the disability community. It is throughthese partnerships and a close and focusedinteraction that we will prevail despite currentand future challenges. During this past year theSRC has continued to work closely withVocational Rehabilitation (VR) to expandemployment opportunities for individuals whoexperience a disability. As immediate pastChairperson, I want to thank the members ofthe SRC for their hard work and dedication thathelped strengthen the VR program this past year.Our membership is comprised of caring peoplewho desire to ensure that all citizens with
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
disabilities in Wyoming have fair and equalaccessto rehabilitation services. The past yearhas been very positive and productive, and theSRC looks forward to a continued partnershipwith VR. We are working together to providequality services to ensure that the needs ofWyomingites who experience a disability arebeing met in the most effective manner.
Executive Committee Report
The Executive Committee workstoward the coordination and the establishmentof working relationships between DVR and theSRC. Members of the committee discuss newnominations for the SRC, policies, and solutionsto improve the communication between DVRand the SRC.
The goal of this committee is tofacilitate a positive partnership between DVRand the SRC. Both entities are crucial in thesuccess of the Division of VocationalRehabilitation. The SRC’s suggestions andadvice are to provide a stronger and moreeffective DVR.
Communications Committee Report
The Communications Committee, asrequired by the Rehabilitation Act, has theresponsibilities of coordinating andcommunicating with other councils and humanresource entities, performing and coordinatingpublic relations; and maintaining the EmployerRecognition Program. Staying informed of theactivities of other organizations concerned withthe disabled population provides powerfulnetworking tools and helps to avoid duplicationof efforts.
Promoting the awareness and functionof Vocational Rehabilitation creates connectionsbetween VR consumers and the employers whocan benefit from hiring them. The Communi-cations Committee makes employmentinformation available to employers, consumersand parents by participating in the annual MegaConference, as well as other conferences andopportunities to increase SRC and DVRvisability.
The importance of the employer’sefforts to utilize people of differing abilitiescannot be overlooked. This committee, bycollaborating with the Business LeadershipNetwork, recognizes employers around the statewho support employment of people withdisabilities. Without employers’ willingness torecognize people’s talents, VR efforts and awilling workforce would go untapped.
The Communications Committee takesgreat pride in helping the SRC be an activepartner in recognizing and utilizing Wyoming’soften untapped workforces.
Review Committee Report
The Review Committee has the yearlyresponsibility to review DVR’s section of theState’s Unified Plan. Other responsibilities areto make sure client satisfaction survey resultsare accounted for from DVR. This is a veryimportant role of the SRC, and the ReviewCommittee is reviewing client concernsregarding the DVR service delivery system. Thiscommittee reviews the State Plan and identifiesany changes that may need attention.
Respectfully submitted by:Debbie Terech, Immediate Past Chairperson
23
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Stat
e R
ehab
ilita
tion
Cou
ncil
Mem
bers
hip
Shannon Bodin
Martin Thone,P.h.D.
Debbie Terech
Jerry Voigt
Linda Kessler
24
Jim McIntosh
Lee Beidleman
Joe Thomas
Christi While
Council Member not pictured:Terri Dawson
Nancy GeehanLouise Green
Becky TaggartDonna Thompson
Shawna Washakie
Kathy Emmons
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Wyoming OfficesDepartment of Workforce Services
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Casper District Office - 01851 Werner Court, Suite 120Casper, WY 82601(307) 261-2172Area Served: Natrona County
Cheyenne District Office - 021510 E. Pershing BoulevardCheyenne, WY 82002(307) 777-7364Area Served: Laramie County
Cody District Office - 111026 Blackburn, #3Cody, WY 82414(307) 527-7174* 1-877-473-7207Area Served: Park & Big Horn Counties & Yellowstone National Park
Douglas District Office - 13135 S. 3rd StreetDouglas, WY 82633(307) 358-4688* 1-866-217-1401Area Served: Converse & Niobrara Counties
Evanston District Office - 19350 City View Drive, #205Evanston, WY 82930(307) 789-2766*1-877-473-7208Area Served: Uinta County & WY StateHospital
Gillette District Office - 171901 Energy Court, #140Gillette, WY 82718(307) 682-2672* 1-877-474-4086Area Served: Campbell, Weston
& Crook Counties
Jackson District Office - 22155 W. Gill, P. O. Box 2873Jackson, WY 83001(307) 733-6150* 1-866-293-3742Area Served: Teton County
Kemmerer District Office - 12P. O. Box 87 (mailing address)Kemmerer, WY 8310120 Adaville RoadDiamondville, WY 83116 (physical address)(307) 877-9334* 1-866-367-6143Area Served: Lincoln & Sublette Counties
Central Office1100 Herschler Building, 1st Floor EastCheyenne, WY 82002(307) 777-7386
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Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Lander District Office - 10259 Main StreetLander, WY 82520(307) 332-4465Area Served: Southern Fremont County
Laramie District Office - 05710 Garfield, #110Laramie, WY 82070(307) 745-3160Area Served: Albany County
Rawlins District Office - 06212 W. Buffalo, #312Rawlins, WY 82301(307) 324-2238* 1-877-473-7209Area Served: Carbon County, State Penitentiary, Wamsutter, Medicine Bow, Hanna & Elk Mountain
Riverton District Office - 09609 E. Madison, #3Riverton, WY 82501(307) 856-2393* 1-866-335-3140Area Served: Northern Fremont County
Rock Springs District Office - 042451 Foothill Blvd., Suite 100Rock Springs, WY 82901(307) 362-2770* 1-866-858-4125Area Served: Sweetwater County
Sheridan District Office - 0361 S. GouldSheridan, WY 82801(307) 674-7529* 1-866-423-5989Area Served: Johnson & Sheridan Counties and Wyoming Girls School
Torrington District Office - 071618 East “M” StreetTorrington, WY 82240(307) 532-4431*1-877-474-7493Area Served: Goshen & Platte Counties
Worland District Office - 201702 RobertsonWorland, WY 82401(307) 347-3396*1-866-448-4703Area Served: Washakie & Hot Springs Counties and Wyoming Boys School
26
Disability Determination Services (DDS)821 West Pershing BoulevardCheyenne, WY 82002(307) 777-73411-800-972-2372
* Toll Free numbers restrictedto use by in-state Wyomingcallers.
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Wyoming Business Leadership Network (WBLN)Established 1997
Chapters: Cheyenne (1997), Evanston (2000), Bridger Valley (2002),Lander-Riverton (2004) and Rock Springs (2005)
The Wyoming Business LeadershipNetwork (WBLN) is an employer-led, statewideinitiative helping to connect businesses to theemerging market of people with disAbilities.The WBLN mission is to assist businesses inhiring talented, motivated new employees,retaining employees who become disabled, andattracting new customers with disAbilities.
The WBLN is sponsored by theWyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitationin collaboration with local businesses,governments, school districts and communityorganizations - all sharing a common interest inpromoting employment opportunities andcommunity access for people with disAbilities.The WBLN is one of the oldest, largest andmost active truly statewide BLN initiatives inthe national BLN movement.
The Wyoming BLN is one of a handfulof states in the nation to sponsor a disAbilityFriendly Business Program. Businesses arenominated by individuals with disAbilities, theirfamilies, service agencies and other businessesfor meeting at least one of the criteria:
♦ For making a commitment to hirepersons with disAbilities or aid employees withdisAbilities to further their career;
♦ For making a commitment topromote positive awareness among itsemployees of the need of customers withdisAbilities; and
♦ For meeting the needs of employeesand customers with disAbilities, in terms ofaccommodations and accessibility, in andaround the place of business.
27
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Cheyenne BLNEstablished 1997
♦20 Board Members (75% employer-led);
♦In 2005 over 750 people attended events andactivities hosted by the Cheyenne BLN;
♦Over 75 businesses and individual(s)contributing financially to promote theemployment of people with disAbilities;
♦ Annual activities include: EXPO, employerawards program, mentoring, disAbilityawareness training, job referrals, disAbilityFriendly Business Program, Peer to PeerMarketing, State Internship Program, and theFestival of Trees (advisory council fundraisingactivity).
CBLN Director Rich Gannon, Tom and JanisWagneknecht, 2005 Carl Wagenknecht Employee
of the Year Chip Halverson of Target andCheyenne Mayor Jack Spiker.
Contact the Cheyenne BLN:(307) 432-0110
[email protected] &www.cheyenne-BLN.com
Evanston DVR counselors continuallywork toward a productive partnership with theBusiness Leadership Network (BLN). The BLNis on schedule to meet, or surpass, the numberof successful closures of previous years in theEvanston and Bridger Valley communities.
Over 130 employers have participatedin the annual “Discovery Career and Lifestyles”EXPO since 2002. Over 750 job seekers withdisAbilities have attended these annual EXPOevents.
There is a record of 178 mediarecognitions/publications since 2002 (this doesinclude chamber newsletters and hundreds ofradio public service announcements, and the E-Newsletter that is distributed on a monthlybasis). The BLN believes that reaching out tothe general public, by means of the media, is aneffective disability awareness tool.
♦ 25 Member Advisory Council, which includesEvanston & Bridger Valley (65% employer-led);
♦ Over 20 businesses provide financial supportfor the EBV-BLN to promote the employmentof people with disAbilities;
♦EBV-BLN annual activities include: EXPO,mentoring, awards program, disAbility FriendlyBusiness Program, 2 special newspaper inserts,disAbility awareness training, ADA training andupdates, resume assistance, job referrals, “OpenHouse” for people of all abilities, and otherbusiness consultations as needed and/orrequested.
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Evanston & Bridger Valley BLN(EBV-BLN)
Established in 1999
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Contact the Evanston/Bridger Valley BLN:
Debbie Terech (307) [email protected] &
www.EBV-BLN.com
♦ LR-BLN annual activities include:mentoring, awards program, disAbilityawareness training, skills building workshops,employment expo, Spring Fondue Fling, Festivalof Trees, resume assistance, job referrals, andother business consultations.
The Lander and Riverton BusinessLeadership Network facilitates regularLeadership Roundtable activities where jobseekers are able to experience hands-onopportunities in a variety of businesses inaddition to learning of the business’s hiringrequirements and available employmentopportunities.
Contact the Lander & RivertonBLN:
(307) [email protected] &www.LR-BLN.com
Lander & Riverton BLNEstablished in 2004
♦ 27 Member Advisory Council (65%employer-led);
♦ Over 100 businesses support the LR-BLNfinancially through various activities and eventshosted by the local BLN;
29
Mark Lambert, Lambert’s Fishing Rods,(successful DVR client) displays his artistic design
as he demonstrates the process of making acustom fishing rod.
Smith’s Food & Drug Center offers employmentto an adult mentee after EBLN’s first
“Adult Mentoring Day” held in March, 2006.
Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation2006 Annual Report
Rock Springs BLNEstablished in 2005
♦ 17 Member Advisory Council (59%employer-led);
♦ 25 businesses financially support the RS-BLNto promote the employment of people withdisAbilities;
♦ In 2005/2006 over 400 employers haveattended events and training seminars.
♦ More than 300 job seekers have attendedWorld of Work Seminars, Worksite Tours,Mentoring Day and mock interviews.
♦ Annual activities include, World of WorkSeries Seminars, Mentoring Day, 5-Minute MockInterviews, Mayor’s Leadership AwardsBanquet, All Ways Welcome Disability DiversitySeminar, E-News Letters, Job Referrals,Community Partners Employer Discovery andBusiness Consultation.
Contact the Rock Springs BLN:(307) 362-3339
[email protected] &www.Rock Springs-BLN.com
30
35 employers and 70 job seekersparticipated in 5-Minute Mock Interviews. Jobseekers moved from employer to employer,learned about proper interviewing techniquesand learned about business and careeropportunities available in the Rock Springscommunity.
Access2AbilityJob Seekers
Employers with JobsA2Ajobs.com is your
recruitment connectionto the disAbility community.
DVR is an equal opportunity employer with equal opportunity programs.Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.
The printing costs of this annual report are funded by the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, Title IVRehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998, Section 403, Title I, Section 110, General Rehabilitation BasicSupport Grant, Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) 84.126A. These funds are 78.7% federalfunds from the U.S. Department of Education, with 21.3% state general fund participation.
Kathy Emmons, DirectorKathy Emmons, DirectorKathy Emmons, DirectorKathy Emmons, DirectorKathy Emmons, Director
Wyoming Department ofWyoming Department ofWyoming Department ofWyoming Department ofWyoming Department ofWorkforce ServicesWorkforce ServicesWorkforce ServicesWorkforce ServicesWorkforce Services