Shaping State Rehabilitation Programs through Consumer Partnerships: Issues and Strategies. Report from the Study Group

Targeted to state vocational rehabilitation administrators and leaders, this document discusses the recommendations of a study group that investigated approaches, ways, methods, and strategies for increasing the involvement of individuals with disabilities in the operation and management of state agency rehabilitation programs. Part 1, "Consumer Involvement: Basics and Background," addresses the vision and values that must be embraced to ensure consumer involvement in rehabilitation programs, including open communication, trust and respect, leadership development of individuals with disabilities, continuous striving for improvement, and diversity. The evolution of consumer involvement in vocational rehabilitation is described. Part 2, "Consumer Involvement: How to Make it Happen," begins by discussing top-down endorsement strategies. Involvement via statewide councils is also addressed and includes a discussion of the makeup, roles, and responsibilities of state rehabilitation advisory councils. Recommendations are made for council support strategies, recruitment strategies, and operation strategies to ensure greater consumer involvement. The final section discusses strategies for consumer agency partnerships related to legislative advocacy and networking strategies, personal development strategies, and state and/or local planning, policy development, and evaluation strategies. Part 3 provides sample program statements and plans for consumer involvement, organizational resources, and relevant articles. (Contains 15 references.) (CR)