2003 annual report of the Georgia State Rehabilitation Council

2003 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE GEORGIA STATE REHABILITATION COUNCIL
Assisting People
with Disabilities
to Work
GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
MICHAEL L. THURMOND, COMMISSIONER

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Message from SRC Chairperson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Georgia State Rehabilitation Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
l Mission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 l Philosophy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 l Who We Are . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 l Working Principles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 l Mandated Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 l Functions & Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 l Coordination of Efforts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 l SRC Subcommittees: Purpose & 2003 Accomplishments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 l Goals & Objectives - FY2004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Vocational Rehabilitation Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
l Strategic Agenda - 2003 & Beyond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 l Initiatives & Partnerships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Georgia Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
l Program Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Client Assistance Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Assistive Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Celebrating Success . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Directories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
l Georgia Department of Labor/Rehabilitation Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 l Vocational Rehabilitation Program Administrative Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 l Vocational Rehabilitation Program Regional Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 l Community Rehabilitation Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Council Members
Annette Bowling, Chairperson Albany Advocacy Resource Center
Ray Bishop, Vice Chairperson Goodwill Industries of North Georgia
Bobby L. Pack, Ex-Officio Assistant Commissioner Rehabilitation Services
Cynthia Ashby, Member Georgia Department of Education
LaVerne Bomar, Member Parents Educating Parents
& Professionals, Inc.
Kent Earnhardt, Ph.D, Member Advocate/ Attorney
Nathaniel Fox, Ph.D, Member Retiree, United States Air Force
Helen Hill, Ed.D, LPC, Member Georgia College & State University
Tina Baker-Ivey, Member Statewide Independent Living Council
Annie Kwan, Member Hyatt Regency Suites
Charles Martin, Member Director, Client Assistance Program
Carolyn McGonagill, Member TECH-ABLE
Lee Miller, Member Georgia Committee on Employment
of People with Disabilities, Inc.
Nancy Elliott O'Hara, Member Georgia Department of Education
Faye Smith, Member Workforce Investment Board
Brian C. Spillers, Ex-Officio VR Counselor
Christine Peggy Venable, Member Muskogee Creek Indian Tribe
Tim Willis, Member Paralympic Athlete, Attorney, Speaker

State Rehabilitation Council

1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Email: Denise.Wilson@dol.state.ga.us

Phone #: (404) 638-0380 FAX #: (404) 486-0197
Direct TTY: (404) 486-6333

Message from SRC Chairperson
The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) and the Georgia Department of Labor/Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program are pleased to share with you the SRC 2003 Annual Report.
This report highlights the tremendous work of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program with and on behalf of Georgia citizens with disabilities. The SRC and VR work together to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive the services and supports they need to become productive Georgians through gainful employment and self-sufficiency.
Georgia VR taps into the full potential of consumers and provides a host of critical employment services including vocational counseling and evaluation, work adjustment and work readiness training, on-the-job training, job placement , vocational and technical training, job coaching, and other types of customized services.
VR staff is dedicated to the success of the consumers they assist. During FY 2003, VR helped 5,259 Georgians with disabilities obtain employment, 3,986 of whom were successfully rehabilitated primarily into competitive or selfemployment settings.
I encourage you to acquaint yourself with the Georgia Department of Labor/Vocational Rehabilitation Program and the State Rehabilitation Council, and take pride with us in the successes of those we serve.
Sincerely,
Annette T. Bowling SRC Chairperson

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STSATTAETERERHEAHBAIBLIILTIATTAITOIONNCOCOUNUCNICLIL
Mission
The mission of the Georgia State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) is to work in partnership with the Georgia Department of Labor/Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program to promote and prepare Georgians with disabilities for competitive employment.
Philosophy
Each person with a disability should have the opportunity to guide his/her own education and career paths.
Who We Are
The Georgia State Rehabilitation Council is a body of individuals who are strongly interested in the vocational rehabilitation process. As mandated by the United States Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, the governor appoints the SRC members. To ensure the effective delivery of services to Georgians with disabilities, the SRC reviews and analyzes the performance and responsibilities of the VR Program. The SRC works in strategic partnership with the Georgia Department of Labor/VR Program to develop statewide needs assessments, set goals and priorities, report on program effectiveness, provide policy advisement, and measure consumer satisfaction.
Working Principles
The Georgia State Rehabilitation Council will: l Build partnerships among people with disabilities and employers, service providers,
advocacy organizations, and those other groups that can and should participate in the accomplishment of the mission and philosophy of the organization. l Forge a spirit of trust and cooperation between and among all partners. l Reach out to people with disabilities and employers throughout the state so as to create a true spirit of inclusion. l Hear and respond to the concerns and issues raised by people with disabilities, employers, and other concerned individuals so that its work is as effective as possible, and it is able to truly be a catalyst for positive change.
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STATE REHABILITATION COUNCIL
Mandated Membership
Members of the Georgia State Rehabilitation Council bring expertise to the Council from a wide spectrum of disciplines. To ensure true representation of individuals with disabilities from diverse populations, the Council is mandated to include: l One representative of the Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC). l One representative of a parent training and information center established pursuant to
Section 682(a) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). l One representative of the Client Assistance Program (CAP). l One qualified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, with knowledge of and experience
with vocational rehabilitation programs, who shall serve as an ex-officio, nonvoting member of the Council if the counselor is an employee of the designated State agency. l One representative of a Community Rehabilitation Program service provider. l One representative of the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Program. l One representative from an institution of secondary or higher education who is responsible for the education of students with disabilities. l One representative of the State of Georgia Board of Education. l One representative of the Georgia Workforce Investment Board (WIB). l Current or former applicants for, or recipients of, vocational rehabilitation services. l Representatives of disability advocacy groups representing: l individuals with physical, cognitive, sensory, and mental disabilities; l individuals with disabilities who have difficulty in representing themselves or are
unable to represent themselves due to their disabilities. l Four representatives of business, industry, and labor. In addition, ex-officio members are appointed as deemed pertinent by the membership. The Assistant Commissioner of Rehabilitation Services and the state director of the VR Program are ongoing ex-officio, nonvoting members.
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STSATTAETERERHEAHBAIBLIILTIATTAITOIONNCOCOUNUCNICLIL
Functions & Responsibilities
The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) is part of the policy development process of the Georgia Department of Labor/Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program. As established in Section 105 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, the SRC is responsible for: l Reviewing, analyzing, and working in strategic partnership with Georgia Department of
Labor/Rehabilitation Services regarding the performance of the VR Program. l Working in partnership with the state VR Program, the SRC develops and reviews state
goals established by the VR Program, evaluates programs and services of the VR Program, and conducts needs assessments. l Providing advice to the VR Program on activities geared toward maximizing the delivery of services for the employment of Georgians with disabilities. l Preparing and submitting an annual report to the Governor of Georgia and the Commissioner of the federal Rehabilitation Service Administration on the status of the Georgia VR Program. l Assisting with the preparation of the VR Program Annual State Plan updates, reports, needs assessments, and required evaluations. l Using the Customer Satisfaction Survey annually to review and analyze the effectiveness and consumer satisfaction of the VR Program. l Coordinating working relationships and activities with other Georgia councils.
Coordination of Efforts
To avoid duplication of efforts and to enhance the number of individuals served, the Georgia State Rehabilitation Council is federally mandated to develop working relationships and to coordinate activities with other Georgia councils. The SRC continues to develop linkages and forge productive relationships with the Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia, Inc. (SILC), the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities (DD Council), Goodwill Industries of Georgia, several Mayors' Committees on Employment of People with Disabilities, the Georgia Mental Health Planning Council (MHP), the Georgia Workforce Investment Board (WIB), Community Service Providers (CSP), the Georgia Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, Inc., the Georgia Brain & Spinal Cord Injury Trust Commission, the Georgia Department of Labor's Employers' Committee, the State Advisory Panel for Special Education, the Council on American Indian Concerns, the Georgia Independent Living Network, and other Georgia service agencies.
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STATE REHABILITATION COUNCIL
SRC SUBCOMMITTEES
Purpose & 2003 Accomplishments
VR Agency Information & Assessment Committee - Charles Martin, Chair
Purpose: Act as the SRC's information resource, assess the effectiveness of specific programs, and make recommendations to the VR Program. Accomplishment: Provided advice to the VR Program on implications of proposed policy changes.
Research, Evaluation, & Application Committee - Helen Hill, Chair
Purpose: Hold VR responsible for responding: l To needs assessments and how it plans to address issues and concerns of VR
consumers. l To the results of the client satisfaction survey and plans for improving services. Accomplishment: Analyzed the implications of the Client Satisfaction Survey for FY2001-2002 to improve the provision of vocational rehabilitation services.
Employers' Committee - Annie Kwan and Lee Miller, Co-Chairs
Purpose: Partner with the VR Program to create relationships with the business community to help people with disabilities transition into employment. Accomplishments: l Received two grant awards to enhance and expand HS/HT programs throughout
Georgia. l Coordinated the development of an Employers' Satisfaction Survey of the VR
Program.
Legislative Committee - Annette Bowling, Chair
Purpose: Work with state and federal legislators to secure adequate funding and keep SRC members apprised of legislative issues affecting the VR Program and Rehabilitation Services. Accomplishments: l Provided regular updates to the SRC regarding Georgia legislative initiatives that
impact consumers with disabilities. l Advocated for adequate funding for the VR Program and Rehabilitation Services.
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Education & Mentor Committee - Tim Willis, Chair
Purpose: Work with the VR Program to enhance transition services for high school students with disabilities, and other mentoring programs. Accomplishment: Advocated for the development of a bill that mandates colleges and universities to publish textbooks in electronic text format to make them accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Policy Committee - Ray Bishop, Chair
Purpose: Participate in the development and review of VR policies and plans. Accomplishment: Provided recommendations for proposed changes to VR policies, as well as input to the VR State Plan.
Human Resources Development Committee - Helen Hill, Chair
Purpose: Assist the VR Program with implementation of programs to educate, train, and retain qualified VR staff. Accomplishment: Collaborated with the University of Kentucky to offer a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling program to all employees of GDOL/VR Program.
GOALS & OBJECTIVES - FY2004
l Evaluate the effectiveness of the VR Program by assessing its satisfaction level among people with disabilities and the employers who hire them. l Distribute Employer Satisfaction Survey. l Initiate Employment Needs Assessment of Fortune 1,000 companies in Georgia. l Monitor Client Assistance Program reports.
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STATE REHABILITATION COUNCIL
l Expand and promote employment of people with disabilities through relationship building with the business community. l Promote development of the Georgia Business Leadership Network. l Promote and support infrastructure and expansion of the Georgia High School/High Tech Program. l Make contact with procurement officers for city, county, and federal government contracts.
l Increase/improve transition services for students with disabilities. l Work with VR to develop transition policies and practices based on reauthorization of the Rehabilitation Act and IDEA. l Help VR provide training to teachers and special education coordinators on effective vocational rehabilitation transition services. l Market vocational services to educational systems, including high schools, technical/vocational schools, and four-year colleges and universities. l Support VR in developing statewide initiatives with the Georgia Department of Education to increase the number of school systems participating in the VR cooperative agreement by 10 from 66 to 76. l Advocate for change in education provisions that award special education diplomas to high school students with learning disabilities, as well as to those who are enrolled in special education programs. l Collaborate with the state's educational leadership to examine accessibility issues for persons with disabilities in their school campus environments, as well as in the communities where the schools, colleges, and universities are located. Link with such partners as the Margaret A. Staton Office of Disability Services at Georgia State University to promote building and program accessibility, to develop better accessibility plans, and to improve existing ones.
l Provide businesses with information about the benefits of hiring people with disabilities. l Continue to link with the National Business & Disability Council. l Educate employers about assistive technology services that enable people with
disabilities to be more efficient and productive in their jobs.
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VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM
The Georgia Department of Labor/ Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program provides services to help persons with disabilities prepare for, start, and maintain competitive employment, thus becoming productive and independent citizens in their communities. At VR we value what we do, and do what we value. Through our actions, we strive to earn and maintain the highest degree of respect from our customers.
The VR Program consists of 13 regions and 53 hub offices serving individuals with all types of physical and mental disabilities throughout the state. Georgia VR employs approximately 265 vocational rehabilitation counselors who work individually with consumers to help them identify goals and implement Individual Plans for Employment (IPE) that meet their specific vocational needs. Based on an individual's unique employment needs, services provided may include vocational evaluation, counseling and guidance, work adjustment training, supported employment, work readiness training, on-the-job training, job placement, assistive technology, vocational and technical training, job coaching, and other types of customized assistance. Comprehensive support during and after the process is also provided.
Serving People with Disabilities. . .
and Proud of It!
VR also works in partnership with the business community to provide services to employers such as disability awareness training, accessibility assessments, on-site job assessments, job analysis studies, assistive work technology guidance, referral and support of qualified
employees, and professional consultation.
Successful employment and independence for Georgians with disabilities is essential to maintaining a stable economy and promoting an inclusive society, and VR's competent and caring staff is committed to the success of consumers. During FY 2003, VR helped 5,259 Georgians with disabilities obtain employment, with 3,986 being successfully rehabilitated primarily into competitive or self-employment settings.
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VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM

STRATEGIC AGENDA - 2003 & BEYOND

Mission
Assist people with disabilities to work.

Vision
A workforce development system that serves Georgians with disabilities.

Goal #1: Increase Organizational Effectiveness
Make VR a great place to work and to serve people with disabilities. l Reduce voluntary separations. l Increase employee productivity.
Strategy #1: Design an organizational structure that challenges and supports staff professional growth and performance quality.
Strategy #2: Create a work environment that inspires and enables staff to serve customers and achieve goals.
Goal #2: Enhance Service Capacity
Serve more clients and employers with more resources. l Expand VR client base. l Diversify funding sources. l Improve client and employer satisfaction.
Strategy #1: Identify new clients and better serve existing clients. Strategy #2: Create new services and improve existing services.
Goal #3: Develop Market Potential and Positioning
Broaden the services of the VR community (expand market partners' opportunities to serve VR clients).
l Increase VR participation with WIA and Ticket to Work partners in one-stops. l Leverage advocacy and support for VR within the disability community. Strategy #1: Establish VR state office leadership in employment of persons with
disabilities. Strategy #2: Establish regional leadership for service improvement with strategic
partners and providers.

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VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM
INITIATIVES & PARTNERSHIPS
Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program
In November 2002, Georgia implemented the Social Security Administration's (SSA) "Ticket to Work" (TTW) Program. This program provides beneficiaries of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) greater choices in receiving employment, vocational, and other services they need to go to work and/or increase their earnings from work, and reduce their dependency on cash benefits programs.
Since the TTW program's inception, more than 294,323 Georgians have received a "ticket." These individuals have a choice of 19 SSA approved Employment Networks throughout the state from which to obtain vocational rehabilitation services, one of which is the Georgia Department of Labor/Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program. In Georgia, 1,437 "tickets" have been assigned, including 1,237 to the VR Program.
Benefits Planning, Assistance & Outreach Project
As a participant in a cooperative agreement with the Social Security Administration, the VR Program's Benefits Planning, Assistance, and Outreach (BPAO) project, known as Georgia Rehabilitation OUtreach Program (GROUP), has a staff of Benefits Specialists who provide information and assistance to Social Security beneficiaries with disabilities, including transition-to-work aged youths. The purpose of BPAO services is to help beneficiaries understand how employment will impact their Social Security and state benefits, thus allowing them to make more informed choices about work.
GROUP, Shepherd's Benefits Navigator, and Walton Options Project 20/20 have collaborated with Georgia Protection & Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security to form the Georgia Ticket to Work Taskforce, and have conducted Ticket to Work Public Awareness Workshops across the state regarding the impact of employment on Social Security and health care benefits.
Department of Education
The VR Program enjoys a strong and effective partnership with the Georgia Department of Education (DOE). A cooperative agreement has been established to make certain that cooperation and collaboration exist in implementing and maintaining a delivery system of vocational rehabilitation services to eligible students with disabilities.
Because education and employment are critical components to achieving independence and self-sufficiency, providing outreach services to students with disabilities is a top priority for the VR Program. This includes ensuring that eligible students with disabilities who receive special education services and those who participate in general education are provided equal access to vocational rehabilitation services. In FY03, 3,640 students with disabilities received a variety of services through the VR Program. Of those, an estimated 616 students were successfully rehabilitated.
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VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM
Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)
The Georgia Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) works with the VR Program to develop the State Plan for Independent Living. A major part of this plan includes the development of a network of Centers for Independent Living (CIL), private, nonprofit, community-based corporations that assist people with significant disabilities to live more independently and reach their goals to independence. CILs assist people with all types of disabilities by providing the following core services: information and referral, peer support, independent living skills training, nursing home transition, and advocacy. In addition to these core services, CILs may provide other independent living services such as home modification, orientation and mobility, assistive technology, computer training skills, etc.
During FY2003, the Georgia CILs provided independent living services to 2,949 Georgians with significant disabilities.
In an effort to maintain and strengthen this partnership and to further the common goal of providing the best possible services to Georgians with disabilities, the VR Program and the Georgia Independent Living Network (GILN) entered into a cooperative agreement. The GILN includes the Statewide Independent Living Council of GA, disABILITY Link, disABILITY Link Northwest, Living Independence for Everyone, Walton Options for Independent Living, Disability Connections, Access Center for Independent Living, Bainbridge Advocacy Individual Network, and Multiple Choices.
Lower Muskogee Creek Indian Tribe - Section 121 Program
The Muskogee Vocational Rehabilitation (MVR) Program aims to empower American Indians with disabilities to maximize employment, economic self-sufficiency, independence, and inclusion and integration into society. The tribe's wellness training program encourages family members to work with the rehabilitation consumers toward their rehabilitation. Since the majority of the tribe's consumers are significantly disabled and unable to work, the MVR Program provides entrepreneurial training and seminars, instructed by Muskogee tribal elders, in native crafts such as pottery, clothing, beadwork, and finger weaving, which may substantiate self-employment.
The VR Program continues its cooperative relationship with the Lower Muskogee Creek Indian Tribe and provides disability assessment, evaluation, and referral services to clients of the tribe. During FY 2003, MVR served 20 American Indian consumers with individualized plans for employment, and nine were assisted with obtaining success through employment. There were two consumers who completed post secondary education programs. Three consumers had a vocational outcome of self-employment. Six consumers were employed into the integrated labor market. MVR maintained 100 percent successful closure for FY2003.
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VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM

Division of Family & Children Services/TANF
The Georgia Department of Labor/Vocational Rehabilitation Program has a contract with the Department of Human Resources, Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS) to provide assessments to Georgia Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients. Due to DHR/DFCS budget constraints, the number of recipients to be served this fiscal year was reduced to 1,700.
In SFY 2003, VR offered assessment services for a total of 2,426 TANF recipients; 726 referrals were carried over from SFY02 and 1,700 were new referrals for SFY03. Of these referrals, assessments were completed for 1,019 recipients; 536 were integrated into the VR Program; 483 were referred back to DFCS with recommendations for services. The assessment process was discontinued for 769 of the referrals. Six hundred thirty-eight referrals were carried forward to SFY04.
Seventy-seven percent of the clients completing assessment in SFY03 were determined to have a disability. Of those, 36 percent were found to have mental impairments (psychosis, neurosis, personality disorder, etc.), 16 percent were found to exhibit mental retardation, and 18 percent were found to have orthopedic impairments. Based on the needs identified through the assessment process, DFCS maintains contracts with the Georgia Division of Mental Health, Development Disabilities, and Addictive Diseases (MHDDAD) to ensure that services are available to TANF recipients who are identified as having mental health or mental retardation issues.
Fifty-three percent of the TANF recipients assessed in SFY03 were determined to be eligible for VR services. During SFY03, TANF recipients determined as VR eligible through the assessment process participated in various rehabilitation activities. Examples of services implemented with these clients are as follows:

Activity
Assistive Work Technology Counseling and Guidance Job Development Job Placement Mental Restoration Physical Restoration Medical Treatment Non-Permanent Conditions College Vocational Training

# of Clients

Activity

# of Clients

6 609

Job Skills Training Literacy Training

153 28

124

High School/High Tech

16

198 132

Personal/Social Adjustment Work Adjustment

51 203

76

Job Coaching

29

10

Job Readiness

260

5

Self Employment

2

49

Other

82

In SFY03, 164 TANF cases referred through the VR TANF program were closed as successfully rehabilitated.

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VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM
CANAR Conference
In collaboration with the Muskogee Vocational Rehabilitation Program, the Georgia Department of Labor/Vocational Rehabilitation Program was honored to co-host the midyear conference of the Consortia of Administrators for Native American Rehabilitation (CANAR). More than 400 participants from the 69 Native American rehabilitation projects across the country made the event a great success. The conference theme was "Honoring the Past . . . Looking to the Future."
Keynote speakers included Joanne Wilson, Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), and Mr. Chester Nez, one of the original 29 Navajo Code Talkers. Mr. Nez was honored for his dedication and service to the United States in both World War II and the Korean War.
A wide variety of topics was presented at the conference along with special Native entertainment from The Lower Muskogee Creek Tribe and Creek Nation of Oklahoma.

Lower Muskogee Creek Tribe of Whigham, GA

Mr. Chester Nez and Mr. Mike Nez

Peggy Venable, Director of the MVR Program

Mr. Jerry Lang 13

VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM
National Disability Awareness
In celebration of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the VR Program sponsored more than 100 celebrations and luncheons. This year's theme, "America Works Best When All Americans Work," was selected by U. S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao. Awards were presented to individuals and businesses for their exemplary efforts in promoting employment of Georgians with disabilities. Consumers of the VR Program were recognized for outstanding on-the-job performance, and businesses were honored for consistently including people with disabilities as a part of their diverse workforce.
In collaboration with the Milledgeville Baldwin County Committee for Disability Issues, the VR Regional Office in Macon held a banquet honoring both the employees and employers that best exemplify the strengths of this year's theme.
Awards were presented to outstanding employees of the year including Judy Hatchett, Jason Miller, Tyrone Robertson, Laura Howard, Rowland Busha, Teroshika Gibson, and Allonya Reeves.
The Baldwin County School System, Sodexho Marriott, and United Veterans Services of Georgia, Inc., were recognized as outstanding employers of the year. Kroger received the Employer of the Year Award.
Brandi Baggett Internship
Brandi Baggett, client of the GDOL/VR Program and Psychology major at Georgia College & State University, will finish her senior year as an intern at The Washington Center in
Washington, DC. Despite being legally blind, Brandi has thrived during her college experience as a participant of the Student Ambassador Team and the Georgia Education Mentorship Program.
In partnership with the U. S. Department of Labor/Office of Disability Employment Policy, The Washington Center internship helps college students with disabilities to develop leadership skills and gain valuable work experience in public service. The students are exposed to community, national and international leaders through workshops, seminars, lectures, embassy visits and networking events held throughout the program.
After graduation, Brandi plans to pursue a doctoral degree in clinical psychology.
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GEORGIA COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, INC.
The Georgia Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, Inc. is committed to maximizing and enhancing the employment of Georgians with disabilities. As a 501(c)(3) corporation, its Board of Directors includes executives of Cingular Wireless, ADP, Lockheed Martin, SunTrust, Hyatt Hotels, Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, Coca-Cola, and Columbus State University.
Georgia High School/High Tech (HS/HT), one of the major commitments of the Georgia Committee, serves as an educational enrichment program for high school students with disabilities, empowering them to pursue careers in science, technology, and engineering. SRC member Lee Miller serves as President and CEO of the Georgia Committee. As liaison to the U. S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy, the Georgia Committee helped to garner one grant award and received two others regarding the expansion and enhancement of Georgia HS/HT. l Infrastructure Grant: In 2002, the Georgia Department of Labor was awarded a two-year
$250,000 competitive infrastructure grant by the U. S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) to develop a model for expanding the quality and quantity of transitional services available to Georgia's high school students with disabilities throughout the state by leveraging the resources of the workforce development system, education, and business. Since then the Georgia Committee's role has shifted from administering Georgia's HS/HT sites to one of project support.
l Technical Assistance Grant: Additionally, the Georgia Committee was awarded a $100,000 sole source grant from ODEP to provide technical assistance to HS/HT development grantees.
l Georgia Rally: The Georgia Committee is in its second year of fulfilling an $80,000 twoyear grant from the Southeast Disabilities and Business Technical Assistance Center (SEDBTAC) to train HS/HT students in accessible web site construction. This project, funded in part by SE-DBTAC under its Educational Leadership Initiative, is authorized by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) to provide information, materials, and technical assistance to individuals and entities covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The competition pairs HS/HT students with mentors trained in accessibility and usability standards, using today's premier web authoring and graphic design tools to retrofit high school websites. The Rally challenges students to learn about the benefits, tools and techniques of accessible web design, and is designed to bring the community together around the important issue of access to the Internet for people with disabilities.
HS/HT students from Dougherty, Muscogee, Lowndes and Tift Counties will compete for $10,000 in scholarships, computer software and other exciting awards. Lilah Morgan, Secretary-Treasurer of the Georgia Committee, serves as Georgia Rally State Program Director. Cornelius Butler, a HS/HT graduate and co-owner of Butler New Media, is providing training for the rally. Sponsors include Microsoft, SE-DBTAC, Cingular Wireless, ADP, the Georgia Department of Labor, Georgia State Rehabilitation Council, Georgia Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, Inc., Hyatt Hotels, and "Cynthia Says" (International Center for Disability Resources on the Internet).
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GEORGIA COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, INC.
As a statewide grassroots organization, Georgia HS/HT leads the nation in programs statewide. Utilizing funding from the Georgia State Rehabilitation Council and other sources, the Georgia Committee enabled Georgia HS/HT sites to engage in programs and activities that encouraged Georgia students with disabilities to become independent, productive members of the technology-driven work force of the 21st Century.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
l Dougherty County: Fifty 9th - 12th grade high school students with disabilities are enrolled in the Dougherty County School System (DCSS) HS/HT Program, which is housed at Westover Comprehensive High School. Students in each grade level received extensive curriculum training in the fields of science and technology.
The freshmen and sophomores participated in Civil Air Patrol training and studied the science of kite design. The freshmen also studied compounds, balance, and equations, and the four basic types of chemical reactions. The sophomores completed an "ABC" book on the elements of the periodic table. The juniors received CRP and First Aid training and certification, reviewed science process skills and the study of cell biology, and completed an "ABC" book on biology, as well as individual PowerPoint presentations on ecology. The seniors, enrolled in the dual computer science program at Albany Technical College, worked on designing accessible websites for people with disabilities for the Georgia Rally competition. Plans are underway to develop a Small Business Enterprise curriculum to teach the students the steps in starting a HS/HT Micro-Enterprise, and allow them to explore the possibility of self-employment as a work goal. Community service is a strong component of the DCSS HS/HT program. Its students participated in two community service projects in which they received leadership service training and learned to volunteer and give back to their community. With the help of their teachers and sponsors, the students built 10 customized doghouses that were auctioned at the annual "Bark at the Moon" Fund Raising Event to benefit the Albany Humane Society. They also visited the Morningside Nursing Home where they sang Christmas carols and gave gifts to the residents. The DCSS HS/HT Program received two financial awards from local businesses: a $5,000 financial assistance grant from Merck Chemical Company, and a $2,000 scholarship fund from the Albany Artesian Sertoma Club to assist two graduating high school seniors with pursuing post-secondary education. Each of the graduating seniors received a $1,000 scholarship.
16

GEORGIA COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, INC.
The Georgia Department of Labor/Workforce Investment Board continued its support of the DCSS HS/HT program with a grant to fund summer internship opportunities for 30 HS/HT students. The students were placed with various businesses within their communities where they gained valuable work experience. Throughout the year, the students received job skills and job readiness training from the Georgia Department of Labor/Vocational Rehabilitation Program. The DCSS HS/HT students also participated in two field trips. They visited the Coca-Cola Space Science Center in Columbus, Georgia where they participated in a mock space mission, traveled in a simulated space shuttle, and viewed a planetarium show about the seven wonders in space. A tour of the WFXL-TV Station in Albany allowed students to observe the behind-the-scenes work that goes into television productions. l Richmond County: In collaboration with the Georgia VR Program, the Richmond County Board of Education and the Augusta Chapter of the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) developed a Memorandum of Understanding to work together to provide services to students with disabilities involved in the Georgia HS/HT program. SHRM's employee volunteer lecturers conducted the following series of job readiness classes that focused on obtaining and maintaining employment: Successful Attitudes, Self-Advocacy, Interviewing Skills, Business Etiquette, Dress to Impress, Time Management, Top 10 Characteristics of Being a Successful Employee, Problem Solving Skills and Conflict Resolution, and Effective Communication. The Augusta Chapter of SHRM has established a $1,000 scholarship to be awarded to a student with a disability to assist with post-secondary education. l Sumter County: Students of the Sumter County HS/HT program participated in the annual Related Vocational Instruction (RVI) Camp in Jekyll Island.
17

GEORGIA COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, INC.
l Bibb County: Through joint collaborative efforts, the Bibb County High School/High Tech (HS/HT) and Related Vocational Instruction (RVI) programs provided Career and Technology training opportunities for high school students with disabilities in grades 9 through 12. The participating students received support services in career development, employability and retention skills, and techniques for making educational and occupational choices.
HS/HT and RVI students enjoyed two days of technical college campus tours to the Heart of Georgia Technical College, Middle Georgia Technical College, and the Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation Vocational Rehabilitation Unit. Selected students participated in a two-day leadership workshop in Athens at the new Classic Center.
Students analyze aircraft structural technology at the Heart of Georgia Technical College.

Students examine an engine in the auto tech lab at the Heart of Georgia Technical College.

Tiffany Morgan uses a mannequin as she explores the Nurse's Assistant program at the Middle Georgia Technical College.

18

GEORGIA COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, INC.
Corneilus Butler Appears in a TV Commercial Celebrating Georgia Lottery's 10th Anniversary
Cornelius Butler, a Vocational Rehabilitation Program graduate of Georgia's High School/High Tech and Youth Leadership programs, was featured in one of four commercials that aired statewide for the Georgia Lottery's 10th Anniversary.
Cornelius, who is visually impaired, was chosen to appear in the commercial after responding to a statewide request from the Georgia Lottery for stories from students attending college on the Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally (HOPE) scholarship.
In his essay, Cornelius acknowledged that the HOPE scholarship allowed him to attend Bainbridge College as a computer information system major, without having to worry about financing his education. It further helped him to gain the critical skills needed to start his own business, Butler New Media LLC, which concentrates on making websites more accessible to consumers with disabilities. In 2002, Cornelius assisted the USDOL with launching DisabilityInfo.gov, a Section 508 compliant website that provides one-stop access to government disability information and resources.
As part of the Atlanta Falcons' Radio Network Salute to HOPE Scholars, Cornelius and several HOPE scholars were given free sideline passes and tickets to a game. During the pre-game show, the scholars were acknowledged for their accomplishments.

Cornelius Butler, HOPE Scholarship student, and Rebecca Paul, former Georgia Lottery President.

Cornelius Butler and Tatyana Pashnyak, Instructor of Administrative Office Technology at Bainbridge College.
19

CLIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The Client Assistance Program (CAP) is a federally funded program that provides information, assistance and advocacy to applicants and consumers with disabilities who are applying for and receiving services funded under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The Law Office of Charles L. Martin administers CAP in a manner that informs and empowers people with disabilities to fully understand and exercise their rights to services. As an ombudsman/advocacy service agency, CAP assists Georgians with disabilities in being full partners in the development of their individual rehabilitation programs by providing: l Advice about their rights and responsibilities in the process of obtaining
rehabilitation services. l Assistance in improving communication and relationships with projects,
programs, rehabilitation counselors, supervisors, and community rehabilitation providers. l Explanation of rehabilitation services and rights to benefits under Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act. l Identification of problem areas in the delivery of rehabilitation services and developing strategies to resolve disagreements through mediation and negotiation. l Representation in the appeal process when requested, and during disagreements about rehabilitation services being provided or denied. l Information and referral to other public and private agencies when clients may not be eligible for rehabilitation services. Through these services, CAP strives to assure that people with disabilities are allowed to make informed choices throughout the vocational rehabilitation and independent living processes, and are treated with dignity and respect.
20

CLIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Disabilities of CAP Clients

During 2003, CAP provided services to 92 clients of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program.

Disabilities of Clients l Blindness (both eyes) l Mental Illness l Orthopedic Impairments l Specific Learning Disabilities l Other Visual Impairments l Neurological Disorders l Deaf-Blind l Absence of Extremities l Deafness l Hard of Hearing l Respiratory Disorders l All Other Disabilities l Disability Not Known

No. of Clients 19 12 14 8 9 12 3 3 5 1 2 3 2

Age of CAP Clients

l 21 and younger

16

l 22-40 years old

35

l 41-64 years old

39

l 65 and older

2

Gender of CAP Clients

l Female

64

l Male

28

Client Satisfaction Survey

A client satisfaction survey was mailed to the 58 clients who closed their CAP cases. A total of 18 surveys were returned with the following results:

Satisfaction with CAP services

l Very Satisfied

10

l Satisfied

7

l Not Satisfied

1

Would use CAP again

l Yes

18

l No

0

21

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
A Look at Georgians Using Assistive Technology
for Living, Learning, Working and Playing
In Georgia, nearly 1.5 million people have one or more disabilities. According to the 2000 Census Report, nearly 20 percent, some 300,000 Georgia citizens, have severe disabilities requiring one or more kinds of assistive technology to live, learn, work, or play more independently. Assistive technology can be:
l A simple "low tech," low cost hand held magnifier. l Home or vehicle modifications. l Software and hardware products adapted for school, play or work. l Ramps and widened doorways. l Accessible playgrounds and adapted recreational equipment.
The Assistive Technology (AT) Unit of the GDOL/VR Program provides assistive work technology to VR clients to help them reach their work goal. During FY2003, AT served approximately 1,392 VR clients with vehicle/home modifications, work site accommodations, and assistive technology equipment. The AT Unit includes three primary targeted services: Tools for Life, ReBoot, and the Assistive Technology Resource Centers.
Tools for Life (TFL) increases access to appropriate assistive technology devices and assistive technology services for all Georgians with disabilities so they can live, learn, work, and play independently in communities of their choice. During FY2003, TFL responded to 2,409 requests for AT services. Additionally, TFL lending libraries made 1,388 loans for AT devices for trial use by consumers with disabilities and service providers. The TFL website offers a range of tools such as the G-Trade want ads for the exchange, sale, and purchase of assistive technology; E-Trade, an online equipment exchange service for use by disability service providers at post-secondary institutions; and Credit-Able, which is envisioned as a loan guarantee service to help Georgians with disabilities purchase assistive technology, including residential and vehicle modifications.
ReBoot recycling program distributes rebuilt computers and cell phones to persons with disabilities, and also builds fully accessible workstations that meet ADA standards. Since 1998, ReBoot has refurbished and distributed more than 5,230 computer systems. Money raised from the sale of unused items goes directly into serving people with disabilities. There are six ReBoot Training Centers located around the state that match ReBoot computers with the needs of people with disabilities within their communities, and provide basic computer training using the Internet, Microsoft Office, and assistive technology software.
22

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Assistive Technology Resource Centers (ATRCs) provide assistive technology devices/equipment for trial use to make sure the device is appropriate for the particular situation. Services include consumer intake, assistive technology scholarships, assistive technology training with hands-on demonstrations and education workshops, Touch the Future Expo and Transition Conference, and the Microsoft Life Long Learning Lab. ATRCs also work together to promote the development of alternative funding sources, including equipment exchange and recycling, loan programs, and legislation.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY MAKES THINGS HAPPEN
Frank Levine -- Frank worked as an automobile mechanic until he lost his vision from the progressive eye disease retinitis pigmentosa. Prior to losing his vision, Frank learned Braille, knowing that it would eventually become his only method of reading. With the help of his VR Work Team, Frank embarked upon a new career of repairing Perkins Braillewriters. Frank received training to repair Braillewriters at the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Adults. VR's AWT services helped Frank set up his business with a computer that has TTY capabilities and an appropriate Braille display. TFL/ReBoot trained Frank to use the equipment and provided technical assistance in resolving PC/TTY problems. Adapted computers and equipment are essential for people with disabilities to become successful entrepreneurs and employees.
Marcus C. -- AWT designed a safe, cost-effective and cosmetically appealing mobility system for Marcus. A pneumatic lift allows Marcus, who uses a wheelchair because of Freidrich's Ataxia, to serve customers at the drive-thru window of McDonald's. AWT also designed assistive technology to help Marcus reach and use the cash register. Fast food restaurants have many entry-level job openings. AWT finds solutions to work site barriers, thus making many more types of jobs possible for people with disabilities.
23

CELEBRATING SUCCESS
Karen Feigel - Region 1/Rome
Like the horses she loves and rides, Karen Feigel has jumped over many obstacles to make her business, Feigel Farms, a success.
Born with cone rod dystrophy, Karen is visually impaired and requires assistive devices to read. Determined to turn a hobby into a business, Karen approached Georgia VR for help to open a horse feed store on her property in rural Gordon County.
Through the efforts of her VR Work Team, she obtained adjustment services and adaptive equipment from Blind and Low Vision Services of Northwest Georgia. The team also arranged for Karen to take entrepreneurial classes at the Small Business Development Center at Dalton College where she learned to write a business plan. With her business plan in hand, VR helped Karen obtain funding to open Feigel Farms. The store currently stocks grains for sale to local horse owners; future plans are to also offer a variety of pet foods.

Entrepreneurial Training

Self-Employment

Orientation & Mobility Training

Michael Wofford - Region 2/Gainesville
Michael often tells the story of his first attempts to look at his employment options after becoming legally blind. The person he was talking to said flatly, "You can't work; you're blind." Michael believed this until his VR counselor helped him to prove everyone wrong.
Michael received orientation and mobility training, and assistive technology training, particularly in ZoomText.
He is independent and employed at a job he loves station manager and morning disc jockey at Glory 1330 - a gospel radio station in Gainesville.
Michael is involved in the community and also belongs to a blindness prevention advocacy group, as well as to the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation, Region 2 Blind/Visually Impaired Advisory group.

24

CELEBRATING SUCCESS
Ronald "Ritchie" Evans - Region 3/Atlanta
Ronald "Ritchie" Evans' left leg was amputated below the knee after a motor vehicle accident, but he was able to work part-time as a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) technician. The physically demanding job put a great deal of stress on Ritchie's aging prosthetic leg, and he was at risk of damaging his residual limb. Ritchie sought Georgia VR's help in obtaining a new prosthesis, and his VR Assistive Work Technology team was able to match the prosthetic technology to HVAC job functions - specifically a gel lining for residual limb protection and a flex foot designed to absorb jolts and shocks. Ritchie, now a full-time HVAC Tech for Aames Plumbing where he also trains and supervises three other technicians, says, "Thanks, Georgia VR for giving me my life back."
Physical Restoration
Driver's Training
Assistive Work Technology
Mazie "Nita" Moreland - Region 4/Newnan
Mazie "Nita" Moreland loves her job as a receptionist; however, there is another goal she wants to pursue. She has a strong desire to drive, but fears her visual impairment would make that impossible.
Armed for the challenge, Nita's VR Work Team has referred her to the Center for the Visually Impaired for an evaluation. There, she will also receive driver's training using driving bioptic lenses.
With VR's assistance, Nita explored a unique job opportunity. She enrolled in a new AirTran Airway reservationist's program for visually impaired consumers and scored 100 percent on every exercise and test.
With the use of assistive work technology - large computer screen and screen magnifier - Nita excels on her job as a full-time Customer Service Sales Representative. She is also one of the very first individuals with a visual impairment to work in this capacity at AirTran.
25

CELEBRATING SUCCESS

(Frances) Letty Fitch - Region 5/Athens
(Frances) Letty Fitch loves her job as a Gifted Education Coordinator at W. R. Coile Middle School, where she works with science and social studies teachers to develop lesson plans that challenge gifted students. Letty was at risk of losing this position before VR intervened.
Because of a motor neuron disease, Letty began to experience muscle weakness and spastic paralysis which impeded her ability to drive, type, use the telephone, dress herself, and
perform other essential tasks. Slowly, she found it difficult to carry out her job duties.
Letty heard about the Vocational Rehabilitation Program and applied for services to save her job. To help Letty maintain employment, she received physical therapy, occupational therapy, ergonomic equipment, and worksite and home modifications. The VR Assistive Work Technology Team also provided voice input computer software, van modification, and driver's training.
Working with VR works! Letty was voted the 2003 Teacher of the Year by the Clarke County School District.

Job Accommodation

Facility & Vehicle Modifications

Job Placement Assistance

Jason Miller - Region 6/Macon
Jason Miller doesn't consider himself lucky; just an everyday guy with two jobs. After graduating from Baldwin County High School with a special education diploma, he came to Georgia VR for help.
Jason participated in the vocational training program at the Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation where he received his driver's license and forklift certification, and gained valuable work experience at a hardware store.
After he completed the program at Warm Springs, Jason's VR Work Team helped him secure two part-time jobs in Milledgeville. He works as a part-time stocker at K-Mart and as a part-time bagger at Kroger.
Jason is excited about his two jobs and hopes that the experience will lead to better employment opportunities in the future.

26

CELEBRATING SUCCESS
Frankie Morgan - Region 7/Augusta
Frankie Morgan, a licensed optician, worked for Pearle Optical for 20 years before retinitis pigmentosa forced her to leave the job she loved.
After quite some time and with Georgia VR's help, she got started on a Psychology degree at Augusta State University. Then Frankie's future changed dramatically. North Carolina Industries for the Blind had contacted the Augusta VR office in search of a VR consumer with a visual impairment to fill an Optician's Assistant position at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Augusta. Frankie was tailor made for the job.
Her VR Work Team assisted her in coordinating her wardrobe, arranging transportation to and from work, and learning her work surroundings. "Everything about me - both emotionally and physically - is so much better because I am working," Frankie says.
Vocational Counseling
Job Readiness Training
On-the-Job Training
Robert Jordan - Region 8/Columbus
Robert Jordan enjoys cleaning and sought vocational rehabilitation services because he had a desperate desire to work. Georgia VR sponsored facility work adjustment training for Robert at Goodwill Industries of the Chattahoochee Valley, Inc. where he earned a certificate in janitorial training and received the Trainee of the Year Award.
Robert's VR Work Team encouraged him to participate in the community work adjustment and on-the-job training program at Steinmart Department Store in Columbus. After completion of the program, he was hired full-time as a janitor.
Robert has received excellent performance reviews and occasionally stops in to visit his VR Work Team. He has also received service awards in recognition of his hard work, including a gift certificate from Steinmart, and an award from the Columbus Mayor's Committee for Persons with Disabilities.
27

CELEBRATING SUCCESS
Dustin McEntyre - Region 9/Dublin
Dustin McEntyre was a special education student at Telfair County High School when he became involved with Georgia VR because of his learning disability.
Dustin enjoys working with cars and wanted to be a mechanic. VR helped him receive vocational training through the facility work adjustment program at Middle Georgia Easter Seals and the Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation. With hard work and persistence, Dustin obtained training and certification through Warm Springs at West Georgia Technical College in diesel engine repair and forklift operation.
Thanks to VR and Dustin's perseverance, he now works as a full-time mechanic assistant at Harrelson Diesel Repair in Helena, Georgia.
Vocational Training
Career Exploration
Post-Secondary Education
Paula Barnes - Region 10/Albany
Miss Barnes, as her energetic first grade students affectionately call her, knows that "A" is not just for apple, but also for achievement. With the support of her VR Work Team, Paula Barnes has transitioned from uncertainty to infinite possibilities.
Prior to her involvement with the VR Program, Paula tried diligently to pursue a postsecondary education, but was forced to withdraw because of stress and declining grades. With the help of her VR Work Team she developed vocational goals and established the means to accomplish those goals.
With VR's assistance Paula earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from Albany State University. VR helped her develop a resume, reviewed her internship portfolio, employment application, and interviewing techniques. In addition to college training, VR provided adaptive equipment, transportation, childcare, and job readiness training.
"It has not been an easy road, but I was determined to succeed. Without the VR Program, I would not be living the comfortable lifestyle I am living. I now have a career that provides benefits. This really makes me feel good about myself."
28

CELEBRATING SUCCESS
Jacobi Brown - Region 11/Valdosta
Jacobi Brown became involved with Georgia VR as a Valdosta High School student.
His learning disability qualified him for participation in the vocational training program through the Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation where he carried a double major and earned work development certificates in mechanical assistance and production assembly. Jacobi also earned vocational training certificates in basic printing, fort lift operations, and landscaping at West Georgia Technical College.
After completing the Warm Springs program, Jacobi's VR Work Team helped him get a job in the mailroom of The Valdosta Daily Times newspaper. Because of his hard work, skills, and talent, Jacobi was soon promoted to the printing department there.
Transition from School to Work
Assessment & Evaluation
Community Work Adjustment Training
Theresa Nix - Region 12/Savannah
Theresa Nix is the epitome of determination. Despite being born with no arms, Theresa raises her three children and performs her parental responsibilities with consummate skill -cooking, cleaning, combing her daughters' hair, driving -- all with feet that are as nimble as most people's hands.
Yet even with a clear work capacity and solid clerical skills, employers were reluctant to hire Theresa. Then her Georgia VR Work Team arranged a community work adjustment training opportunity with the Housing Authority of Savannah to help her secure a clerical position.
Theresa performed so well that she was offered permanent employment with a good salary and benefits before the end of her training program. Her workplace success was further enhanced when the VR Assistive Work Technology Team arranged for her to have a special keyboard and telephone headset. Theresa has appeared on the Maury Povich television program, and has been featured in several television ads and in print articles.
29

DIRECTORIES

Georgia Department of Labor
Rehabilitation Services
Bobby L. Pack, Assistant Commissioner Suite 510
148 Andrew Young International Blvd., N.E. Atlanta, Georgia 30303 Phone: (404) 232-3910 Fax: (404) 232-3912 TTY: (404) 232-3911

Business Enterprise Program Rajaunnda Gandy, Director 5238 Royal Woods Parkway, Suite 200 Tucker, Georgia 30084-3079 Phone: (770) 724-6590 Fax: (770) 724-6598
Disability Adjudication Services Mickey Alberts, Director 1551 Juliette Road Stone Mountain, Georgia 30083 Phone: (678) 476-7000 Fax: (678) 476-7328 TTY: 1 (800) 255-0135
Georgia Industries for the Blind Jim Hughes, Executive Director 700 Faceville Hwy. Bainbridge, Georgia 31718 Phone: (229) 248-2666 Fax: (229) 248-2669

Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation Frank Ruzycki, Executive Director P. O. Box 1000 Warm Springs, Georgia 31830 Phone: (706) 655-5000 Fax: (706) 655-5011 TTY: (706) 655-5176 Web site: www.rooseveltrehab.org
Vocational Rehabilitation Program Carl McRae, Interim Director 1700 Century Circle Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 486-6331 Fax: (404) 486-0217 TTY: (404) 486-6333 Web site: www.vocrehabga.org

30

DIRECTORIES

Vocational Rehabilitation Program Administrative Offices

VR Field Services Alan Morris, Director 1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 235-0148 Fax: (404) 486-0197

Business Financial Services Patricia Joseph, Manager 1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 235-0147 Fax: (404) 486-0197

VR Program Operations Susan Sherman, Director 1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 235-0143 Fax: (404) 486-0217

Policy/Quality Assurance/Regulatory Linda Prozonic, Manager 1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 235-0144 Fax: (404) 486-0197

SRC Liaison Valencia Thomas, Project Coordinator 1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 638-0383 Fax: (404) 486-0197
Social Security Benefits, Planning, Assistance & Outreach Project Grady Evans, Project Coordinator 1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 638-0375 Fax: (404) 486-6332

Special Populations/ Human Resources Development/Assessment & Evaluation Karen Boyer, Manager 1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 235-0153 Fax: (404) 486-0197
VR Budget Curtis Everett, Budget Manager 1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 235-0146 Fax: (404) 486-0217

Assistive Technology Joy Kniskern, Manager 1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 638-0387 Fax: (404) 486-0218

VR Contracts Carl Landis, Contracts Manager 1700 Century Circle, Suite 300 Atlanta, Georgia 30345 Phone: (404) 638-0382 Fax: (404) 486-0197

31

DIRECTORIES

Vocational Rehabilitation Program Regional Offices

Region 1 - Rome, Georgia David Bennett, Regional Director 450 Riverside Pkwy., Suite 210 Rome, Georgia 30161-2942 Phone: (706) 295-6407 Fax: (706) 295-6778 E-Mail: David.Bennett@dol.state.ga.us
Region 2 - Gainesville, Georgia Cynthia Hanna, Regional Director 311 Green Street, Suite 209 Gainesville, Georgia 30501-3364 Phone: (770) 535-5930 Fax: (770) 535-5904 E-Mail: Cynthia.Hanna@dol.state.ga.us
Region 3 - Atlanta, Georgia Jennifer Hudson, Regional Director - Region 3A 10 Park Place South, Suite 602 Atlanta, Georgia 30303-2905 Phone: (404) 657-2239 Fax: (404) 657-4731 E-Mail: Jennifer.Hudson@dol.state.ga.us
Barbara Richards, Regional Director - Region 3B E-Mail: Barbara.Richards@dol.state.ga.us
Region 4 - Newnan, Georgia Patricia Cooper, Regional Director 1575 Highway 34E Newnan, Georgia 30265 Phone: (770) 254-7210 Fax: (770) 254-7215 E-Mail: Patricia.Cooper@dol.state.ga.us
Region 5 - Athens, Georgia Charlotte Tolbert, Regional Director 125 Athens West Parkway Athens, Georgia 30606 Phone: (706) 354-3900 Fax: (706) 354-3943 E-Mail: Charlotte.Tolbert@dol.state.ga.us
Region 6 - Macon, Georgia Dr. John W. Williams, Regional Director 2720 Riverside Drive, Suite 12 Macon, Georgia 31209-7566 Phone: (478) 751-6257 Fax: (478) 751-6446 E-Mail: John.Williams@dol.state.ga.us

Region 7 - Augusta, Georgia Ava Scearce, Regional Director 1220-H West Wheeler Parkway Augusta, Georgia 30919-1747 Phone: (706) 650-5600 Fax: (706) 650-5624 E-Mail: Ava.Scearce@dol.state.ga.us
Region 8 - Columbus, Georgia Annette McCauley, Regional Director 233 12th Street, Suite 100-B Columbus, Georgia 31902-2863 Phone: (706) 649-1564 Fax: (706) 649-1573 E-Mail: Annette.McCauley@dol.state.ga.us
Region 9 - Dublin, Georgia Mike Pruett, Regional Director 103-B Mercer Drive Dublin, Georgia 31021-3043 Phone: (478) 274-7676 Fax: (478) 274-7658 E-Mail: Mike.Pruett@dol.state.ga.us
Region 10 - Albany, Georgia Dianne Davis, Regional Director 110 Pine Avenue Albany, Georgia 31702-1606 Phone: (229) 430-4461 Fax: (229) 430-4466 E-Mail: Dianne.Davis@dol.state.ga.us
Region 11 - Valdosta, Georgia Sidney Burden, Regional Director 221 North Ashley Street Valdosta, Georgia 31602-1806 Phone: (229) 333-2170 Fax: (229) 249-2675 E-Mail: Sid.Burden@dol.state.ga.us
Region 12 - Savannah, Georgia Allen Beall, Regional Director Oglethorpe Office Park 410 Mall Blvd., Suite B Savannah, Georgia 31406-4869 Phone: (912) 356-2128 Fax: (912) 691-6816 E-Mail: Allen.Beall@dol.state.ga.us

32

DIRECTORIES

WHITFIELD MURRAY HABERSHAM FRANKLIN

DADE

CATOOSA

WALKER

FANNIN GILMER

TOWNS

2 UNION

RABUN

Vocational Rehabilitation

CHATTOOGA FLOYD

1
GORDON
BARTOW

PICKENS
CHEROKEE
3A

SON DAW

WHITE LUMPKIN

STEPHENS

FORSYTH

HALL

BANKS

JACKSON

HART MADISON ELBERT

Program
Regional Offices

POLK

COBB PAULDING

GWINNETT

HARALSON

3B DOUGLAS

DeKALB

BARROW OCOCNLEAERKE
5 WALTON

OGLETHORPE

WILKES

LINCOLN

FAYETTE CLAYTON ROCKDALE

CARROLL

FULTON

NEWTON HENRY

MORGAN

GREENE

TALIAFERRO

MCDUFFIE COLUMBIA

HEARD

COWETA
4

SPALDING

BUTTS

JASPER

PUTNAM

WARREN

HANCOCK

GLASCOCK

RICHMOND
7

JEFFERSON

M ERIW ETHER LAMAR

TROUPE HARRIS

PIKE UPSON
TALBOT

MONROE

BALDWIN JONES
6

WASHINGTON

BIBB

WILKINSON

CRAWFORD

TWIGGS

JOHNSON

BURKE

JENKINS

SCREVEN

EFFINGHAM

MUSCOGEE

CHATTAHOOCHEE

8
MARION

TAYLOR

PEACH

HOUSTON

MACON

BLECKLEY

EMANUEL

LAURENS
9

TREUTLEN

BULLOCH CANDLER

MONTGOMERY

WEBSTER

STEWART

SCHLEY SUMTER

TERRELL RANDOLPH

LEE

DOOLY

PULASKI

DODGE

WHEELER

CRISP

WILCOX

TELFAIR

TURNER

BEN HILL

JEFF DAVIS

TOOMBS

EVANS TATTNALL

BRYAN
12

CHATHAM

APPLING

LONG

LIBERTY

QUITMAN

CLAY

CALHOUN DOUGHERTY

WORTH

EARLY

BAKER

10

TIFT

IRWIN BERRIEN

MILLER

MITCHELL

COLQUITT

COOK

COFFEE

BACON

WAYNE

ATKINSON
11

PIERCE

WARE

BRANTLEY

MCINTOSH GLYNN

SEMINOLE LANIER

DECATUR GRADY

THOMAS

BROOKS

LOWNDES

CLINCH

CHARLTON

CAMDEN

ECHOLS

Region 1: Rome Region 2: Gainesville Region 3A: Atlanta Region 3B: Atlanta Region 4: Newnan Region 5: Athens Region 6: Macon

(706) 295-6407 (770) 535-5930 (404) 657-2239 (404) 657-2239 (770) 254-7210 (706) 354-3900 (478) 751-6257

Region 7: Augusta Region 8: Columbus Region 9: Dublin Region 10: Albany Region 11: Valdosta Region 12: Savannah

(706) 650-5600 (706) 649-1564 (478) 274-7676 (229) 430-4461 (229) 333-2170 (912) 356-2128

33

COMMUNITY REHABILITATION FACILITIES

The Georgia State Rehabilitation Council and the Vocational Rehabilitation Program attribute their success in part to long-standing relationships with a network of private and nonprofit community rehabilitation facilities located throughout Georgia.
These facilities provide a wide variety of services to Georgians with disabilities. They include vocational evaluation, vocational training, work adjustment training, and specialized services for persons who have visual or hearing impairments. These valued partnerships have helped make vocational rehabilitation a dynamic force in Georgia, capable of meeting the needs of its consumers.

Blind & Low Vision Services of N. GA, Inc. Mr. Robert Crouse 3830 South Cobb Drive, Suite 125 Smyrna, Georgia 30080 Phone: (770) 432-7280
Bobby Dodd Center, Inc. Mr. Wayne McMillan 2120 Marietta Blvd., N.W. Atlanta, Georgia 30318 Phone: (404) 873-2077
Center For The Visually Impaired Ms. Susan B. Green 763 Peachtree Street, N.E. Atlanta, Georgia 30308 Phone: (404) 875-9011
Community Friendship, Inc. Ms. Jean Toole 85 Renaissance Parkway, N.E. Atlanta, Georgia 30308 Phone: (404) 875-0381
Creative Enterprises, Inc. Ms. Leigh Couch 701 Hi Hope Lane Lawrenceville, Georgia 30043 Phone: (770) 962-3908
East Georgia Easter Seal Society, Inc. Ms. Sheila Thomas P. O. Box 2441 Augusta, Georgia 30903 Phone: (706) 667-9695

Goodwill Industries of the Chattahoochee Valley, Inc. Ms. Jane Nichols 1955 Northside Industrial Blvd. Columbus, Georgia 31904 Phone: (706) 324-4366
Goodwill Industries of the Coastal Empire, Inc. Mr. Bill Oakley P.O. Box 15007 Savannah, Georgia 31416 Phone: (912) 354-6611
Goodwill Industries of Middle GA, Inc. Mr. James Stiff 688 Walnut Street, Suite 200 Macon, Georgia 31201 Phone: (478) 746-7647
Goodwill Industries of N. Georgia, Inc. Mr. Raymond Bishop 2201 Glenwood Avenue, S.E. Atlanta, Georgia 30316 Phone: (404) 486-8499
Griffin Community Workshop Mr. Lynn Leaptrot P. O. Box 847 Griffin, Georgia 30224 Phone: (770) 228-3766
Kelley Diversified, Inc. Ms. Mary Patton P. O. Box 967 Athens, Georgia 30603 Phone: (706) 549-4398

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COMMUNITY REHABILITATION FACILITIES

Middle Georgia Easter Seal Society, Inc. Mr. Wayne Peebles P. O. Box 847 Dublin, Georgia 31040 Phone: (478) 275-8850
New Ventures, Inc. Mr. Dave Miller 306 Fort Drive LaGrange, Georgia 30240 Phone: (706) 882-7723
Rehabilitation Industries of North East Georgia, Inc. Ms. Paula Phillips P. O. Box 907413 Gainesville, Georgia 30501 Phone: (770) 535-7464
Savannah Association for the Blind, Inc. Mr. W. Chandler Simmons 214 Drayton Street Savannah, Georgia 31401 Phone: (912) 236-4473
South East Georgia Rehabilitation, Inc. Mr. Lewis Altman P.O. Box 885 Waycross, Georgia 31502 Phone: (912) 285-9663

Southwest Georgia Easter Seal Society, Inc. Ms. Beth English 1906 Palmyra Road Albany, Georgia 31701 Phone: (912) 439-7061
Speech, Hearing, & Rehabilitation Enterprises, Inc. Ms. Cheryl Meadows 2228 Starling Street Brunswick, Georgia 31520 Phone: (912) 264-3141
Toccoa Rehabilitation Industries, Inc. Ms. Debbie Godfrey 2010 Clary Connector Eastanollee, Georgia 30538 Phone: (706) 779-7300
Tommy Nobis Center, Inc. Ms. Connie Kirk 1480 Bells Ferry Road Marietta, Georgia 30066 Phone: (770) 427-9000
WORKTEC, Inc. Ms. Dorothy Cochran 221 Stockbridge Road Jonesboro, Georgia 30236 Phone: (770) 473-2840

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PERSONAL NOTES
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PERSONAL NOTES
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PERSONAL NOTES
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