Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC)
The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) assists individuals with disabilities to live and work independently. MRC is responsible for Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Community Services, and eligibility determination for the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) federal benefits programs for Massachusetts citizens with disabilities. MRC serves people with all types of disabilities except those who are blind
The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program
The Vocational Rehabilitation Program assists people who have a disabling condition and would like to find or return to work. VR also works closely with employers in the community to help create job openings and to help increase employer awareness regarding the benefits of diversity in the workplace.
Overview of the Vocational Rehabilitation Process:
Getting Acquainted
MRC VR staff will outline available vocational rehabilitation services when you attend a group orientation or schedule an individual appointment. If you are interested in receiving services, a professional vocational rehabilitation (VR) counselor will be assigned to meet with you and assist you in obtaining a job. During the initial interview, you and your VR counselor will have the opportunity to discuss your employment interests, concerns and vocational goals.
Eligibility
Eligibility Information is gathered from:
Physicians
Therapists
Hospital and other medical records
Self report
Social Security Administration
Eligibility Determination is made by:
Identifying substantial barriers to employment caused by a disability.
Establishing a reasonable expectation that a positive employment outcome will occur as a result of VR services.
Making Informed Choices
Your Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) is developed cooperatively by you and your counselor and may include the following:
Personal Goals
Career Interests Survey
Work History
Education
Trial Work Experience
Labor Market Research
After gathering relevant information, you and your counselor decide on a realistic, time limited vocational plan and map it out on paper.
Job Searching
The following are examples of typical resources available at VR offices during your job search:
Resume Preparation
Job Seeking Skills Training
Electronic Job Hunting
Interview Skills Training
Job Leads
Job Placement Assistance
Post-Employment Services
MRC's VR Program will provide you with support, advocacy and follow-up services for at least 90 days after you secure employment.
You may be eligible to receive post-employment services for up to three years after you are placed in a job and your case is closed.
For more information and how to apply, visit www.mass.gov/mrc
The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
Administrative Offices
27 Wormwood Street
Boston, MA 02210-1616
(Voice/TDD) (617) 204-3600
Fax (617) 727-1354
source of information www.mass.gov/mrc