| SCVR Principles |
As
a federally mandated entity charged with giving guidance and input to
the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, we stand for the
following principles and urge you to consider them when voting on
legislation that will impact Kentuckians with disabilities.
These views are solely that of the Council and should in no way
be construed as the opinions of the Kentucky Office of Vocational
Rehabilitation.
We value the worth and dignity of people with disabilities and their
right to pursue, obtain, and maintain competitive employment appropriate
to their unique strengths, abilities, and interests.
The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, honoring the mandates
governing them, facilitated this principle by assisting 4808
Kentuckians with disabilities achieve their career goals in FY 2004.
We believe that all Kentuckians should have access to adequate
healthcare, assistive technology, public properties and services,
transportation and personal care services necessary for employment so
that no one who is able to work is forced to be dependent upon public
assistance.
We believe that self-determination, empowerment and informed
choice are vital components for full participation in education,
employment and society as a whole for all people but particularly for
those with significant disabilities.
We believe that there continues to be a lack of knowledge by
employers about persons with disabilities and the skills and abilities
they have to offer in the workforce.
As the labor shortage grows, and assistive technology develops,
it becomes increasingly important to train current and prospective
employers about worksite accommodations and resources so that qualified
workers who acquire disabilities can maintain employment and to
facilitate the entrance of Kentuckians with disabilities into the
workforce. We hold that the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation,
honoring the mandates governing them, continues to build the bridge
between the employer and the consumer with a disability that is not met
by any other agency, and should be wholly supported in its efforts on
this front.
Updated May 2007