The changing face of publicly funded employment services

The federal-state vocational rehabilitation (VR) program has been a significant stream of funding for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the success of this traditional rehabilitation approach with people with brain injuries remains limited. Recently, the use of specialized employment services, such as Supported Employment, has proven to be far more effective, but funding for this population remains limited. In addition, even individuals who receive specialized employment services often require more intensive, ongoing supports to remain employed. In response, many states have developed innovative services and approaches that are improving the placement and retention rates of individuals with TBI. In this article, the authors provide an overview of selected federal funding initiatives related to the provision of employment services to people with brain injuries, including recent amendments to the Rehabilitation Act. The article also highlights progressive state employment policies and makes suggestions for creative use of government employment monies.