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The VR and E Program (also referred to as Voc Rehab or Chapter 31) assists veterans who have service-connected disabilities prepare for, find and keep suitable jobs. For veterans with service-connected disabilities so severe they cannot immediately consider work, this program offers services to improve their ability to live as independently as possible.

Veterans are eligible if they received a discharge that is other than dishonorable and they have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10 percent. Services that may be provided by the VR and E Program are:
• Comprehensive rehabilitation evaluation to determine abilities, skills and interests for employment,
• Vocational counseling and rehabilitation planning for employment services,
• Employment services such as job training and job seeking skills, resume development and other work readiness assistance,
• Assistance finding and keeping a job, including the use of special employment incentives and job accommodations,
• On the Job Training (OJT), apprenticeships and non-paid work experiences,
• Post-secondary training at a college, vocational, technical or business school,
• Supportive rehabilitation services including case management, counseling and medical referrals,
• Independent living services for veterans unable to work due to the severity of their disabilities.

Once a veteran applies and is approved for the VR and E program, he/she will meet with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) for a comprehensive evaluation to determine entitlement to services. This evaluation includes:
• Determine transferable skills, aptitudes and interests,
• Identify viable employment and/or independent living services options,
• Explore labor market and wage information,
• Identify physical demands and other job characteristics,
• Narrow vocational options to identify a suitable employment goal,
• Select a VR&E program track leading to an employment or independent living goal.

The basic period of eligibility in which VR&E services may be used is 12 years from either the date of separation from active military service or the date a veteran was first notified by the VA of a service-connected disability rating, whichever is later.  

If a veteran is found not to be entitled to services, the VRC will help him or her locate other resources to address any rehabilitation and employment needs identified during the evaluation.

Tammy Walters is available at 715-369-6127 or twalters@co.oneida.wi.us.