Oneida Vocational Rehabilitation Services

The Oneida Vocational Rehabilitation Services (OVRS) Program aims to support American Indians with disabilities in gaining and maintaining employment through culturally appropriate services designed to address their unique barriers and obstacles.

OVRS assists individuals in achieving their career goals by planning and organizing necessary services. The OVRS team collaborates with you to develop your plan and implement the identified services to help you reach your objectives. However, it is the individual’s responsibility to diligently complete each step of their plan to the best of their ability to achieve their employment goals.

ELIGIBILITY

1. Tribal Membership: You must be a member of a federally recognized tribe.
2. Residency: You must live on or near the Oneida Reservation in Brown County or Outagamie County.
3. Documented Disability: You must have a documented physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental disability.
4. Impact on Employment: The disability must be the major barrier to getting, keeping, or advancing in employment. If the specific disability or its impact on employment is unclear, assessments can be recommended by a counselor to identify the disability and highlight your abilities and interests.
5. Potential to Benefit: You must be reasonably expected to benefit from vocational rehabilitation services. This means the disability should not be so severe that it is impossible for you to work. The assumption is that you are able to work until proven otherwise during the development and implementation of your Individualized Plan for Employment.
6. Desire to Work: You must have the desire to work and actively participate in the journey towards your employment goal.

To apply for services, you will need to provide the following documentation:

1. Certified Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB)
2. Tribal Enrollment Verification: This can be a Tribal ID or an Enrollment Letter.
3. State ID/Driver’s License
4. Social Security Card
5. Proof of Residency: This can be a bill with your name, a bank statement, or similar documentation.

For High School students aged 14 and up, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) will also be required.

TYPES OF SERVICES

The Oneida Vocational Rehabilitation Services (OVRS) Program offers a variety of services to assist eligible participants in preparing for, obtaining, and retaining employment. These services may include, but are not limited to:

1. Career Counseling and Guidance: Personalized support to help you identify your career goals and develop a plan to achieve them.
2. Job Training: Access to training programs that enhance your skills and qualifications for your desired job.
3. Employment Accommodations: Assistance in obtaining necessary accommodations to perform your job effectively.
4. Resume Development: Help with creating a professional resume that highlights your strengths and experiences.
5. Job Seeking Skills Coaching: Guidance on effective job search strategies, including interview preparation and networking.
6. Native Healing Services: Incorporation of culturally relevant healing practices to support your overall well-being
7. Transportation Assistance: Support with transportation needs to ensure you can commute to and from work.
8. Assistive Technology: Provision of devices and technology that aid in overcoming barriers related to your disability.
9. Workplace Modifications: Adjustments to your work environment to accommodate your specific needs.
10. Support Services: Ongoing support to address any challenges you may face in maintaining employment.