Improving collaboration between schools and vocational rehabilitation: The youth transition program model

Abstract

Helping youth with disabilities successfully negotiate the transition from school to work and community life requires innovative, effective, and enduring partnerships among a variety of key stakeholders. The vocational rehabilitation system is identified consistently as a fundamental partner in any collaborative transition effort because of its ability to help youth develop vocational skills, obtain employment, and advance the opportunity to live independently. Systematic efforts must be undertaken to address the barriers that historically have prevented school and VR staff from working together effectively on behalf of youth with disabilities and their families. The Youth Transition Program is a nationally recognized school to work transition model that has been operated collaboratively by schools and vocational rehabilitation agencies in communities throughout Oregon for the past nine years. The authors provide an overview of the pattern of services provided to youth in the program. Employment outcomes achieved by youth are also provided.