April 10, 2008 - SRS to hold statewide listening tour
Rehabilitation Services to meet with stakeholders to solicit input for state planning process

Topeka –The Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS), division of Rehabilitation Services (KRS) is hosting a series of stakeholder meetings to solicit stakeholder input in the state planning process. 

Director Michael Donnelly will discuss the KRS strategic goals, which are:

• Kansans with disabilities will achieve quality employment and self-sufficiency.
• KRS, its providers and partners will be accountable for the achievement of employment and the effective use of resources.
• KRS will emphasize the employment potential of students with disabilities and improve the outreach and outcomes for transition-aged students.
• KRS will emphasize the meaningful involvement of people with disabilities, public/private partners, employers and other stakeholders in KRS programs, services and activities.

“I’m pleased to have this opportunity and hope that we have a good turnout of individuals interested in employment and vocational rehabilitation services for people with disabilities,” said Donnelly.  “Whether you are a person with a disability, a family member, service provider, school official or advocate, I hope you come and participate.”

The meetings will focus on gathering input regarding stakeholder knowledge and experience of the needs of Kansans with disabilities, views about the strengths of KRS programs and services, suggestions for improvement of programs and customer service, and opportunities for greater collaboration with other stakeholders and organizations.

“I’m very interested in hearing about the employment experiences of people with disabilities,” he said.  “For those who have received services from KRS, I’d like to hear what you think about our services as well as your ideas about how we can improve.  We will use the information gathered to help us implement our strategic goals and to enhance services for people with disabilities.”

Previous meetings have been held in Hutchinson, Wichita and Topeka.  Future meetings are planned for:

All meetings will be held from 4 to 6 p.m.  To request reasonable accommodations, please contact Frances Smith at 785-368-7488 or toll-free 1-866-213-9079.  Persons who use a TTY may call Megan Essary toll-free at 1-800-432-0698.

Individuals with disabilities who are interested in learning more about how KRS services can help them achieve their employment goals may contact their local SRS Service Center or call 1-888-369-4777.