Targeted Programs

The Mission of the VR Direct program is to empower Kansans with disabilities to achieve self-reliance through competitive, integrated employment.

The Kansas WorkforceONE VR Direct Program utilizes the Progressive Employment model with a focus on serving persons with disabilities who are exiting Kansas Correctional facilities.  As a contracting provider for Vocational Rehabilitation, we are charged with implementing this model in our area.

The Vermont Progressive Employment Model is a strategy for populations that have little or no work history, low skill levels, and other barriers to employment, such as corrections.  A key principle of the model is that everyone is ready for something which eliminates the construct of candidates needing to be "job ready".

Service options through this model include short-term work experiences, practice interviews, company tours, job shadowing, OJT, and possible partnerships with temporary employment agencies.

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EDK Staff List
EDK_JobShadow

Job Shadow

Job Shadow

A job shadow is typically a one to three-day opportunity. The VR consumer shadows one or more employees as they perform their duties. This allows the consumer to observe the details of the job including the pace and employer expectations. As with the company tour, it presents an opportunity for the employer to meet a potential employee, with no expectation of a hire.

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Job Tour

Job Tour

The consumer only visits the work site. This presents an opportunity for the consumer to get a sense of the employer’s expectations and work environment. For the employer it provides an opportunity to meet a potential employee, with no expectation of a hire.

High school student at job or college interview

Mock Interview

Mock Interview

An emulation of a job hire used for training purposes. The interview tries to resemble a real interview as closely as possible, and provides experience for the consumer. The mock interview helps the consumer learn what is expected in a job interview, and improves the consumer’s self-presentation.

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Informational Interview

Informational Interview

A meeting in which a consumer learns more about an employer, can seek advice about a career the industry, and the corporate culture of a potential future workplace; while the employer learns about the consumer and about their potential for a future hire.

teacher with student in mechanics class

On-the-Job Training

On-the-Job Training

Employer places the consumer directly on their payroll while he or she is doing the actual job and being trained hands-on and possibly have classroom time. At the end of the agreed time, the employer may choose to hire the consumer.

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Short-Term Work Experience

Short-Term Work Experience

The employer allows the individual to try out a job on-site for a time-limited period no more than six weeks. This allows thee consumer and the employer the opportunity to see if it is a good fit while learning about each other. Any exceptions to this would need discussed and agreed upon with the consumer, VR counselor and contractor.

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