When I first entered vocational rehabilitation, I didn't know what I didn't know.
I wasn't sure what questions to ask, what documents I should keep, or how decisions were made. I trusted my counselor, but I also wished someone had taken the time to explain the process in plain language.
Over the years, I've learned something important.
The more you understand how DVR works, the more confident you become in shaping your own future.
That's why I created this series.
A Letter to You: We’re Glad You’re Here
If you're reading this, chances are you're at a place in your life where you're looking toward the future. Maybe you're just beginning your journey with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). Maybe you've been working toward your employment goals for a while. Or perhaps you're simply searching for answers about what's possible.
Wherever you are on your journey, I want you to know one thing:
I'm glad you're here.
When Someone Believed in Me: From VR Consumer to VR Counselor
Have you ever had someone believe in you before you believed in yourself? I have—and that belief changed the direction of my life. Today, I have the unique perspective of experiencing vocational rehabilitation from both sides: first as a consumer learning to rebuild my life after losing my sight, and now as a Vocational Rehabilitation counselor helping others do the same. This is the story of how one person's belief, combined with my own willingness to do the work, transformed my future.
Colorado DVR and the Principle of Informed Choice
One of the most important rights afforded to individuals participating in the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program is the right to informed choice. While many consumers hear the term during the eligibility and planning process, fewer understand the significant role informed choice plays throughout their entire VR journey.
Appreciation From One Counselor to Another
To Every Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
The Brenda Fix Newsletter and series are dedicated to the counselors of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
As a VR counselor myself, I have had the privilege of witnessing the compassion, commitment, and perseverance that counselors bring to their work every day. I know firsthand that behind every case file is a person with hopes, dreams, fears, and challenges. Counselors never lose sight of that.
Knowledge is Power, and Power is Responsibility
Understanding Your IPE
Your Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) is one of the most important documents connected to your DVR services.
When You Disagree with a DVR Decision
Informed choice includes not only the right to participate in decisions about your vocational rehabilitation program, but also the right to question decisions when you believe a requested service, support, or modification has been denied unfairly or inconsistently with policy.