For Release:ImmediateDate: March25, 2010

Contact:Phil Protz 919-855-3567

State seeks input for vocational rehabilitation plan from clients, families, public

RALEIGH - The N.C. Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VR) is seeking public input to help develop a new state plan for the delivery of its services. The plan is updated annually and will become effective October 1.

Cities and dates of the three public meetings are: Charlotte, May 17; Henderson, May 10; and New Bern, May 11.

Those who may find the meetings of interest are:people who receive VR services and their families;individuals who work in human services programs or advocacy groups for people with disabilities; and employers.

The topics of discussion may include, but are not limited to:

  • Strategies to improve outreach to minority populations and individuals with the most significant disabilities.
  • Priorities that individuals with disabilities would like the public VR program to address.
  • Eliminating barriers to participation of individuals with disabilities in the VR program and the state’ssupported employment program.
  • The responsiveness ofVR servicesto its consumers
  • Improving school transition services to individuals with disabilities

The scheduled locations are accessible to people with disabilities. Attendeesmay registerto speak upon arrival at the meetings or in advance by calling Patsy Owens at (919)855-3527. Speakers are encouraged to bring a written copy oftheir comments.

People who are unable to attend one of the meetings may provide input by sending written commentsby June 1 to: Phil Protz, 2801 MailServiceCenter, Raleigh, NC27699-2801, Attn: Planning Unit-State Plan Comments.

Comments may also be e-mailed to or faxed to: State Plan Comments at(919)715-1050.

Sign-language interpreters will be present. If you plan to attend and need other accommodations, please contact Ms. Owensat (919)855-3527 by April 22.

For additional information, contactPhil Protz at (919)855-3567 or e-mail

Attached: Notice of Public Meetings

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NOTICE OF 2010 PUBLIC MEETINGS

May10,11,17

The North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services and the N.C.State Rehabilitation Council invite you to participate in the annual update of the North Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Services State Plan and its complementary Supplement for the Supported Employment Program Plan. Public meetings to receive your comments and ideas for the plan will be held inCharlotte, Henderson, and New Bern.

Henderson AreaHenderson Unit Office

MondayConference Room

May 10, 201010 Medical Court

5:30-7:00 p.m.Henderson, NC 27536252-492-3141

New Bern AreaNew Bern Unit Office

TuesdayConference Room

May 11, 20102832 Neuse Blvd.

5:30-7:00 p.m.New Bern, NC 28562252-514-4727

Charlotte AreaCharlotte Unit Office

MondayConference Room

May 17, 20105501 Executive Center Dr.

5:30-7:00 p.m.Suite 101704-568-8804

Charlotte, NC 28212 TTY 704-568-8573

The N.C. Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services updates its state plan on an annual basis. To assist with these planning efforts, we need the views and comments of individuals who receive VR services and their families, personnel working in programs that provide services, employers, and advocacy groups for people with disabilities.