Once you are in 11th grade, you will be transitioning from Pre-ETS services to Transition services. Youth who are are self determined to live independently you will work with your school assigned MRS Transition Counselors to open a case to help you with your independent living goals. MRS services are individualized to your job goal; not based on your income.
MRS can help you:
- Discover your interests and talents.
- Learn about different jobs.
- Identify emerging jobs.
- Job shadow.
- Participate in on-the-job training.
- Explore vocational programs at a technical/business school, or college.
- Broaden employment options through assistive technology and other accommodations.
- Determine your employment goal.
To help you reach your job goal, MRS uses a map called an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). With support from your counselor you will identify supports and services that are necessary for you to be successful. Examples of what may be contained in your IPE are:
- Participating in job training.
- Preparing a resume and cover letter.
- Learning interview techniques
You may be eligible for MRS services if you answer “yes” to these questions:
- Would you like to work?
- Do you have a disability? Some examples are learning disabilities, emotional challenges, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, etc.
- Does your disability create barriers in learning or working at a job?
- Do you want to learn more about services available from MRS to help you be successful at a job or career?
To get started with opening a case:
Talk to your teacher or school counselor if you are interested in learning more about MRS. The first step in applying for services is to attend a Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) orientation. The MRS orientation offers you an overview of the six steps to vocational rehabilitation:
Step 1- Apply for Services – Schedule/attend intake appointment and submit a complete application (applying does not mean you are eligible)
Step 2- Determine Eligibility – with medical and school documentation. This process can take up to 60 days. If you receive Social Security Benefits you can presume you are eligible for MRS services if you have a desire to work,
Step 3- Career Exploration and Developing a Plan – This is your chance to learn about yourself and work with your counselor to create an individualized plan for employment (IPE).
Step 4- Following Your Plan – It will be important to keep in contact with your counselor to track your progress and discuss any roadblocks.
Step 5 – Finding a Job – Self determination will really come into play as you are a major factor in your IPE and independent living goals.
Step 6 – Successfully Employed…case closed! – Let MRS know when you gain employment.
For more information on MRS you may want to review the Six Steps to Vocational Rehabilitation Booklet at the link below.
MRS Flint/Genesee County Office
711 North Saginaw Street, Suite 124
Flint, MI 48503
810-760-2103
877-620-7912 (Toll Free)
810-760-2127 (TTY)