Oneida Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Oneida Vocational Rehabilitation Services (OVRS) is dedicated to empowering American Indians with disabilities by providing culturally responsive support to help them obtain and maintain meaningful employment. OVRS recognizes the unique challenges faced by individuals and offers tailored services that address these specific barriers.

Through a collaborative approach, the OVRS team works closely with each participant to develop a personalized employment plan. This plan outlines the necessary services and steps required to achieve their career goals. While OVRS provides guidance and resources, individuals are expected to actively engage in the process and complete each step of their plan with commitment and determination.

Together, OVRS and its participants strive to build pathways to sustainable employment and greater independence.

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. 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.