SVRI generates approximately 3.5 million dollars annually through grants, contracts, and other partnerships.
University of Wisconsin – Stout Department of Rehabilitation and Counseling
The Department of Rehabilitation and Counseling has been integral to the development and existence of SVRI. SVRI and the Department work together to provide practicum and internship sites for both graduate and undergraduate students, giving these students hands-on experience in the field of vocational rehabilitation. SVRI staff members teach courses in the department, providing a practitioner’s perspective and information on current practices in the field. In addition, SVRI and the department collaborate on the biannual Vocational Rehabilitation Conference.
Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
SVRI has an extensive history as a DVR vendor. DVR purchases vocational evaluation, benefits analysis, assistive technology, and employment services from SVRI and has been a significant funding source for the institute’s services. SVRI staff work with DVR counselors to help consumers become successful in their vocational plans.
Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)
SVRI and the Wisconsin Department of Health and Services-Pathways Projects work collaboratively on a number of projects designed to enhance employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The projects cover a variety of areas including systems change initiatives, capacity development, benefits counseling services, employer training and technical assistance, assistive technology, research, and policy work. Most of the projects are funded through federal grants from the Social Security Administration and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
PEPNet Midwest
SVRI and PEPNet Midwest have collaborated on the creation of two online, continuing education courses to enhance the abilities of rehabilitation professionals who provide services to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. The first course, “Working with Individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing,” focuses on communication and cultural aspects. The second, more advanced course, “Vocational Services for People who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing,” focuses on employment services and testing/evaluation concerns specific to people who are deaf or hard of hearing. PEPNet and SVRI collaborated on the development of the courses and continue to co-facilitate them. More information on the courses.
Employment Resources Incorporated (ERI) - Madison
SVRI and ERI are collaborating to modify ERI’s current 9-day face-to-face benefits specialist training into a web-enhanced course. ERI is the premiere trainer for benefits specialists throughout the Wisconsin Disability Benefits Network (WDBN). Enhancing ERI’s face-to-face course with web training will allow practitioners to explore topics at their own pace and lessen the need for travel. SVRI is providing guidance with developing unique and interesting ways to present information including video and tutorials. Participants will continue to meet face-to-face to learn about the more complex topics and apply their knowledge to case studies.
University of Wisconsin – Madison Rehabilitation Psychology Department
SVRI has collaborated with UW-Madison to conduct research on demand-side rehabilitation and benefits analysis/planning.
Others
- Telecommunications Equipment Purchase Program (TEPP)
- Veterans’ Administration
- Social Security Administration
- School Districts