State Plan Attachment: 4.8(b)(4) Evidence of Collaboration Regarding Supported Employment Services and Extended Services

Because the number of blind and visually impaired Iowans who utilize services from Community Rehabilitation Programs is both small and widely dispersed, the Department has collaborated with Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) to identify and develop service agreements with Iowa's CRPs. By July 2009, the Department and IVRS will have signed agreements with 82 CRPs throughout the state. These agreements detail the types of services the CRP will provide and methods for payment of services. The new agreements call upon county services to cover costs under Waiver programs when appropriate. By working together, the Department and IVRS will ensure that CRPs receive consistent information and direction from the VR agencies in Iowa.

The Department may also make arrangements with other private entities to provide supported employment and extended services as the need arises. Other private entities may include employers, family members, and individuals contracted to provide these services. Natural supports and county services are the most often used services for extended support services.