Nez Perce
Vocational Rehabilitation
Services

Mission Statement

To assist American Indians with disabilities in
obtaining and retaining employment and
maximizing their ability to live independently in
their communities. Our primary objective
focuses on individual plan of employment. We
are committed to the tribe and both public and
private organizations.

Services Provided

We assist applicants with counseling, vocational
training, and placement services in order to
improve employment opportunities, quality of
living, and seek financial independence among the
tribal community.

Qualifying Disability

Who is Eligible?

• Applicant must be an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe and be residing on or near the Nez Perce Reservation.

• Applicant must have a physical or mental impairment which for that individual constitutes or results in substantial impediment to employment.

• Anyone who can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitative services.
  

The Rehabilitation Process

Vocational Rehabilitation may provide other
essential services if proven to be needed to
achieve your goal of employment. (However; we
are not a social services agency) We can refer you
to other appropriate public and private agencies
for their special services. Participation in a
vocational rehabilitation program can give you
more independence, improve your self esteem,
and empower you to take charge of your life.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Lapwai >    PHONE: 1--866-440-1109 or 208-843-9395      FAX: 208-843-9396

Kamiah   PHONE: 1-888-637-8376 or 208-935-4116       FAX: 208-935-4101

VISION

The mission of the Nez Perce Vocational Rehabilitation Services (NPVRS), is to enable American Indians residing on or near the Nez Perce Reservation, the right to enhance or regain their self reliance which has been weakened by disability.  Our primary objective focuses on individual employment.  With the individuals and ourselves forming a partnership in all aspects of our service.

GOALS

The goals of NPVRS are to:

1. Reduced joblessness by assisting disabled job seekers to enter or reenter the local labor market.

2. Enhance basic skills of the disabled and development of educated adults.

3. Support life-skills development that may lead to an individuals self-sufficiency.

DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES

The NPVRS prepares clients to overcome their disabilities and become employable.  Our services will be provided to meet our clients needs commensurate with their ability to benefit from them.  Services are designed for each individual served according to their needs.

Counseling to overcome barriers or disabling conditions; vocational guidance to empower client to make choices about career decisions; academic and on the job training assistance can be offered to achieve self-reliance for our clients.

STAFF

• David Miles, M.Ed.
  Program Director

• Lucinda George, M.S.W.
  Vocational Rehababilitation Councilor

• Sonia Van Woerkom
  Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist

PROGRAM COMPONENTS

The Nez Perce Vocation Rehabilitation Services (NPVRS) agency is part of the Nez Perce Tribal Education Department.  NPVRS provides education, employment, and training services that are funded by the Department of Education and administered by the Rehabilitation Services Administration.