1. Partnering with Disability Program Navigators
Presented by:
Patrick Loeber,
Disability Program Navigator Coordinator
Colorado WIN Partners/UCHSC
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2. What is a Disability Program Navigator?
Disability Program Navigators (DPNs) guide Workforce Center staff in helping people with disabilities access and navigate the complex provisions of various programs that provide the services and supports needed to obtain and maintain employment.
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What a DPN is…
A systems change agent
A problem solver
A relationship builder
A resource
A facilitator
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WHAT A DPN IS NOT…
Not a case manager
Not a front-line staff person in a workforce center
Not a Benefits Planning and Outreach Specialist
Not a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist
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The DPN will…
Guide One-Stop staff in helping people with disabilities access and navigate the complex provisions of various programs that impact their ability to gain/retain employment.
Develop linkages and collaborate on an ongoing basis with employers to facilitate job placements for persons with disabilities.
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The DPN will…
Develop partnerships to achieve integrated services, systemic change, and expand the capacity to serve customers with disabilities.
Facilitate the transition of in- or out-of-school youth with disabilities to secure employment and economic self-sufficiency.
Conduct outreach to agencies and organizations that serve people with disabilities.
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The DPN will…
Serve as a resource on SSA’s work incentive and employment support programs and the provision of services through Benefits Planning, Assistance and Outreach organizations (BPAOs); Protection and Advocacy systems (P&As); and SSA’s employment-related demonstration projects.
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The DPN will…
Serve as a resource to the workforce development community to ensure the availability of comprehensive knowledge of Federal, State, local and private programs that impact the ability of persons with disabilities to enter and remain in the workforce.
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DPNs and DVOPs/LVERS
DPNs throughout the country are currently working closely with DVOPs and LVERS in workforce centers.
The DPNs are actively working to develop relationships with community partners including VETS grantees and their customers.
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10. DOL-SSA DPN states include:
Alaska (new)
Arizona
California
Colorado
Delaware
District of Columbia (new)
Florida
Hawaii (new)
Illinois
Indiana (new)
Iowa
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan (new)
Minnesota (new)
Mississippi
Missouri (new)
Nebraska (new)
New Jersey (new)
New Mexico
New York
Oklahoma
Oregon
Rhode Island (new)
South Carolina
Tennessee (new)
Texas (new)
Vermont
Virginia (new)
West Virginia (new)
Wisconsin
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DPN Video
Serving Persons with Disabilities in the One-Stop Center video highlights the activities of DPNs around the country.
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To Locate a DPN Near You
DPNs are now in 31 states. A National Directory of DPNs is available at:
University of Iowa Law, Health Policy and Disability Center
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To Locate a DPN Near You
DPNs are now in all regions of the state. There are a total of 19 DPNs in the state of Colorado.
Directory of DPNs is available at:
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Contact Information
Colorado Disability Program Navigators
Patrick Loeber: (303)
Website:
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Questions/Comments
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Thank You
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