Most human services agencies are not equipped to provide the needs of the whole person, especially when there are multiple problems that are hindering a client’s progression. Therefore, it is important to meet those needs by integrating services. The MDRS collaborates with many agencies such as, the Mississippi Client Assistance Program, Ability Works, Inc., the local community college workforce development, Weems Mental Health, and WIN Job Center, just to name a few. According to Mrs. Stancil, “The local MDRS facility is not equipped to handle the entire treatment process, once eligibility is determined; contacts are made based on the needs of the clients” (personal communication, November 10, …show more content…
Ability Works provide hands on training and teaches new skills while gaining real-world work experience. Because a client must be able to care for themselves and be medically stable to receive assistance for Ability Works, the case manager must first refer the client to a medical examiner to assess the client’s medical condition and determine if he/she is eligible for services. The counselor acts an advocate to make contact with Ability Works and provide them with background information that is needed to provide the required services to help the client gain independence. The client is encouraged to set goals by choosing the type of training and new skills he/she wishes to learn by utilizing their strengths and interest. The counselor/case manager also evaluates the services provided by Ability Works to ensure the quality of care was met, with respect to providing efficient and effective services. “Overall, the Vocational Rehabilitation system invests over $3 billion annually to assist approximately 600,000 clients seeking employment” (Ispena & Goe, 2016). However, sometimes the delivery of services is not always adequate. Counselors at MDRS monitor the client’s progress up to six months after gaining employment by reviewing the client’s Individualized Plan for Employment where the goals and expected end date are