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SRC 2015SRC 2015
Annual Report
The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS)
A Division of
The Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Providing employment opportunities to
Connecticut residents with disabilities.
On the cover:
Marisel DeCordova, SRC Vice Chair networks with Leslie G. Reis, Senior Manager,
Workforce Initiatives, CVSHealth; and Thomas Finch, U.S. Department of Education over
lunch at the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) National
Conference in Seattle, WA.
Table of Contents
Message from the SRC Chairperson 2
SRC Mission, Goals, Functions 3
SRC Committee Reports 4-7
State Rehabilitation Council Scholarship 8
National Coalition of SRCs 9
SRC Photos 10-11
Message from the BRS Director 12
BRS Organizational Chart 13
BRS Statistics 14-21
Map of Connecticut with BRS Offices 22
BRS Office Telephone Numbers 23
SRC Members 24
SRC Meeting Dates 25
How to Become a SRC Member 25
SRC Liaison 25
SRC Application 27-28
Annual Report Credits 29
Page 1
Message from the SRC Chairperson
Dear Consumers, Families, Friends, Partners and Stakeholders:
As the 2015 Chairperson of the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC), I
would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the
SRC. We had a very successful year with the support of Evelyn Oliver
Knight, our liaison; our exceptional members; and our strong and
positive relationship with the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS)!
This past year, the council recruited five new members who will help us
represent consumers who are not at the table. We welcome the
enthusiasm, new ideas and energy that they bring to the SRC.
We worked with BRS and the Central Connecticut State University to
develop and conduct a survey of individuals that applied for vocational
rehabilitation (VR) services. The survey results will be used to assess
need and suggest recommendations to BRS that will enhance and improve VR services.
The SRC also reviewed WIOA, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, that changes
portions of the VR program. VR employment services are now linked to all state employment
programs in hopes of providing fluid access and greater outcomes. WIOA also strengthens
educational and career advancements for consumers receiving employment services. It is an
exciting time to serve on the SRC as this law is enacted and a major shift in VR services is being
developed. We worked with BRS to draft its portion of the Unified State Plan and to identify
goals and priorities to move forward.
We also witnessed a changing of the guard as David Doukas became the BRS Director and Amy
Porter began to focus 100% of her time as the Commissioner of the Department of
Rehabilitation Services. We wish them success in their new roles. Both have eagerly shared
information and resources with the SRC. We hope that our joint efforts will improve the lives of
the consumers. We are fortunate to have such a collaborative relationship and an ongoing
commitment from BRS.
Over my own 30-year career, I recognize what a difference employment makes in people’s lives.
We may sometimes take our jobs for granted. But for people with disabilities who want to work
and are given the right supports, employment changes and enhances the quality of their lives.
If you are interested in serving on the SRC, please complete an application (see the end of this report).
You may also share your comments and concerns regarding the VR program by contacting the
SRC Liaison. We look forward to hearing from you.
Ellen Econs, Chairperson
State Rehabilitation Council
Page 2
Mission, Goals, Functions
Mission
The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) provides assessment, advice and recommendations to the
Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) and others regarding coordination and effectiveness of
programs and strategies which promote community-based competitive employment for persons
with disabilities.
Goals
 To assess the effectiveness and delivery of vocational services provided by BRS to
individuals with disabilities.
 To improve the coordination of vocational services among BRS, state agencies and public
and private entities for the benefit of BRS job seekers.
 To make recommendations to BRS, the Governor, the Rehabilitation Services
Administration (RSA) and others for developing and improving strategies for the
employment of, and vocational services for individuals with disabilities.
Functions
 To review, analyze, and advise BRS regarding its performance in carrying out its responsibilities
as the state agency designated to administer the public Vocational Rehabilitation Program.
 To provide input to BRS in preparing the State Plan for Vocational Rehabilitation and
Supported Employment, as well as other plans, reports, needs assessments and evaluations.
 To provide input to BRS regarding the Bureau’s coordination of activities with Connecticut’s
workforce investment system.
 To review the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with, the performance of the Bureau
and other public and private agencies in providing vocational rehabilitation services to
Connecticut residents with disabilities.
 To prepare and submit an annual report to the Governor of Connecticut and the
Commissioner of RSA.
 To coordinate with other advisory councils in the state which oversee services to individuals
with disabilities.
 To perform other functions as appropriate to the mission of the Council.
Page 3
Business Partnership Committee
Purpose:
The purpose of the Business Partnership Committee is to foster collaboration among all the
related service providers and employers (public and private, for-profit and nonprofit). To
encourage coordinated training and orientation of employers, employees and co-workers and to
determine and address the employment needs of business and industry.
Chairperson: Kate Travis
Members: Warren Stamp, Joe Wendover, and Kristen Winkle
Review of 2015 Accomplishments:
 Maintained this committee by adding four new members.
 Researched other SRC Business Committees across the country to inform future goals.
 Coordinated a presentation by BRS staff at the November Connecticut Business Leadership
Network (CTBLN) meeting to educate members about the state vocational rehabilitation (VR)
program and the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC).
Goals for 2016:
 Monitor business and industry needs as they relate to employment opportunities for BRS
consumers.
 Continue to educate employers and community rehabilitation providers about the benefits of
working with BRS.
 Assist in establishing connections and ongoing communication between the business
community and BRS/SRC.
 Monitor growth in business connections as an outcome of new goals identified in the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Page 4
Consumer Satisfaction Committee
Purpose:
The purpose of the Consumer Satisfaction Committee is to assess consumer viewpoints of their
satisfaction with vocational rehabilitation services and the effectiveness of the BRS in assisting
consumers to obtain and maintain competitive employment.
Chairperson: Jim Quick
Members: Tom Boudreau, Marisel DeCordova, Ellen Econs, and Jan Hasenjager
Review of 2015 Accomplishments:
 Continued to monitor the progress BRS has made regarding the recommendations to improve
signage and accessibility based on the office visits and surveys conducted in 2012.
 Collaborated with BRS and the Center for Public Policy and Social Research at Central
Connecticut State University to develop and administer a satisfaction survey of consumers
who had applied for services in 2015. The survey report is posted on the BRS website at
http://www.ct.gov/brs/site/default.asp.
 Collaborated with BRS on the Unified State Plan as required by the changes included in the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
 Encouraged members to attend BRS regional staff meetings to gain better understanding
about vocational rehabilitation and the issues encountered by BRS counselors daily.
Goals for 2016:
 Monitor BRS as it addresses outcomes of the 2015 consumer survey. Particular attention will
be given to outcomes achieved that meet the new goals defined in WIOA.
 Monitor BRS actions to address SRC findings from the 2012 office visits and surveys.
 Encourage SRC attendance at BRS regional office staff meetings to learn more about the VR
program and the challenges BRS counselors encounter.
 Collaborate with BRS on the Public Meetings and the Unified State Plan.
 Recruit new members to the Consumer Satisfaction Committee.
Page 5
Intercouncil Coordination/Nominations Committee
Purpose:
The purpose of the Intercouncil Coordination/Nominations Committee is to provide linkage
with agencies and councils that oversee or have input/knowledge regarding the provision of
rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities. Assist in training SRC members to foster
effective council teamwork. Recruit potential members.
Chairperson: Miriam Thorburn
Members: Patrick Melfi and Bruce Stovall
Review of 2015 Accomplishments:
 Recruited four potential members for appointment to the SRC from the Governor.
 Continued efforts to seek potential candidates of diverse backgrounds in accordance with
Title I, Section 105 of the Rehabilitation Act 1973, as amended by sharing recruitment flyers
at the Federal Opportunities Career Fair hosted by BRS and the Endless Possibilities: Real
Employment for People with Disabilities Conference hosted by the Connecticut Council on
Developmental Disabilities and BRS.
 Interacted with the SRC to the Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB)
regarding vocational rehabilitation concerns in Connecticut.
Goals for 2016:
 Recruit new members targeting specific outreach to fill historically vacant categories of
membership on the SRC.
 Recruit new members to the Intercouncil Coordination/Nominations Committee.
 Participate with orientation of new members and the ongoing learning process of being active
and involved SRC members.
 Seek opportunities to collaborate with other councils like BESB and the State Independent
Living Council (SILC).
Page 6
Legislation, Policy & Planning Committee
Purpose:
The purpose of the Legislation, Policy and Planning Subcommittee is to assist in developing the
State Plan and strategic plans for vocational rehabilitation services; to stay updated on federal and
state regulations related to employment of persons with disabilities.
Chairperson: Marisel DeCordova
Members: Thomas Boudreau, Ellen Econs, David Morgana, Jr. and Gary Prushko
Review of 2015 Accomplishments:
 Reviewed and provided recommendations for the State Plan.
 Monitored policy changes as a result of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(WIOA) to understand new rules that will impact the vocational rehabilitation program.
 Continued discussion on “Bill of Rights” to be posted in BRS waiting rooms for consumers
and applicants.
Goals for 2016:
 Publish and post “Bill of Rights” posters in BRS waiting rooms.
 Monitor how WIOA changes are implemented and what additional regulations are created.
Page 7
State Rehabilitation Council Scholarship
The Connecticut Youth Leadership Project (CTYLP) empowers young people with disabilities to
identify and develop their leadership potential. Through self-awareness and team building
activities, these students explore leadership styles and develop and implement team and personal
leadership plans.
The goal is to help youth with disabilities meet the challenges of the future, overcome obstacles
and become leaders so that they can make a positive difference in their communities and for
others with disabilities.
This leadership project sponsors the Connecticut Youth Leadership Forum (YLF), a week-long
training program for high school sophomores and juniors. The SRC has helped to fund this
training and provided a $1,000 scholarship each year since 2009 for former delegates pursuing
their education beyond high school.
Emma Knudsen is the 2015 recipient of the SRC Scholarship. She graduated from Westbrook
High School, Westbrook, CT where she was recognized for outstanding effort in both chemistry
and civics. She is currently attending Central Connecticut State University with a double major in
psychology and secondary education.
While in high school, Emma was a member of the National Honors Society, Students Against
Destructive Decisions (SADD) and Peer Counseling. Emma volunteered with her church’s
religious education program for seven years. Her work experiences include dog sitting and part-
time jobs as a nanny and a bank teller.
The SRC wishes Emma continued success as it looks forward to continued collaborations with
the YLF.
Karen Stigliano—CTYLP Executive Director, Emma Knudsen, John Gentile—CTYLP President
Page 8
National Coalition of State Rehabilitation Councils
The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) for the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) is
a member of the National Coalition of State Rehabilitation Councils (NCSRC). The NCSRC
strives to cultivate the strengths and necessary expertise of local SRCs so they become effective,
viable partners in the vocational rehabilitation (VR) program. While SRCs in each state
collaborate with their local VR program to address state issues, members of the NCSRC share
best practices and strategies to address common concerns. The NCSRC gives a national voice to
jobseekers with disabilities as it works on issues that impact the VR program on the national level.
Mission: On behalf of people with disabilities, our national membership coalition will
advocate for and work in partnership with the national public vocational rehabilitation system’s
continual quest for excellence.
Vision: NCSRC will be the premiere national organization of the consumer voice to enhance
the employment opportunities of persons with disabilities through the public vocational
rehabilitation system.
The NCSRC currently consists of 52 SRCs of states and territories that provide public VR
services. In addition to conference calls every two months, the NCSRC hosts two training
conferences each year that coincide with the national meetings of the Council of State
Administrators for Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) in collaboration with the Rehabilitation
Services Administration (RSA). SRC Vice Chair Marisel DeCordova and SRC Liaison Evelyn
Oliver Knight attended the Fall Training Conference in Seattle, WA.
Evelyn was invited to join the Board of Directors for the NCSRC. Based on her years of
experience as a Liaison for Connecticut’s SRC,
she will now help to develop and present the
topics for the national trainings and help to set
the agenda for the national conference calls.
For more information about the NCSRC,
please go to www.ncsrc.net/node/21.
Marisel DeCordova & Evelyn Oliver Knight
Page 9
State Rehabilitation Council Photos
(L-R) Ellen Econs and Dave Doukas
share information at a SRC meeting
(L-R) Andrea Richardson, Ellen Econs, Dave Doukas, Jim Quick, Gary
Prushko, Pat Melfi, Warren Stamp, Joe Wendover, Kristen Winkle and Jan
Hasenjager discuss VR reports
Tom Boudreau reviews
the SRC Budget
(Below)
Page 10
(L-R) Tom Boudreau, Pat Melfi, Kristen Winkle, Ellen Econs, and Kate Travis
attend the BRS Annual Meeting to assess the VR program from the staff
perspective
Marisel DeCordova reviews materials and participates in a group activity at
the NCSRC training in Seattle, WA
Page 11
Message from the BRS Director
Dear Friends:
I am pleased to share the 2015 Annual Report of the State
Rehabilitation Council (SRC). As the new BRS Director, I
enthusiastically accept the tremendous challenge of leading the
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program within the Bureau of
Rehabilitation Services. I am both humbled and honored to
have the opportunity to serve in this capacity. Having filled
various roles within BRS over more than 20 years, I believe I
have the needed insight and perspective to build upon past
success and to address the challenges we presently face. As you
can see from the charts and statistics presented within this
report, BRS had a successful year. I look forward to the program adding to these
achievements in 2016.
The implementation of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) presents a
new way of providing VR services. WIOA challenges us to make more employment
connections, develop more effective partnerships, provide services more responsively, and
maintain involvement with consumers over a longer period of time as they strive to not only
attain employment, but also advanced trainings, certificates, and degrees. We must also focus
significant resources on serving young people with disabilities and endeavor to gain greater
insight into the needs of employers so that we can better prepare consumers to fill positions
expected to be in demand in the coming years.
I greatly appreciate the contributions of the SRC and the time and energy the members
invest. Your commitment and support to the VR program has been unwavering. Through all
the changes and challenges, you have effectively collaborated with us while fulfilling your
obligations to assess the VR program and, making thoughtful recommendations, to help us
plot our new direction. We thank you for your service and look forward to another
successful year in partnership with you.
Sincerely,
David F. Doukas, Director
Bureau of Rehabilitation Services
Page 12
BRS Org Chart
Page 13
36.64%
23.08%
21.55%
17.26%
0.84%
0.40% 0.23%
Primary Disability Type of Job Seekers
BRS assisted 8,959 Job Seekers with various disabilities
in Federal Fiscal Year 2015.
36.64 % Mental and Emotional Disabilities
23.08% Cognitive Disabilities
21.55% Hearing Disabilities
17.26% Physical Disabilities
0.84% Communicative Disabilities
0.40% Visual Disabilities
0.23% No Disabilities
BRS Statistics
Page 14
56.96%
17.22%
12.74%
8.45%
3.14%
1.25% 0.18%
0.07%
Race/Ethnicity of
BRS Job Seekers
Federal Fiscal Year 2015
56.96% White
17.22 % Black or African American
12.74% Persons of Hispanic or Latino Origin
8.45% Unknown
3.14% Multiracial
1.25% Asian
0.18% American Indian or Alaska Native
0.07% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
Page 15
Page 16
Competitive Employment
BRS assisted 1,460 job seekers to enter or maintain employment in Federal Fiscal Year 2015.
Average Hourly Wages: $18.23 Average Annual Salary: $31,314
Average Number of Hours Per Week 30
% of Job Seekers working F/T (>= 35hrs) 47.19%
% of Job Seekers w/ Medical Benefits from Employer 35.82
Page 17
Page 18
Page 19
25.27%
9.18%
7.47%
7.47%5.34%
5.07%
4.93%
4.73%
4.45%
3.97%
3.63%
3.49%
2.81%
2.33%
1.92%
1.85%
1.78%
1.30%
1.16% 0.89%
0.68% 0.27%
Jobs Acquired or Maintained in Competitive
Employment in Federal Fiscal Year 2015
25.27% Office and Administrative Support
9.18% Sales and Related
7.47% Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance
7.47% Education, Training, and Library
5.34% Food Preparation and Serving Related
5.07% Personal Care and Service
4.93% Transportation and Material Moving
4.73% Management
4.45% Community and Social Service
3.97% Healthcare Practitioners and Technical
3.63% Production
3.49% Installation, Maintenance, and Repair
2.81% Healthcare Support
2.33% Business and Financial Operations
1.92% Construction and Extraction
1.85% Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media
1.78% Protective Service
1.30% Architecture and Engineering
1.16% Computer and Mathematical
0.89% Life, Physical, and Social Science
0.68% Legal
0.27% Farming, Fishing, and Forestry
Page 20
Status 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
Applicants 3613 3836 3650 3628 3871
Plans 2194 2437 2335 2305 3002
Rehabs 1171 1236 1343 1408 1460
3613
3836
3650
3628
3871
2194
2437
2335
2305
3002
1171
1236
1343 1408
1460
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
Comparison of Applicants, Plans, and
Successful Closures Over
Last 5 Years - 2011 to 2015
Applicants
Plans
Rehabs
Page 21
Map of Connecticut with BRS Offices
Page 22
BRS Office Telephone Numbers
Central Office 55 Farmington Avenue, 12th Floor, Hartford, CT 06105
Telephone: 860-424-4844 Fax: 860-424-4850
Toll-Free in Connecticut: 800-537-2549
Video Phone: 860-920-7163
Northern Region 184 Windsor Avenue, Windsor CT 06095
Telephone: 860-697-3550 Fax: 860-566-4766
Video Phone: 860-920-7171
Local Offices: Danielson (Killingly): 860-412-7070
East Hartford: 959-200-4400; Video Phone 860-509-4417
Enfield: 860-899-3567
Manchester (Willimantic): 860-647-5960
New Britain: 860-612-3569
Southern Region 370 James Street, Suite 306, New Haven, CT 06513
Telephone: 203-974-3000 Fax: 203-789-7850
Video Phone: 203-584-9840
113 Salem Turnpike, Suite 200, Norwich, CT 06360
Telephone: 860-859-5720 Fax: 860-859-5733
Video Phone: 860-237-3525
Local Offices: Ansonia: 203-732-1667
Middletown: 860-740-1080
New London: 860-439-7686
Western Region 1057 Broad Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604
Telephone: 203-551-5500 Fax: 203-579-6903
Video Phone: 203-416-6761
249 Thomaston Avenue, Waterbury, CT 06702
Telephone: 203-578-4550 Fax: 203-578-4590
Video Phone: 203-577-5319
Local Offices: Danbury: 203-207-8990
Stamford: 203-251-9430
Torrington: 860-496-6990
Effective May 2016
Page 23
State Rehabilitation Council — 2015
Officers:
Chairperson
Ellen Econs Durham Disability Advocacy Group
Vice Chairperson
Marisel DeCordova Hartford Client Assistance Program (CAP)
Secretary
Thomas Boudreau Coventry State Department of Education
Treasurer
Jan Hasenjager New Britain Family Member
Voting Members:
Patrick Melfi Mashantucket (Groton) Section 121 – Native American
David P. Morgana, Jr. West Hartford State Independent Living Council
Gary Prushko Shelton Family Member
James E. Quick Bristol Former VR Consumer
Bruce Stovall Burlington Business
Miriam Torres-Thorburn Norwich Business
Kate Travis Sandy Hook Community Rehabilitation Provider
Joe Wendover Broad Brook Business
Kristen L. Winkle Enfield Community Rehabilitation Provider
Ex-Officio Members:
David Doukas Avon BRS Director
Warren Stamp Newtown Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Volunteers:
Shannon McCann Old Lyme Community Rehabilitation Provider
Andrea Richardson Northford Disability Advocacy Group
Page 24
How to Become a Member of the SRC
Members of the State Rehabilitation Council are appointed by the Governor of
Connecticut for a term of three years. They represent BRS jobseekers, business and industry,
community-based providers of vocational rehabilitation services, advocacy organizations, and
state agencies that serve persons with disabilities. A majority of the SRC members have physical
and/or mental disabilities.
If you would like to be considered for appointment to the SRC or would like to
recommend someone for appointment, please mail or fax the completed SRC application (found
on pages 27 and 28) along with a current resume to the SRC Liaison listed below.
SRC 2016 Meeting Dates
 January 13 – Webinar
 March 9
 May 11
 June 29
 September 14
 November 9
With the exception of the January 13th Webinar, meeting locations rotate around the state
and will be announced once they are scheduled.
The SRC meetings will occur 1:00 – 3:30 PM and are open to the public. Please contact
the SRC Liaison listed below to register your attendance and to request accommodations.
Accommodations must be requested four weeks prior to the date of the meeting.
SRC Liaison
Evelyn Oliver Knight , SRC Liaison
Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS)
55 Farmington Avenue, 12th Floor
Hartford, CT 06105
Voice: 860-424-4871; Toll-free: 800-537-2549; Video Phone: 860-920-7163
E-mail: evelyn.knight@ct.gov ; Website: www.ct.gov/brs
Page 25
Notes
Page 26
Application for Appointment to the SRC
Name of Nominee: ________________________________________________________________________________
Home Address/City/Zip: _________________________________________________________________________
Home Telephone: _____________________________ Home E-Mail: ____________________________________
Employer: __________________________________________________________________________________________
Work Address/City/Zip: __________________________________________________________________________
Work Telephone:_______________________________ Work E-Mail: ____________________________________
Name of Nominator (if different than nominee): ________________________________________________
Address/City/Zip: _________________________________________________________________________________
Day Telephone: ________________________________ Day E-Mail: _______________________________________
Please identify your race/ethnicity (voluntary)?
African-American Asian Caucasian Hispanic/Spanish Speaking
Multi-racial Native American/Alaskan Other ______________
The SRC membership must include representatives of the following categories:
 at least one representative each of the Statewide Independent Living Council, the
Parent Training and Information Center, the Client Assistance Program - CAP
(Section 112), Community Rehabilitation Program service providers, the State
Education Department, the State Workforce Investment Board, and Section 121
(Vocational Rehabilitation [VR] for Native Americans);
 a qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor;
 four representatives of business, industry and labor;
 representatives of disability advocacy groups representing physical, cognitive, sensory,
and mental disabilities and individuals who have difficulty representing themselves; and
 current or former applicants or recipients of VR services.
Which membership category is the most appropriate match for you? _______________________________
Page 27
Please feel free to add extra pages to answer the following questions.
1. Why are you interested in serving on the State Rehabilitation Council?
2. What is your interest in vocational rehabilitation and the employment of persons with disabilities?
3. Please list any organizations in which you have held leadership positions, and your
accomplishments while holding such positions:
4. Have you ever done legislative advocacy? If so, please describe your activities.
5. Do you have a disability? If so, please describe.
6. Have you ever been enrolled in the Bureau’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program?
7. If you are employed, does your supervisor support your application for appointment to the State
Rehabilitation Council?
Statement of Commitment
“I, the undersigned, understand that the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) is a working council
which meets at least six times per year for the full Council and at others times for the committees,
as needed. I also understand that I must work on a SRC committee, support legislative and public
awareness campaigns, participate in the process to complete the BRS State Plan and the
Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment (CSNA), and attend at least one public meeting, as
scheduled. If appointed to the SRC, I will earnestly strive to meet these commitments.”
Signed,
_________________________________________________________ ________________________________
(your name) (date)
IN ORDER FOR YOUR APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED, YOU MUST INCLUDE A RESUME.
You may attach any other information you feel would be valuable in evaluating your application. Please mail all
information to Evelyn Oliver Knight, Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, Department of Rehabilitation
Services, 55 Farmington Avenue, 12th Floor, Hartford, CT 06105 or, you may fax all information to Evelyn
at 860-424-4850.
SRC Application (Page 2)
Page 28
Statistical Data:
David Johnson, BRS Consultant
CT Youth Leadership Forum Information:
Karen Stigliano, Executive Director, CT Youth Leadership Project (CT-YLP)
Editing, Layout Design and Photos:
Evelyn Oliver Knight, BRS Consultant and SRC Liaison
The Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action
Employer and offers its programs regardless of race, color, national origin, physical or mental
disability, sexual orientation, religion, age, sex, or marital status.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this report is available upon request in
large print, Braille, or on audiocassette. If you need this report in an alternate format, please use
the contact information listed on page 25.
SRC 2015 Annual Report Credits
SRC 2015 AR

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SRC 2015 AR

  • 1. SRC 2015SRC 2015 Annual Report The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) A Division of The Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) Providing employment opportunities to Connecticut residents with disabilities.
  • 2. On the cover: Marisel DeCordova, SRC Vice Chair networks with Leslie G. Reis, Senior Manager, Workforce Initiatives, CVSHealth; and Thomas Finch, U.S. Department of Education over lunch at the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) National Conference in Seattle, WA.
  • 3. Table of Contents Message from the SRC Chairperson 2 SRC Mission, Goals, Functions 3 SRC Committee Reports 4-7 State Rehabilitation Council Scholarship 8 National Coalition of SRCs 9 SRC Photos 10-11 Message from the BRS Director 12 BRS Organizational Chart 13 BRS Statistics 14-21 Map of Connecticut with BRS Offices 22 BRS Office Telephone Numbers 23 SRC Members 24 SRC Meeting Dates 25 How to Become a SRC Member 25 SRC Liaison 25 SRC Application 27-28 Annual Report Credits 29 Page 1
  • 4. Message from the SRC Chairperson Dear Consumers, Families, Friends, Partners and Stakeholders: As the 2015 Chairperson of the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC), I would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the SRC. We had a very successful year with the support of Evelyn Oliver Knight, our liaison; our exceptional members; and our strong and positive relationship with the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS)! This past year, the council recruited five new members who will help us represent consumers who are not at the table. We welcome the enthusiasm, new ideas and energy that they bring to the SRC. We worked with BRS and the Central Connecticut State University to develop and conduct a survey of individuals that applied for vocational rehabilitation (VR) services. The survey results will be used to assess need and suggest recommendations to BRS that will enhance and improve VR services. The SRC also reviewed WIOA, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, that changes portions of the VR program. VR employment services are now linked to all state employment programs in hopes of providing fluid access and greater outcomes. WIOA also strengthens educational and career advancements for consumers receiving employment services. It is an exciting time to serve on the SRC as this law is enacted and a major shift in VR services is being developed. We worked with BRS to draft its portion of the Unified State Plan and to identify goals and priorities to move forward. We also witnessed a changing of the guard as David Doukas became the BRS Director and Amy Porter began to focus 100% of her time as the Commissioner of the Department of Rehabilitation Services. We wish them success in their new roles. Both have eagerly shared information and resources with the SRC. We hope that our joint efforts will improve the lives of the consumers. We are fortunate to have such a collaborative relationship and an ongoing commitment from BRS. Over my own 30-year career, I recognize what a difference employment makes in people’s lives. We may sometimes take our jobs for granted. But for people with disabilities who want to work and are given the right supports, employment changes and enhances the quality of their lives. If you are interested in serving on the SRC, please complete an application (see the end of this report). You may also share your comments and concerns regarding the VR program by contacting the SRC Liaison. We look forward to hearing from you. Ellen Econs, Chairperson State Rehabilitation Council Page 2
  • 5. Mission, Goals, Functions Mission The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) provides assessment, advice and recommendations to the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) and others regarding coordination and effectiveness of programs and strategies which promote community-based competitive employment for persons with disabilities. Goals  To assess the effectiveness and delivery of vocational services provided by BRS to individuals with disabilities.  To improve the coordination of vocational services among BRS, state agencies and public and private entities for the benefit of BRS job seekers.  To make recommendations to BRS, the Governor, the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) and others for developing and improving strategies for the employment of, and vocational services for individuals with disabilities. Functions  To review, analyze, and advise BRS regarding its performance in carrying out its responsibilities as the state agency designated to administer the public Vocational Rehabilitation Program.  To provide input to BRS in preparing the State Plan for Vocational Rehabilitation and Supported Employment, as well as other plans, reports, needs assessments and evaluations.  To provide input to BRS regarding the Bureau’s coordination of activities with Connecticut’s workforce investment system.  To review the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with, the performance of the Bureau and other public and private agencies in providing vocational rehabilitation services to Connecticut residents with disabilities.  To prepare and submit an annual report to the Governor of Connecticut and the Commissioner of RSA.  To coordinate with other advisory councils in the state which oversee services to individuals with disabilities.  To perform other functions as appropriate to the mission of the Council. Page 3
  • 6. Business Partnership Committee Purpose: The purpose of the Business Partnership Committee is to foster collaboration among all the related service providers and employers (public and private, for-profit and nonprofit). To encourage coordinated training and orientation of employers, employees and co-workers and to determine and address the employment needs of business and industry. Chairperson: Kate Travis Members: Warren Stamp, Joe Wendover, and Kristen Winkle Review of 2015 Accomplishments:  Maintained this committee by adding four new members.  Researched other SRC Business Committees across the country to inform future goals.  Coordinated a presentation by BRS staff at the November Connecticut Business Leadership Network (CTBLN) meeting to educate members about the state vocational rehabilitation (VR) program and the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC). Goals for 2016:  Monitor business and industry needs as they relate to employment opportunities for BRS consumers.  Continue to educate employers and community rehabilitation providers about the benefits of working with BRS.  Assist in establishing connections and ongoing communication between the business community and BRS/SRC.  Monitor growth in business connections as an outcome of new goals identified in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Page 4
  • 7. Consumer Satisfaction Committee Purpose: The purpose of the Consumer Satisfaction Committee is to assess consumer viewpoints of their satisfaction with vocational rehabilitation services and the effectiveness of the BRS in assisting consumers to obtain and maintain competitive employment. Chairperson: Jim Quick Members: Tom Boudreau, Marisel DeCordova, Ellen Econs, and Jan Hasenjager Review of 2015 Accomplishments:  Continued to monitor the progress BRS has made regarding the recommendations to improve signage and accessibility based on the office visits and surveys conducted in 2012.  Collaborated with BRS and the Center for Public Policy and Social Research at Central Connecticut State University to develop and administer a satisfaction survey of consumers who had applied for services in 2015. The survey report is posted on the BRS website at http://www.ct.gov/brs/site/default.asp.  Collaborated with BRS on the Unified State Plan as required by the changes included in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).  Encouraged members to attend BRS regional staff meetings to gain better understanding about vocational rehabilitation and the issues encountered by BRS counselors daily. Goals for 2016:  Monitor BRS as it addresses outcomes of the 2015 consumer survey. Particular attention will be given to outcomes achieved that meet the new goals defined in WIOA.  Monitor BRS actions to address SRC findings from the 2012 office visits and surveys.  Encourage SRC attendance at BRS regional office staff meetings to learn more about the VR program and the challenges BRS counselors encounter.  Collaborate with BRS on the Public Meetings and the Unified State Plan.  Recruit new members to the Consumer Satisfaction Committee. Page 5
  • 8. Intercouncil Coordination/Nominations Committee Purpose: The purpose of the Intercouncil Coordination/Nominations Committee is to provide linkage with agencies and councils that oversee or have input/knowledge regarding the provision of rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities. Assist in training SRC members to foster effective council teamwork. Recruit potential members. Chairperson: Miriam Thorburn Members: Patrick Melfi and Bruce Stovall Review of 2015 Accomplishments:  Recruited four potential members for appointment to the SRC from the Governor.  Continued efforts to seek potential candidates of diverse backgrounds in accordance with Title I, Section 105 of the Rehabilitation Act 1973, as amended by sharing recruitment flyers at the Federal Opportunities Career Fair hosted by BRS and the Endless Possibilities: Real Employment for People with Disabilities Conference hosted by the Connecticut Council on Developmental Disabilities and BRS.  Interacted with the SRC to the Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB) regarding vocational rehabilitation concerns in Connecticut. Goals for 2016:  Recruit new members targeting specific outreach to fill historically vacant categories of membership on the SRC.  Recruit new members to the Intercouncil Coordination/Nominations Committee.  Participate with orientation of new members and the ongoing learning process of being active and involved SRC members.  Seek opportunities to collaborate with other councils like BESB and the State Independent Living Council (SILC). Page 6
  • 9. Legislation, Policy & Planning Committee Purpose: The purpose of the Legislation, Policy and Planning Subcommittee is to assist in developing the State Plan and strategic plans for vocational rehabilitation services; to stay updated on federal and state regulations related to employment of persons with disabilities. Chairperson: Marisel DeCordova Members: Thomas Boudreau, Ellen Econs, David Morgana, Jr. and Gary Prushko Review of 2015 Accomplishments:  Reviewed and provided recommendations for the State Plan.  Monitored policy changes as a result of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to understand new rules that will impact the vocational rehabilitation program.  Continued discussion on “Bill of Rights” to be posted in BRS waiting rooms for consumers and applicants. Goals for 2016:  Publish and post “Bill of Rights” posters in BRS waiting rooms.  Monitor how WIOA changes are implemented and what additional regulations are created. Page 7
  • 10. State Rehabilitation Council Scholarship The Connecticut Youth Leadership Project (CTYLP) empowers young people with disabilities to identify and develop their leadership potential. Through self-awareness and team building activities, these students explore leadership styles and develop and implement team and personal leadership plans. The goal is to help youth with disabilities meet the challenges of the future, overcome obstacles and become leaders so that they can make a positive difference in their communities and for others with disabilities. This leadership project sponsors the Connecticut Youth Leadership Forum (YLF), a week-long training program for high school sophomores and juniors. The SRC has helped to fund this training and provided a $1,000 scholarship each year since 2009 for former delegates pursuing their education beyond high school. Emma Knudsen is the 2015 recipient of the SRC Scholarship. She graduated from Westbrook High School, Westbrook, CT where she was recognized for outstanding effort in both chemistry and civics. She is currently attending Central Connecticut State University with a double major in psychology and secondary education. While in high school, Emma was a member of the National Honors Society, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) and Peer Counseling. Emma volunteered with her church’s religious education program for seven years. Her work experiences include dog sitting and part- time jobs as a nanny and a bank teller. The SRC wishes Emma continued success as it looks forward to continued collaborations with the YLF. Karen Stigliano—CTYLP Executive Director, Emma Knudsen, John Gentile—CTYLP President Page 8
  • 11. National Coalition of State Rehabilitation Councils The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) for the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) is a member of the National Coalition of State Rehabilitation Councils (NCSRC). The NCSRC strives to cultivate the strengths and necessary expertise of local SRCs so they become effective, viable partners in the vocational rehabilitation (VR) program. While SRCs in each state collaborate with their local VR program to address state issues, members of the NCSRC share best practices and strategies to address common concerns. The NCSRC gives a national voice to jobseekers with disabilities as it works on issues that impact the VR program on the national level. Mission: On behalf of people with disabilities, our national membership coalition will advocate for and work in partnership with the national public vocational rehabilitation system’s continual quest for excellence. Vision: NCSRC will be the premiere national organization of the consumer voice to enhance the employment opportunities of persons with disabilities through the public vocational rehabilitation system. The NCSRC currently consists of 52 SRCs of states and territories that provide public VR services. In addition to conference calls every two months, the NCSRC hosts two training conferences each year that coincide with the national meetings of the Council of State Administrators for Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) in collaboration with the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). SRC Vice Chair Marisel DeCordova and SRC Liaison Evelyn Oliver Knight attended the Fall Training Conference in Seattle, WA. Evelyn was invited to join the Board of Directors for the NCSRC. Based on her years of experience as a Liaison for Connecticut’s SRC, she will now help to develop and present the topics for the national trainings and help to set the agenda for the national conference calls. For more information about the NCSRC, please go to www.ncsrc.net/node/21. Marisel DeCordova & Evelyn Oliver Knight Page 9
  • 12. State Rehabilitation Council Photos (L-R) Ellen Econs and Dave Doukas share information at a SRC meeting (L-R) Andrea Richardson, Ellen Econs, Dave Doukas, Jim Quick, Gary Prushko, Pat Melfi, Warren Stamp, Joe Wendover, Kristen Winkle and Jan Hasenjager discuss VR reports Tom Boudreau reviews the SRC Budget (Below) Page 10
  • 13. (L-R) Tom Boudreau, Pat Melfi, Kristen Winkle, Ellen Econs, and Kate Travis attend the BRS Annual Meeting to assess the VR program from the staff perspective Marisel DeCordova reviews materials and participates in a group activity at the NCSRC training in Seattle, WA Page 11
  • 14. Message from the BRS Director Dear Friends: I am pleased to share the 2015 Annual Report of the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC). As the new BRS Director, I enthusiastically accept the tremendous challenge of leading the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program within the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services. I am both humbled and honored to have the opportunity to serve in this capacity. Having filled various roles within BRS over more than 20 years, I believe I have the needed insight and perspective to build upon past success and to address the challenges we presently face. As you can see from the charts and statistics presented within this report, BRS had a successful year. I look forward to the program adding to these achievements in 2016. The implementation of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) presents a new way of providing VR services. WIOA challenges us to make more employment connections, develop more effective partnerships, provide services more responsively, and maintain involvement with consumers over a longer period of time as they strive to not only attain employment, but also advanced trainings, certificates, and degrees. We must also focus significant resources on serving young people with disabilities and endeavor to gain greater insight into the needs of employers so that we can better prepare consumers to fill positions expected to be in demand in the coming years. I greatly appreciate the contributions of the SRC and the time and energy the members invest. Your commitment and support to the VR program has been unwavering. Through all the changes and challenges, you have effectively collaborated with us while fulfilling your obligations to assess the VR program and, making thoughtful recommendations, to help us plot our new direction. We thank you for your service and look forward to another successful year in partnership with you. Sincerely, David F. Doukas, Director Bureau of Rehabilitation Services Page 12
  • 16. 36.64% 23.08% 21.55% 17.26% 0.84% 0.40% 0.23% Primary Disability Type of Job Seekers BRS assisted 8,959 Job Seekers with various disabilities in Federal Fiscal Year 2015. 36.64 % Mental and Emotional Disabilities 23.08% Cognitive Disabilities 21.55% Hearing Disabilities 17.26% Physical Disabilities 0.84% Communicative Disabilities 0.40% Visual Disabilities 0.23% No Disabilities BRS Statistics Page 14
  • 17. 56.96% 17.22% 12.74% 8.45% 3.14% 1.25% 0.18% 0.07% Race/Ethnicity of BRS Job Seekers Federal Fiscal Year 2015 56.96% White 17.22 % Black or African American 12.74% Persons of Hispanic or Latino Origin 8.45% Unknown 3.14% Multiracial 1.25% Asian 0.18% American Indian or Alaska Native 0.07% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander Page 15
  • 19. Competitive Employment BRS assisted 1,460 job seekers to enter or maintain employment in Federal Fiscal Year 2015. Average Hourly Wages: $18.23 Average Annual Salary: $31,314 Average Number of Hours Per Week 30 % of Job Seekers working F/T (>= 35hrs) 47.19% % of Job Seekers w/ Medical Benefits from Employer 35.82 Page 17
  • 22. 25.27% 9.18% 7.47% 7.47%5.34% 5.07% 4.93% 4.73% 4.45% 3.97% 3.63% 3.49% 2.81% 2.33% 1.92% 1.85% 1.78% 1.30% 1.16% 0.89% 0.68% 0.27% Jobs Acquired or Maintained in Competitive Employment in Federal Fiscal Year 2015 25.27% Office and Administrative Support 9.18% Sales and Related 7.47% Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance 7.47% Education, Training, and Library 5.34% Food Preparation and Serving Related 5.07% Personal Care and Service 4.93% Transportation and Material Moving 4.73% Management 4.45% Community and Social Service 3.97% Healthcare Practitioners and Technical 3.63% Production 3.49% Installation, Maintenance, and Repair 2.81% Healthcare Support 2.33% Business and Financial Operations 1.92% Construction and Extraction 1.85% Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media 1.78% Protective Service 1.30% Architecture and Engineering 1.16% Computer and Mathematical 0.89% Life, Physical, and Social Science 0.68% Legal 0.27% Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Page 20
  • 23. Status 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Applicants 3613 3836 3650 3628 3871 Plans 2194 2437 2335 2305 3002 Rehabs 1171 1236 1343 1408 1460 3613 3836 3650 3628 3871 2194 2437 2335 2305 3002 1171 1236 1343 1408 1460 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Comparison of Applicants, Plans, and Successful Closures Over Last 5 Years - 2011 to 2015 Applicants Plans Rehabs Page 21
  • 24. Map of Connecticut with BRS Offices Page 22
  • 25. BRS Office Telephone Numbers Central Office 55 Farmington Avenue, 12th Floor, Hartford, CT 06105 Telephone: 860-424-4844 Fax: 860-424-4850 Toll-Free in Connecticut: 800-537-2549 Video Phone: 860-920-7163 Northern Region 184 Windsor Avenue, Windsor CT 06095 Telephone: 860-697-3550 Fax: 860-566-4766 Video Phone: 860-920-7171 Local Offices: Danielson (Killingly): 860-412-7070 East Hartford: 959-200-4400; Video Phone 860-509-4417 Enfield: 860-899-3567 Manchester (Willimantic): 860-647-5960 New Britain: 860-612-3569 Southern Region 370 James Street, Suite 306, New Haven, CT 06513 Telephone: 203-974-3000 Fax: 203-789-7850 Video Phone: 203-584-9840 113 Salem Turnpike, Suite 200, Norwich, CT 06360 Telephone: 860-859-5720 Fax: 860-859-5733 Video Phone: 860-237-3525 Local Offices: Ansonia: 203-732-1667 Middletown: 860-740-1080 New London: 860-439-7686 Western Region 1057 Broad Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604 Telephone: 203-551-5500 Fax: 203-579-6903 Video Phone: 203-416-6761 249 Thomaston Avenue, Waterbury, CT 06702 Telephone: 203-578-4550 Fax: 203-578-4590 Video Phone: 203-577-5319 Local Offices: Danbury: 203-207-8990 Stamford: 203-251-9430 Torrington: 860-496-6990 Effective May 2016 Page 23
  • 26. State Rehabilitation Council — 2015 Officers: Chairperson Ellen Econs Durham Disability Advocacy Group Vice Chairperson Marisel DeCordova Hartford Client Assistance Program (CAP) Secretary Thomas Boudreau Coventry State Department of Education Treasurer Jan Hasenjager New Britain Family Member Voting Members: Patrick Melfi Mashantucket (Groton) Section 121 – Native American David P. Morgana, Jr. West Hartford State Independent Living Council Gary Prushko Shelton Family Member James E. Quick Bristol Former VR Consumer Bruce Stovall Burlington Business Miriam Torres-Thorburn Norwich Business Kate Travis Sandy Hook Community Rehabilitation Provider Joe Wendover Broad Brook Business Kristen L. Winkle Enfield Community Rehabilitation Provider Ex-Officio Members: David Doukas Avon BRS Director Warren Stamp Newtown Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Volunteers: Shannon McCann Old Lyme Community Rehabilitation Provider Andrea Richardson Northford Disability Advocacy Group Page 24
  • 27. How to Become a Member of the SRC Members of the State Rehabilitation Council are appointed by the Governor of Connecticut for a term of three years. They represent BRS jobseekers, business and industry, community-based providers of vocational rehabilitation services, advocacy organizations, and state agencies that serve persons with disabilities. A majority of the SRC members have physical and/or mental disabilities. If you would like to be considered for appointment to the SRC or would like to recommend someone for appointment, please mail or fax the completed SRC application (found on pages 27 and 28) along with a current resume to the SRC Liaison listed below. SRC 2016 Meeting Dates  January 13 – Webinar  March 9  May 11  June 29  September 14  November 9 With the exception of the January 13th Webinar, meeting locations rotate around the state and will be announced once they are scheduled. The SRC meetings will occur 1:00 – 3:30 PM and are open to the public. Please contact the SRC Liaison listed below to register your attendance and to request accommodations. Accommodations must be requested four weeks prior to the date of the meeting. SRC Liaison Evelyn Oliver Knight , SRC Liaison Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) 55 Farmington Avenue, 12th Floor Hartford, CT 06105 Voice: 860-424-4871; Toll-free: 800-537-2549; Video Phone: 860-920-7163 E-mail: evelyn.knight@ct.gov ; Website: www.ct.gov/brs Page 25
  • 29. Application for Appointment to the SRC Name of Nominee: ________________________________________________________________________________ Home Address/City/Zip: _________________________________________________________________________ Home Telephone: _____________________________ Home E-Mail: ____________________________________ Employer: __________________________________________________________________________________________ Work Address/City/Zip: __________________________________________________________________________ Work Telephone:_______________________________ Work E-Mail: ____________________________________ Name of Nominator (if different than nominee): ________________________________________________ Address/City/Zip: _________________________________________________________________________________ Day Telephone: ________________________________ Day E-Mail: _______________________________________ Please identify your race/ethnicity (voluntary)? African-American Asian Caucasian Hispanic/Spanish Speaking Multi-racial Native American/Alaskan Other ______________ The SRC membership must include representatives of the following categories:  at least one representative each of the Statewide Independent Living Council, the Parent Training and Information Center, the Client Assistance Program - CAP (Section 112), Community Rehabilitation Program service providers, the State Education Department, the State Workforce Investment Board, and Section 121 (Vocational Rehabilitation [VR] for Native Americans);  a qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor;  four representatives of business, industry and labor;  representatives of disability advocacy groups representing physical, cognitive, sensory, and mental disabilities and individuals who have difficulty representing themselves; and  current or former applicants or recipients of VR services. Which membership category is the most appropriate match for you? _______________________________ Page 27
  • 30. Please feel free to add extra pages to answer the following questions. 1. Why are you interested in serving on the State Rehabilitation Council? 2. What is your interest in vocational rehabilitation and the employment of persons with disabilities? 3. Please list any organizations in which you have held leadership positions, and your accomplishments while holding such positions: 4. Have you ever done legislative advocacy? If so, please describe your activities. 5. Do you have a disability? If so, please describe. 6. Have you ever been enrolled in the Bureau’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program? 7. If you are employed, does your supervisor support your application for appointment to the State Rehabilitation Council? Statement of Commitment “I, the undersigned, understand that the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) is a working council which meets at least six times per year for the full Council and at others times for the committees, as needed. I also understand that I must work on a SRC committee, support legislative and public awareness campaigns, participate in the process to complete the BRS State Plan and the Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment (CSNA), and attend at least one public meeting, as scheduled. If appointed to the SRC, I will earnestly strive to meet these commitments.” Signed, _________________________________________________________ ________________________________ (your name) (date) IN ORDER FOR YOUR APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED, YOU MUST INCLUDE A RESUME. You may attach any other information you feel would be valuable in evaluating your application. Please mail all information to Evelyn Oliver Knight, Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, Department of Rehabilitation Services, 55 Farmington Avenue, 12th Floor, Hartford, CT 06105 or, you may fax all information to Evelyn at 860-424-4850. SRC Application (Page 2) Page 28
  • 31. Statistical Data: David Johnson, BRS Consultant CT Youth Leadership Forum Information: Karen Stigliano, Executive Director, CT Youth Leadership Project (CT-YLP) Editing, Layout Design and Photos: Evelyn Oliver Knight, BRS Consultant and SRC Liaison The Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer and offers its programs regardless of race, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, religion, age, sex, or marital status. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this report is available upon request in large print, Braille, or on audiocassette. If you need this report in an alternate format, please use the contact information listed on page 25. SRC 2015 Annual Report Credits