On behalf of DARS and the SRC, we are pleased to present the 2024 SRC annual report.

This year, our report highlights the unique challenges faced by young people with disabilities and the success they achieve because of specialized transition services. As per the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, an integral part of state vocational rehabilitation (VR) funding is earmarked for Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).

Pre-ETS offers students with disabilities an early start at career exploration and preparation for adult life. DARS works with students, their families, their schools and community partners to enrich transition planning and support students with gaining knowledge and experiences necessary so they may make decisions about their future.

DARS has designated countless resources to make these services impactful. Our dedicated counselors provide thousands of hours of mentorship to empower students to develop essential skills, build self-confidence and envision a future filled with possibility. Working together with schools, businesses and our community partners, we have expanded internship and apprenticeship opportunities, hosted skill-building academies and offered guidance that paves the way for competitive integrated employment.

The two success stories featured on pages 4 and 5 of this report exemplify the hard work on the part of both the counselor and the students with disabilities to ensure successful employment outcomes. These are but two examples of the great work being done across the Commonwealth to prepare youth with disabilities for employment.

I appreciate the dedicated work of the SRC and their commitment to helping DARS provide the highest quality services so that individuals with disabilities can achieve their dreams. Many thanks!

Kathy Hayfield
DARS Commissioner