Overview of the Agency

 Present ARS Information (Arkansas Rehabilitation Services) in three parts:  General Information about agency  Processes  Integral support within ARS

 Director of ACE  Bill Walker  Interim Commissioner of ARS  Jonathan Bibb  Deputy Commissioner  Robert Trevino  Chief of Field Services  Carl Daughtery

 Field Services:  Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS) provides opportunities for Arkansans with disabilities to lead productive and independent lives.  19 field offices across the state serving all 75 counties.  Training and related rehabilitation services are provided to the client to assist with finding gainful employment

Transition Services Provides the opportunity for Rehabilitation Counselors and schools to develop partnerships Prepare high school students with disabilities with the skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary to achieve successful transition from high school to adult life Four VR Counselors-specialty to work in the high schools All VR Counselors are assigned to high schools in their area

 Areas under Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (SDHH):  Independent Living Services (ILS)  Provide direct services to Arkansans who are deaf or hard of hearing.  Program Specialist-Holly Ketchum

 Staff Development and Training  Training and development of employees with Arkansas Rehabilitation Services  Business Relations Representatives  Assist with job placement of ARS clients, as well as assist business owners and employers in developing strategies relating to disability issues in the workplace.

 Special Programs:  Telecommunications Access Program (TAP)  Assistive Technology at Work  Learning and Evaluation Center (LEC)  Arkansas Kidney Disease Commission (AKDC)  Rehabilitation Initial Diagnosis and Assessment for Clients (RIDAC)  Governor's Commission on People with Disabilities  Supported Housing

 Eligibility:  Anyone who is a legal Arkansas resident and determined eligible for services can qualify:  Call your local field office/set up an initial interview-may complete the application  Undergo assessment (helps to determine eligibility)-if needed  Determination of eligibility (within 60 days)  Develop IPE (within 90 days)

 Libera/System 7  ACE Expo  Provides awareness of ACE services and programs (Adult Ed, CTE, ARS), reality fair and a job fair component  ACTI  The Arkansas Career Training Institute (formerly the Hot Springs Rehabilitation Center) is a key program within ARS that provides comprehensive medical, vocational, and therapy services for people with disabilities.