Arizona Governor’s
State Rehabilitati
habilitation Co
Cou
uncil

An
Ann
nual Repor
ortt 2009

GA

overnor’s State Rehabilitation Council (SRC)
nnual Report 2009

Table of Contents
Mission and Responsibilities of the Council ...............................................................

2

A Message from the SRC Chair...........................................................................................

4

SRC Input and Recommendations to the VR State Plan ..........................................

6

The Council in Action ............................................................................................................

8

The SRC Strategic Plan for SFY 2009- 2011 ....................................................................

9

Council Membership ............................................................................................................. 11
The Vocational Rehabilitation Program......................................................................... 12
Recognizing Success.............................................................................................................. 13
Consumer Satisfaction Survey........................................................................................... 16
VR Program Highlights .......................................................................................................... 17
Arizona Rehabilitation Services Administration Statewide Directory ............. 22

About the cover: Amy McKey used paints and a layered paper technique to create
the image on our report cover. Amy and two other artists featured in this year’s
report, Vanessa Fuentes (page 5) and T.C. Rutemiller (page 24), are clients of Gompers
Habilitation Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

ission and
esponsibilities of the Council

R

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council mission encompasses the Council’s
vision, operating principles, and goals:

Mission
Serving all citizens of Arizona the mission of the Arizona Governors State
Rehabilitation Council is to advise, evaluate and partner with the public Vocational
Rehabilitation Program in support of improving access to employment and promoting
a diverse workforce statewide.

Vision
The Arizona Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council envisions a statewide workforce
that values disability and diversity, and is committed to full participation of its
citizens.

Operating Principles

ｹ Serve as an ally to the public Vocational Rehabilitation Program in structuring
and conducting business in ways that reflect the social, political, historical and
economic experiences of disability.
ｹ Collaborate with state and other non-government agencies to promote
meaningful and sustainable employment for everyone.

ｹ Foster a broad definition of diversity that honors and appreciates disability
alongside race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and religion as an integral
part of human experience.
ｹ Promote disability discourse, awareness and involvement; honor disability
culture and pride.

Goals

ｹ Advise the Vocational Rehabilitation Program in the development,
implementation, evaluation and review of innovative rehabilitation services and
programs.
ｹ Support the development of public policy that improves opportunity for full
participation for all citizens in the economic life of Arizona.

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The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

ｹ Engage business and industry statewide in the creation of inclusive environments
guided by the principles of universal design.

ｹ Increase access and employment opportunities for people with disabilities through
collaboration with outside agencies, councils and community partners.
ｹ Strengthen the Vocational Rehabilitation Program through collaboration on the
development of human resource infrastructure.

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council functions, as defined in the Title I, Part A,
Section 105 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act, are as follows:

Review, analyze and advise the Arizona Rehabilitation Services
Administration (RSA) regarding the performance of its responsibilities, particularly those
related to eligibility (including order of selection); the extent and scope and effectiveness
of services provided; and the functions performed by State agencies that affect the ability
of individuals with disabilities in achieving employment outcomes under Vocational
Rehabilitation (VR) services.

Partner with RSA to develop, review and agree to State goals and priorities in
accordance with the VR State Plan. The Council and RSA evaluate the effectiveness of the
VR program and submit reports of progress to the RSA Commissioner.
Advise RSA on activities authorized to be carried out under the Vocational Rehabilitation
State Plan. Assist in the preparation of the VR State Plan, and Amendments to the plan,
applications, reports, needs assessments, and evaluations.
Conduct a review and analysis of the effectiveness of Vocational Rehabilitation services
and consumer satisfaction regarding functions performed, VR services provided, and
employment outcomes achieved.
Prepare and submit an Annual Report to the Governor and the Federal U.S. Department
of Education Commissioner of RSA on the status of Vocational Rehabilitation programs
operated with the State of Arizona.
Coordinate activities with other disability related Councils with the
State of Arizona.
Establish working relationships between RSA, the Statewide
Independent Living Council, and Arizona Centers for Independent
Living.
Perform other functions consistent with VR services deemed
appropriate by the Council.

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

3

A

M

essage from the SRC Chair 2008-2009
Michael F. Duncan

I

t was a privilege to serve as Chairman of the Arizona
Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) and I
am proud to share the 2009 SRC Annual Report. Although
faced with significant economic challenges at the state and
federal level, the Council worked closely with the Arizona
Rehabilitation Administration (RSA) to address these
issues. Members of the council were actively involved in
advocating for RSA programs and services in their respective
communities and at the legislative level statewide. SRC members also collaborated
throughout the year with the Governor’s Council on Workforce Policy (GCWP), the
Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD), the Governor’s Council
on Spinal and Head injury (GSSHI) Military Workgroup, the Arizona Disability
Advocacy Coalition (AzDAC) and the Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC).
A joint meeting of the SRC and the RSA Management Team was held in the fall of
2008 to clearly define the roles of each of these organizations and to describe
their goals and objectives. The discussions addressed how the SRC and RSA can
partner together, how the SRC could be more involved, and how the experience
and expertise of council members could be better utilized. RSA incorporated
some ideas and recommendations from the SRC strategic plan. This resulted in the
RSA and SRC plans being well aligned and focused on similar issues. Meeting with
employers in our communities, delivering presentations to various organizations,
and assisting with a mentoring project were examples of the increased involvement
of the SRC in its efforts to collaborate with RSA.
In addition, the SRC was integrally involved with the development and
implementation of the Arizona Triennial Statewide Needs Assessment Project
(SNAP). Council members worked closely with the RSA management team and their
consultants to discuss and determine how to assess the unmet and underserved
needs throughout the state. The research approach incorporated primary and
secondary data which included national and state level statistics. The results of the
SNAP are being interpreted by members of the SRC and the RSA management team
to carefully review the results and realistically implement the recommendations of
the project.

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The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

The RSA management team and SRC met in the spring of 2009 to discuss the need to
close all of the state’s Order of Selection (OOS) categories. The OOS closure was the
result of the projected $150 million dollar budget deficit within the Department of
Economic Security. The SRC assisted RSA with the dissemination of this information
and the impact upon clients, community service providers, and employers. The
OOS closure will continue to be a high priority issue for both RSA and the SRC.
In these interesting times, I feel strongly that the SRC and RSA need to continue to
work closely together. I commend the professional dedication of Council members
and all of the RSA staff to serve the people in our communities and throughout the
state. Once again, I am honored to serve as the Chairman of the SRC.
Respectfully,

Michael F. Duncan, Chair
Arizona Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council

Spotted Lizard by Vanessa Fuentes (2009)

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

5

IR

nput and
ecommendations to the VR State Plan

6

1.

SRC recommends that AZRSA, upon review of input from Federal
RSA, consider expansion of the Arizona Order of Selection (OOS)
priority categories to four or five.

2.

SRC recommends that AZRSA focus their efforts to increase
awareness and outreach of Vocational Rehabilitation services to
individuals with disabilities.

3.

SRC recommends AZRSA continue to analyze data obtained from
the Triennial Statewide Needs Assessment Project (SNAP) and
demonstrate how the data is utilized for sustained systemic changes
to improve the quality of VR services.

4.

SRC recommends that AZRSA communicate the revised Arizona RSA
Strategic Plan goals, objectives, and action steps to SRC and RSA staff
at all levels.

5.

SRC recommends that AZRSA define informed choice in policy
and demonstrate that counselors are implementing this policy
consistently in regards to service providers and provision of
services. In addition, it is recommended that AZRSA provide SRC
with the results of the ‘performance report card/scorecard for
providers’ pilot that RSA referenced and considered for use in
Arizona.

6.

SRC recommends that AZRSA complete the recommendations as
outlined in the Federal Monitoring Report from Spring of 2008.

7.

SRC continues to strongly recommend that AZRSA continue
collaborative efforts regarding the provision of services, including

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

promising practices, to transitioning youth in order to refine and
expand service delivery options as it relates to the Vocational
Rehabilitation Program and the Department of Education policy/
procedures. This should include BIA funded schools, charter
schools, and any other applicable entities.
8.

SRC recommends that AZRSA outreach to other disability
populations, outside of existing third party agreements, to ensure
that Vocational Rehabilitation services are distributed more equally
statewide.

9.

SRC recommends that AZRSA focus efforts on improving employee
morale during the current difficult economic environment.

10. SRC recommends that AZRSA ensure that Federal Standards and
Indicators are passed per federal guidelines with an emphasis on
meeting the rehabilitation rate.
11. SRC recommends that AZRSA increase partnerships with American
Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Programs in an effort to maximize
Vocational Rehabilitation services in those communities.
12. SRC recommends that AZRSA involve the SRC in development of a
state work plan with the Federal Technical Assistance and Continuing
Education (TACE) Center.
13. SRC recommends that AZRSA keep SRC apprised through written
or verbal means, on a quarterly basis, of progress regarding SRC
VR State Plan Input and Recommendations including providing
feasibility of recommendations made.

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

7

The

C

A

ouncil in

ction

Access and Employment Committee
The goal of the Access and Employment Committee is to increase access and
employment opportunities for people with disabilities through collaboration with
the Rehabilitation Services Administration/Vocational Rehabilitation Program (RSA/
VR) clients, outside agencies, councils and community partners.

Business and Community Partnerships Committee
The goal of the Business and Community Partnerships Committee is to create and
foster business and community partnerships, while enhancing the SRC relationship
with these partners, in order to expand employment opportunities, encourage
involvement in policy development, promote advocacy for service provision, and
economic self sufficiency for individuals with disabilities.

Executive Committee
The goal of the Executive Committee is to provide leadership to the SRC in furthering
its mission, vision, and goals.

Membership and Nominating Committee
The Membership and Nominating Committee seeks to recruit new members from
the community who will represent, and be representative, of individuals with
disabilities, specific disability groups, business and labor, rehabilitation program
providers, disability advocates, the Statewide Independent Living Council, the
State Workforce Investment Board, and American Indian Rehabilitation Programs.
The Council accepts nominations at any time throughout the year when vacancies
occur and submits candidates to the Governor, who makes the final appointment of
members to the SRC.

Program Planning Committee
The goal of the Program Planning Committee is to advise, evaluate, and collaborate
with the Rehabilitation Services Administration/Vocational Rehabilitation Program
to improve the quality and efficiency of VR services, including transition services,
by building the capacity of RSA employees via the Comprehensive System of
Personnel Development, increasing employee satisfaction, and reviewing VR State
Plan implementation.
8

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

SRC

S

trategic Plan for 2009-2011
Goal 1: Increase access and employment opportunities for people
with disabilities through collaboration with the Rehabilitation Services
Administration/Vocational Rehabilitation (RSA/VR), clients, outside
agencies, councils and community partners.
Objective 1: Research and utilize client satisfaction data to frame priorities for
further discussion and partnership with RSA.
Objective 2: Facilitate public input regarding the Arizona Vocational
Rehabilitation Program.
Objective 3: Monitor the Order of Selection (OOS) category status.
Objective 4: Promote employment of individuals with disabilities.

Goal 2:

Create and foster business and community partnerships, while
enhancing the SRC relationship with these partners, in order to expand
employment opportunities and economic self sufficiency for individuals
with disabilities.
Objective 1: Conduct outreach to employers, government, state agencies and
private businesses to increase employment of individuals with disabilities.
Objective 2: Conduct outreach to increase education and understanding of the
new Ticket to Work regulations.
Objective 3: Increase interaction with other councils, particularly those that
service individuals with disabilities.

Goal 3:

Encourage SRC involvement in public policy development and
advocacy to enhance service provision to individuals with disabilities.
Objective 1: Educate SRC members about legislative issues that have the
potential to impact VR and individuals with disabilities, and to be informed
about priorities of other disability organizations within the community,
including membership in the Arizona Disability Advocacy Coalition (AzDAC).

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

9

Goal 4:

Provide leadership to the SRC in furthering its mission, vision and goals.

Objective 1: Maintain fiscal accountability for the SRC.
Objective 2: Partner with RSA regarding the triennial Statewide Needs Assessment
Project (SNAP).
Objective 3: Promote diversity within the VR service delivery system and the
composition of RSA staff.
Objective 4: Promote diversity within the SRC.
Objective 5: Partner with RSA on the RSA Strategic Plan.
Objective 6: Partner with the National Coalition of State Rehabilitation Councils
(NCSRC).
Objective 7: Update the SRC Full Council on RSA status and progress with the Federal
Standards and Indicators.
Objective 8: Update SRC Full Council on RSA progress with the Federal Corrective
Action Plan (CAP).

Goal 5: Advise RSA to develop a statewide transition plan that addresses services
to transition aged youth in order to prepare youth for employment by 2011.
Objective 1: Initiate discussion with RSA regarding current transition practices.
Objective 2: Determine baseline for services currently being provided by RSA to meet
the needs of transitioning youth.
Objective 3: Partner with RSA regarding research in relation to developing a statewide
transition plan using recommended/best practices.

Goal 6: Advise and partner with RSA in development of the VR State Plan and
reviewing implementation of the VR State Plan.
Objective 1: Obtain a formal training for the SRC Full Council regarding VR State Plan
content and submission, including timelines.
Objective 2: Determine a process regarding submission of SRC recommendations to
assist RSA in developing workable timelines for completion of the VR State Plan.

Goal 7: Partner with RSA in development of a plan to increase employee
satisfaction.
Objective 1: Determine a baseline for the RSA Employee Satisfaction Survey results.

10

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

CM

ouncil
embership
Valerie Lintz
Specific Disability Rep.
Term: 2003-2009 City: Phoenix

Katharine M. Levandowsky,
Administrator
VR State Agency, Ex-Officio
Term: No Limit City: Phoenix
Robert Blaylock
Business, Industry and Labor Rep.
Term: 2007-2009 City: Mesa
William Downey
Disability Advocacy Rep.
Term: 2006-2011 City: Tucson
Michael Duncan, Chair
Community Rehabilitation Program
Service Provider Rep.
Term: 2006-2009 City: Phoenix
Gretchen Evans
Disability Advocacy Rep.
Term: 2006-2011 City: Scottsdale

William McQueary
State Education/Special Education Rep..
Term: 2008-2011 City: Phoenix
Ethan Orr
Business, Industry and Labor Rep.
Term: 2007-2010 City: Tucson
Donald P. Price
Current/Former Recipient of VR
Services Rep.
Term: 2005-2011 City: Tempe
April Reed, Vice-Chair
Specific Disability Rep.
Term: 2006-2011 City: Buckeye

Erika Fillman
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Rep.
Term: 2005-2011 City: Tucson

Paula Seanez
121 Project Director’s Rep.
Term: 2002-2010 City: Window Rock

Paige Finley
Disability Advocacy Rep.
Term: 2007-2010 City: Phoenix

Eric Stark
Specific Disability Rep.
Term: 2007-2011 City: Tucson

Jenny Goeckel
Specific Disability Rep.
Term: 2009-2011 City: Phoenix

Elizabeth Toone
Disability Advocacy Representative
Term: 2007-2011 City: Prescott

John Gutierrez
Client Assistance Program Rep.
Term: 2006-2009 City: Phoenix
David L. Hirsch
Specific Disability Group Rep.
Term: 2006-2011 City: Flagstaff

Council Support:
Carolyn Maciel, Council Liaison
Nancy Kimball, Administrative
Secretary

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

11

The

VR

ocational
ehabilitation Program

T

he mission of the Arizona Vocational Rehabilitation Program (VR) is to work with
individuals with disabilities to achieve increased independence and/or gainful
employment through the provision of comprehensive rehabilitative and employment
support services in a partnership with all stakeholders. The VR Program provides a
variety of specialized services to individuals who have physical, mental or emotional
impairments that create barriers to employment and/or independent living.
Eligibility for the VR program is determined by the following: an individual wants to
become or remain economically independent through work; an individual’s disability
is serious enough to make it hard to get or keep a job; available services can help the
individual get or keep a job; the VR Program is the only or best place to provide the
individual with the help he or she
may need.

ARIZONANS EMPLOYED
As A Result of VR Services

2,400

1,933

2,004
1,563

2,100
1,800
1,500
1,200
900
600
300
0

12

2008
2007

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

2008

2009

R
S

ecognizing
uccess

Nicholas Kinnman, 18, was born in Russia. He experienced
abuse and neglect at the hands of his biological parents as a young child and
eventually ended up in an orphanage. Nicholas’s biological mother drank
alcohol while pregnant and Nicholas exhibits features of Fetal Alcohol Effects
such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and cognitive deficits.
Nicholas was adopted at approximately 12 years of age and moved with his
biological sister to his new adoptive family in Phoenix. He knew very little
English and had difficulty adjusting to life in America. Nicholas started school,
but was significantly behind his peers as he had not attended school for most
of his life and therefore struggled with reading and writing even in his native
language. He had difficulty focusing on his school work and exhibited negative
behaviors in school. Nicholas began seeing a psychiatrist and was started on
medication, which enabled him to become more focused and less withdrawn.
Nicholas dropped out of school in 10th grade. When he came to the Vocational
Rehabilitation Program for assistance, Nicholas wanted to earn his GED and
attend a vocational training program.
The psychological evaluation indicated that Nicholas would not be able to
obtain his GED given his low academic levels and that he was determined to
be basically illiterate. Nicholas was very disappointed and his self esteem
was shattered. However, he had a consistent vocational goal and had never
changed his mind. He wanted to be an auto body technician where he could
use the skills he had learned while working alongside his father in Russia. The
auto body program at Maricopa Skill Center waived the GED requirement for
Nicholas and he started the program in February, 2007. Nicholas lived in North
Phoenix and there was no bus service. He was approved for Dial-a-Ride and
rode it to the Maricopa Skill Center daily, which often added three hours to his
full-time school schedule.
Nicholas never gave up. He had excellent attendance and proved to be a
very hard worker, because he completed the training program in just nine

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

13

Nicolas has
gained a great
deal of selfconfidence
by being
successfully
employed

months. His instructor assisted him in obtaining a position at
an auto body shop near his home. Nicholas started working in
November 2007 and currently works full-time, often picking up
additional hours on Saturdays. He is always willing to do what
is asked of him and is a very reliable employee.

Nicholas’ mother reports that he has gained a great deal of
self-confidence by being successfully employed. Nicholas was
referred to ABC Driving School and he obtained his driver’s
license. Nicholas needed assistance with independent living
skills and he was referred to the Arizona Bridge to Independent
Living (ABIL). Nicholas is now working on independent living skills with the
assistance of ABIL so that he can move out on his own in the near future.

Eduardo Molina Jr., a former VR client, was recently honored
as the District Elementary Teacher of the Year for the Douglas Unified School
District, at the annual banquet held in Sierra Vista, Arizona. Mr. Molina is a fifth
grade teacher at Faras Elementary School and has been teaching for eight years.
The Douglas Dispatch newspaper in Douglas, Arizona reported the above event
in the April 15, 2009 newspaper article.
Mr. Molina was referred to the VR Program
in 1996 when his arthritic condition became
so severe he could no longer perform his
meat cutting job at a major retail store. He was
found to be eligible for VR Program retraining
assistance, and entered the University of
Arizona to pursue a degree in elementary
education , to achieve his VR goal of becoming
an elementary school teacher. A federal
Pell Grant helped pay his tuition, and the
substantial VR services provided included
vocational counseling and guidance, books
and supplies, transportation, licensing, and
other fees.
Mr. Molina’s case was successfully closed
by the Vocational Rehabilitation Program
in 2002 when he reached his employment

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The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

Eduardo Molina, Jr.

goal. He works full time, and has medical and other benefits as an employee of
the Douglas Unified School District. He teaches at the same elementary school
where he completed his student teaching. He has also been honored as VR
Client of the Year for the RSA District VI Douglas VR office in the past.
Congratulations and best wishes go to Eduardo Molina Jr. in his recent
accomplishment as Elementary Teacher of the Year!

Tamara J. found out that a diagnosis of leukemia is a pretty tough
pill to swallow, even if you are a nurse. A Licensed Practical Nurse, Tamara
realized that she could not consistently expose her weakened immune system
to the potential for infection and the stress that went along with her condition
and maintain her job. Tamara applied for services through the Vocational
Rehabilitation (VR) Program. Tamara’s VR case was opened In July, 2002.
Through the collaborative relationship with her VR counselor
Tamara received
an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) was drawn up,
with a goal of social studies/social worker as the anticipated
job development
result. Having always presented herself as a very professional
skills that led
person, Tamara was able to apply her skills toward this
to an internship
goal. The VR Program provided Tamara with vocational
at the Veterans
counseling and guidance, tuition, books and related expenses
for attendance at Pima College, the University of Arizona,
Administration
and Arizona State University. Tamara received her Master’s
Degree in Social Work (MSW) after many trips from Tucson to Arizona State
University in Tempe, and back again.
Her VR counselor was also able to provide Tamara with job development
services, which eventually led to an internship at the Veterans Administration.
This was followed by a full-time position at the Veterans Administration in
Tucson, Arizona. Prior to receiving services through VR, Tamara was receiving
Supplemental Security Income for the Disabled (SSDI). By achieving her
employment goal, Tamara’s case was closed in October 2008 as successfully
rehabilitated by the Vocational Rehabilitation Program. She is no longer
receiving any kind of government support and earns a yearly salary of $45,040
with full benefits from her employer.
Congratulations Tamara on your journey and the hard work it took you to be
where you are today!

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

15

CS

onsumer Satisfaction
urvey Results

R

SA consumers whose cases closed during SFY2009 reported high levels
of satisfaction with RSA services with 75% of respondents indicating they
were satisfied or very satisfied with services received. Year on year comparisons
between SFY2008 and SFY2009 shows a slight decrease in satisfaction level
for each survey question posed. It should be noted that for SFY 2009, 50% of
respondents reported being satisfied with their current job versus a higher rate of
77% satisfaction reported in SFY2008. Open-ended responses for SFY2009 indicate
the need for improvement with communication with counselors and contracted
providers, job development and placement services, and career and education
planning and goal setting.
SFY 2007 Responses SFY 2008 Responses SFY 2009 Responses
Satisfied /
Very
Satisfied

Neutral

Satisfied /
Very
Satisfied

Neutral

Satisfied /
Very
Satisfied

Neutral

Overall satisfaction with
services provided by VR
staff directly, especially your
VR Counselor

77%

8%

79%

11%

75%

10%

Satisfaction with the last
job obtained as a result of
receiving VR services

53%

16%

64%

18%

47%

10%

Currently working (Y/N)

64% Y

—

69% Y

—

59% Y

—

If yes, satisfaction with
this job?

60%

9%

77%

14%

50%

5%

*NOTE: The survey results should be viewed within an overall economic context for SFY2009. State budget and
economic impacts affected both the job development process for clients as well as delays and interruptions in
service due to staff vacancies that could not be filled due to hiring freezes. Given these impacts, some decline in
client satisfaction might reasonably be expected.

Average hourly salary of
successfully closed cases (26s)

16

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

SFY 2008

SFY2009

$11.95

$12.24

VP

ocational Rehabilitation
rogram Highlights
Awards Ceremonies
The 22nd Annual Client and Employer Awards Ceremony sponsored by the
Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) in Districts II and VI took place in
Tucson on October 15, 2008. Each year, Vocational Rehabilitation counselors choose
a client that they consider to have worked especially hard in becoming employed.
In addition, each individual office chooses an employer that has provided support
to one or more RSA clients. These clients and employers are recognized for their
efforts at the annual awards ceremony.
This year’s ceremony included presentations to 45 clients and 6 employers. Family
and friends of those receiving awards were also in attendance. Approximately
250 individuals were present. Representatives from many local agencies and
programs that serve persons with disabilities set up tables to present information
about their services to those participating in the event. As is the tradition, the
awards were presented by two legislators from local districts, Senator Victor Soltero
(District 29) and Representative Pete Hershberger (District 26). Notable this year
was that Senator Soltero gave his last presentation as he is about to retire. Senator
Soltero has been one of the stalwarts of this event, having attended many of
these ceremonies over the years. His support has been much appreciated and his
presence will be missed in the future.

Ticket to Work
Ticket to Work (TTW) is a federally funded Social Security Program, administered by
Maximus. The TTW program is essentially a voucher system, whereby beneficiaries
receiving Social Security Insurance (SSI) and/or Social Security Disability Insurance
(SSDI) can receive employment services to allow them to go back to work. There
are two categories of agencies which can provide services under the TTW program;
Employment Networks (EN) or State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies. The
program is voluntary, thus enabling persons to choose when to participate. Social
Security and Maximus expect recipients to “shop around” for the agency best able
to serve their particular employment needs.
The Social Security Administration promulgated new regulations for the TTW
program, which went into effect on July 21, 2008. The most significant changes

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

17

centered on the payment structures to ENs (or VR agencies acting as ENs). The changes made
payments to the ENs easier for services provided and were designed as part of the marketing
plan to increase EN development and customer choice. The revised regulations affected
State VR programs in several ways. Arizona RSA chose to continue with Cost Reimbursement
as its method of payment, thus discontinuing the 1365 Ticket Assignment Form. Under
cost reimbursement, the ticket is no longer assigned to VR, instead designated as “in use.”
Monthly reports to Maximus included the listing of all SSI/SSDI clients in the VR system as
ticket holders. Designation of ticket assignment or “in use” status is important as it provides
CDR Protection, preventing Social Security re-determination reviews as long as the client
demonstrates timely progress on their plans. Arizona RSA designed a new notification letter
at closure to ticket holders referring them back to Maximus for updated EN information. The
letter includes a reminder of the 90 day timeframe, from closure, to assign their ticket to an EN
for further services. As of September 2009, Social Security began Timely Progress Reviews,
ensuring that clients have both active plans in process and have accurate designation of
ticket assignment. The Timely Progress Review structure focuses on maintaining more
consistent records of ticket use. Ticket holders have the option of requesting a designation of
‘inactive status’ if for any reason they must temporarily stop the progress of work plans.

Self-Employment
Self employment is work done for a profit in an individual’s own business, profession, or
trade. The individual takes personal responsibility for all business decisions/activities
including control of services rendered, hours, pricing, and furnishing their own equipment/
tools. The client also maintains 51% ownership of the business and directly operates the
business, managing all, or most, aspects of the operation. All self employment business plans
of $2,500 or more are reviewed for approval by the RSA Self Employment Review Committee
(SERC).
The SERC meets once per month and reviews Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) client’s self
employment business plans on a pre-scheduled basis. The VR client presents their business
plan which includes a high level overview of the business plan and summary of financial
forecasts. Clients have the opportunity to use a consultant to assist with writing their
business plan and can request the presence of the consultant and/or their VR Counselor
when presenting the plan to the SERC. The SERC discusses each individual business
plan, asks questions, and ultimately approves, or disapproves, the business plan with
recommendations.
In SFY 2009, eight VR client’s self employment business plans were approved by the SERC
with the business plans including such vocations as framing, cleaning, tree surgeon, electrical
services, foods/catering, and martial arts to name just a few. The VR Program is pleased to
have provided VR clients funding for their small businesses and afford them the opportunity
to use self employment as a means to gainful employment.

18

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

2009 Transition Conference
The ninth annual Transition Conference entitled “Celebrate the Journey” supported the
commitment of Arizona stakeholders to provide effective transition planning opportunities
for Arizona youth and young adults with disabilities. It supported the development of social,
vocational, and academic skills in order to prepare youth for productive and independent
adult lives. As further evidence of this commitment, the conference was extended to an extra
day to give conference participants the opportunity to attend sessions representing fresh and
innovative perspectives from national, state, and local experts. Sessions this year addressed
a variety of topics including youth and young adult empowerment, family voice, community
partnerships, legal implications, accessing community resources, assistive and instructional
technology, and secure care education.
For the fourth consecutive year, the Transition Conference highlighted the creativity of
youth and young adults with disabilities through displays of their artwork, entertainment
performances, and their participation as session presenters and hosts. The theme,
“Celebrate the Journey,” reflected the determination through intra- and interagency efforts
to improve postsecondary opportunities for youth and young adults with disabilities in the
areas of employment, education, training, and adult living.

Arizona Industries for the Blind
Arizona Industries for the Blind (AIB) was established in 1952 to
During SFY 2009,
provide employment and training opportunities for individuals
who are blind. AIB functions as a self-sustaining enterprise
AIB achieved
fund operating under the Javits-Wagner-O’Day Act. Employees
total sales of
of AIB have an uncompromising dedication to their work and
$19.6 million,
to the quality of products and services provided to the federal
government and U.S. Armed Forces. This results in jobs with
a 23% increase
competitive wages, benefits, and upward mobility. All employees
over the prior year
receive competitive wages with full benefits, including major
medical, dental, life insurance and retirement. AIB paid
approximately $2.7 million in wages and benefits to over 70 employees, who are blind,
visually impaired, deaf-blind, and multiple disabled Arizonans during SFY2009.
During SFY 2009, AIB achieved total sales of $19.6 million, representing a 23% increase
compared to the prior year. The increase in sales was attributed to an increase in demand
for products sold to the military and the expansion of the warehousing and distribution
operation. AIB continues to pursue growth opportunities for employment and training
in Document Conversion Services, Contact Center Operations, Production Services, and
Warehousing & Distribution.
The AIB Rehabilitation Services Unit (RSU) has provided support services to the
Rehabilitation Services Administration and the community as well as to 197 blind and
visually impaired individuals. These individuals were provided with one or more of the
The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

19

following services: job placement, job retention, job search skills, labor market surveys, work
site assessments, on-the-job training, work adjustment training and assessment, assistive
technology training, custom produced turn key computer, and access technology systems.
Along with this service provided to individuals, the AIB Rehabilitation Services Unit assisted
employers and RSA providers with training and consultation statewide.

Business Enterprise Program
The Arizona Business Enterprise Program (BEP) trains and places qualified individuals who
are legally blind as operators of food service operations, full service cafeterias, snack bars,
gift shops, and attended or unattended vending operations. During SFY2009, BEP focused on
revising BEP staff policies and procedures in order to improve
accountability and efficiency of program staff. BEP also began
In SFY 2010 BEP
planning for the eventual transition of the Arizona Department
will transition into
of Corrections (ADC) vending machine operations in SFY 2010.
BEP surveyed many U.S. Post Office locations in Arizona and
the ADC facilities,
eventually began installing and operating vending machines at
creating seven new
many of these locations. Four trainees successfully completed
opportunities for
the BEP six-month training program.

blind operators.
BEP also continued to work on the implementation of a new
database software, called LIBERA, which provided a centralized
database within the program and, thereby, created greater efficiency and tracking. BEP
also provided consultation to Operators regarding changes in menu offerings and services
in order to remain competitive during the current economic climate. In SFY2010, BEP will
transition into the ADC facilities, which will create seven new opportunities for blind
operators. BEP will also continue its efforts to expand the opportunities for blind operators
by exploring many other possible vending locations.
Navigator Grant
In its sixth year, the Disability Program Navigator (DPN), through the Department of Labor,
provides resources and referral support to One-Stop and community partners serving
people with disabilities in Arizona. Maintaining a key focus on systems change, removing
barriers, resource building, and increasing the participation of people with disabilities in the
employment community, the DPN continues to educate and improve services across the state.
Each individual Navigator has essential skills and knowledge necessary for their respective
locations throughout the state and works collaboratively with other Navigators to ensure all
available resources are accessible statewide.
The DPN team, in an effort to think innovatively for employment opportunities for people
with disabilities, initiated a partnership with Americorps and the Governor’s Commission
on Service Work in collaboration with the National Corporation and Service Institute for
Human Development at Northern Arizona University (NAU), and National Community
20

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

Inclusion Project. This project raised statewide awareness on how people with disabilities
can integrate into programs similar to Americorps. The project further empowers community
leaders, Americorps program managers, and self-advocacy groups to become involved and
lead the community in systematic change.
Navigators and employers coordinate with various county, city, state, and Jobing.com staff to
put on the local job fairs twice a year in both Phoenix and Tucson. Each Jobing.com fair has
participant registrations in the thousands, and the DPNs work diligently to ensure disabilities
are not a barrier to employment. The Think Accessibility program’s outreach and awareness
educates employers on Assistive Technology and provides services to job seekers at the job
fairs. Navigators also provide assistance at general job fairs as requested by the One-Stop
Business Development Staff. Every One-Stop job fair and all partner fairs in the community
have interpreters available.
As a team, we continue to strive towards greater diversification and expansion throughout
the state. Navigators train and educate various agencies and state, county, and city
departments regarding accommodations and accessibility. Navigators conduct workshops to
partnering agencies about disability related services and One-Stop Career Center resources.
Navigators meet with business development staff to provide information on tax credits and
tax incentives for businesses who hire individuals with disabilities.

State Fiscal Year 2009
Individuals Receiving VR Services, By Disability
Total Served: 20,586
Visual Impairme nts
Communicative Impairme nts

5%
8%

Physical Impairme nts

21%
35%

Cognitive Impairme nts

27%

Psychosocial Impairme nts
Other Mental Impairme nts

8%

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

21

AS

rizona Rehabilitation Services Administration
tatewide Directory

DISTRICT I
DISTRICT II
DISTRICT III
DISTRICT IV
DISTRICT V
DISTRICT VI

Administrative Offices
RSA ADMINISTRATION
1789 W. Jefferson St., 2NW

Phoenix, AZ 85007
(602) 542-3332
1-800-563-1221 (AZ only)
TTY (602) 542-6049
Katharine M. Levandowsky,
Administrator
DISTRICT I ADMIN
3221 N. 16th St., Ste. 200
Phoenix, AZ 85016
(602) 266-6752
TTY (602) 241-1048
Michael Scione,
Program Manager

22

DISTRICT II ADMIN
400 W. Congress St., Ste. 420
Tucson, AZ 85701
(520) 628-6810
1-800-835-2100
TTY (520) 628-6854
Joyce Choate,
Program Manager
DISTRICT III ADMIN
419 N. San Francisco St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
(928) 637-7960
TTY (928) 774-1941
Karin Grandon,
Acting Program Manager

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

DISTRICT IV ADMIN
3780 S. 4th Ave.
Yuma, AZ 85365
(928) 247-8880
Darryl Long,
Program Manager
DISTRICT V ADMIN
120 E. 1st St.
Casa Grande, AZ 85222
(520) 316-9311
Ileen Herberg,
Acting Program Manager
DISTRICT VI ADMIN
1140 F Avenue
Douglas, AZ 85607
(520) 364-4446
1-800-670-2028
Eva Escalante
Program Manager

District I Offices
WEST HIGHLAND
103 W. Highland Ave., Ste 202
Phoenix, AZ 85013
(602) 274-0132
NORTH 16TH STREET

4620 N. 16th St., Ste B-106
Phoenix, AZ 85016
(602) 266-9579
TTY (602) 266-9579
GILBERT – TRANSITION
SERVICES
2328 W. Guadalupe Rd., Bldg. 1
Gilbert, AZ 85233
(480) 820-5629
TEMPE
1270 E. Broadway, Ste. 120
Tempe, AZ 85282
(480) 350-9746
TTY (480) 350-9746
SURPRISE
11526 W. Bell Rd.
Surprise, AZ 85374
(602) 771-1850
SCOTTSDALE
10900 N. Scottsdale Rd., Ste 401
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
(480) 948-3819
TTY (480) 948-3819
NORTH CENTRAL
3839 N. 3rd St., Ste. 303
Phoenix, AZ 85012
(602) 266-4434
TTY (602) 266-6716
VETERANS PROJECT
3221 N. 16th St., Ste 200
Phoenix, AZ 85016
(602) 266-6752
TTY (602) 241-1048

TLAQUEPAQUE
4150 W. Peoria Ave., Ste 125
Phoenix, AZ 85029
(602) 564-1812
TTY (602) 548-0308
51ST AVENUE
3406 N. 51st Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85031
(602) 247-3304
AVONDALE
290 E. La Canada Blvd.
Avondale, AZ 85323
(623) 929-5200
WEST VALLEY – ONE STOP
9770 W. Peoria Ave.
Peoria, AZ 85345
(623) 934-3231
SOUTHWEST
4622 W. Indian School Rd.,
Ste. D12
Phoenix, AZ 85031
(623) 873-4310
TTY (623) 873-4310
METRO CENTER
10640 N. 28th Dr., Ste. B-106
Phoenix, AZ 85029
(602) 789-9129
TTY (602) 789-9129
SOUTH PHOENIX
4411 S. 40th St., Ste. D-12
Phoenix, AZ 85040
(602) 470-1802
TTY (602) 470-8056
GILBERT – ONE STOP
735 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 134
Gilbert, AZ 85234
(480) 497-0350
District II Offices

ROMERO
4004 N. Romero Rd.
Tucson , AZ 85705
(520) 638-2980
NORTHWEST
7225 N. Mona Lisa Rd., Ste 202
Tucson, AZ 85741
(520) 544-8618
TTY (520) 575-0295
SOUTHSIDE
195 W. Irvington
Tucson, AZ 85714
(520) 741-7188
TTY (520) 889-6829
COMMUNITY RESOURCE
CENTER
4710 E. 29th St., Bldg. 8
Tucson, AZ 85711
(520) 790-0787
TTY (520) 790-5674
KINO SERVICE CENTER
2797 E. Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85713
(520) 243-6776
District III Offices
FLAGSTAFF
1510 S. Riordan Ranch St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
(928) 779-4147
TTY (928) 779-4147
COCONINO WORKFORCE
CONNECTION
397 S. Malpais Ln., #9
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
(928) 774-4557
PRESCOTT VALLEY
8128 E. Hwy 69, Ste. 201
Prescott Valley, AZ 86314
(928) 775-0163

GILBERT – EAST VALLEY
2328 W. Guadalupe Rd., Bldg 1
Gilbert, AZ 85233
(480) 926-5100

NORTH STONE
100 N. Stone Ave., Ste 500B
Tucson, AZ 85701
(520) 629-0225
TTY (520) 388-9003

PAGE
1057 Vista Ave.
Page, AZ 86040
(928) 645-8103

7TH STREET – ONE STOP
9801 N. 7th St.
Phoenix, AZ 85020
(602) 861-0208
TTY (602) 870-3118

ONE STOP CAREER CENTER
340 N. Commerce Park Loop
Tucson, AZ 85701
(520) 798-0546

SHOWLOW
2500 E. Cooley, Ste. 410
Showlow, AZ 85901
(928) 532-4300

NORTH 16th STREET
3221 N. 16th St., Ste 200
Phoenix, AZ 85016
(602) 266-6752
TTY (602) 241-1048

EASTSIDE
899 N. Wilmot Rd., Ste. D3
Tucson, AZ 85711
(520) 790-4715
TTY (520) 790-8131

PRESCOTT
1519 W. Gurley St., Ste. 12
Prescott, AZ 86305
(928) 277-2788

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

23

ARIZONA WORKFORCE
CONNECTION
8128 E. Hwy 69, Ste 211
Prescott Valley, AZ 86314
(928) 445-5100

BULLHEAD CITY
2601 Highway 95
Bullhead City, AZ 86442
(928) 704-7776
TTY (928) 704-7713

COTTONWOOD
1500 E. Cherry St., Ste. H
Cottonwood, AZ 86326
(928) 649-3873
TTY (928) 649-6877

HAVASU CITY
228 London Bridge Rd.
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
(928) 854-0377

District IV Offices
KINGMAN
518 E. Beale St., Ste. 130
Kingman, AZ 86401
(928) 753-5105
TTY (928) 753-8812

YUMA
1310 S. 3rd Ave.
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 329-9462
TTY (928) 329-9553

APACHE JUNCTION
11518 E. Apache Trail,
Ste. 110 & 111
Apache Junction, AZ 85220
(480) 983-0427
TTY (480) 288-0697
GLOBE
605 S. 7th St.
Globe, AZ 85501
(928) 425-3101
PAYSON
100 N. Tonto St., Ste. 100
Payson, AZ 85541
(928) 468-9829
TTY (928) 468-9832

SAN LUIS
663 N. 1st St.
San Luis, AZ 85349
(928) 722-5545
SOMERTON
342 W. Main St.
Somerton, AZ 85350
(928) 627-4171

COOLIDGE
1155 N. Arizona Blvd.
Coolidge, AZ 85228
(928) 723-5351

SAFFORD
1938 W. Thatcher Blvd.
Safford, AZ 85546
(928) 428-7700
TTY (928) 428-7700
SIERRA VISTA
820 E. Fry Blvd.
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
(520) 459-7196

District VI Offices

2981 E. Tacoma
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
(520) 459-7063

DOUGLAS
1140 F Ave.
Douglas, AZ 85607
(520) 364-4446
1-800-670-2028

NOGALES
480 N. Grand Avenue
Nogales, AZ 85621
(520) 287-6538
TTY (520) 287-6538

District V Offices
CASA GRANDE
318 N. Florence St.
Casa Grande, AZ 85222
(520) 836-6388
TTY (520) 426-3963

BENSON
595 S. Dragoon St.
Benson, AZ 85602
(520) 586-8330

Cactus Mountain by T.C. Rutemiller (2009)

24

The Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2009

Equal Opportunity Employer/Program • Under Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of
1964 (Title VI & VII), and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), Section 504 of
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Council prohibits
discrimination in admissions, programs, services, activities, or employment based on race,
color, religion, sex, national origin, age, and disability. The Council must make a reasonable
accommodation to allow a person with a disability to take part in a program, service or activity.
For example, this means if necessary, the Council must provide sign language interpreters
for people who are deaf, a wheelchair accessible location, or enlarged print materials. It also
means that the Council will take any other reasonable action that allows you to take part in and
understand a program or activity, including making reasonable changes to an activity. If you
believe that you will not be able to understand or take part in a program or activity because
of your disability, please let us know of your disability needs in advance if at all possible.
To request this document in alternative format or for further information about this policy,
call 602-364-1773; TTY/TDD Services: 7-1-1.

Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council
Membership

ｹ Do you have ideas that may improve employment opportunities?
ｹ Would you like to be an advocate for improving the delivery of
Vocational Rehabilitation Program services in Arizona?
ｹ Would you enjoy working with other stakeholders from around
the state?

Become a member of the
Governor’s State Rehabilitation Council (SRC)!
Get more information by contacting the SRC:
Call Us! 602-364-1773, TTY 602-542-6049
Fax Us! 602-542-3778
Browse Our Webpage! http://www.azdes.gov/rsa/srac.asp
E-mail our Council Liaison! CMaciel@azdes.gov
Write Us!
Site Code 930A
1789 W. Jefferson Street, 2nd Flr NW
Phoenix, AZ 85007

MIV-234 (12-09)