The U.S. Department of Education has awarded the University of Wisconsin-Stout Vocational Rehabilitation Institute an $8.1 million grant over the next five years under the Disability Innovation Fund program.
The funding will support the new Accelerated VR Training and Capacity Building Program, designed to enhance knowledge, skills-based competencies and proficiency among professionals and paraprofessionals within the state-federal vocational rehabilitation system.
The goal is to address workforce challenges while improving employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to competitive integrated employment and opportunities in some of today’s most in-demand fields.
The program will consist of:
Track 1: Training for VR professionals and paraprofessionals, leading to a certificate in Contemporary Vocational Rehabilitation Practices.
Track 2: Micro-credentialing for staff employed through community-based rehabilitation agencies and related providers.
A modified training option for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act partners.
The initiative will expand the reach and impact of vocational rehabilitation services nationwide. SVRI will collaborate with the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation, UW-Madison and Employment Resources Inc. Learn More
The U.S. Department of Education awarded $251 million in Disability Innovation Fund grants to 27 organizations across the nation.
Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona emphasized the importance of this initiative stating, “Today, more than 60 million adults live with a disability – each with unique talents and strengths. In our 21st century economy, we must provide more opportunities for these individuals to achieve their goals for competitive integrated employment, independence, and economic self-sufficiency. Through the Disability Innovation Fund and today’s announcement, we’ll make progress to overcome historic barriers to employment, while ensuring the varied needs, preferences, and goals of individuals with disabilities remain at the center of our vision for a strong, inclusive workforce.”
MISSION: SVRI contributes to the mission of the University of Wisconsin-Stout by providing services, research, and education programs preparing vocational rehabilitation professionals to empower people with disabilities to maximize careers and independence.
VISION: SVRI aspires to be the preeminent national source of vocational rehabilitation expertise, services, research, and professional education programs that advance the art and science of vocational rehabilitation.
UW-Stout offers a bachelor’s program in rehabilitation services and a master’s in rehabilitation counseling.
Media release.
