MICHIGAN REHABILITATION SERVICES

THE STATE PLAN FOR VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES IN MICHIGAN

Each year, the agency which provides VR services in their state, must submit a written plan to the federal oversight agency, Rehabilitation Services Administration, who assures that the spirit of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended and the subsequent regulations, are being practiced within their service delivery system. Every five years, the State Plan is recreated, with annual updates submitted. The State Plan is directly connected to the federal funds which support the majority of services provided by Michigan Rehabilitation Services.

MICHIGAN REHABILITATION SERVICES (MRS) is the federally mandated general public rehabilitation agency in Michigan which provides an array of services for persons with disabilities to prepare for, attain and maintain employment, self-sufficiency and an independent lifestyle. MRS is housed within the Department of Labor and Economic Growth (DLEG) and is federally funded with a required state match. The MRS full-time civil service staff nears 550, with approximately 260 certified master’s level Rehabilitation Counselors, who work with customers in job exploration, job training and placement. MRS has 36 offices located geographically across the state with counselors located in each Michigan Works! One Stop Service Centers. MRS also operates the Michigan Career and Technical Institute (MCTI), a post-secondary residential vocational trade-training program in Plainwell. MRS’ primary customers are people with disabilities and employers.

MRS is an eligibility based service. To be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services, a person must: 1) have a physical or mental disability that constitutes or results in a substantial barrier to employment, and 2) have a need to benefit from vocational rehabilitation services, and 3) want to work. Customers who meet the federal eligibility requirements agree on an individualized plan for employment. The services each individual receives are based on each person’s informed choice consistent with his/her interests, abilities and needs. Examples of rehabilitation services include: job training and education, prostheses and other medical services, support services such as interpreters, readers, transportation, accommodations/assistive technology, job coaches, tools, equipment, licenses, job-seeking skills training, and job placement assistance. Services also include assistance with job-in-jeopardy for persons with disabilities and to employers needing ergonomic information and education in retaining employees.

VISION

MRS will be a premiere organization to promote an inclusive workforce system that provides each person with a disability the opportunity for employment leading to independence.

MISSION

MRS partners with individuals and employers to achieve quality employment outcomes and independence for persons with disabilities.

INTERNAL VALUES

Integrity, Excellence, Respect, Inclusion, Teamwork, Positive Work, and Environment.

PRINCIPLES

Customer-Centered, Equity, Advocacy, Collaboration, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement