About OVR
What is OVR?
OVR stands for Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, an agency located within the Office of the Governor, that is tasked to extend rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities to prepare for, secure, retain, or regain employment.
What is the Mission of OVR?
The mission of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation is to increase employment and promote independence among eligible individuals with disabilities throughout the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
How do I qualify for VR services?
To qualify for VR services, an individual must have a physical or mental impairment which constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment; be able to benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services; and, require vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for, secure, retain, or regain employment.
Can OVR help an individual prepare for future employment?
The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation can help prepare elibable individuals for employment. In most cases, achieving an employment outcome is the key factor related to OVR's involvement in assisting individuals with disabilities.
How does a person go about getting assistance from OVR?
The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation requires the following completed and signed applications: a completed application, medical records or permission to contact your doctor or other specialists for information, a thorough work and personal history to gather additional information. .
How long will it take to find out if I qualify for services?
Sometimes, an applicant's eligibility for OVR services can be determined in the first visit. There are instances when additional information may be needed and more time may be required. The Rehab Act requires that a decision regarding eligibility must be made within 60 days after completing the application form. If an extension beyond the 60 days is necessary, the applicant must be advised and must agree to the extension by completing a form with the VR counselor
What types of services can OVR provide to qualified individuals?
OVR can provide the following VR services or may refer VR clients to other agencies/ programs that also serve individuals with disabilities:
- Assessment, counseling, and vocational guidance
- Medical services
- Dental restorative services
- Employment development & training
- Assistive devices or technology
- Job placement, job coaching, and follow up
- Transportation
- Occupational licenses, tools, and equipment
- Other goods and services determined necessary for the individual with disability to achieve an employment outcome
- Independent living services
- Advocacy
Can OVR help an individual with preparation for and attend college?
Yes, OVR can help individuals with their pursuit of higher education so that future employment becomes a reality. There are many creative ways in which OVR can assist individuals and each rehabilitation plan is different, based on identified needs. College attendance will depend on the vocational goal of the OVR consumer and VR services will be authorized only after other sources of educational financial assistance are applied for. The key to remember is that VR services are provided to culminate in an "employment outcome " for individuals with disabilities. Development of occupational skills is more important than earning an academic degree.
If I think I qualify for OVR services or know someone else who does, what should I do as a first step?
If you or someone you know needs the types of services OVR can provide, you should call an OVR counselor for more information about VR services and obtain an application. If you have concerns about a student who is still in high school, your concerns should be addressed to the PSS Special Education Program Coordinator. If you know any college student who may be eligible for VR services, please contact or refer them to the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.