Last March, the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities and the U.S. Department of Education cosponsored a leadership training program for minorities with disabilities. In three messages, I am distributing the training materials obtained in electronic form: (1) Access, Awareness, and Advocacy; (2) Interacting with People with Disabilities -- An Etiquette Handbook; and (3) Careers in Rehabilitation. Jamal Mazrui National Council on Disability Email: 74444.1076@compuserve.com ---------- Training Program: Americans with Disabilities Act Access, Awareness, and Advocacy presented by the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities in conjunction with and funded by the United States Department of Education Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research and Rehabilitation Services Administration PRESIDENT_S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Training Program: ADA Access, Awareness, and Advocacy Table of Contents Introduction Module I _ADA Overview and Historical Perspective_ Module II _Rehabilitation Act Overview and Historical Perspective_ Module III _Leadership, Communication Skills, and Group Dynamics_ Module IV _Disability Awareness and Cultural Sensitivity Program_ Module V _Building and Presenting A Program to My Community, Constituents, and Local Organizations_ Module VI _Developing and Soliciting Grants_ Module VII _Assistive Technology Demonstration_ President_s Committee On The Employment Of People With Disabilities (PCEPD) Training Program: ADA Access, Awareness, and Advocacy Schedule of Activities Pre-Training Arrivals Saturday, March 1, 1997 12:00 Noon - 7:00 p.m.Capitol Hill Room Open Program Assistance Contact Person: Kitty Clark 2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.REGISTRATION 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m._Mixer_ Managers Complimentary Reception in Hotel Atrium 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.Buffet Dinner Day 1 -- MORNING SESSION Sunday, March 2, 1997 6:30 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.Complimentary Breakfast in Hotel Atrium Open 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.Capitol Hill Room Open 8:30 a.m. OPENING SESSION Mistress of CeremoniesSylvia Walker, Ed.D. Vice Chair PCEPD Welcome Sylvia Walker, Ed.D. INTRODUCTIONS Overview of 3-Day Mary Kelly, Program Manager Training Program & Kitty Clark, Program Assistant USDA Graduate School 9:15 a.m. MODULE I _ADA Overview and Historical Perspective_ Trainer: Dan Hopkins Co-Trainer: Gregory Dougan _ Overview of Section 504 _ Overview ADA _ Health Resource Materials _ Personal Implementation Plan 10:15 a.m. BREAK -- Coffee, Tea, Drinks 10:30 a.m. Continuation of Training Session 12:30 p.m. LUNCHEON PLENARY SESSION Welcome John Lancaster Executive Director, PCEPD Statement of PurposeDelores Watkins Project Officer NIDRR, U.S. Department of Education Invocation Mr. Claudie Grant Program Manager, PCEPD LUNCH SESSION Introduction of Kimberly A. Turner Keynote Speaker Director of Programs H.U. Research and Training Center Keynote Speaker Claiborne Haughton Department of Defense Day 1 -- AFTERNOON SESSION Sunday, March 2, 1997 2:00 p.m. MODULE II _Rehabilitation Act Overview and Historical Perspective_ Trainer: Dan Hopkins Co-Trainers: Nydia Davis Mr. Alex Lugo _ Overview of Rehabilitation Act_Titles I-VIII _ Pamphlet - _Review: Legislative History of the American State-Federal Rehabilitation Program_ _ Synopsis of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992 3:45 a.m. BREAK -- Drinks, Snacks 4:00 p.m. Continuation of Training Session 6:30 p.m. DINNER SESSION Guest Speaker: Day 2 -- MORNING SESSION Monday, March 3, 1997 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.Complimentary Breakfast in Hotel Atrium Open 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.Capitol Hill Room Open 8:00 a.m. MODULE II (continued) 9:15 a.m. PERSONAL BREAK 9:25 a.m. MODULE III _Leadership, Communication Skills, and Group Dynamics_ Trainer: John English Co-Trainer: Kimberly A. Turner _ Leadership in Groups _ Communication Skills and Effective Techniques _ Group Dynamics and Effective Techniques 10:35 a.m. BREAK -- Coffee, Tea, Drinks 10:45 a.m. Continuation of Training Session 12:00 p.m. LUNCH BREAK 1:15 p.m. MODULE IV _Disability Awareness and Sensitivity Program_ Trainer: Dan Hopkins Co-Trainers: Nydia Davis Mr. Alex Lugo _ Cultural Awareness _ Elements of Diversity _ Sensitivity _ Cultural Competence _ Etiquette Handbook 3:15 p.m. BREAK -- Drinks, Snacks 3:30 p.m. Continuation of Training Session Day 2 -- AFTERNOON SESSION Monday, March 3, 1997 5:00 p.m. MODULE V _Building and Presenting A Program to My Community, Constituents, and Local Organizations_ Trainer: John English Co-Trainer: Kimberly A. Turner _ Components of a Training Program _ How to Tailor/Focus for the Audience _ Resources; Where to Go for Help _ How to Market Your Program Day 2 -- DINNER SESSION Monday, March 3, 1997 6:00 p.m. DINNER SESSION Guest Speaker: Ronald Blackburn Moreno Executive Director ASPIRA Association, Inc. Day 3 -- MORNING SESSION Tuesday, March 4, 1997 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.Complimentary Breakfast in Hotel Atrium Open 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.Capitol Hill Room Open 8:00 a.m. MODULE V (continued) 10:15 a.m. BREAK -- Coffee, Tea, Drinks 10:30 a.m. MODULE VI _Developing and Soliciting Grants_ Trainer: Dan Hopkins Co-Trainers: Delores Watkins Nydia Davis _ Overview of Proposal Development Process _ Resource Guide 12:00 p.m. LUNCH BREAK AFTERNOON SESSION Tuesday, March 4, 1997 1:30 p.m. MODULE VI (continued) -- Wrap Up Activities _ Continuation of Morning Session, if necessary _ Overall Program Summary _ Open Floor -- Questions, Comments, Answers, Follow Up _ Program Evaluation by Participants 3:20 p.m. BREAK -- Drinks, Snacks 3:40 p.m. Continuation of Training Session 5:00 p.m. Managers Complimentary Reception in Hotel Atrium Day 3 -- DINNER SESSION Tuesday, March 4, 1997 6:00 p.m. DINNER SESSION Guest Speaker: Judy Heumann Assistant Secretary OSERS, U.S. Department of Education Acknowledgements Dr. Sylvia Walker, PCEPD Day 4 -- MORNING SESSION Wednesday, March 5, 1997 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.Complimentary Breakfast in Hotel Atrium Open 7:45 a.m. - 12:00 noonCapitol Hill Room Open 8:00 a.m. MODULE VII _Assistive Technology Demonstration_ Speaker: Ophelia Falls Director, Target Center USDA Graduate School 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 Wrap Up Activities _ Individual Follow-up Plans _ Discussion _ Summary _ Announcements 12:00 Noon TRAINING PROGRAM ENDS Rev. Daniel W. (Dan) Hopkins 11923 East Arkansas Avenue Aurora, Colorado 80012 303/337-2210/voice & fax Dan Hopkins is the founder and President of Dan Hopkins & Associates. His organization is a consulting primarily serving the public rehabilitation community. The firm specializes in organizational design and development, with an emphasis on disability and diversity. DHA provides planning, design, and evaluation services to organizations in the areas of management-leadership, human resource management, human resource development, disability issues, ADA compliance, marketing, proposal development, managing diversity, strategic planning and other organizational development areas. Dan serves as the National Coordinator of the Rehabilitation Capacity Building Project (RCBP). This Project is an initiative of RSA aimed at bringing traditionally underrepresented populations into the public rehabilitation program. The RCBP focuses primarily on skills development for grant writing and program management. The mission of the Projects to enhance the capacity of minority educational institutions, minority owned businesses and groups working with persons form minority populations who have disabilities to compete for, acquire and manage RSA and NIDRR grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements. Prior to working in the role of National Coordinator, Dan served as a faculty member with the University of Arkansas, Regional Rehabilitation Continuing Education Program. In this capacity, Dan coordinated the Cultural Diversity Initiative. Working with programs funded under the Rehabilitation Act, he was able to develop programs which led to increased numbers of minority individuals with disabilities receiving services and attaining quality outcomes. Dan is an ordained priest in the Episcopal Church. He has served as Rector in a local parish and as Social Justice Officer for the Diocese of Colorado. He has founded and run community based non-profit organizations the area of youth development, substance abuse, single parent support, gang intervention and community mobilization. He has served on numerous community city state and federal boards and commissions. Dan has received many awards and honors for his efforts including: the Jefferson Award for Public Service given by the American Institute or Public Service and the Martin Luther King Humanitarian Award presented by the Martin Luther King Holiday Commission. John English John English's clients tap into his years of organizational development coupled with his counseling and training skills. Noted for his work in the fields of research, development, vocational rehabilitation and developmental disabilities, English systematically makes sure that your strategies continue to meet your needs. He has counseled executives and all levels of management and teams in union and non union work places. He has eased teams through milestones, crises and celebrations. Besides operating a successful private training and consultant to management operation, John English is the director of a capacity building program whose mission is to promote the rights of minorities and all individuals with disabilities. This program is led by the Urban League of Northeastern New York, Inc., partnered with the New York State Education Department's Office of Vocational and Educational Services to Individuals having Disabilities. English shows that respect, high expectations, skill and planning foster quality and breakthrough performance. His vision is a highly productive work place in which everyone at all levels contributes uniquely to quality products and services that astonish. John English sees leadership, challenge and high involvement as keys to realizing that vision. Often, days after the training session is over, the brain starts to synthesize ideas and information. Then, the real questions begin. To insure that you get the most from your training experience, John English encourages you to call, E-mail, or write him if needed after the training session is over. Feel free to: call John English at (518) 463-3121 E-mail him at english@taconic.net or S-mail (snail mail) him at 27 Dunham Hollow Road E. Nassau, NY 12062 Ophelia Y. Falls Director USDA Accessible Technology Program U.S. Department of Agriculture 14th and Independence Avenue S.W. Washington, DC 20250-9800 Ophelia V. Falls is a Supervisory Computer Specialist in the USDA Office of Operations. Ms. Falls is the Director of the USDA Accessible Technology Program and the Technology Accessible Resources Gives Employment Today (TARGET) Center. Ms. Falls established the Accessible Technology Program and the TARGET Center in December 1992. This program and Center supports all USDA employees nationwide in the areas of accessible technology and reasonable accommodation. The functions of the Accessible Technology Program include support of the TARGET Center, Midwest TARGET Center, participation in ADP Acquisition Review Team activities, agencies planning and conferences for IRM and human resource activities and international activities. Ms. Falls is chairperson of an USDA Interagency Task Force formed to ensure accessible technology and reasonable accommodations are available throughout the Department. The task force assisted in the establishment of the TARGET Center. This center provides hardware, software and technology information for people with disabilities in support of the Secretary_s Workforce Diversity, _Framework for Change_ policy and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Section 508, as amended October 1994. Ms. Falls represents USDA on the Council on Accessible Technology (COAT), GSA Computer Information Technology Accommodations (CITA), and Department of Commerce Committee on Resources for Electronic Accessible Technology to End-users (CREATE) Federal organizations. She is a member of the planing committee to the President_s Committee for Employment of People with Disabilities annual conferences. These committees are concerned with Federal regulations for implementation on electronic accessibility for persons with disabilities. Previously, Ms. Falls served as a Principal Analysis for Syscon Corporation, an ADP consulting company. In this position she was responsible for developing information systems from concept to implementation. She implemented six major military human resource information systems while employed by Syscon Corporation. Additionally, Ms. Falls managed feasibility studies and requirement analyses efforts for Federal agencies such as Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Justice, Department of Commerce, Department of Education and Department of Labor. As a Computer System Analyst for Computer Sciences Corporation, Ms. Falls developed from concept to implementation a variety of systems for the World Bank and the State Department. She was a task leader on a $3 Billion Department of Army effort with IBM to convert 250 million lines of obsolete COBOL code to a new generation language. Ms. Falls conducted beta testing on newly developed IBM hardware and software on this project. In September 1991, Ms. Falls received a Government Computer News award for her accomplishments in USDA in the area of information technology for employees with disabilities. In October 1992 and September 1995, Ms. Falls received two Association for Persons with Disabilities in Agriculture (APDA) Certification of Appreciation for a Super Supervisor Award in recognition of special efforts in support of disability management in the Department. Secretary Dan Glickman presented this award. In September 1990, Ms. Falls was recognized in the _USDA Framework for Change Women in Agriculture_ publication. She was cited for her accomplishments for implementing Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended in 1994 in USDA. This Training Program was conducted with the assistance of the Graduate School, USDA. Our mission is, through education, training and related services, to assist government organizations to increase their efficiency, effectiveness and productivity and to assist individuals to improve their job performance and pursue lifelong learning. ---------- MODULE I _ADA Overview and Historical Perspective_ Trainer: Dan Hopkins Co-Trainers: Gregory Dougan Module I Goal: To familiarize participants with Titles I-V of the Americans With Disabilities Act and other related legislation. Objective: By the end of this session participants will: a. be familiar with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; b. be familiar with Titles I-V of the ADA; c. know the categories of persons covered under the Act; d. be familiar with techniques for system, self, and community advocacy. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 The public perception of the Americans with Disabilities Act is that it sprang, fully armed, from the forehead of Congress sometime in 1990. In fact, it is the culmination of almost fifty years of legislation. The logical beginning of the ADA was the creation in 1948 of the President's Commission on the Employment of the Handicapped. Perhaps motivated by the numbers of WWII veterans with service connected disabilities, President Truman instituted the first effort to make accommodations for special needs. Congress passed a law in 1956 that all federal buildings had to be accessible to the handicapped. In 1964, congress passed the Civil Rights Act. While this Act did not specifically address itself to the issue of disability, it set up a mechanism for the investigation and prosecution of discrimination complaints under its Title VII. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Justice Department were charged with enforcing the nondiscrimination aspects of the law. The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 was another early attempt to assist people with disabilities by mandating the removal of barriers and restrictions that prevented the handicapped from using public facilities. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 was the first big civil rights law for people with disabilities. The law prohibited discrimination against the disabled in any program or facility receiving federal funding. Sections 503 and 504 are the most pertinent parts of the act for persons with disabilities. In 1990, Congress passed and President Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act. It is considered the most sweeping civil rights legislation ever for people with disabilities. It confirms the prohibitions against discrimination in the 1973 Rehabilitation Act, and extends them into the private (not federally funded) sector. In 1991, on a second try, Congress passed and the President signed a revision of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Like the earlier act, this one did not address issues of disability specifically, but it did change the legal mechanism of pursuing discrimination complaints. Specifically, it provided for jury, rather than judge decisions, and for the awarding of damages which had previously been limited to injunctive relief and back pay. Since discrimination complaints under the ADA are handled in the same manner as other civil rights discrimination cases, this law is significant. ADA guarantees comprehensive civil rights protection for individuals with disabilities in: Title I Employment Title II State and local government Services (includes PublicTransportation) Title III Public Accommodations and Services Operated by Private Entities Title IV Telecommunications Title V Miscellaneous An individual with a disability is a person who: _ has a permanent or temporary physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major like activities, or _ has a record of such an impairment, or _ is regarded as having such an impairment. Examples ... but not limited to, such contagious and noncontagious diseases and conditions as orthopedic, visual, speech, and hearing impairments; cerebral palsy, epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mental retardation, emotional illness, specific learning disabilities, HIV disease, tuberculosis, drug addiction, and alcoholism. Homosexuality and bisexuality are not physical or mental impairments under the ADA. Individuals currently engaging in the illegal use of drugs are not protected by the ADA when an action is taken on the basis of current illegal drug use. Major life activities include functions such as caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working. _________________________________________________________________ _____________ For more information about ADA requirements affecting employment contact: Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) 1801 L Street, NW (202) 663-4900 (Voice) Washington, D.C. 20507 (800) 800-3302 (TDD) For more information about ADA requirements affecting public accommodations and state and local government services contact: Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of the ADA (202) 514-0301 (Voice) Civil Rights Division (202) 514-0381 (TDD) P.O. Box 6618 Washington, D.C. 20035-6118 Region VI Office in Dallas Serves Arkansas: (214) 767-3951 (Voice) or (214)767-6599 (TDD) For more information on accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities, contact: Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board 1111 18th Street NW Suite 501(202) 653-7848 (Voice/TDD) Washington, DC 20066 (800) 872-2253 (Voice/TDD) Arkansas is in Region VI and is served by the Southwest Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center. For ADA Information, training, and technical assistance: 800-949-4ADA (Voice/TDD) or 713- 520-0232 (V); 713-520-5136 (TDD) Federal Laws Supporting the Independent Living Paradigm 1968 Architectural Barriers Act (designed to eliminate architectural barriers in all federally owned or leased buildings) 1970 Urban Mass Transit Act (required that all new purchases of mass transit vehicles be lift equipped; APTA sought and won a court injunction barring implementation of the proposed regulations) 1973 Rehabilitation Act (Section 504 and related non-discrimination provisions in programs receiving federal funds) 1975 Developmental Disabilities Bill of Rights Act (Protection & Advocacy or P&A agencies in each state established) 1975 P.L. 94-142, Education of All Handicapped Children Act, now titled Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or IDEA (written to require a free, appropriate, integrated public education for children with disabilities: _mainstreaming" children with disabilities intoregular classrooms) 1978 Rehabilitation Act Amendments (Title VII, Comprehensive Services for Independent Living was created; Part B funded creation and operation of "centers") 1983 Rehabilitation Act Amendments (mandated that each state operate a Client Assistance Project or CAP; Title VII Part A funded to buy services for IL clients a concept parallel to the basic VR program) 1984 Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act (provides that all polling places must be accessible) 1985 Mental Illness Bill of Rights Act (expanded P&As to cover mental illness) 1986 Rehabilitation Act Amendments (advocates fought for and won consumer control for Title VII Part B center boards; supported work programs created and funded) 1988 Air Carrier Access Act (designed to provide for equal access on private airlines) 1988 Civil Rights Restoration Act (clarified that any organization or corporation receiving federal funds may not discriminate in any of their programs) 1988 Fair Housing Act Amendments (prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in housing and creates universal design in new construction provisions) 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (creates broad civil rights protections for people with disabilities modeled after the Civil Rights Act of 1964) 1991 Civil Rights Act (allows for punitive damages in a civil suit for discrimination on the basis of disability in employment; strengthens Title I of the ADA) 1992 Rehabilitation Act amendments (dramatically restructures Title VII to set standards for centers for independent living, to create an independent statewide independent living council responsible for statewide planning of center networks and independent living services, and establishes direct funding for centers in states where state funding forcenter operations is less than the federal allotment) Disability Language Below is a list of outdated expressions and recommended alternatives: Please Avoid these Terms: Try these instead: Afflicted. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Affected by Birth Defect . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Disabled since birth, born with a congenital disability Cerebral Palsied . . . . . . . . . . . .Person who has Cerebral Palsy Confined to a wheelchair . . . . . . . .Wheelchair user or uses a wheelchair Crazy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Has an emotional disability or mental illness Crippled, Crip . . . . . . . . . . . . .Has a physical disability Deaf and Dumb. . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hearing and speech impaired or deaf Defective. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Impaired Deformed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Has an impairment Dummy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pre-lingually deaf Elephant man's disease . . . . . . . . .Neurofibromatosis Emotionally disturbed. . . . . . . . . .Behavior disordered Epileptic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Has epilepsy or seizure disorder Fits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Seizures Gimp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Amputee Handicapped. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Disabled or disability Handicapped accessible . . . . . . . . .Accessible to people with disabilities, fully accessible Hare Lip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cleft palate Hunchbacked. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Has a spinal curvature Idiot, vegetable . . . . . . . . . . . .Severely mentally retarded or severe brain injury Insane, deranged, deviant. . . . . . . .Has a mental disability Lame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Walks with a limp Maimed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Injured or disabled Midget, dwarf. . . . . . . . . . . . . .Short-statured or little person Mongoloid. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Downs' Syndrome Normal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Non-disabled or able-bodied Paralytic or arthritic . . . . . . . . .Is paralyzed or has arthritis Retarded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Has mental retardation or Has a developmental disability Sick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Has a mental illness Spastic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Has seizures or Has spasms Victim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .No substitute - Person who has_ Wheelchair-bound . . . . . . . . . . . .Uses a wheelchair INDIVIDUAL IMPLEMENTATION PLAN This training experience has identified key barriers to the equal and full integration of persons with disabilities in the university community. Through your participation, you have identified ways in which these barriers could be eliminated or reduced. Consider the following questions when developing Your individual implementation plan within your college, department, and/or position. What barriers are your first priority? What behaviors or actions are necessary? What action do you propose? What personal behavior changes will you make What organizational changes will be necessary? What role will you play? What individual insights have you had during the training experience which will assist you in this process? BARRIER ACTION TIMELINE PERSON ---------- MODULE II _Rehabilitation Act Overview and Historical Perspective_ Trainer: Dan Hopkins Co-Trainers: Nydia Davis, Alex Lugo Module II Goal: To Familiarize trainees with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, Titles I through VIII, to develop effective outreach and recruitment strategies for interested minority entities in grants and contract programs funded under those Titles. Objectives: By the end of this module trainees will: a. be familiar with and have some ability to articulate key aspects of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act, as amended; b. be able to identify the areas of funding appropriate to minority entities interested in funding under the RehabAct; c. have knowledge of outreach and recruitmentstrategies which are effective for use with minorityagencies interested in funding under the Rehab Act; d. Know the difference between a federal grant, contract,or cooperative agreement. OVERVIEW OF STATE-FEDERAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM It has become my task to give you a brief overview of the State-Federal Vocational Rehabilitation Program. The history of rehabilitation is the history of a long struggle to establish dignity and opportunity as a right of persons with disabilities, just as history in general is the story of the long struggle to establish dignity and opportunity as a right of every human being. Opportunity is the key word. Everyone deserves at least an opportunity. We must not forget that persons with disabilities make up an estimated 43 million people strong. The majority has expressed a willingness and a desire to work, but has experienced insurmountable obstacles. These obstacles often result in a lack of opportunity. Rehabilitation has evolved in order to establish opportunity as a right of individuals with disabilities. The following is a very brief history of rehabilitation: *Late 19th century.....Special classes for children with disabilities was developed in the public schools, which later led to the development of numerous state schools for children with disabilities. *1914-1918.....Public law 236 was enacted which established the state/federal program in Vocational Rehabilitation. *1916.....National Defense Act of 1916, placed an emphasis on vocational training for soldiers to enable them to return to civilian life, better equipped for employment. *1918.....Soldier Rehabilitation Act was passed that initiated a program of Vocational Rehabilitation for Veterans. *1920.....A big year for rehabilitation...The Vocational Rehabilitation program began in America on June 2, 1920 with the passage of Public Law 236 in the 66th Congress. This was a two-fold program of vocational guidance and vocational education for persons with disabilities. Within an 18 month period, 34 states had passed legislation in order to utilize the federal funds made available on a 50/50 matching ratio. However, during this same time period no attempt was made to actually define the scope of the work, or procedures to be followed. Also, the selection of rehabilitation personnel was left to state boards and departments of education. *1939.....Vocational Rehabilitation was set up as a separate division within the Office of Education. *1943.....The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation was established. *1954.....Public Law 565 was passed. This was called the _Vocational Rehabilitation Amendments of 1954._ The act established the foundation for the development of various rehabilitation facilities. An emphasis was placed on in-service training as well as the new graduate degrees available in rehabilitation counseling. For the first time, state agencies could set up an independent agency of Vocational Rehabilitation. *1956-1968.....Various amendments that made great strides in rehabilitation. *1973......This year brought us the current legislation that we operate under...._Rehabilitation Act of 1973". Note that the word _Vocational_ was dropped. The objective of the Act was to provide rehabilitation services which would assist individuals with disabilities to become employable and also to promote independent living. The emphasis was on providing services to persons with severe disabilities. Several amendments followed this Act in 1978, 1984, 1986, and 1992. The Act of 1973 as amended contains 8 various titles. Title I......_Vocational Rehabilitation Services_ .... The purpose of this title is to assist states in operating a comprehensive, coordinated, effective, efficient, and accountable program of vocational rehabilitation in order to assist individuals with disabilities in preparing for, and engaging in gainful employment. Title II..... _Research and Training_....The purpose of this title is to provide for research, demonstration projects, training, and related activities in order for individuals with disabilities to obtain full inclusion and integration into society, employment, and independent living. Title III...._Training and Demonstration Projects_....The purpose of this title is to authorize grants and contracts to ensure that skilled personnel are available to provide rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities through various rehabilitation programs, supported employment programs, independent living programs, and through client assistance programs. Title IV....._National Council on Disability_....Composed of 15 members appointed by the President, with the consent of the Senate. The purpose of the Council is to promote policies, programs, practices, and procedures that: (1) guarantee equal opportunity for all individuals with disabilities, and (2) empower individuals with disabilities to achieve economic self-sufficiency, independent living, full inclusion and integration into society. Title V......_Rights and Advocacy_....Established the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board. Title VI....._Employment Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities_ Part A. Establishment of a Community Service Employment Pilot Program. Part B. Projects with Industry. Part C. Supported Employment Services. Part D. Business opportunities for persons with disabilities. Title VII...._Independent Living Services and Centers for Independent Living_...The purpose is to promote a philosophy of independent living, consumer control, self help, self determination, and equal access in order to maximize the empowerment, independence, and productivity of persons with disabilities. It established a statewide Independent Living Council. Title VIII..._Special Demonstrations and Training Projects_.....This title addresses the various grants that the commissioner can make to states, public or non-profit organizations, and other organizations. It also addresses the awarding of grants to eligible institutions of higher education to support the formation of regional partnerships. Review: Legislative History of the American State-Federal Rehabilitation Program 1917- Smith-Hughes Act This act made federal monies available to states on a matching basis for vocational education programs. It established the Federal Board for Vocational Education which later administered the veteran and civilian vocational rehabilitation programs. This legislation (unintended at the time) is why Rehabilitation Counseling subsequently became associated with Colleges of Education in the USA. 1918 - Soldier's Rehabilitation Act This act created a vocational rehabilitation program for disabled veterans that was administered by the Federal Board for Vocational Education. World War I was an impetus for the legislation. 1920 - Smith-Fess Act This act is also known as the Civilian Vocational Rehabilitation Act (Public Law 236). It established a civilian vocational rehabilitation program under the Federal Board for Vocational Education to be funded on a 50-50 matching basis with the states. Congress provided $750,000 for the first year and $1,000,000 for each of the next two years. The funding could be used for vocational guidance, training, occupational adjustment services, and job placement. The federal vocational rehabilitation program was not permanent at this time, and Congress needed to periodically vote to reauthorize it. 1935 - Social Security Act As part of the Social Security Act vocational rehabilitation was made a permanent federal program. Congress no longer needed to reauthorize it, but instead would need to vote if it were ever to end it. Federal funding was $2,000,000 at this time. 1936 - Randolph-Sheppard Act This act authorized blind individuals to operate vending stands on federal property. It also authorized a study to determine types of work individuals with visual disabilities could perform. 1938 - Wagner-O'Day Act This act required the federal government to purchase certain products from workshops for the blind, thereby expanding employment opportunities in those workshops. 1943 - Barden-Lafollette Act This was an extremely important act in that it expanded eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services to mentally retarded and psychiatrically handicapped individuals. It also expanded the types of physical restoration services that could be provided to individuals with disabilities, and provided maintenance funds, but both required establishment of financial need. The act also expanded vocational rehabilitation services for the blind. Vocational Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1954 Public Law 565 represented a major expansion of the federal government's involvement with vocational rehabilitation. It increased the federal share of funding from 50-50 to 3 federal dollars for every 2 state dollars, and it expanded annual federal funding to $65,000,000 by 1958. Services for mentally retarded and psychiatrically handicapped individuals were greatly expanded. The act authorized research and demonstration grants, extension and improvement grants, and funds for facility development. Grants were also provided to colleges and universities to train rehabilitation counselors to work with individuals with disabilities. Vocational Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1965 This act expanded the federal-state funding ratio to 75-25. It provided for 6 and 18 month extended evaluations to determine if more severely handicapped individuals might benefit from vocational rehabilitation services, thereby making it possible to provide many services prior to formal acceptance into a program. The act eliminated economic need for any vocational rehabilitation service (states still had the option of employing economic need tests for training and physical restoration). The act also extended eligibility to a new category called behavior disorder if so diagnosed by a psychologist or psychiatrist. This made it possible to serve public offenders, those with drug and alcohol problems, and to set up model cities programs to work with the socially disadvantaged. This proved to be problematic in that the limited resources of the state-federal rehabilitation program were significantly directed toward these groups at the apparent expense of more traditional clientele. Rehabilitation Act of 1973 This act redirected the vocational rehabilitation program making its first priority to serve severely disabled individuals. The behavior disorder category was discontinued. Consumer involvement was stressed by requiring their involvement in the development of their Individualized Written Rehabilitation Program (IWRP). The consumer had to sign the plan to indicate they understood it and approved. At this time there was political debate about turning the program into a comprehensive rather than strictly vocational rehabilitation program. The act authorized funding for independent living centers that could work with individuals regardless of vocational potential, but a vocational objective and feasibility of reaching it was maintained as an eligibility requirement for the state-federal program. The act also stressed program evaluation and supported rehabilitation research. Title V This was the section of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 that advanced civil rights for individuals with disabilities. Section 501: Required nondiscrimination in hiring handicapped individuals in the federal government. All executive branches of the federal government were required to develop affirmative action plans for hiring, placing and advancing handicapped individuals. Section 502: Established the Architectural and Transportation Barriers and Compliance Board to oversee compliance to the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968. Section 503: This section prohibited discrimination against handicapped individuals in employment by any federal contractor or subcontractor receiving $2,500 or more. A written affirmative action plan was required of all employers contracting with the government and having 50 or more employees or a federal contract of $50,000 or more. Section 504: This section prohibits discrimination against qualified handicapped individuals in any federally supported program or activity. It applied to any, organization receiving federal funds such as hospitals, school districts, and state public welfare offices, and colleges and universities. Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1974, 1976 and 1978 These amendments further strengthened the emphasis on services to individuals with the most severe disabilities. Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1986 This act authorized the state rehabilitation agencies to provide supported employment services to individuals with severe disabilities who could not traditionally be placed in competitive employment. It mandated increased use of rehabilitation engineering services and client assistance programs. Like the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, it increased the focus on services to the most severely disabled consumers. Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992 This legislation strongly emphasized consumer involvement in the policies and procedures of state rehabilitation agencies and in the development of their IWRPs. It mandated that state rehabilitation agencies establish Rehabilitation Advisory Councils with the majority of members being individuals with disabilities. The amendments emphasized the importance of empowering people with disabilities, involving them fully in both the construction of their IWRP and annual review of their IWRP. It also specified areas that must be included in every consumers IWRP. The amendments further required state agencies to respond with an eligibility decision within 60 days of receiving an application for services, and mandated greater interagency collaboration through formal cooperative agreements. SECTIONS 2 - 21 I. Findings, Purpose and Policy. (Section 2) The amendments specify overarching statements of findings, purposes, and policy for the entire Act that are consistent with the principles of The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The policies include: o respect for individual dignity, personal responsibility, self-determination, and pursuit of meaningful careers, based on the informed choice of individuals with disabilities; o respect for the privacy, rights, and equal access of individuals with disabilities; o inclusion, integration, and full participation of individuals with disabilities; o support for the involvement of the family, advocates or authorized representatives, if desired or requested by the individual with a disability; and o support for individual and systemic advocacy and community involvement. The purposes of the Act are: o to empower individuals with disabilities to maximize their employment, economic self-sufficiency, independence, and inclusion and integration into society, and o to ensure that the Federal Government plays a leadership role in promoting the meaningful and gainful employment and the independent living of individuals with disabilities, and assists States and providers of services in their efforts in this regard. II. Definitions. (Section 7) The amendments revise some definitions and add several new ones. o The term "employment outcome" replaces the term "employability" and means the entering or retaining of full-time or, if appropriate, part-time competitive employment in the integrated labor market (including supported employment) or satisfying any other vocational outcome determined by the Secretary and consistent with the Act. (Section 7(5)) o The term "Federal share" as it relates to the vocational rehabilitation program under part B of title I is changed and is now set at the constant rate of 78.7 percent, except for the cost of the construction of a facility in connection with the establishment, development, or improvement of a community rehabilitation program, which remains at 50 percent. Thus, effective Federal fiscal year 1993 and throughout the period of reauthorization, the non-Federal share for vocational rehabilitation services, other than the construction of a facility related to a community rehabilitation program, is 21.3 percent. (Section 7(7)(A)) o The term "individual with a disability" replaces the term "individual with handicaps" and modifies the former term by: * using the term "impairment" instead of "disability"; * replacing the term "handicap" with the term "impediment"; and * including the phrase "can benefit in terms of an employment outcome" in place of the phrase "reasonably be expected to benefit in terms of employability". The definition of an "individual with a disability" is: * An individual who has a physical or mental impairment which for such individual constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment and * can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services. (Section 7(8)(A)) o A definition for the term "personal assistance services" is added. The definition clarifies that personal assistance services includes a range of services designed to increase the individual's control in life and to assist an individual with a disability to perform daily living activities that the individual would typically perform if the individual did not have a disability. As one of the mandated vocational rehabilitation services, personal assistance services may be provided on or off the job while an individual with a disability is receiving vocational rehabilitation services. (Section 7(11)) o The term "rehabilitation technology" replaces the term "rehabilitation engineering" andthe definition is modified to make it clear that "rehabilitation engineering, assistive technology devices, and assistive technology services" are included under the term "rehabilitation technology". (Section 7(13)) o The term "assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs"replaces the term "evaluation of rehabilitation potential" and the definition isreorganized to reflect the following purposes: * to determine whether an individual is eligible for vocational rehabilitation services and to assign a priority in those States that use an order of selection - through a review of existing information - and, to the extent additional information is required to make these determinations, a preliminary assessment of that information, including the provision of goods and services during the assessment; * to determine the rehabilitation needs of the individual and the IWRP goals, objectives and nature and scope of services, if additional information is necessary, through a comprehensive assessment (including the need for supported employment) of an eligible individual - using existing information; - information provided by the individual with a disability or the individual's family; and - to the degree needed to make such a determination, information generated by other assessments; * to provide vocational rehabilitation services for a total period of not more than 18 months, with an assessment at least once in every 90 day period, for the limited purpose of making determinations regarding the eligibility of the individual for vocational rehabilitation services and the nature and scope of services needed by the individual. The definition places emphasis on the use of existing data to the maximum extent possible and appropriate. (Section 7(22)) o Included are definitions for the following terms used with respect to supportedemployment: "supported employment"; "supported employment services"; "extendedservices"; and "on-going support services". These statutory definitions closelyparallel the definitions in the recently amended regulations (34 CFR 363) for the StateSupported Employment Services Program authorized under part C of title VI. (Section 7(18)(27)(33)(34)) o The term "community rehabilitation program" replaces the term "rehabilitation facility"and includes a listing of services that can be provided or facilitated by a communityrehabilitation program to maximize the employment opportunities of individuals withdisabilities. (Section 7(25)) o The term "impartial hearing officer" is defined and provides parameters as to who can and cannot serve as an impartial hearing officer. The definition includes the requirements that the individual: * not be an employee of a public agency (other than an administrative law judge, hearing examiner, or employee of an institution of higher learning) or a member of the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council; * not have been involved in previous decisions regarding the vocational rehabilitation of the applicant/client; * has knowledge of the delivery of vocational rehabilitation services, the title I State plan and State rules governing the provision of services; * have no personal or financial conflicts of interest; and * be trained regarding the performance of official duties. (Section 7(27)) o The term "independent living core services" is defined as: * information and referral services; * independent living skills training; * peer counseling; and * individual and systems advocacy. (Section 7(29)) The amendments also provide a listing of services which are included in the term "independent living services". The Conference Report indicates that "independent living core services" is the term used to describe required services and that "independent living services" (other than the core services) is the term used to describe those services that are permissive. o The term "transition services" is defined to conform with the definition set forth in theIndividuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). "Transition services" are acoordinated set of activities for a student, based on the individual student's needs anddesigned within an outcome-oriented process, that promotes movement from school topost-school activities. (Section 7(35)) III. Promulgation of Regulations. (Section 12) o Order of Selection The amendments require the promulgation of regulations regarding the implementation of order of selection when services cannot be provided to all eligible individuals who apply for services. RSA is presently developing regulatory provisions to be published as proposed regulations in this area. o Choice of Services and Service Providers The amendments require, within 120 days of enactment, the publication of regulations establishing criteria for the selection of IWRP services and service providers by a client. In this regard, a Notice of Intent to Regulate will be published seeking public comment on the factors identified in the amendments and based on that input regulations will be developed. IV. Carryover. (Section 19) o The amendments add a new section 19 to the Act which permits unobligated and unexpended formula grant funds appropriated for a fiscal year to be carried over by recipients of these funds to the succeeding fiscal year during which time the funds would be available for obligation and expenditure. o This carryover provision is applicable only to the extent that any Federal share requirement is fully satisfied in the fiscal year for which the funds were appropriated. o This carryover provision applies to the following programs: * vocational rehabilitation and client assistance under part B of title I; * innovation and expansion under part C of title I; * protection and advocacy of individual rights under section 509 of title V; * supported employment under part C of title VI; * independent living services under part B of title VII; and * centers for independent living under part C of title VII. V. Client Assistance Information. (Section 20) The amendments add a new section 20 to the Act that clarifies the obligation of all grantees providing services to individuals with disabilities under the Act to advise the individuals or their authorized representatives regarding the availability and purposes of the client assistance program (CAP), including the means to seek CAP assistance. VI. Traditionally Underserved Populations. (Section 21) o The amendments add a new section 21 to the Act which directs the Commissioner to develop a policy to prepare minorities for careers in rehabilitation and to provide financial assistance to institutions of higher education whose minority enrollment is at least 50 percent to prepare its students for careers in vocational rehabilitation and other related service careers. o To carry out this policy, the Commissioner is to develop a plan to provide outreach services to such institutions of higher education, other organizations owned or controlled by minority individuals, and underrepresented populations to enhance their capacity and increase their participation in competitions for available assistance. o To implement this plan, the Commissioner is, for each fiscal year from 1993 through 1997, to expend one percent of the funds appropriated for carrying out programs authorized in titles II, III, VI, VII and VIII. o All applicants for grant assistance under the Act are required to demonstrate how they will address, in whole or part, the needs of individuals with disabilities from minority backgrounds. TITLE I - VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES I. Findings, Purpose and Policy. (Section 100(a)) The amendments include specific findings, purposes, and policy for title I of the Act, which encompasses the State Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program; the Client Assistance Program; the Innovation and Expansion Program; and the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program. The policy specifies that title I programs must be carried out in a manner consistent with the following principles: _ individuals with disabilities, including individuals with the most severe disabilities, are generally presumed to be capable of engaging in gainful employment; o individuals with disabilities must be provided opportunities to obtain gainful employment in integrated settings; o individuals must be active participants in their own rehabilitation programs, including making meaningful and informed choices about the selection of their vocational goals, objectives, and services; o families and natural supports can play an important role in the success of an individual's vocational rehabilitation program; o qualified rehabilitation personnel can facilitate the employment goals of the individual with a disability; o individuals with disabilities and their advocates are to be full partners in the rehabilitation program and be involved in a meaningful manner in policy development and implementation; and o accountability measures are to facilitate and not impede the accomplishment of the goals and objectives of the title I program, particularly with respect to serving individuals with the most severe disabilities. The amendments specify that the purpose of title I is to assist States in operating a comprehensive, coordinated, effective, efficient, and accountable program of vocational rehabilitation that is designed to assess, plan, develop, and provide vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities consistent with their strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, and capabilities so that such individuals may prepare for and engage in gainful employment. II. Title I State Plan. (Section 101) The amendments revise some State plan requirements and introduce some new ones. A. Development of the Plan. (Sections 101(a)(23) and (36)) Before development of the Title I State plan, the State is to conduct public meetings throughout the State, after appropriate and sufficient notice, to allow interested groups, organizations and the public the opportunity to comment on the proposed plan. In addition, the State agency is to seek and consider the advice of the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council with respect to the development of and revisions to the State plan, and provide in the plan a summary of the advice and the agency's response to the Council's advice and recommendations, together with an explanation for the rejection of any advice or recommendations. The views of the CAP director are also to be considered in the development of the plan. B. Submission of Plan. (Section 101(a)) States are to submit 3 year State plans and can submit State plans to coincide with the submission of plans under other Acts such as IDEA. C. Supported Employment. (Section 101(a)(5) and (25)) The amendments require the State to study and consider a broad variety of means of providing services for individuals with the most severe disabilities, including using funds under part C of title VI to supplement the funds of part B of title I for the cost of services leading to supported employment. The amendments also clarify the requirement that the State have an acceptable plan for carrying out part C of title VI that includes the use of part C, title VI funds to supplement title I funds for supported employment services. D. Provision of Services to All Eligible Individuals. (Section 101(a)(5)) o The amendments require the State to explain in the State plan how it will provide vocational rehabilitation services to all individuals with disabilities within the State who are eligible for such services. o When a State cannot serve all eligible persons and must invoke an order of selection, the amendments specify that the State has the authority to adopt criteria for determining which individuals have the most severe disabilities for purposes of selecting individuals for rehabilitation services under an order of selection. E. Rehabilitation Technology. (Section 101(a)(5)(C)) The amendments add new State plan provisions regarding rehabilitation technology. In this regard, the State plan must describe: o how a broad range of rehabilitation technology services will be provided at each stage of the rehabilitation process; o how the services will be provided on a statewide basis; and o the training to be provided to counselors, CAP personnel, and other service personnel on rehabilitation technology. F. Comprehensive System of Personnel Development. (Section 101(a)(7)) The amendments require the State to describe its comprehensive system of personnel development. This description is to include procedures and activities the State agency will employ to ensure: o an adequate supply of professionals and paraprofessionals for the designated State unit; o coordination with the system of personnel development under IDEA; o the development and maintenance of a system to determine, on an annual basis, information on institutions of higher education within the State that are preparing rehabilitation professionals; o development and implementation of a plan to meet current and projected personnel training needs and to recruit, prepare and retain qualified personnel, including personnel from minority backgrounds and individuals with disabilities; o appropriate and adequate training programs are made available to all personnel, including continuing education and the dissemination of information from rehabilitation research training; o development and maintenance of standards consistent with any national or State certification or licensing requirements to ensure personnel are adequately qualified in the area in which they are providing services, and in the event that such standards are not based on the highest standards in the State, the steps being taken by the State agency to enable personnel to meet the appropriate professional standards; and o availability of personnel to communicate in the native language or mode of communication of the client. G. Comparable Benefits and Services. (Section 101(a)(8)) The amendments add another exception to the comparable benefits and services requirement in that the State agency is not required to make a determination of the availability of comparable benefits before providing services if an immediate job placement would be lost due to a delay in the provision of such comparable benefits. H. Use of Existing Information. (Section 101(a)(9)(A)) The amendments specify that to the maximum extent appropriate and consistent with the requirements under the Act, existing information available from other programs, particularly information used by educational officials and the Social Security Administration, and information provided by the individual with a disability or the individual's family must be used in determining eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services, identifying rehabilitation needs, and choosing IWRP goals, objectives, and services. I. Interagency Cooperation. (Section 101(a)(11)) The amendments call for: o interagency cooperation between VR programs and other programs and agencies providing services to individuals with disabilities; o training of staff of other programs regarding the availability and benefits of vocational rehabilitation services, and the provisions related to eligibility for services to enhance the access of individuals to such services; and o cooperation among agencies through interagency working groups and formal interagency cooperative agreements. J. Statewide Studies. (Section 101(a)(15)(D)) The amendments stipulate that statewide studies of needs of individuals with disabilities must include outreach procedures to identify and serve individuals from minority backgrounds and individuals who have been unserved and underserved by the vocational rehabilitation system. K. Annual Review of Individuals in Extended Employment. (Section 101(a)(16)) The amendments call for: o at least the annual review and reevaluation of each individual in extended employment to determine the interests and service needs of the individual for competitive employment in integrated settings, including supported employment, independent living and community participation; o input of the individual with disabilities (or, as appropriate, parent, family, etc.) into such a review; and o maximum efforts to promote movement from extended employment to integrated employment. L. Role of CAP Director in Development of State Plan and Policy. (Section 101(a)(23)(C)) The amendments add the State plan requirement that the State agency is to consider the views of the CAP director in the formulation of policy and in the development of the State plan. M. Rehabilitation Goals and Public Education. (Section 101(a)(24)) The amendments add the requirement that the State agency must establish policies and methods, including interagency agreements with State education agencies, to facilitate as part of the student's individual education program the accomplishment of long-term rehabilitation goals for students who are individuals with disabilities, including goals to enable the student to live independently before the student leaves a school setting and to facilitate the transition to vocational rehabilitation. N. Additional Provisions in the State Plan. (Sections 101(a)(26) - (33)) Additional State plan provisions require descriptions of: o how on-the-job or other personal assistance services will be provided while individuals are receiving vocational rehabilitation services; o how cooperative agreements are established with private nonprofit vocational rehabilitation service providers; o the needs and use of community rehabilitation programs with regard to the Wagner-O'Day Act; o how clients are given choice and increased control in determining their vocational goals and objectives; o how students with disabilities who are not in special education programs can access and receive vocational rehabilitation services; o how technology devices/services or worksite assessments are used for assessing eligibility and rehabilitation needs; o how the State modified its policies/procedures in response to consumer satisfaction surveys conducted by the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council, and o the coordination with the Statewide Independent Living Council and the State's independent living centers. O. Strategic Plan. (Section 101(a)(34)) The amendments add State plan requirements for the State to: o develop a strategic plan for expanding and improving vocational rehabilitation and supported employment services on a statewide basis in accordance with the provisions of part C of title I of the Act (innovation and expansion program) and o provide an assurance that the State will use at least 1.5 percent of the State's allotment under part B of title I for the uses described in section 123 of the Act. P. Evaluation of Rehabilitation Personnel. (Section 101(a)(35)) The amendments add a State plan requirement for the State to describe the system for evaluating the performance of rehabilitation counselors and other personnel used to facilitate the accomplishment of the goals of title I, including serving individuals with the most severe disabilities, and to assure that any personnel evaluation system developed by the State supports the attainment of those goals. Q. State Rehabilitation Advisory Council. (Section 101(a)(36)) The amendments require a State to establish a State Rehabilitation Advisory Council which meets the requirements of section 105 of the Act, unless a consumer-controlled independent commission is presently overseeing the program. In this regard, the State plan must assure that: o a Council has been established that is consumer controlled by persons with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit major life activities and who represent individuals with a broad range of disabilities; o the State agency seeks and considers the advice of the Council regarding the development and implementation of the State plan and the strategic plan, and other policies affecting the provision of rehabilitation services; o a summary of the advice provided by the Council, consumer satisfaction surveys and other Council input, including recommendations, and the State agency's response to such input are included in the State plan, together with an explanation as to why any advice or recommendations were not accepted; and o the designated State unit provides to the Council all materials required under the Act to be submitted to the Commissioner; all policies/practices/procedures applicable to the provision of vocational rehabilitation services; and all copies of due process hearing decisions. III. Determinations of Eligibility. (Section 102(a)) With respect to eligibility for the vocational rehabilitation program, the amendments specify the following: A. Eligibility Criteria. (Section 102(a)(1)) o the individual meets the definition of an "individual with a disability", i.e., an individual who has a physical or mental impairment which constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment and can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services, and o the individual requires vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for, enter, engage in, or retain gainful employment. B. Social Security Presumption. (Section 102(a)(2) An individual who has a disability or is blind as determined under title II or XVI of the Social Security Act is considered to have a physical or mental impairment which constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment (the first element of the definition of an "individual with a disability") and to have a severe physical or mental impairment which seriously limits one or more functional capacities in terms of an employment outcome (the first element of the definition of an "individual with a severe disability"). C. Determinations by Other Agencies. (Section 102(a)(3)) Determinations by other agencies, particularly education agencies, regarding whether an individual satisfies one or more factors relating to the determination that an individual is an "individual with a disability" or an "individual with a severe disability" are to be used to the extent appropriate, available and consistent with the requirements of the Act. D. Presumption of Benefit. (Section 102(a)(4)) o The amendments make it clear that there is a presumption that an individual can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services. Thus, all applicants for VR services are presumed to meet the second criterion for program eligibility unless the State agency can rebut this presumption. o To rebut this presumption, the State agency must demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that an individual is incapable of benefiting from VR services in terms of an employment outcome. o Prior to determining that an individual is incapable of benefiting from services due to the severity of the disability, the designated State agency must first conduct an extended assessment (evaluation). E. Timelines. (Section 102(a)(5)) The State agency must make eligibility determinations: o within a reasonable period of time, not to exceed 60 days after the individual has submitted an application for services o unless exceptional and unforeseen circumstances exist that are beyond the control of the State agency and the individual concurs with the extension, or an extended evaluation is required to determine eligibility. IV. Individualized Written Rehabilitation Program. (Section 102(b)) A. Joint Development and Agreement. (Section 102(b)(1)(A)) The amendments require that an IWRP must be jointly developed (and amended, as appropriate), agreed upon, and signed by the individual with a disability or, as appropriate, a parent, family member, advocate or authorized representative and the counselor. B. Contents. (Section 102(b)(1)(B)) The amendments revise some existing IWRP provisions and add new ones. In this regard, the IWRP must reflect: o an employment objective consistent with the unique strengths, priorities, and capabilities of the individual; o a statement of goals and intermediate rehabilitation objectives which are: * based on the assessment determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs, including the assessment of career interests, and * to the maximum extent appropriate, include placement in integrated settings; o the specific services to be provided along with the projected dates for initiation and anticipated duration of each service, including: * if appropriate, a statement of the specific rehabilitation technology services; * if appropriate, a statement of the specific on-the-job and related personal assistance services, and, if appropriate and desired by the individual, training in managing, supervising and directing personal assistance services; * an assessment of the need for postemployment services or, if appropriate, extended services; * a reassessment of the need for postemployment services or, if appropriate, extended services prior to the point of successful closure; * a statement, if appropriate, as to how such postemployment or extended services will be provided or arranged through cooperative agreements with other service providers; * objective criteria and an evaluation procedure and schedule to determine if the IWRP objectives are being achieved; * the terms and conditions under which goods and services are to be provided in the most integrated settings; * the identification of the entity or entities that will provide the services and the process used to provide or procure such services; * a statement by the individual in the individual's own words describing how he or she was informed about and involved in choosing among alternative goals, objectives, services, entities providing services, and methods used to provide or procure such services; * a description of the rights and remedies available to the individual; * a description of the availability of the CAP; and * information identifying other services and benefits from other programs to enhance the capacity of the individual to achieve the IWRP's objectives. C.Accessible IWRP Format. (Section 102(b)(1)(B)) To the maximum extent possible, the IWRP is to be provided in the native language or mode of communication of the individual, or, in an appropriate case, of a parent, family member, guardian, advocate, or authorized representative. D. Copy. (Section 102(b)(1)(C)) The amendments require that the individual, or in an appropriate case, parent, family member, guardian, advocate, or authorized representative be provided a copy of the IWRP and any amendments. E. IWRP Amendments. (Section 102(b)(2)) Any amendments or revisions resulting from the annual review of the IWRP do not take effect until agreed to and signed by the individual or, as appropriate, parent, family member, advocate, or other authorized representative. V. Impartial Hearing Officer. (Section 102(d)) The amendments modify some of the provisions relating to the impartial hearing officer and add a few new ones. A. Selection. (Section 102(d)(2)(B) and (C)) o The impartial hearing officer must be selected on a random basis or by agreement between the director of the designated State unit and the individual from a pool of qualified hearing officers. o The pool of qualified (see definition of "impartial hearing officer" on page 4 of this synopsis for specification of required qualifications) hearing officers is to be identified jointly by the designated State unit and the provider, advocate, business and labor, and consumer representatives of the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council or, in those instances where a consumer-controlled commission under State law is responsible for overseeing the operation of the State agency, by the designated State unit and the commission. B. Overturning A Decision. (Section 102(d)(3)(C)) The director of the State unit may not overturn or modify a decision of the impartial hearing officer that supports the position of the individual unless, based on clear and convincing evidence, the director concludes that the decision is clearly erroneous because it is contrary to Federal or State law, including policy. C. Receipt of Services Pending Completion of the Hearing. (Section 102(d)(5)) Pending a final determination of the hearing, the designated State unit is not to suspend, reduce or terminate services being provided under an IWRP, unless the services were obtained through misrepresentation, fraud or collusion or the individual, or other authorized representative, requests suspension, reduction, or termination of services. VI. Vocational Rehabilitation Services for Individuals. (Section 103(a)) The amendments clarify that services under title I include: o on-the-job or other related personal assistance services provided while an individual is receiving services; o transition services that promote or facilitate the accomplishment of long-term rehabilitation goals and objectives; o maintenance payments only for additional costs incurred while participating in rehabilitation; o supported employment services; and o postemployment services to assist individuals with disabilities to advance in employment as well as to maintain or regain employment. VII. Vocational Rehabilitation Services for Groups of Individuals with Disabilities. (Section 103(b)) The amendments add a new service available under the authority of services to groups of individuals with disabilities. The amendments authorize State vocational rehabilitation agencies to provide technical assistance and support services to businesses not subject to title I of the ADA and that are seeking to employ individuals with disabilities. VIII. State Rehabilitation Advisory Council. (Section 105) The amendments add a new section 105 to the Act that sets forth the provisions concerning the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council. This section specifies requirements related to the: o establishment of the Council in order for the State to receive financial assistance under parts B and C of title I; o establishment of a separate Council for a State agency for individuals who are blind; o composition of the Council, which must include a majority of persons with disabilities, i.e., individuals with mental and physical impairments that substantially limit major life activities, have a record of such an impairment or are regarded as having such an impairment, and who are not employed by the designated State unit. Specifically, the Council is to be comprised of at least one representative of: * the Statewide Independent Living Council; * a parent training and information center; * the client assistance program; * vocational rehabilitation counselors, with knowledge of and experience withvocational rehabilitation programs, who shall serve as an ex officio, nonvotingmember(s) of the Council if employed by the designated State agency; and * community rehabilitation program service providers. In addition, the Council is to be comprised of: * four representatives of business, industry and labor; * representatives of disability advocacy groups representing a cross section ofindividuals with disabilities; and parents, family members, guardians, advocates,or authorized representatives of individuals with disabilities who have difficulty inrepresenting themselves or are unable due to their disabilities to representthemselves; and * current or former applicants for or recipients of VR services. The Director of the designated State unit shall be an ex officio member of the Council and an impartial hearing officer cannot be a member of the Council. o appointment of Council members by the Governor or the appropriate entity in the State responsible for making appointments after soliciting recommendations from organizations representing a broad range of individuals with disabilities; o maximum length of terms (3 years) and number of consecutive full terms (2); o functions of the Council, which encompass: * advising, based on its review and analysis, the designated State unit regardingthe performance of its responsibilities under title I, particularly relating to - eligibility (including order of selection); - the extent, scope, and effectiveness of services provided; and - functions performed by State agencies that affect or that potentially affect the ability of individuals with disabilities in achieving rehabilitation goals and objectives under title I; * advising the designated State agency and the designated State unit, and, at thediscretion of the designated State agency, assisting in the preparation ofapplications, the State plan, the strategic plan and amendments to the plans,reports, needs assessments, and evaluations required by title I; * conducting, to the extent feasible, a review and analysis of the effectiveness ofand consumer satisfaction with - the performance of functions of State agencies and other public and private entities responsible for performing functions for individuals with disabilities, and - VR services provided or paid for from funds made available under the Act or through other public or private sources and provided by State agencies and other public and private entities responsible for providing vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities; * preparing and submitting an annual report to the Governor or appropriate State entity and the Commissioner on the status of vocational rehabilitation programs operated within the State, and making the report available to the public; * preparing a resource plan in consultation with the director of the designated State unit to carry out the functions of the Council; * coordinating with other councils within the State, including the Statewide Independent Living Council, the advisory panel established under section 613(a)(12) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, and the State Mental Health Planning Council; * advising the designated State agency and providing for coordination and the establishment of working relationships between the State agency and the Statewide Independent Living Council and centers for independent living within the State; and * performing such other functions, consistent with the purpose of title I, as the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council determines to be appropriate and that are comparable to the other functions performed by the Council. o convening at least 4 meetings a year and forums and hearings (all of which are to be open and accessible to the public) determined by the Council to be appropriate and necessary; and o funding of the Council's activities through use of innovation and expansion funds under part C of title I and funds for vocational rehabilitation services under part B of title I. IX. Evaluation Standards and Performance Indicators. (Section 106) The amendments add a new section 106 to the Act, which require: o the establishment, with widespread input, and publication by September 30, 1994, of evaluation standards and performance indicators for the vocational rehabilitation program; o the State to report the extent to which it is meeting the standards and indicators; o the provision of technical assistance to any State by the Commissioner, if the Commissioner determines that the performance of a State is below established standards; o the joint development by the State and the Commissioner of a program improvement plan; and, o in the event that the State fails to enter into a program improvement plan or fails to substantially comply with the terms of such a plan, the reduction or withholding of funds to the State until the State remedies the situation. With respect to obtaining input for the development of the standards and indicators, RSA will publish a Notice of Intent to Regulate seeking public comment that will be used to develop proposed standards and indicators. X. Monitoring and Review. (Section 107) The amendments add a new section 107 to the Act, which prescribes rules governing the monitoring of title I programs. The provisions address: o the annual review and periodic on-site monitoring of programs including determining whether the State is complying with the provisions of its State plan and the evaluation standards and indicators; o procedures for review and for monitoring; o mandated areas of inquiry; o provision of technical assistance to grantees; o procedures for withholding funds for failure to comply with the provisions of the State plan or with the standards/indicators; and o the process for the State to use in appealing any decision to reduce or withhold title I funds. XI. Social Security Reimbursement Payments. (Section 108) The amendments add a new section to the Act (section 108) which allows reimbursements from the Social Security Administration provided to a State for expenditures under the title I program of vocational rehabilitation to be used for carrying out programs for which the State receives financial assistance under title I (vocational rehabilitation, client assistance, and innovation and expansion, but not the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program under part D of title I since the State is not the grantee under this program); part C of title VI; and title VII (independent living services under part B, centers for independent living under part C, and services for older individuals who are blind under part C). These reimbursements cannot be utilized for any other purpose, including matching Federal funds. XII. Training of Employers. (Section 109) The amendments add a new section 109 to the Act which provides the authority for the State to use title I funds (section 111) to train employers regarding compliance with the requirements of title I of the ADA and to inform employers of the existence of and available services under the State VR services program. XIII. Maintenance of Effort. (Section 111(a)(2)(B)) The amendments modify the requirements regarding maintenance of effort. Effective in fiscal year 1993, the maintenance of effort is calculated on the amount of State expenditures under the State plan from non-Federal sources for the fiscal year two years earlier, e.g., the maintenance of effort for fiscal year 1993 will be calculated on the amount of State expenditures from non-Federal sources for fiscal year 1991. Thus, if a State does not maintain maintenance of effort in fiscal 1993 at least at its fiscal year 1991 level, a reduction of its allotment of funds will take place in fiscal year 1994. CLIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM - SECTION 112 The 1992 Amendments: o clarify that client assistance programs (CAPs) are authorized to provide advocacy on behalf of an individual; o authorize CAPs to provide assistance with respect to services that are directly related to facilitating the employment of the individual; o clarify that CAPs may facilitate access to the services funded under the Act through individual and system advocacy; o authorize CAPs to provide information on title I of the ADA; o clarify the circumstances under which a redesignation may occur; o require CAPs to report on the number of requests received annually; the number of these requests the CAP is unable to serve; and the reasons the CAPs are unable to serve all these requests; and o prohibit the Department from requiring for purposes of the report or any periodic audit, report, or evaluation, a CAP to disclose the identity of, or any other personally identifiable information regarding individuals requesting assistance. INNOVATION AND EXPANSION PROGRAM - SECTIONS 120 - 124 Part C of title I of the Act is amended by redesigning the innovation and expansion grant program, which has not been funded since the early 80's. Effective October 1, 1993, the States must have submitted to RSA a strategic plan for expanding and improving vocational rehabilitation services in order to receive funds under part B (vocational rehabilitation and client assistance programs) and part C (innovation and expansion ) of title I. Specific provisions are: o Submission of the plan to the Rehabilitation Services Administration focusing on the use of innovative approaches for achieving long-term success in expanding and improving vocational rehabilitation and supported employment services. (Section 120) o Prior to the development of the strategic plan, the holding of public forums and meeting with and receiving recommendations of the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council and the Statewide Independent Living Council, and, if the recommendations of the Councils are rejected, including in the plan an explanation for the rejection. (Section 122 (b) and (c)) o Development of the strategic plan based on the continuing statewide studies and the annual evaluation of the program effectiveness. (Cross-reference: Section 101(a)(19)) o Seeking and seriously considering in the development of the plan and any amendments to it, on a regular and ongoing basis, the advice of the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council. (Section 122(d)) o The annual updating of the plan based on actual experiences of the previous year and the input of the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council, individuals with disabilities, and other interested parties. (Section 122(a)) o The wide dissemination of the plan to individuals with disabilities, related organizations, rehabilitation professionals, and other interested individuals. (Section 122(e)) o Components of the plan, which are to include: * a statement of the mission, philosophy, values, and principles of the State vocational rehabilitation program; * specific goals and objectives to expand and improve the vocational rehabilitation system; * specific multifaceted and systemic approaches to accomplish the objectives, including interagency coordination and cooperation, that build upon state-of-the-art practices and research findings; * a description of the specific programs, projects, and activities to be funded and how they relate to the accomplishment of the objectives; * an assurance that the State will conduct an annual evaluation to determine the extent to which the objectives have been achieved; * specific criteria for determining whether the objectives have been achieved; and, * reasons for the non achievement of specific objectives and a description of alternative approaches that will be taken. (Section 121) o Authorized activities include: * expanding employment opportunities in integrated settings for individuals with the most severe disabilities, including individuals with specified disabilities who have been unserved by programs under this Act; * maximizing the use of rehabilitation technology in employment; * assisting employers in accommodating, evaluating, training or placing individuals with disabilities; * expanding client involvement in their training and employment goals; * improving opportunities for career advancement; * improving working relationships between vocational rehabilitation and independent living programs; * improving the functioning of the vocational rehabilitation system by increasing the ease of access into the system and the quality of services; * improving the working relationships among State agencies to better serve individuals with disabilities; * improving the comprehensive system of personnel development; * supporting the provision of training and technical assistance to consumers and business and industry regarding the 1992 Amendments, title V of the Act and the ADA; and * supporting the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council and the Statewide Independent Living Council. (Section 123) Effective Date for the Amendments The amendments specify that the provisions of the 1992 Amendments (Public Law 102-569) are effective on the date of enactment (October 29, 1992), with the exception of the provisions of the State plan identified in section 122 of the Amendments. TITLE III - TRAINING AND DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS I. Training. (Sections 301 and 302) A. In general. The amendments reflect the following provisions: o technical assistance is added as an authorized activity; o grants and contracts are authorized to: * provide training and information to individuals with disabilities, their parents, families, guardians, advocates, authorized representatives of the individuals, and other appropriate parties to develop skills necessary for the individuals with disabilities to access the rehabilitation system and to become active decision-makers in the rehabilitation process; * ensure skilled personnel are available to provide rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities through supported employment, independent living and client assistance programs; and * maintain and upgrade basic skills and knowledge of personnel employed to provide state-of-the-art service delivery systems and rehabilitation technology services. o services provided under the Act, particularly with respect to the 1992 Amendments, the work incentives under the Social Security program, title I of ADA and section 504 are identified as priority training areas for rehabilitation counselors and other rehabilitation personnel (Section 302(a)(3); o applicants for training grants are required to provide a detailed description of the strategies that will be utilized to recruit and train members of minority groups and individuals with disabilities as rehabilitation personnel (Section 302(a)(5); and o applicants are required to demonstrate how they will address, in whole or in part, the needs of individuals with disabilities from minority backgrounds. (Cross-reference: Section 21(b)(5)) B. Historically Black Colleges and Universities. (Section 302(a)(4)) The Commissioner is required to make grants to Historically Black Colleges and Universities and other institutions of higher education with at least a 50 percent minority student population. C. Payback Provisions. (Section 302(b)(3)) The payback provisions are amended to shorten the time period for repayment and to increase the opportunities to meet the employment requirement. For any academic year beginning after June 1, 1992, the recipient must work: o in one of the identified employment settings (nonprofit rehabilitation agency, State agency or related agency that has a service arrangement with the State unit) and o on a full or part-time basis for a period of not less than the full-time equivalent of 2 years for each year of assistance received and 2 additional years. D. Specific Projects. (Sections 302(d) and (e)) The Commissioner is required to award: o 2 grants to support rehabilitation technician programs, and o 2 grants for career advancement or competency-based training to current employees of public or nonprofit private agencies providing services to individuals with disabilities. E. Interpreter Training Programs. (Section 302(f)) The limitation of twelve interpreter training programs is deleted and the training of interpreters for individuals who are deaf-blind is added to the authority. F. Inservice Training. (Section 302(g)(3)) The amendments provide for: o a 15 percent set-aside for inservice training of designated State agency personnel, unless the set-aside would result in a lower level of funding for projects being carried out on October 29, 1992, by other training grant recipients; o designated State units as the only eligible applicants; and o training content areas focusing on: * during fiscal years 1993 and 1994, the amendments to the Act; * recruitment and retention of qualified personnel; * succession planning; and, * leadership development and capacity building. II. Special Demonstrations. (Section 311) A. Supported Employment Projects. (Section 311(c)) The Commissioner is authorized to fund supported employment demonstration projects to determine the effectiveness of natural supports or other alternatives to provide extended employment services, and is required to award at least two grants to serve individuals who are either low-functioning and deaf or low-functioning and hard-of-hearing. B. Services for Adults Who are Deaf. (Section 311(e)) The Commissioner is authorized to award grants to address the education and vocational rehabilitation needs of low-functioning adults who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. C. Migratory Workers. (Section 312) The pool of eligible applicants is broadened to encompass nonprofit agencies working in collaboration with the designated State agency. D. Special Recreation Grants. (Section 316) o Recreation programs will be required to maintain, at a minimum, the same level of services over a 3-year project year and the Federal share of costs will be on a descending scale of 100% for the first year; 75% for the second; and 50% for the third year. o A grant can be renewed if the Commissioner determines that the grantee will continue to develop model or innovative programs of exceptional merit or will contribute substantially to the development or improvement of special recreational programs in other locations. o The purpose of the program has been expanded to promote employment and to include vocational skills development as an authorized activity. E. Construction. The amendments removed the construction authority (section 301 of the Act prior to reauthorization) from title III and special projects authorized under section 311 can no longer contain a construction component. III. Relationship with Title VIII. (Sections 302(i) and 311(f)) The amendments clarify that if the Commissioner chooses, funds appropriated under title III for both training and service demonstration projects and activities can be utilized to support training and service demonstration programs, projects, and activities described in title VIII. In addition, if the level of available funds for any fiscal year under title III exceeds the previous year's funding level as adjusted for inflation, the amount of excess must be treated as if the excess were appropriated under title VIII. TITLE V - RIGHTS AND ADVOCACY Protection and Advocacy of Individual Rights (PAIR) A. Purpose. (Section 509(a)) The purpose of the PAIR program is to support systems in each State to protect the legal and human rights of individuals with disabilities who are ineligible for: o the client assistance program under section 112 of the Act; o protection and advocacy programs under part C of the Developmental Disabilities Act; or o the Protection and Advocacy for Mentally Ill Individuals Act of 1986. B. Program Authorization and Allotments. (Section 509(b) and (c)) o If the amount of the appropriation is less than $5.5 million, the Commissioner is authorized to make competitive awards to eligible systems within States to plan for, develop outreach strategies for, and carry out protection and advocacy programs. o If the appropriation level exceeds $5.5 million, the Commissioner is to set aside not less than 1.8 percent or more than 2.2 percent of the amount appropriated. This set aside is to be used for training and technical assistance to eligible systems established under this program. o The Commissioner is then to distribute the remainder of the appropriated funds to the eligible system within the State based on formula in which the amount bears the same ratio to the remainder as the population of the State bears to the population of all the States. Subject to the availability of appropriations, the minimum allotment is to be $100,000 or one-third of 1 percent, whichever is greater. C. System Requirements. (Section 509(f)) To be eligible, a system must: o have in effect a system to protect and advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities; o have the same general authorities as set out in part C of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act; o establish a grievance procedure for clients or prospective clients of the eligible system; o have the authority to pursue legal, administrative, and other appropriate remedies to ensure the protection of individuals with disabilities; o assure that funds made available under this program will supplement and not supplant non-Federal funds that would otherwise be made available for similar purposes; o provide information on and make referrals to programs and services addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities in the State; and o develop a statement of objectives and priorities on an annual basis and provide to the public, including individuals with disabilities and, as appropriate, their representatives, an opportunity to comment on the objectives, priorities and activities of the system for each year; the rationale for the objectives and priorities; and the coordination of programs with the other advocacy programs identified in paragraph A. D. Direct Funding. (Section 509(g)) Any system that complies with the provisions of this part is to receive directly the amount of the State's allotment, unless the State provides otherwise. E. Limitation on Disclosure Requirements. (Section 509(h)) PAIRs are not required to disclose the identity of, or any other personally identifiable information regarding individuals requesting their assistance for purposes of any audit, report or evaluation of the performance of the eligible system established under this section 509. F. Eligibility for Assistance. (Section 509(i)) An "eligible system" is defined as a protection and advocacy system that is established under part C of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act. G. Administrative Costs. (Section 509(j)) An eligible system may not use more that 5% of its allotment for administration of the system. H. Carryover Provisions. (Section 509(g)) Any amount paid to a State for a fiscal year that remains unobligated at the end of that fiscal year remains available to the State for obligation during the next fiscal year for the same purposes for which the funds were granted. TITLE VI - EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES PART B - PROJECTS WITH INDUSTRY I. Purpose. (Section 621(a)(1)) The amendments incorporate "career opportunities" and "career advancement" considerations in the purpose statement and authorized activities of the Projects with Industry (PWI) program. The purpose statement focuses on the creation and expansion of job opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the competitive labor market by involving private industry as partners in the rehabilitation process to identify competitive job and career opportunities and the skills needed to perform these jobs, to create practical job readiness and training programs, and to provide job placements. II. Eligible Applicants for PWI Grants. (Section 621(a)(2)) The amendments clarify that community rehabilitation program providers, labor unions, trade associations, Indian tribes and tribal organizations, designated State units, and other entities can compete for PWI grants. III. Composition of Business Advisory Councils. (Section 621(a)(2)) The amendments specify that the composition of the Business Advisory Councils must include individuals with disabilities and their representatives. IV. Determination of Eligibility. (Section 621(a)(3)) The amendments specify criteria and define the roles of the designated State unit and the PWI grantee in determining who is eligible to receive services from PWI grantees. In this regard, o the individual must be determined by the designated State unit to be an individual with a disability as defined in section 7(8)(A) or an individual with a severe disability as defined in section 7(15)(A); o the State unit is to rely on the determination made by the grant recipient to the extent appropriate and available and consistent with the requirements of the Act; and, o if the designated State unit does not notify the PWI grantee within 60 days that its determination is inappropriate, the grantee may consider the individual to be eligible. This language makes it clear that the PWI grant recipient makes an initial eligibility determination which becomes final if the designated State unit does not advise the grantee within 60 days that its initial determination is inappropriate. V. Additional Criteria for Annual Evaluation. (Section 621(a)(5)) The amendments add the following two new items to be incorporated into the plan to annually review and evaluate the operation of the project in accordance with the PWI standards: o number of individuals who were terminated from project placements, and o the duration of such placements. VI. Technical Assistance. (Section 621(g)) The amendments provide the basis for the Commissioner to include, as part of the agreements with PWI grantees, the authority to provide technical assistance to employers regarding: o hiring of individuals with disabilities; o improving or developing relationships with current PWIs or prospective grant recipients and employers or organized labor; and, o understanding/meeting the requirements of the ADA as it relates to employment of individuals with disabilities. PART C - SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH SEVERE DISABILITIES Title VI, part C is revised in its entirety. Key definitions pertaining to supported employment are set out in section 7 of the Act. The amended statutory provisions reflect to a large degree the recent revisions made in the Federal regulations (34 CFR Part 363) implementing part C of title VI under the Act prior to reauthorization. I. Purpose. (Section 631) The purpose of part C of title VI is to provide grants, in addition to grants for vocational rehabilitation under part B of title I, to assist States in providing supported employment services for individuals with the most severe disabilities who require supported employment services to enter or retain competitive employment. II. Allowable and Non Allowable Uses of Funds. (Section 633) Funds provided under part C of title VI may be used to provide supported employment services, which is a term defined in section 7(34). Funds provided under part C of title VI, section 311(c) and 311(d), and title I may not be used to provide extended services (a term defined in section 7(27)) to eligible individuals, either under title VI or title I. III. Eligibility. (Section 634) An individual is eligible under this part to receive supported employment services if the individual is: o eligible for vocational rehabilitation services; o determined to be an individual with the most severe disabilities; and, o a comprehensive assessment carried out under title I identifies supported employment as the appropriate rehabilitation objective for the individual. This definition introduces the following new dimensions in the supported employment program: o to be eligible for supported employment services, the individual must be an individual with the most severe disabilities, and o the determination that a supported employment placement would be appropriate for an individual is to be based on the comprehensive assessment carried out subsequent to the determination of an individual's eligibility for services under the title I program. IV. State Plan. (Section 635) The State must submit a part C, title VI supplement to the title I State plan that addresses, among other requirements, the following: o identification of the designated State agency as the agency to administer the program; o a summary of the results of the statewide assessment conducted under section 101(a)(5) with respect to the need for supported employment services; o an assurance that the comprehensive assessment of an eligible individual will include consideration of supported employment as an appropriate rehabilitation objective; o description of the quality, scope and extent of supported employment services to be provided; o demonstration of evidence of efforts to identify and make arrangements with other State agencies and other appropriate entities (including entering into cooperative agreements) to assist in the provision of both supported employment services and extended services; o an assurance that an individualized written rehabilitation program will be developed and updated in order to specify: * the supported employment services to be provided; * the expected extended services needed; and * the source of extended services, which may include natural supports, or, if is not possible to identify the source of the extended services at the time the IWRP is developed, provision of a statement describing the basis for concluding that there is a reasonable expectation that such sources will become available; o an assurance that if jobs skills training is provided, the training will be provided on-site; and o supported employment services will include placement in an integrated setting for the maximum number of hours possible based on the unique strengths, resources, interests, concerns, abilities, and capabilities of the individual. V. Provision of Discrete Postemployment Services. (Section 637) In addition to providing supported employment services using title I funds, the amendments make it clear that a designated State unit can provide discrete postemployment services utilizing title I funds to an individual who is eligible for supported employment services under part C of title VI or part B of title I. TITLE VII - INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES AND CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING Title VII of the Act is completely revised and is divided into two chapters. Chapter 1 is comprised of three parts: part A for general provisions; part B for the State program of independent living services; and part C for centers for independent living. Chapter 2 is devoted solely to independent living services for older individuals who are blind CHAPTER 1 - PART A - GENERAL PROVISIONS I. Purpose. (Section 701) The purpose of chapter 1 is to promote a philosophy of independent living, including a philosophy of consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, equal access, and individual and system advocacy, in order to maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence, and productivity of individuals with disabilities, and their integration and full inclusion into the mainstream of American society. In order to attain these goals, financial assistance is provided under chapter 1 for: o States to provide, expand, and improve the provision of independent living services; o development and support of a statewide network of centers for independent living; and o States to improve working relationships among other related programs. II. Definitions. (Section 702) A. Center for Independent Living. The term means: o a consumer-controlled, community-based, cross-disability, nonresidential, private non-profit agency o that is designed and operated within a local community by individuals with disabilities, and o provides an array of independent living services. B. Consumer Control. The term means, with respect to an entity, that the entity vests power and authority in individuals with disabilities. C. Independent Living Services and Independent Living Core Services. (Sections 7(29) and (30)) "Independent living core services" is a defined term in section 7(29) of the Act and means: o information and referral services; o independent living skills training; opeer counseling (including cross-disability peer counseling); and o individual and systems advocacy. The term "independent living services" is defined in section 7(30) of the Act. The term encompasses the "independent living core services" and a variety of other services. The Conference Report indicates that the term "independent living core services" are required services, whereas the term "independent living services" describes those services which are permissive. Section 725 of the Act requires that centers for independent living funded under part C of title VII must provide independent living core services. III. Eligibility for Independent Living Services. (Section 703) To be eligible for services under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII, an individual must be an individual with a severe disability, which means: o an individual with a severe physical or mental impairment whose ability to function independently in the family or community or whose ability to obtain, maintain, or advance in employment is substantially limited, and o for whom the delivery of independent living services will improve the ability to function, continue functioning, or move towards functioning independently in the family or community or to continue in employment, respectively. IV. State Plan. (Section 704) A. Development of the Plan. (Sections 704(a)(1)(2) and (m)(6)) To be eligible for assistance under chapter 1 of title VII, a State must submit a State plan that is jointly developed and signed by the director of the designated State unit and the chairperson of the Statewide Independent Living Council. In addition, public hearings regarding the contents of the plan are to be held during both its formulation and any periodic review and revision. B. State Independent Living Council. (Sections 704(b) and 705(a)) The plan must provide for the establishment of a Statewide Independent Living Council. Receipt of funds under chapter 1 of title VII is contingent on the establishment of the Council. C. Designation of State Unit. (Section 705(c)) The plan must designate the State vocational rehabilitation unit as the agency that: o receives, accounts for, and disburses Federal funds received by the State under chapter 1; o is responsible for the provision of administrative support services for programs under parts B and C of chapter 1; o keeps required records with respect to the programs and affords the access to them that the Commissioner finds necessary; and o submits additional information and assurances as required by the Commissioner. D. Objectives. (Section 704(d)) The plan must: o specify objectives to be achieved under the plan; o establish timelines for the achievement of the objectives; and o explain how the objectives are consistent with and further the purpose of chapter 1. E.Independent Living Services. (Section 704(e)) The State plan must provide that the State will provide independent living services under chapter 1 of title VII to individuals with severe disabilities. F. Independent Living Plan. (Section 704(e)) The State plan must provide that independent living services will be provided in accordance with an independent living plan mutually agreed upon by an appropriate staff member of the service provider and the individual, unless the individual signs a waiver stating that such plan is unnecessary. G. Scope of Services and Arrangements for Their Provision. (Section 704(f)) The plan must describe the extent and scope of independent living services to be provided under chapter 1 to meet the objectives described in the State plan. If the State provides for the delivery of independent living services through a grant or contract, the State plan must describe such arrangements. H. Statewide Network of Centers for Independent Living. (Section 704(g)) The plan must set forth a design for the establishment of a statewide network of centers for independent living services that comply with the standards and assurances for centers for independent living specified in section 725 of the Act. I. States in Which State Funding of Centers Equals or Exceeds Federal Funding. (Section 704(h)) In States in which State funding for centers equals or exceeds the Federal allotment to the State for centers for independent living under part C of chapter 1, the State plan must include policies, practices and procedures governing the awarding of grants to centers and the oversight of such centers consistent with the provisions of section 723 of the Act. J. Cooperation, Coordination and Working Relationships Among Various Entities. (Section 704(i)) The plan must describe the steps that will be taken to maximize cooperation, coordination and working relationships among: o the independent living rehabilitation service program under part B of chapter 1, the Statewide Independent Living Council, and the centers for independent living, and o the designated State unit, other State agencies represented on the Council, other disability related councils, and other public and private entities determined by the Council to be appropriate. K. Coordination of Services and Funding. (Sections 704(j) and (k)) The plan must describe how services funded under chapter 1 will be coordinated with and complement other services to avoid unnecessary duplication with other Federal, State and local programs. In addition, the plan must describe coordination efforts with respect to Federal and State funding for services provided under parts B and C of chapter 1. L. Outreach. (Section 704(l)) With respect to services and centers funded under chapter 1, the plan must describe the steps to be taken regarding outreach activities to unserved and underserved populations, including minority groups and urban and rural populations. M. Assurances. (Section 704(m)) The State plan must provide satisfactory assurances that all recipients of financial assistance under chapter 1 must: o notify all individuals seeking or receiving services under chapter 1 about the availability and purpose of client assistance services and how to contact the client assistance program; o take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities consistent with the provisions of section 503 of the Act; o adopt such fiscal control and fund accounting procedures to ensure the proper disbursement and accounting for funds paid to the State under this chapter; o maintain records that disclose the amount and disposition of the proceeds of financial assistance, the total cost of any undertaking connected with the assistance, and the amount of the total cost provided by other sources; o maintain other records determined by the Commissioner to be appropriate to facilitate an effective audit; o afford access to the records; o submit reports regarding the records as determined appropriate by the Commissioner; o provide access to the Commissioner and the Comptroller General to conduct audits and examinations of any books, documents, papers, and records of the recipients that are pertinent to the financial assistance received under this chapter; and o provide for public hearings on the contents of the plan during both its formulation and review. N. Evaluation of the Plan's Objectives. (Section 704(n)) The State plan must establish a method for the periodic evaluation of the effectiveness of the plan in meeting the identified objectives of the plan. The method of evaluation must encompass an evaluation of satisfaction by individuals with disabilities. V. Statewide Independent Living Council. (Section 705) A. Establishment of the Council. (Section 705(a)) Each State must establish a Statewide Independent Living Council in order to receive funds under chapter 1 of title VII and the Council is not to be established within a State agency. B. Appointment of Council Members. (Section 705(b)) Members of the Council must be appointed by the Governor or the appropriate entity within the State responsible for making appointments within 90 days after the enactment of the amendments and after soliciting recommendations from organizations representing a broad range of individuals with disabilities. C. Composition of the Council. (Section 705(b)) The Council must include: o at least one director of a center for independent living chosen by the directors of the centers within the State; o as an ex officio, nonvoting member, a representative from the designated State unit; and also o as ex officio, nonvoting members, representatives from other State agencies that provide services for individuals with disabilities. The Council may also include: o other representatives from centers for independent living; o parents, guardians and advocates of and for individuals with disabilities; o representatives from private businesses and organizations that provide services for individuals with disabilities; and o other appropriate individuals. The Council's chairperson is to be selected by the Council from among the Council's members, except in those States in which the Governor does not have veto power by State law. In this instance, the Governor must designate a member of the Council to be the chairperson or require the Council to designate such a member. D. Qualifications for Council Membership. (Section 705(b)) The Council must be comprised of individuals who: o provide statewide representation; o represent a broad range of individuals with disabilities; o and are knowledgeable about independent living services and centers for independent living. In addition, a majority of the Council's membership must be made up of individuals who have a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more of their major life activities, have a record of such impairment, or are regarded as having such impairment. Such individuals, however, cannot be employees of the designated State unit or any center for independent living. E. Term of Membership. (Section 705(b)) Each member of the Council is to serve three-year terms, except for initial members whose terms will expire on a staggered basis. No member may serve more than two consecutive full terms. F. Functions of the Council. (Sections 705(c) and (d)) The Council must: o jointly develop and submit, in conjunction with the designated State unit, the State plan; o monitor, review and evaluate the implementation of the State plan; o coordinate activities with the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council and other councils addressing the needs of specific disability populations and issues under other Federal law; o ensure that all regularly scheduled meetings of the Council are open to the public with sufficient advance notice provided; and o submit to the Commissioner any periodic reports as the Commissioner may reasonably request; keep required records; and afford access to those records as the Commissioner finds necessary. The Council is also authorized to hold hearings and forums as it determines to be necessary to carry out its duties. G. Management of the Council. (Section 705(e)) o The Council must prepare, in conjunction with the designated State unit, a resource plan, including staff and personnel, to carry out the functions of the Council. Funding sources for the resource plan are chapter 1 of title VII; part C of title I (I&E program); and, other public and private sources. o Consistent with State law, the Council must supervise and evaluate Council staff and personnel. While carrying out the duties of the Council, such staff and other personnel are not to be assigned duties by the designated State unit or any other agency or office of the State that would create a conflict of interest. H. Compensation and Expenses. (Section 705(f)) The Council may use funds to reimburse reasonable and necessary expenses incurred by members of the Council in carrying out Council responsibilities. Such expenses include forfeited wages, travel expenses, child care, personal assistance services, and compensation to a member who is not employed or who must forfeit wages from other employment while engaging in Council duties. I. Use of Existing Councils. (Section 705(g)) For the first year of the reauthorization, a State may use an existing Council that is comparable to the Statewide Independent Living Council. Within one year of the enactment of the amendments, a State must establish a Council that fully meets the requirements of section 705 of title VII. VI. Responsibilities of the Commissioner. (Section 706) A. Compliance Indicators for Centers for Independent Living Not later than October 1, 1993, the Commissioner is to develop and publish in the Federal Register indicators of minimum compliance consistent with the standards set forth in section 725 of the Act. (RSA is presently reviewing comments received in response to the Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in this regard prior to publishing a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.) B. On-site Compliance Reviews. The Commissioner must, on an annual basis, conduct random on-site compliance reviews of at least 15 percent of the centers for independent living receiving funds under part C of chapter 1 of title VII. CHAPTER 1 - PART B - INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES Part B of chapter 1 is a formula grant program providing grants to States to support activities related to the provision of independent living services to individuals with severe disabilities. It replaces the part A program under the former title VII. I. Allotments. (Section 711) Funds are allotted on the basis of population with a minimum allotment per State of $275,000, 1/3 of 1 percent of available funds, or the amount received in fiscal year 1992 under part A of the former title VII, whichever is greatest. II. Matching Requirements. (Section 712) o The Federal share is 90 percent of the expenditures and o the non-Federal share may be provided in cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including plant, equipment, or services. III. Authorized Uses of Funds. (Section 713) The State may use funds under part B to: o pay for the resources described in the State plan pertaining to the operation of the Statewide Independent Living Council; o provide independent living services; o demonstrate ways to expand/improve services; o support the operation of centers for independent living; o support activities to increase the capacities of public or nonprofit agencies and organizations and other entities to develop comprehensive approaches or systems for providing independent living services; o conduct studies and analyses, gather information and present findings and recommendations to local, State and Federal policymakers to enhance independent living services for individuals with disabilities; o train individuals with disabilities, individuals providing services to individuals with disabilities and others regarding the independent living philosophy; and o provide outreach to populations that are unserved and underserved by programs under title VII, including minority groups and urban and rural populations. CHAPTER 1 - PART C - CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING The purpose of part C of chapter 1 of title VII is to support centers for independent living. In fiscal year 1993, all awards will be made by RSA. Beginning in fiscal year 1994, the program will be administered either by the State or RSA, depending on the level of State funding for centers for independent living. I. Program Authorization. (Section 721) A. 1994 and Subsequent Fiscal Years. (Sections 721(a) - (d)) In any year in which the amount of funds appropriated to carry out part C exceeds the amount appropriated for fiscal year 1993: o The Commissioner is to reserve not less than 1.8 percent and not more than 2 percent of the funds for grants to or contracts or other arrangements with entities experienced in the operation of centers for independent living for the purpose of providing technical assistance and training on planning, developing, conducting, administering and evaluating centers for independent living. o To determine funding priorities for these grants or contracts, a training and technical assistance needs survey of Statewide Independent Living Councils and centers for independent living is to be conducted by RSA. o After the reservation of funds for technical assistance and training, the remaining funds are to be allocated among the States on the basis of population except as follows: * a State's allotment may not be less than the amount of financial assistance received by centers for independent living in the State for fiscal year 1992; * if the total appropriation exceeds the fiscal year 1992 amount by $8 million, the minimum allotment per State is to be $450,000 or one-third of one percent of the appropriation, whichever is greater; or * if the appropriation exceeds the fiscal year 1992 amount by $4 million, but is less than $8 million, the minimum allotment is to be $400,000 or one-third of one percent of the appropriations, whichever is greater; or * if the appropriations exceed the fiscal year 1992 amount by less than $4 million, the minimum allotment is to approach, as nearly as possible, the minimum of $400,000 or one-third of one percent of the appropriations, whichever is greater. o Minimum allotments are to be adjusted for inflation in any fiscal year beginning with fiscal year 1994 in which the appropriation exceeds the previous year's appropriation by more than the rate of inflation. o When the Commissioner determines that an allotment to a State will not be expended by the State for support of centers for independent living, those funds can be reallotted to other States that can use the additional funds. B. Transition Rules for Fiscal Year 1993. (Section 721(e)) o From the amount appropriated to support centers for independent living, an amount not less than 1.8 percent and not more than 2 percent is to be reserved for training, technical assistance and transition assistance to centers for independent living. o After the reservation is made, grants are to be made by the Commissioner to private, nonprofit agencies that received funding directly or through subgrants or contracts for fiscal year 1992 under part B as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the amendments, if their applications for funding demonstrate they will comply by October 1, 1993, with the standards and assurances for centers for independent living. o Private, nonprofit agencies that did not receive funding under part B as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the amendments for fiscal year 1992 may receive funding for fiscal year 1993 if they submit satisfactory applications, but only after all the agencies within the State that did receive funding in fiscal year 1992 and submitted satisfactory applications for fiscal year 1993 have been funded. II. Grants to Centers in States in Which Federal Funding Exceeds State Funding. (Section 722) A. Necessary Conditions. (Section 722(a)) In any fiscal year in which the director of a designated State unit does not award grants under section 723 of the Act to eligible agencies in a State, the Commissioner is to make grants from the funds allocated to the State directly to eligible agencies within the State. B. Eligible Agency. (Section 722(b)) In States with approved Title VII State plans, the Commissioner may make a grant to any eligible agency that has the power and authority to carry out the purpose of part C and perform the functions of a center for independent living set forth in section 725 of the Act; meets the required standards and assurances for a center for independent living; and submits a satisfactory application. An eligible agency is defined as a consumer-controlled, community-based, cross-disability, nonresidential private nonprofit agency. C. Existing Eligible Agency. (Section 722(c)) The Commissioner is to award grants to any eligible agency that is receiving funds for a center of independent living under part C of chapter 1 of title VII on September 30, 1993, unless the Commissioner determines that the agency does not meet the required program and fiscal standards and assurances for a center for independent living set forth in section 725 of the Act. D. New Centers. (Sections 722(d) and (e)) o If there is no center serving a region of the State or a region is underserved, and the increase in the State's allotment is sufficient to support an additional center, the Commissioner may award a grant to the most qualified applicant, consistent with the State's design described in its Title VII State plan with respect to the establishment of a statewide network of centers for independent living. o The amendments provide criteria for selecting new centers and include the following order of priorities for allocating funds among centers within a State: * existing centers meeting the standards and assurances of section 725; * cost-of-living increases for existing centers; and * new centers. o Centers receiving support for the operation of a center under part B (or part A as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of the 1992 Amendments) are not considered "existing centers" and are eligible to compete as "new centers." E. Periodic Review. (Section 722(f)) o The Commissioner is required to review each center periodically to ensure compliance with the standards and assurances for centers for independent living. o If a center for independent living is found to be out of compliance, the Commissioner is to terminate all funds 90 days after the date the center is notified of its noncompliance unless: * the center submits a plan to achieve compliance within 90 days of such notification and * such plan is approved by the Commissioner. III. Grants to Centers in States in Which State Funding Equals or Exceeds Federal Funding. (Section 723) A. Necessary Conditions. (Section 723(a)) o Beginning October 1, 1993, if the Commissioner determines that for a preceding fiscal year the amount of State funds earmarked to support the general operation of centers for independent living meeting the requirements of part C of title VII equaled or exceeded the amount of Federal funds allotted to the State, the director of the designated State unit may apply to the Commissioner to award grants to eligible agencies for the planning, conduct, administration, and evaluation of centers for independent living that comply with the standards and assurances set forth in section 725. o The State may continue to award grants for centers for independent living in subsequent years if State funds earmarked for centers for independent living continue to equal or exceed Federal funds; if the State does not maintain the necessary level in a fiscal year, it loses its eligibility to administer the program after a final year following the fiscal year in which it failed to equal or exceed Federal funding. o If the designated State agency of a State does not submit and obtain approval of an application for funds under section 723 of the Act or loses eligibility to administer the program, the Commissioner is to make the grants directly in accordance with section 722. B. Eligible Agency. (Section 723(b)) In States with approved Title VII State plans, the director of the designated State unit may make grants to an eligible agency that has the power and authority to carry out the purpose of part C and perform the functions of a center for independent living set forth in section 725; meets the required standards and assurances for a center for independent living; and submits a satisfactory application. An eligible agency is defined as a consumer-controlled, community-based, cross-disability, nonresidential private nonprofit agency. C. Existing Eligible Agency. (Section 723(c)) The director of the designated State unit is to award grants to any eligible agency that is receiving funds for a center for independent living under part C of chapter 1 of title VII on September 30, 1993, unless the director makes a finding that the agency fails to meet the required program and fiscal standards and assurances for a center for independent living set forth in section 725 of the Act. D. New Centers. (Sections 723(d) and (e)) o If there is no center serving a region of the State or a region is underserved, and the increase in the State's allotment is sufficient to support an additional center, the director of the designated State unit may award a grant from among eligible agencies, consistent with the provisions of the Title VII State plan in terms of the State's design to establish a statewide network of centers for independent living. o In selecting from among eligible agencies in awarding grants for new centers, the director of the designated State unit and the chairperson of, or other individual designated by, the Statewide Independent Living Council, acting on behalf of and at the direction of the Council, are to jointly appoint a peer review committee to rank applications. o The peer review committee is to evaluate applications against the standards and assurances contained in section 725 of title VII and criteria established by the director of the designated State unit and the chairperson of the Council based on the selection criteria identified in section 723(d)(2)(B). The director of the designated State unit is to make awards based on the recommendations of the committee, if the committee's actions are consistent with Federal and State law. o Centers receiving support for the operation of a center under part B (or part A as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the amendments) are not considered "existing centers" and are eligible to compete as "new centers." The amendments provide the following order of priorities for allocating funds among centers within a State: * existing centers meeting the standards and assurances of section 725; * cost-of-living increases for existing centers; and * new centers. E. Review. (Section 723(f)) o The director of the designated State unit must periodically review each center to determine if it is in compliance with the standards and assurances in section 725. o If the center is found to be out of compliance, the director of the designated State unit shall terminate all funds 90 days after the date the center is notified of its noncompliance or, if the center requests an appeal to the Commissioner, the date of a final decision unless the center submits a plan to achieve compliance within 90 days and such plan is approved by the director or, if appealed, by the Commissioner. F. On-site Compliance Review. (Section 723(g)) The director of the designated State unit is to conduct on-site compliance reviews with a review team that includes at least one person who is not an employee of the designated State agency, who has experience in the operation of centers, and who is jointly selected by the director of the State unit and the chairperson, or other person designated by the Council, acting on behalf of and at the direction of the Council. G. Adverse Actions. (Section 723(h)) If the director of the designated State unit proposes to take a significant adverse action against a center for independent living, the center may seek mediation and conciliation by an individual or individuals, identified by the Council, who are free of conflicts of interest. If the issue is not resolved, the center may appeal to the Commissioner for a final decision. IV. Centers for Independent Living Operated by State Agencies. (Section 724) o For fiscal year 1993, if no nonprofit private agency within the State submits an acceptable application to operate a center for independent living and the State directly operated a center in fiscal year 1992 with funds provided under part B of title VII, as in effect on the day prior to enactment of the 1992 amendments, the State may apply for a grant under part C, chapter 1 of title VII. The State must comply with all requirements for a center other than the center be a private, nonprofit agency. o For fiscal year 1994 and subsequent fiscal years, a State that received a grant in fiscal year 1993 under part C may receive a grant if no nonprofit agency receives a grant or funds are available after funding all approved applications from nonprofit private agencies under section 722 or 723. V. Standards and Assurances for Centers for Independent Living. (Section 725) Centers must comply with the following standards and also must provide and comply with the following assurances. A.Standards for Centers for Independent Living. (Section 725(b)) * Promote and practice the independent living philosophy of consumer control; self-help and self-advocacy; development of peer relationships and peer role models; and equal access of individuals with severe disabilities. * Provide services to individuals with a range of severe disabilities on a cross-disability basis and eligibility for services may not be based on the presence of any one or more specific severe disabilities. * Facilitate the development and achievement of independent living goals selected by individuals with severe disabilities. * Increase the availability and improve the quality of community options for independent living in order to facilitate the development and achievement of independent living goals by individuals with severe disabilities. * Provide independent living core services and, as appropriate, a combination of any other independent living services. * Conduct activities to increase the capacity of communities within the service area of the center to meet the needs of individuals with severe disabilities. * Conduct resource development activities to obtain funding from sources other than chapter 1 of title VII of the Act. B. Assurances Which Must be Provided by an Eligible Agency. (Section 725 (c)) * the applicant is an eligible agency; * the center will be designed and operated within local communities by individuals with disabilities, including an assurance that the center will have a Board that is the principal governing body of the center and a majority of which shall be composed of individuals with severe disabilities; * the applicant will comply with the standards in section 725 of the Act; * the applicant will establish clear priorities through annual and 3-year program and financial planning objectives for the center, including overall goals or a mission for the center, a work plan for achieving the goals or mission, specific objectives, service priorities, and types of services to be provided, and a description that is to demonstrate how the proposed activities of the applicant are consistent with the most recent 3-year Title VII State plan; *the applicant will use sound organizational and personnel assignment practices, including taking affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with severe disabilities on the same terms and conditions required with respect to the employment of individuals with disabilities under section 503; * the applicant will ensure that the majority of the staff, and individuals in decision-making positions, of the applicant are individuals with disabilities. * the applicant will practice sound fiscal management, including making arrangements for an annual independent fiscal audit; * the applicant will conduct annual self-evaluations, prepare an annual report, and maintain records adequate to measure performance with respect to the standards in terms of: - compliance with the standards, - the number and types of individuals served, - types of services provided and number of individuals receiving each type of service, - sources and amounts of funding to operate the center, - number of individuals with severe disabilities employed by the center and the number in management and decision-making positions, and - a comparison between the most recent year and prior years with respect to the activities of the center. * individuals with severe disabilities who are seeking or receiving services at the center will be notified by the center of the existence of, the availability of, and how to contact the client assistance program; * aggressive outreach regarding services provided through the center will be conducted in an effort to reach populations of individuals with severe disabilities that are unserved or underserved by programs under this title, especially minority groups and urban and rural populations; * staff at centers for independent living will receive training on how to serve such unserved and underserved populations, including minority groups and urban and rural populations; * the center will submit to the Statewide Independent Living Council a copy of its approved grant application and its annual report; * the center will prepare and submit a report to the designated State unit or the Commissioner, as the case may be, at the end of each fiscal year that contains required information and information regarding the extent to which the center is in compliance with the standards; and * an independent living plan will be developed unless the individual who would receive services under the plan signs a waiver stating that such a plan is unnecessary. VI. Effective Dates. The amendments take effect the day of enactment except: o Awards made to centers for independent living before October 1, 1992, may be carried out in accordance with the requirements of law in effect prior to the enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992. o The provisions related to the Title VII State plan are to be implemented as soon as practicable after the date of enactment, consistent with effective and efficient administration, but no later than October 1, 1993. CHAPTER 2 - INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES FOR OLDER INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE BLIND. A. Definition of Term "Older Individual Who is Blind". (Section 751) The term "older individual who is blind" means an individual age 55 or older whose severe visual impairment makes competitive employment extremely difficult to attain but for whom independent living goals are feasible. B. Program Administration. (Sections 752(a) and (g)) o A grant is made only to a State that submits an approvable application and identifies, under the State's law, the State agency for individuals who are blind or other agency that provides assistance or services to adults who are blind and that is authorized to provide vocational rehabilitation services to individuals who are blind as the sole State agency responsible for the administration of the program of services to older individuals who are blind. o Services can be provided directly by the State or through grants with public and nonprofit private agencies or organizations. C. Program Funding. (Section 752(b) and (c)) o Beginning in fiscal year 1994, for any fiscal year in which the funds appropriated for the program are less than $13 million, grants will be discretionary and made on a competitive basis to States. o When appropriations equal or exceed $13 million, grants will be made to the States on a formula basis based on the ratio of individuals in the State over 55 years of age to the number of individuals in the United States over 55 years of age, with a minimum allotment of $225,000 or one-third of one percent of the funds appropriated, whichever is greater. o Of any funds not paid to States because of the failure to apply for funds or to fully utilize the funds made available, the Commissioner may make grants to States whose population of older individuals who are blind has a substantial need for services relative to the populations in other States of older individuals who are blind. D. Matching Requirements. (Section 752(f)) The Federal share is 90 percent with the non-Federal share either in cash or in-kind, fairly evaluated, including plant, equipment, or services. E. Allowable Grant Activities. (Section 752(d)) The Commissioner may not make a grant unless the State agrees that the grant will be expended only for purposes of: o providing independent living services to older individuals who are blind; o conducting activities that will improve or expand services for such individuals; and o conducting activities to help improve public understanding of the problems of such individuals. F. Services. (Section 752(e)) Independent living services for older individuals who are blind include: o services to help correct blindness; o provision of eyeglasses and other visual aids; o provision of services and equipment to assist an individual to become more mobile and more self-sufficient; o mobility training, Braille instruction, and other services and equipment to help an individual adjust to blindness; o guide services, reader services, and transportation; o any other appropriate service designed to assist an individual in coping with daily living activities, including supportive services or rehabilitation teaching services; o independent living skills training, information and referral services, peer counseling, and individual advocacy training; and o other independent living services, as defined in section 7(30) of the Act. G. Requirement Related to State Plan. (Section 752(h)) As a condition for the receipt of a grant, the State must agree to seek to incorporate into the Title VII State plan any new methods and approaches relating to the provision of services to older individuals who are blind. TITLE VIII - SPECIAL TRAINING AND DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS I. Background. This is a new title under the Act and incorporates a variety of service demonstration and training project authorities with specifically identified purposes. Some of the new project authorities are required to be funded during the period covered by the reauthorization, i.e., fiscal years 1993 through 1997, while others are authorized but not mandated to be funded. II. Funding. (Sections 801, 302(i) and 311(f)) One source of support for title VIII projects is funding appropriated for activities under title III of the Act (Training and Demonstration Projects) consistent with the provisions of sections 302(i) and 311(f), which provide the Commissioner the authority to utilize title III funds to support Title VIII initiatives. When the title III appropriations for a fiscal year exceed that of the preceding fiscal year after being adjusted for inflation, the excess must be treated as if the excess were appropriated under title VIII. Another source of funding would be funds appropriated under section 802 and/or 803. III. Demonstration Activities. (Section 802) A. Required Projects. The Commissioner is required to award grants for demonstration projects dealing with the: o provision of transportation services to individuals with disabilities who are employed or seeking employment, or who are receiving vocational rehabilitation services and reside in geographic areas in which regularly scheduled public transportation or comparable paratransit service is not available. (It is anticipated that in fiscal year 1993, there will be a competition for grants under this authority); o alternatives to case closure practice through the identification of appropriate incentives to vocational rehabilitation counselors to achieve high quality placements for individuals with the most severe disabilities and of innovative methods to evaluate the performance of counselors in a manner consistent with the policy to serve individuals with the most severe disabilities; and o early rehabilitation intervention for working adults recently determined to have chronic and progressive diseases that may be severely disabling with a special focus on how such intervention contributes to job retention or the entry into new careers and employment. B. Authorized Projects In addition to the demonstration projects required to be funded, Title VIII provides the authority for the Commissioner to fund projects dealing with the: o transition of individuals with disabilities from medical facilities to programs providing independent living in the community living, including services such as personal assistance services, health maintenance services, counseling, and social and vocational services; o studies to examine the factors that create: * barriers to successful rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities from minority backgrounds and to develop strategies to overcome the barriers; * significant underrepresentation of individuals from minority backgrounds in the rehabilitation professions and to develop strategies to overcome the underrepresentation; and * barriers to successful rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with neurological or other related disorders, particularly the impact that the episodic nature of the disability has on eligibility determinations and the provision of services. o studies of VR management and service delivery systems; o increased client choice in the rehabilitation process, including the selection of service providers, with at least 80 percent of the grant award used for direct services specifically chosen by an eligible client, i.e., an individual with a disability as defined in section 7(8)(A) who is not currently receiving services under an IWRP established through a designated State vocational rehabilitation unit. (It is anticipated that there will be a fiscal year 1993 competition for grants under this authority); o the development of model personal assistance services systems and other innovative service programs to maximize the full inclusion and integration into society, employment, and independent living of individuals with disabilities; o upgrading the skills of workers with disabilities through a partnership or consortium including private business concerns or industries to improve the workers' ability to adapt to emerging technologies, work methods, and markets, and to ensure that such workers possess the knowledge and skills necessary to compete in the workplace; and o model systems of comprehensive service delivery to individuals with severe disabilities, other than spinal cord injuries, which require a multidisciplinary system for the provision of vocational and other rehabilitation services. IV. National Commission. (Section 802(h)) The amendments authorize the Commissioner to establish a National Commission on Rehabilitation Services. The Commission is to: o study the nature, quality and adequacy of programs authorized by the Act; o make recommendations to the President and Congress that will enhance successful employment outcomes, independence, and integration of individuals with disabilities into the workplace and community; o have as a majority of its members individuals with disabilities; and o submit interim and final reports containing the results of its studies and analyses together with its recommendations for amendments to the Act needed to promote comprehensive vocational rehabilitation and independent living services. V. Training Activities. (Section 803) A. Required Projects The Commissioner is required during the period covered by the reauthorization (fiscal years 1993-1997) to award grants for training projects in the areas of: o distance learning through telecommunications to be carried out by an eligible institution of higher education, with consideration afforded to the sparsity of State populations in the RSA region to be served, for the purpose of developing and implementing in-service training programs for vocational rehabilitation professionals through the use of interactive audio, video, and computer technologies, and o training in the use of Braille for personnel providing vocational rehabilitation or educational services to youth and adults who are blind. The training projects can include the development of Braille training materials and pre-service and in-service training in the use of Braille and methods of teaching Braille to youth and adults who are blind. B. Authorized Projects In addition to the required training projects, Title VIII provides the authority for the Commissioner to fund projects dealing with the: o provision of training and information to enable individuals with disabilities, parents, family members, guardians, advocates, or other authorized representatives to participate more effectively with professionals in meeting the rehabilitation needs of the individuals with disabilities. (It is anticipated that there will be a fiscal year 1993 competition for grants under this authority); o training of impartial hearing officers to provide them with the skills necessary to fairly decide appeals under the Act; and o development and demonstration of innovative methods to attract and retain rehabilitation professionals to serve in urban areas. ---------- MODULE III _Leadership, Communication Skills and Group Dynamics_ Trainer: John English Co-Trainer: Kimberly A. Turner Leadership in Groups I. Misconceptions About Leadership A. To lead is to control B. Some are born to lead C. There is a teachable formula for leadership D. Leadership is the answer II. What Determines Who Will Lead? A. Physical characteristics B. Gender C. Intelligence D. Personality traits E. Participation rates III. What Determines If A Leader Will Be Effective? A. Motivational style B. Situational control C. Theories of leadership D. Conclusions Communication Skills and Effective Techniques I. What is Communication? A. Communication is the exchange of ideas, messages, or information B. Complete communication is a process C. Communication is Who says What to Whom, Why, and How? II. What are the Required Mechanisms of Communication? A. Message B. Sender C. Receiver D. Encoder E. Decoder III. Why Do We Communicate? A. To obtain or give information, assistance, or service B. To explain a process, direct or instruct C. To give or receive feedback IV. What Are The Five C's of Effective Communication? A. Clear - Systematically analyzing a problem or idea to be communicated isthe first step toward effective communication. Good planning considersthe goals and attitudes of those who will receive the communication andhow they will be affected by it B. Complete - Communication must reflect the sender's attention to detail.This means checking and verifying all the facts, presenting the message inan understandable medium, and ensuring that all the necessaryinformation is included C. Concise - In composing information to be transmitted through any type ofmedium, it becomes important to choose the right words and to simplifythe message. Communication reflects the tone and attitudes of the sender D. Correct - Effective messages contain accurate information, follow standardlanguage conventions (such as correct spelling and pronunciation), andare free of error E. Courteous - Communication that reflects the positive tone and attitude ofthe sender is most effective V. Possible Barriers To Effective Communication A. Since so many possibilities for misunderstanding exist, the communicatormust have a firm grasp of the mechanisms of the communication process.The message is never independent of the medium chosen tocommunicate it. It is never received in quite the same manner that thesender intended. Usually the message sent and the message receivedare similar enough to permit understanding, despite interferences that mayoccur. B. Barriers to effective communication can begin with the sender. His or herpersonal motives, prejudices, and psychology may alter the message.The manner in which the message is encoded is affected by the way thesender perceives the situation. The sender must be aware that this samesituation may be perceived differently by the receiver. The sender'sthinking may be poorly organized, the message may include too much ortoo little information, or the grammar or sentence structure may beunclear. C. What Are Some Possible Receiver Barriers? 1. Emotional Blocks: Little or none of the message comes through tothe receiver. The receiver hears all messages only in reference tohis or her own needs and cannot hear messages that do not relateto his or her own interest. 2. Hostility: Hostility may arise because the receiver is angry withthe sender of the message, or nature of the subject matter itselfarouses hostility. In either case the message sent is not oftenreceived. 3. Hidden Agendas: These are present when people bring ulteriormotives to the interactions. One team member may reject theideas of a second team member because the member feels it is tohis or her competitive advantage to do so. 4. Defensiveness: A team member's insecurity may distort asimple question into an accusation, and he or she may justify acertain behavior as a protection against the perceived attack. 5. Personal Ideas And Beliefs: If the receiver holds strong viewson a subject, he or she will ignore the sender's point of view andconcentrate on imposing his or her views on the sender. In theprocess, the original message is lost. 6. Position or Status: A person may feel threatened by thesupervisor or leader simply because of the difference between theirpositions. This can prevent the worker from conveying his or hermessage. Such barriers also occur oppositely. These barriers areoften a matter of perception, that is, how the worker perceives whatis said, rather than what is said. 7. Simple Inarticulateness: Due to a verbal deficiency, the sendermay distort or translate ineffectively the true message which wasintended to be sent. If the sender is unaware of his or herdeficiency, the message may become totally lost or misconstruedby the receiver, and a barrier will be created. 8. Physical Environment: This can create conditions that hindercommunication. A hot stuffy room with poor air circulation is notconducive to effective message sending and receiving. Also aperson's physical state at the time may be distracting him or herfrom either sending a clear message or hearing the message beingsent. D. What Are Some Possible Sender Barriers? 1. Making hasty judgements 2. Being too general 3. Interrupting 4. Mishandling not being understood 5. Talking too much 6. Being too bossy 7. Talking down to people 8. Asking leading questions 9. Being sarcastic 10. Arguing 11. Emphasizing 12. Having poor listening habits VI. Active Listening Techniques A. Active listening is when the listener takes an active responsibility inunderstanding the feeling and content of what is being said. He or shecan respond with a statement, in his or her own words, of what he or shefeels the sender's message means. B. Active Listening allows people to paraphrase, emphasize, reflect feelings,test accuracy of inferences, and check assumptions to produce clearerand more effective communication with each other. C. It is not simply repeating words; it involves empathy for the sender's pointof view. D. It can lead to acceptance and trust when people communicate, as well asfacilitate problem solving. E. It is not intended as a way to manipulate people to think as others believethey should. F. Some Active Listening Techniques 1. Reflection a. Of feelings - allows one to express one's own observationsand perceptions of another's feelings ("You seem angry.""You look sad." "You look as if that made you happy." b. Of content - allows one to acknowledge one's attention andrestate what the other has said ("So you were tired ofreading, then you started talking on the phone.") 2. Clarification a. Paraphrase - Allows the listener to verify understanding byrephrasing the speakers words (You did O.K. - is that right?) b. Check assumptions - should be used with paraphrasing. 3. Use of attending behaviors a. Attentive body language - Sitting forward, using eye contact,and avoiding extensive fidgeting are examples of attendingbehavior. b. Continuers - Allows the listener to avoid taking sides and toremain neutral ("Yes, un-huh, oh, I see?) c. Periodic Summarizing - allows the listener to pull together allprevious remarks, checks accuracy, and also allows fortransition. 4. Showing _ownerships and understanding of the problem a. Send _I_ messages rather than _you_ messages b. Describe behavior Giving and Receiving Feedback I. What is feedback? A. Feedback is communicating our thoughts and feelings about another person_s behavior to that person B. Feedback can be positive or negative C. Feedback is not expressing irritation, passing judgements, putting down II. Why is feedback important? A. Feedback can increase motivation B. Feedback lets us know how to improve C. Feedback is one way we can deal with our personal reactions towards behaviors of others that are conducive or disruptive to getting the job done D. Feedback helps to clarify our feelings towards the people we work with E. Feedback helps us to see how others see us, and how our behavior affects others III. Guidelines for Giving Feedback A. Before giving feedback 1. Check you motivation: Is your purpose to help or to hurt? 2. Be observant of the receiver: Is she/he ready to hear you? B. Always start with positive feedback C. During feedback 1. Use _I_ statements 2. Describe your feelings and reactions 3. Describe the other person_s behavior; be specific ; when, where, how D. After feedback 1. Check receiver_s understanding 2. Give time to respond, answer questions, offer support IV. Guidelines for Receiving Feedback A. Be aware that the person giving you feedback is describing his or her perception B. Receive it with an open mind C. Check your understanding of the feedback; ask questions or request examples D. Share reactions to the feedback Group Dynamics And Effective Techniques I. What is a group? A. A number of individuals B. This number is related by common factors II. When and how do groups form? A. Survival needs B. Psychological needs C. Informational needs D. Interpersonal needs E. Collective needs G. Group goals III. What are the major ingredients in all of our group interactions? A. Task B. Process IV. How do we observe process functions in group? A. Participation 1. Who are the active participants? 2. Who are the inactive participants? 3. Who talks to whom? Do you see any reason for this in the group_s interaction? B. Influence 1. Which members carry a lot of influence? 2. Which members are not very influential? 3. Is there a struggle for leadership? 4. What effect does it have on other group members? C. Styles of Influence 1. Autocratic 2. Peacemaker 3. Laissez faire 4. Democratic D. Decision-Making Procedures 1. Stand alone 2. Consensus V. How do we observe task function in a group? 1. Questions about the task are being posed 2. Summarization is periodically taking place 3. Someone is keeping the group on target VI. What are some preventative maintenance checks? 1. Watch the gate for: a. Gate openers b. Gate closers c. Non-listeners d. Rejection methods VII. How do we define group atmosphere? 1. How conflict is handled 2. How member treat each other 3. How tasks are handled VIII.Critical membership issues 1. Look for cliques 2. "Read" body language 3. Observe feelings 4. Interpret Norms IX. Summary These are aspects of a group's dynamics. An intact group needs to have aneffective process to be productive on their task. A facilitator will feedback to thegroup what he or she observes it happening in the group if the members do notseem to deal openly with their own process issues. The more capable a groupbecomes in managing its own dynamics and selecting the best methods (the howdecisions) to do its task work (the what), the more productive the group will be. EXERCISES Exercise One Getting Acquainted Team up with a participant you do not know well, if at all. Interview each other. Find out at least one skill or technique this person would like to get from this training. Find out one thing about this person that nobody knows that is O.K. to share with the group. Exercise Two Leadership Exercise Success or Failure? Record an _S_ in front of each statement if you think the individual is a success. Record an _F_ in front of each statement in which you think the individual was a failure. ____1. Ran for political office seven times and was defeated each time. ____2. In writing a book he was rejected by every major publishing company in New York, including Harper and Row, Random House and others. ____3. Wanted to be a leader. Was one of 35 who ran for president of his freshman class in college and was eliminated on the first ballot. ____4. Wanted to be a military leader or a great statesman and failed three times on his exams to enter a military academy. ____5. As a boy had 24 brothers and sisters. His mother deserted the family when he was five. His father drank heavily. He lived in poverty. The children were put into foster homes. When he was seven he ran away seven times in one year. He was sent to reform school. ---------- MODULE IV _Disability Awareness and Cultural Sensitivity_ Trainer: Dan Hopkins Co-Trainers: Nydia Davis, Alex Lugo Module IV Goal: To Familiarize participants with issues and concerns around cultural diversity and to develop skills and techniques for dealing with the challenges of diversity. Objectives: By the end of this module participants will: a. be aware of the impact of culture on their lives; b. know the different elements of diversity; c. be knowledgeable of the different components ofcultural competence; d. be able to utilize a variety of techniques when workingin multi-cultural communities; e. more effectively advocate for individuals withdisabilities. While you are on the journey to valuing cultural diversity remember this: Just a Thought You and I_ We meet as strangers, each carrying a mystery within us. I cannot say who you are. I may never know you completely. But I trust that you are a person in your own right, possessed of a beauty and value that are the Earth's richest treasures. So I make this promise to you: I will impose no identities upon you, but will invite you to become yourself without shame or fear. I will hold open a space for you in the world and allow your right to fill it with an authentic vocation and purpose. For as long as your search takes, you have my loyalty. CULTURAL WORDS AND DEFINITIONS CULTURE - A body of learned beliefs, traditions, principles and guides for behavior that are shared among members of an identifiable group. PREJUDICE - An attitude, opinion, or feeling formed without adequate prior knowledge, thought or reason. RACISM - Prejudice or bigotry by one ethnic group over another, with one group using its political, social economic or religious power to keep another group at a disadvantage. Racism is Prejudice + Power. INTERNALIZED OPPRESSION - A subconscious belief in negative stereotypes about one's group that results in an attempt to fulfill those stereotypes and a projection of those stereotypes onto other members of that group. MULTICULTURALISM - The recognition and acknowledgement that the United States is a pluralistic society in terms of ethnicity, sexual orientation, geography, religion, gender and class. SEXISM - The belief in the inherent superiority of one sex over the other and thereby the right to dominance. CULTURAL SENSITIVITY - A life-long learning process of becoming aware of feelings and values held by others whose cultures are different from your own. STEREOTYPE - A generalization of characteristics, beliefs, and behaviors that is applied to all people of a particular cultural group. ETHNOCENTRIC - Believing one's own group is superior to others. XENOPHOBIA - Fear or hatred of strangers. ---------- MODULE V _Building and Presenting A Program to My Community, Constituents, and Local Organizations_ Trainer: John English Co-Trainer: Kimberly A. Turner I. Components of a Training Program A. What are some components of a good training program? 1. Focused on core competencies 2. Takes advantage of the latest technology 3. Conducted with the least administration possible II. How do you do you tailor/focus training for your audience? 1. Needs assessments 2. Get goals pre-defined 3. Conduct a focus group 4. Form an advisory committee III. Resources: Where do you go for help? 1. Your audience 2. People in the field 3. Consultants IV. How do you market your program? 1. Make it available 2. Make it accessible 3. Make it meaningful V. What are some logistical considerations? 1. Time 2. Space 3. Price VI. Five Critical Steps In Getting Started 1. Organize an advisory group 2. Organize focus group activity 3. Gather information 4. Design and conduct advocacy and education 5. Develop community awareness 6. Place minority persons with disabilities and their families on community boards and advisory groups ---------- MODULE VI _Developing and Soliciting Grants_ Trainer: Dan Hopkins Co-Trainers: Delores Watkins, Nydia Davis Module VI Goal: To develop or enhance the trainees_ knowledge or expertise in the practices and techniques necessary to locate, apply, solicit, and acquire funding through grants and other contract programs administered by the Federal Government or other funding entities, with a focus on establishing local or regional partnerships that are able to collaboratively support the scope of work in the grant or contract. Objectives: At the end of this module trainees will: a. be able to locate and read the federal register; c. be able to identify different parts of a grant applicationkit; d. be able to name various components for inclusion in agrant application; e. know the relative importance of the components ofparts of a grant application. f. understand (if possible) the peer review process; g. be able to identify non-federal funding sources; h. be familiar with some techniques for buildingcollaborative relationships with entities that are able toassist them in accomplishing a scope of work. ----------