Vocational Rehabilitation funding will be used to support DVR's mission to assist Alaskans with disabilities to obtain and maintain employment. Investments will address the needs of individuals with complex barriers to employment by training agency staff and expanding the network of community-based rehabilitation providers. The division will focus on increasing the employment rate of individuals who historically have experienced limited success in getting and keeping a job. It will also be used to streamline procedures.

Independent Living

These funds will be granted to Centers for Independent Living and the State Independent Living Council to assist Alaskan with disabilities to maximize opportunities to be fully integrated in society. Guided by the State Plan for Independent Living, funds will be used to promote an independent living philosophy based on consumer control, peer-support, self-help, self-determination, equal access, and individual and system advocacy. Funds will be used to reach under-served Alaskans with disabilities by encouraging collaboration, training and recruitment. It may also be used to streamline procedures.

For further information regarding the impact of ARRA on Alaska, please visit: Alaska.Gov/Recovery