Building a formal partnership between the agencies can ensure that all TANF recipients who can benefit from vocational rehabilitation (VR) services have access to them. Though linking the services of these two agencies through formal cooperative agreements is not a widespread strategy, some states have had such partnerships in place for many years and other states are developing them. This practice brief explores the benefits and challenges of linking TANF and VR services, describes partnerships that have been formed in Vermont and Iowa, then discusses key features that appear to be critical to developing a successful partnership.

Mathematica Policy Research Policy Brief – Creating TANF and Vocational Rehabilitation Agency Partnerships

A partnership between the Vermont Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and the Department of Prevention, Assistance, Transition, and Health Access (PATH) provides vocational services to those individuals receiving TANF benefits who are identified as having a significant disability-related barrier to employment. The primary services include disability screening, assessment, identification of disability-related barriers to employment, provision of supportive services related to disability, plan development, intensive case-management/counseling, job placement, on and off the job ongoing supports and follow-up services. An individualized service approach to serving people with significant disabilities and multiple barriers to employment has been utilized to enhance their likelihood of gaining and maintaining employment.

Mathematica Policy Research Policy Brief – Creating TANF and Vocational Rehabilitation Agency Partnerships

VocRehab Reach-Up Program Website

VocRehab Reach-Up Program Description

The Vermont Vocational Rehabilitation/Reach Up Pilot Program – Annual Evaluation Report: Year Two, July 1, 2002-June 30, 2003