Program Implementation

Tips to Implementation: VR Reach-Up follows a supported employment model which has its origins in working with developmentally disabled populations. The VR agency is a customer-focused organization using data-driven decision-making. VR Reach-Up employment training specialists operate with the freedom and flexibility to provide a wide range of resources to their Reach-Up clients. Modification of the work requirement (for TANF clients) is a central concept to the VR approach. Instead of the perception that TANF participants are being deferred (stopping the clock and thus relieving individual responsibility for complying with the TANF timeline for employment), VR Reach-Up describes its process as a modification and/or gradual increase in work participation. The concept of modification has implications for both participants (they are still responsible) and VR Reach-Up's partnering agency (DCF Economic Services Division) by reducing the perception that participants in VR Reach-Up are avoiding TANF sanctioning penalties.

Keys to Success: In addition, the success of VR Reach-Up can be attributed to several other factors. VR Reach-Up staff have master's level training and some have prior experience with TANF, having worked for the Economic Services Division. They are trained to be flexible and customer service oriented, providing individualized services to clients. The wealth of employment resources and access to mental health/substance abuse treatment also contribute to the effectiveness of their work with TANF clients.

Successes: The VR Reach-Up program has grown annually from 200 participants at the inception to more than 1,200 participants (about 15 percent of the total DFC caseload). Participants who successfully have left the program for work have a 64 percent retention rate after 18 months. Increased participation is attributed to better screening, cross-agency training, and collaboration.

The support group pilot program also is demonstrating positive results in securing long-term employment for VR Reach-Up participants

Challenges: Dealing with passive clients who can have just enough engagement but no positive accomplishments; dealing with a group that usually has fear and failure issues. The new model of service delivery which puts customers in support groups is seen as a way to better engage and encourage noncompliant participants.

Other Lessons Learned: VR Reach-Up staff developed expertise in securing Supplemental Security Income benefits for eligible Reach-Up clients and their families.