Question: Dan is a 40 year-old with Spina-Bifida and inability to walk. He uses a wheelchair for mobility.......

Case Study #1

Dan is a 40 year-old with Spina-Bifida and inability to walk. He uses a wheelchair for mobility. He is unable to transfer from his chair and requires personal assistance for dressing, using the toilet and transferring from his chair. He has attempted to work several times, but has not held jobs due to a number of factors- transportation, time demands for dressing, eating and being transported to work. He currently is in a volunteer job with the sheriff's office doing routine filing and other clerical tasks. He has average intelligence, but lacks confidence due to low self-esteem, which has been reinforced, by his lack of success in employment.

 1. Is he eligible for DVR services?

2. Is he eligible for Supported Employment?

3. Develop an outline for an IPE to address Dan's employment related needs.

4. List the extended ongoing support services he will need to maintain employment.

Case Study #2

Bill is a 28 year old man living with a friend in an apartment. He receives personal assistance with his activities of daily living and uses the transportation disadvantaged services for medical appointments, attendance at the local Adult Rehabilitation Center and occasional shopping trips.

Bill has cerebral Palsy and average intelligence. His involuntary movements, inability to walk and difficulty speaking are significant impediments to his achieving employment. He is highly motivated to work and impatient with only attending ARC. He enjoys socializing, is interested in working with other people and fiercely independent. Bill has never held a competitive job, but is adamant that he wants a job.

1. Is he eligible for DVR services?

2. Is he eligible for Supported Employment?

3. Develop an outline for an IPE to address his employment related needs.

4. List the extended ongoing support services he will need to maintain employment.

Case Study #3

Latisha is a 24 year old woman with a primary disability of cerebral palsy. She has impaired mobility, requires a wheelchair or mobility which she propels with one hand. Latisha’s communication is moderately impaired. She can be understood, but her speech is slow. Her I.Q. is high borderline to low average.

Latisha has a special diploma and no work experience. She has expressed a strong motivation to work, and is especially interested in working in an office around people. Latisha has a daughter and lives in subsidized housing, but has no transportation. Her strengths are her motivation to work, her engaging personality and the determination she has demonstrated in completing school.

1. Is she eligible for DVR services?

2. Is she eligible for Supported Employment?

3. Develop an outline for an IPE to address her employment related needs.

4. List the extended ongoing support services she will need to maintain employment.

DRAFTS / STUDY TIPS

CASE STUDY 2: Empowering Bill: A Comprehensive Approach to Employment Inclusion

Introduction: Bill, a 28-year-old man with cerebral palsy and average intelligence, faces challenges in securing competitive employment due to physical limitations. Despite these obstacles, Bill is highly motivated to work, socializes well, and values independence. This paper will explore Bill's eligibility for DVR services, Supported Employment, propose an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE), and identify the extended ongoing support services crucial for his sustained employment.

Eligibility for DVR Services: Bill's cerebral palsy and associated impediments make him eligible for Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) services. As he faces significant barriers to traditional employment, DVR can provide tailored assistance to enhance his employability. The focus should be on leveraging Bill's intelligence, motivation, and social skills to identify suitable opportunities aligned with his abilities.

Eligibility for Supported Employment: Given Bill's determination to work and his cerebral palsy, he is an ideal candidate for Supported Employment. This program offers a person-centered approach, providing the necessary support to address his unique challenges. Through Supported Employment, Bill can access job coaching, adaptive technology, and workplace modifications tailored to his needs, fostering a more inclusive and accommodating work environment.

Outline for IPE:

1. Assessment of Abilities: Identify Bill's skills, interests, and strengths to match them with suitable employment opportunities.
2. Skill Development: Provide training to enhance Bill's job-related skills, focusing on tasks compatible with his physical abilities.
3. Job Search and Placement: Collaborate with local businesses to explore suitable positions for Bill, taking into account his motivation, intelligence, and social skills.
4. Supported Employment Services: Integrate Supported Employment services, such as job coaching and workplace accommodations, to ensure success in the chosen role.
5. Review and Adaptation: Regularly assess Bill's progress, adapting the IPE as needed to address evolving challenges and opportunities.

Extended Ongoing Support Services:

1. Job Coaching: Continuous support to navigate workplace challenges and foster independence.
2. Assistive Technology: Incorporate tools to enhance communication and task execution.
3. Accessibility Modifications: Adapt the physical workspace to accommodate Bill's mobility challenges.
4. Regular Check-ins: Maintain communication with Bill and his employer to address emerging issues promptly.
5. Community Integration Programs: Encourage participation in community events to enhance social skills and promote inclusivity.

In conclusion, by aligning DVR services, Supported Employment, and a comprehensive IPE, Bill can embark on a fulfilling employment journey, with extended ongoing support ensuring sustained success in the workplace.

CASE STUDY 3: Empowering Latisha: A Comprehensive Approach to Employment Inclusion

Latisha, a 24-year-old woman with cerebral palsy, embodies the potential for workplace inclusion despite physical and communication challenges. Assessing her eligibility for Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) services is the initial step in crafting a tailored plan for her professional journey.

1. Eligibility for DVR Services: Latisha qualifies for DVR services given her primary disability, impaired mobility, and communication difficulties. The DVR can play a pivotal role in addressing her employment needs, facilitating skill development, and bridging accessibility gaps.
2. Eligibility for Supported Employment: Latisha's strong motivation to work, coupled with her demonstrated determination in completing school, positions her as an ideal candidate for Supported Employment. With tailored assistance, she can navigate workplace challenges and foster independence.
3. Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) Outline:
   • Assessment: Conduct a thorough evaluation of Latisha's skills, preferences, and limitations.
   • Skill Development: Implement training programs focusing on office-related tasks, leveraging Latisha's high borderline to low average IQ.
   • Assistive Technology: Identify and provide appropriate assistive tools to enhance Latisha's communication and mobility at the workplace.
   • Job Placement: Collaborate with potential employers to secure a suitable office position that aligns with Latisha's interests.
   • Transportation Solutions: Explore community resources for accessible transportation or advocate for workplace proximity to ease Latisha's commuting challenges.
   • Mentorship: Establish mentorship programs to provide ongoing guidance and support in navigating office dynamics.
4. Extended Ongoing Support Services:
   • Job Coaching: Assign a job coach to assist Latisha in adapting to the work environment and building confidence.
   • Communication Assistance: Regular communication training sessions to improve Latisha's speech and facilitate effective workplace interactions.
   • Accessibility Support: Periodic assessments and updates to ensure the workplace remains accessible, with necessary accommodations in place.
   • Social Integration Programs: Develop initiatives to foster a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, promoting positive interactions among colleagues.
   • Career Advancement Planning: Long-term support to identify and pursue opportunities for career growth, ensuring sustained employment success.

In conclusion, Latisha's journey to employment can be optimized through a comprehensive approach that addresses her unique strengths and challenges. By leveraging DVR services and Supported Employment, coupled with a robust IPE and ongoing support services, Latisha can unlock her full potential in an office environment.