"Start My VR" - a new way to connect job seekers with disabilities to employment services

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Office of the Texas Governor, Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities

Start My VR

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is introducing “Start My VR,” an online self-referral portal for prospective vocational rehabilitation customers that provides a convenient way for individuals with disabilities seeking employment to inquire about Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services and/or be connected to a VR staff member. “Start My VR" offers individuals with disabilities a way to connect with VR Services at their convenience and take the first step toward achieving their employment goals,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel.

Texas Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Services supports individuals with physical or mental disabilities in achieving their employment goals. VR Services are designed to help an individual live independently and address employment barriers related to a disability, and support eligible individuals as they prepare for, obtain, retain or advance in employment.

VR Services are personalized to an individual’s needs and can include assessments and diagnostics, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and cognitive therapies, among other services. VR Services, a core partner of the Texas Workforce System, may also include career-focused education, training, apprenticeships, job development, and paid work experience, among other employment supports.

“Through ‘Start My VR’ we want to reach more individuals with disabilities to ensure they are aware of how VR services can benefit them, and support our goal to ensure that Texas employers benefit from the many talented individuals with disabilities who can join the workforce,” said Aaron Demerson, TWC Commissioner Representing Employers.

In addition to receiving inquiries about VR Services, the "Start My VR" system can also receive inquiries for the Older Individuals who are Blind program, or VR-OIB. VR-OIB services are designed to assist individuals age 55 and older adjust to the disability of blindness or visual impairment based on their specific needs. These services may include counseling and evaluations about vision loss, information and referral to community resources, assistive technology, diabetes education, or independent living skills training, which may include training in orientation and mobility and daily living skills.

To find out more about Texas Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Services, visit https://twc.texas.gov/jobseekers/vocational-rehabilitation-services.

To find out how your business can benefit from hiring individuals with disabilities or to obtain information on employee accommodation, contact a Vocational Rehabilitation Business Relations Coordinator visit https://www.twc.texas.gov/businesses/vocational-rehabilitation-business-relations.