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DEPARTMENT OF ASSISTIVE AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES
ANNUAL REPORT 2009

Finding Opportunities for Texans with Disabilities - Introduction

The Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) administers programs that ensure Texas is a state where people with disabilities and children who have developmental delays enjoy the same opportunities as other Texans to live independent and productive lives.

The Department operates programs in four distinct units:

• Rehabilitation Services
• Blind Services
• Early Childhood Intervention Services
• Disability Determination Services

Through these program areas, DARS provides services that help Texans with disabilities find jobs through vocational rehabilitation and ensure that Texans with disabilities live independently in their communities. We also work with families to help children with disabilities and developmental delays reach their full potential.

The 2009 Annual Report is a comprehensive resource for readers who want to know about DARS operations. The report features descriptions of each of our programs and introduces readers to some of the consumers who have benefited from those programs. It also includes statistics on DARS employees, brief biographies of the Department's executive management team, and information on the Department's advisory councils and committees.

It is a fundamental value of DARS to listen, to learn, and to be responsive to our stakeholders and our consumers in an ongoing effort to make programs and services even better.

If you have suggestions or comments about DARS, please call the Inquiries Unit at 800.628.5115, or email: DARS.Inquiries@dars.state.tx.us. If you have comments about the 2009 Annual Report, please email: CCEA@dars.state.tx.us.

Developing and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence - Discovery and Opportunities

Terrell I. Murphy, Commissioner

At DARS, we're on a journey of discovery. The journey begins by getting to know our consumers. We learn about not only their disabilities, but also their capabilities. Then we search for opportunities to partner with them to reach their destination—a place where they participate in society to the fullest extent possible.

Some DARS consumers have lifelong challenges –blindness, Down syndrome, or one of many other conditions. Others come to us after a life-changing event forces them to re-chart their future —perhaps a debilitating illness or a traumatic brain injury.

We serve Texans of all ages, all ethnicities, and all educational levels. Our youngest consumers have been with us since birth. Their success depends largely on their families, who become part of the DARS team. But whether consumers have needed our services since birth or since age 50 or older, we're here to help them further their education, to live independently, to find fulfilling work, to be productive citizens.

They may seek assistance from our Blind Services, Rehabilitation Services, or Early Childhood Intervention Services. Or they may qualify for our new Autism Program or need information about the Medicaid Buy-in program. They may have submitted an application for Social Security benefits that was reviewed by the DARS Division for Disability Determination Services. They may require special equipment, transportation, physical therapy, speech therapy, or Braille training. These services and others are tailored for each individual.

This personalized approach has helped our consumers compile an impressive record. The Annual Report includes compelling personal stories that are part of that record: a farmer who regained his ability to support his family after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, a toddler whose world was transformed by the services planned and received, a young entrepreneur who created artistic jewelry and contributes to the economy of her community, and others.

Stories like these are unfolding every day at DARS, thanks to the hard work of our consumers, their families, and our employees. Most of our employees have worked for the State for a decade or more. They're experienced, they're committed to excellence, and they're experts at discovering opportunities.

We're proud of all that DARS accomplished in 2009, and we invite you to learn more about us in the following sections.

DARS: Working Together to Make a Difference

The DARS vision, mission, principles, and values will guide our decisions. Consumers and their families, when appropriate, will be active participants in planning the services they receive.

DARS Vision

A Texas where people with disabilities and families with children who have developmental delays enjoy the same opportunities as other Texans to pursue independent and productive lives.

DARS Mission

To work in partnership with Texans with disabilities and families with children who have developmental delays to improve the quality of their lives and to enable their full participation in society.

Guiding Principles

• We will deliver quality services in innovative and creative ways, individually suited to our consumers' needs, and delivered with respect and courtesy.
• Stakeholders, consumers, staff, and service providers will have meaningful opportunities to provide input on agency policies and services.
• We will celebrate our successes and learn from our mistakes – as one team.
• We will promote efficiency, effectiveness, and quality service delivery by building a program support system that aligns with the DARS mission.
• We will create and maintain a work environment characterized by respect, trust, and open communication between staff and management.

DARS Statistics

DARS Employees: Who We Are

DARS enjoys a stable, long-tenured workforce. More than half of our employees have at least 10 years of state service, and 77 percent have 5 or more years of state service.

In Fiscal Year 2009, DARS employed approximately 3,190 full- and part-time employees. The majority of DARS employees (2,845) were assigned to direct service delivery and geographically dispersed throughout Texas.

The DARS Division for Rehabilitation Services had 1,279 employees. The Division for Disability Determination Services had 968 employees. The Division for Blind Services employed 555 staff, including teachers, counselors, and various specialists. The Division for Early Childhood Intervention had 43 employees.

Within the Health and Human Services Enterprise (composed of DARS, the Health and Human Services Commission, and the Departments of State Health Services, Aging and Disability Services, and Family and Protective Services), DARS had the lowest employee turnover rate at 9 percent (including interagency transfers). Excluding retirements and involuntary separations, the turnover rate at DARS was 4 percent.

• Race/Ethnicity: 53% White, 25% Hispanic, 20% African American, 2% All Other
• Gender: 24% male, 76% female
• Workforce by Age:

DARS Budget

Expenditures by Division

Expenditures by Category

Budget by Method of Finance

Building a Road to Independence - Rehabilitative Services

Mission

The DARS Division for Rehabilitation Services (DRS) works in partnership with Texans with disabilities to assist them in achieving their goals of suitable employment, living independently, and eliminating barriers to communication and community access.

DRS Overview

DRS is the state's principal authority on the vocational rehabilitation of Texans with disabilities, except persons who are blind. DRS provides services through the following programs:

• Vocational Rehabilitation
• Centers for Independent Living
• Independent Living Services
• Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

DRS works in partnership with the Rehabilitation Council of Texas (RCT) and the State Independent Living Council (SILC). The RCT, which is federally mandated by the Rehabilitation Act, provides DARS with reviews, analysis, and advice regarding policy and the effectiveness of vocational rehabilitation services. The RCT also helps prepare the DRS State Plan for Vocational Rehabilitation. SILC provides input on independent living matters and helps develop the State Plan for Independent Living.

For more information about DRS programs and services and eligibility requirements, call the DARS Inquiries Unit at 800.628.5115 or visit the DARS web site at www.dars.state.tx.us and select Division for Rehabilitation Services or Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services.

DRS Programs

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

This program helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep jobs. Rehabilitation services are individualized and may include counseling, training, medical services, assistive devices, job placement assistance, and other services. The VR Program partners with businesses to help workers with disabilities keep their jobs and cultivate new employment opportunities for VR consumers. VR counselors work with public school personnel on campuses across the state to transition eligible students with disabilities from school to work and serve consumers who need ongoing support to maintain employment.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS)

DHHS works with people of all ages who are deaf or hard of hearing to eliminate communication barriers and ensure equal access and participation in their communities. This assistance is offered regardless of the consumer's location, socioeconomic status, or degree of disability. The Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services maintains a statewide network of community partners and contracted resource specialists to coordinate and facilitate service delivery. These partners and specialists work with other state and local government agencies and the private sector. Interpreter services, assistance for locating and obtaining assistive devices, advocacy services, empowerment training, and interpreter training are among the services offered.

Independent Living Services (ILS) & Centers for Independent Living (CILs)

These centers promote self-sufficiency and enhanced quality of life for individuals with significant disabilities by focusing on mobility, communications, personal adjustment, and self-direction. CILs and DRS ILS counselors work together to coordinate services for consumers. CILs provide the core services of advocacy, information and referral, peer counseling, and independent living skills training. DRS provides assistive equipment and technology that are not available through CILs, such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, and prosthetics.

Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services (CRS)

CRS provides intensive therapies to people who cannot function independently due to traumatic spinal cord or brain injuries.

DRS at a Glance

For every dollar spent on vocational rehabilitation, consumers generate more than $9 in personal taxable income through the remainder of their work lives. By retirement, the average rehabilitated consumer will have repaid the cost of services at least four times through taxes paid.

DRS Consumer Success Stories

Andri Sartin: A Life in Blossom

Andri Sartin, a guidance counselor at Manor Elementary School, became hard of hearing after she was hit by a car when she was 13. She dealt with her hearing loss all the way through graduate school. But by that time it was severe, and she almost failed school because she couldn't understand what her professors were saying.

When she first met Heather Kranz, a DARS vocational rehabilitation counselor in Austin, and Olivia Bills, a hearing loss specialist with Communication Service for the Deaf of Texas, Andri was stressed and exhausted. Her small, in-the-ear hearing aids no longer helped, and she had reached a critical point.

"I could see that her spirit was ready to collapse," Olivia said. "Tears were flowing as we sat and heard about her struggles and her hope to make it out successfully."

"Her spirit was standing tall and proud, ready for the world."

At the time, Andri wasn't aware of the assistive technology available to improve her hearing. Heather and Olivia tested listening devices with Andri, including wireless amplification devices that worked with her hearing aids. They saw Andri's surprise as she learned first-hand how well the devices worked.

Olivia helped Andri understand how to get the equipment that would be most beneficial. Plus, Andri was referred to the Texas Hearing and Service Dogs organization, which matched her with "Cookie," a beautiful black-and-white spaniel. A trained service dog and constant companion, Cookie is Andri's ears, alerting her when an alarm goes off or the doorbell rings.

Heather purchased new hearing aids and a wireless FM system for Andri. When Heather and Olivia delivered the system, they were delighted to see the joy on Andri's face.

"Her spirit was standing tall and proud, ready for the world," Olivia said. "She was stunned when she listened through her new ears on the device. She cried with a huge smile, hugging me, thanking me over and over."

Andri told Olivia she had "saved her" and called her a "hearing angel." Andri now is ready for her life to move forward and for good things to come.

"Her life is in constant blossom," Olivia said.

Andy Vidaure, Jr.: The Value of Determination

A farmer for more than 30 years, Andy Vidaure, Jr., of Natalia has spent his life serving Texans by putting food on their tables. But when he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, it soon became a challenge for Andy to use the old tractor that had been in his family since 1943.

Since he couldn't tend to his fields, grass and weeds began to grow and his land was deteriorating. The land that had supported his family was slowly dying. And Andy suspected that his future as a farmer was over.

"Farming is my life," he said. "I'm the organizer and planner of the Tri-County Farmers Markets, but I haven't taken produce to the market in three years. Every year I'm the first farmer to have produce at the market."

Parkinson's disease limited Andy's ability to steer and climb into his tractor, and the tractor was too old to modify with power steering. This presented a dangerous situation. On several occasions, Andy got on the tractor to start plowing the fields and wound up driving into a ditch.

DARS services allowed Andy Vidaure, Jr., to continue working his fields and maintain his independence.

He contacted DARS Rehabilitation Services and met with Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Marta Luna-Nieri. Marta got to work on finding out what she could do.

With DARS' help, Andy received a new tractor. The new model has power steering, power brakes, and a built-in ladder that helps him get up into the driver's seat, and it is fully automatic. He can continue farming his fields and making a living for his family.

He's even participated as a vendor in the Tri-County Farmers Market. He was excited about his harvest, and so were his customers. Andy said that before he got to the Farmers Market, his customers were calling to ask him what types of produce he was going to bring.

DARS services allowed Andy Vidaure, Jr., to continue working his fields and maintain his independence. Because of his hard work, Andy is supporting his family and continuing the family tradition of farming.

M. Brian Collier: 'Go-to' Guy

In 2002, an auto accident left M. Brian Collier of Aubrey with a traumatic brain injury and multiple other injuries.

When DARS counselors met him, Brian, 28, was in a nursing home. He was curled in a fetal position. Small things triggered him to cry or scream, he was aggressive, and he tried to remove his restraints and tubes. His speech was incoherent and sometimes inappropriate. It was difficult to feed and dress him. Brian's mother, his primary caregiver, struggled to keep her full-time job while tending to her son. He had no insurance and needed in- and out-patient therapies.

DARS Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services helped Brian with treatment services over the next two and a half years. He began his recovery at Baylor Institute for Rehabilitation. He needed assistance with medications, rehabilitation technology, and medical equipment and supplies; medical procedures; orthotics; psychological services; transportation; and training to use adaptive equipment.

His doctors and therapists continued to provide him services, and slowly, Brian responded. Months later, he could talk clearly and stand by himself. By 2005 Brian was able to return home.

Just five months after that, Brian said he was ready to go back to work, and his mother contacted the DARS Vocational Rehabilitation Program. Although he had physical and communications limitations that presented challenges to employment, his DARS counselor devised a plan that included a driver evaluation.

With help through DARS Supported Employment Services, Brian eventually reacquired a Texas driver license and secured a job with Enterprise Rent-A-Car. His employment specialist says Brian's co-workers refer to him as their "go-to" guy, and his Enterprise supervisor confirms that Brian is a valued employee.

His employment specialist says Brian's co-workers refer to him as their "go-to" guy...

"He works well under certain time constraints, and all of his teammates like him," the supervisor says. "Brian does a great job at cleaning up our cars and making them presentable for the next customer to rent."

Brian told his DARS counselor, "I'll stay at Enterprise as long as everybody is happy because I'm doing what I like. I like the people I work with and the customers, too."

Diane Eames: Creating a Community Treasure

A talented gemologist can take a rock, identify its unique features, and turn that rough stone into a shining piece of great value. You might say that's what DARS did for Diane Eames, a gemologist from Mason.

When she applied to DARS in 2006, Diane had lived with chronic fatigue syndrome for 20 years and fibromyalgia for a decade. She had been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and was dealing with depression, which was in part due to her battles with her illnesses.

Despite these challenges, Diane wanted to cut and facet topaz and sell it as beautiful jewelry. Working together, DARS Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Linda Payne and Diane developed a plan that enabled Diane to receive the training and certifications she needed to reach her goal. DARS also helped Diane obtain equipment to cut and facet gemstones.

"Because I was persistent in seeking a path to become a contributing member of the community, y'all helped make it happen..."

Three years later, Diane has her own store where she polishes, cuts, and sells her own Mason County Topaz. She also cuts and sells gemstones brought in by other local gemologists.

In February, two special celebrations took place in Diane's store. One commemorated Governor Rick Perry's proclamation of March 26, 2009, as Texas Mason County Topaz Day. The second was her wedding reception.

Diane has succeeded in spite of her health problems. She has a thriving business in the Mason community, and she is no longer on SSDI.

Diane wrote the DARS staff, "Because I was persistent in seeking a path to become a contributing member of the community, y'all helped make it happen. You supplied the tools and guidance to try a new direction, and it worked. It's amazing. Your help contributed to my success and also the creation of a company that supports two other people. It created a store that is very important to the community. DARS helped the entire community."

It's not hard for Diane to be reminded of her blessings. On her finger she wears a gift from her husband, a topaz ring that was cut, faceted, and polished from the large rough stone she used to start her business.

DRS Statistics

Vocational Rehabilitation

Operating Budget: $206,589,856

Average Cost per Consumer: $2,402

Consumers

• Race/Ethnicity: 74% White, 27% Hispanic, 24% African American (Consumers may report multiple race/ethnic categories.)
• Gender: 54% male, 46% female
• Average age at application: 35 years
• Veterans, honorably discharged: 3,781
• Disabilities:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

• Education:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

Services

• Regional offices: 5
• Field offices: 118

DRS Vocational Rehabilitation expenditures by type of service*

*Total case service expenditures: $124,511,127

Outcomes

• Total consumers served: 85,998
• Number of new applicants: 37,035
• Rehab rate: 57%
• Successful closures:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

Outcomes

Independent Living Services

Operating Budget: $6,170,236

Average cost per consumer: $2,703

Consumers:

• Race/Ethnicity: 85% White, 43% Hispanic, 14% African American (Consumers may report multiple race/ethnic categories.)
• Gender: 45% male, 55% female
• Average age at application: 60 years
• Veterans, honorably discharged: 140
• Disabilities:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

• Education:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

Services

DRS Independent Living Services expenditures by type of service*

*Total service expenditures: $4,711,440

Outcomes

• Total consumers served: 2,283
• Number of new applicants: 1,042
• Successful closures: 753

Centers for Independent Living

Operating Budget: $1,966,187

Average cost per consumer: $280

Services

*CIL consumers (with a plan or waiver) may have tapped these services multiple times

Outcomes

• Total consumers served under a plan or waiver: 7,001
• Additional number served (without a plan or waiver): 119,997

Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services

Operating Budget: $16,141,606

Average cost per consumer: $25,827

Consumers

• Disability: 64% traumatic brain injury (TBI); 32% spinal cord injury (SCI); 4% both TBI and SCI
• Race/Ethnicity: 80% White, 23% Hispanic, 18% African American (Consumers may report multiple race/ethnic categories.)
• Gender: 74% male, 26% female
• Average age at application: 35 years
• Veterans, honorably discharged: 35
• Education:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

Services

DRS Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services expenditures by type of service*

*Total service expenditures: $15,163,040

Outcomes

• Total consumers served: 625
• Number of new applicants: 107
• Successful closures: 325
• Number of CRS consumers (Fiscal Years 2007-2009) who moved to VR services: 281
• Consumers who lived at home or with family at time of closure: 89% of successful closures

Setting Goals and Then Reaching Them - Blind Services

Mission

The DARS Division for Blind Services (DBS) works in partnership with Texans who are blind or visually impaired to reach their goals.

DBS Overview

DBS envisions a Texas where people who are blind or visually impaired enjoy the same opportunities as other Texans to pursue independence and employment.

Blind Services helps eligible individuals of all ages and their families, providing services based on their goals and needs. DBS helps Texans live independently, participate in community life, find a high-quality job, or find the training needed to be successful in school and beyond.

In a society designed by sighted people for sighted people, barriers may be inadvertently created for people who are without sight. To overcome these barriers, a person who is blind or visually impaired must have specialized skills and a high level of confidence. An extensive continuum of services and an effective partnership between consumers and DBS are the keys to successfully acquiring these skills and bolstering confidence.

DBS strives to ensure that each rehabilitation program is tailored to fit individual needs. To ensure success, services must be matched to the consumer's choices, skills, aptitudes, and capabilities.

For more information about DBS services and eligibility requirements, call the DARS Inquiries Unit at 800.628.5115 or visit the DARS web site at www.dars.state.tx.us and select Division for Blind Services.

DBS Programs

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

The VR Program helps adults whose visual impairment limits their ability to begin or continue work. The Program also helps individuals who are deafblind. Services may include counseling and guidance, physical or mental restoration, and vocational diagnostics; assistance in adjusting to blindness; and training in vocational and adaptive skills, orientation and mobility, and Braille. The Transition Program provides consumers age 10 to 24 with educational and career guidance, assistive technology, supported employment services, and assistance in obtaining employment.

Business Enterprises of Texas (BET)

BET is a federally funded program administered by the State. It provides food service management opportunities for Texans who are blind.

Independent Living (IL)

The IL Program helps adults who are blind or visually impaired learn adaptive skills to continue to live independently and confidently. Services focus on sharing information about vision loss and related resources, learning alternative ways to perform daily activities, participating in social and recreational activities in the community, and providing adaptive devices (low and high technology) that help individuals achieve their independent living goals.

Criss Cole Rehabilitation Center (CCRC)

CCRC, a residential program in Austin, offers an intensive training program that empowers consumers to develop the skills, confidence, and positive attitude that are needed to fully participate in employment, their community, and society.

Blind Children's Vocational Discovery and Development Program (BCVDDP)

BCVDDP provides opportunities for children who are blind or severely visually impaired to learn the skills required for personal independence, potential employment, and other pursuits.

Blindness Education, Screening, and Treatment (BEST)

BEST helps Texans keep their vision healthy and prevent blindness. It is funded with voluntary donations when Texans renew their drive

DRS Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services expenditures by type of service*r license.

DBS at a Glance

Helping individuals who are blind or significantly visually impaired go to work is the core of the DBS mission.

For business, finding and keeping good employees is one of the keys to success and is a major challenge in today's market. DBS programs help businesses find the right match to fill business needs.

By focusing on business needs, DBS is better able to meet the employment needs of people who are blind or significantly visually impaired.

DBS programs help consumers learn the skills and gain the confidence essential to living independently in their community.

DBS Consumer Success Stories

Krystle Hill: Enough Confidence to Navigate the IRS

Krystle Hill of Paris, Texas, doesn't fit the rigid, buttoned-down stereotype of the Internal Revenue Service. But this vibrant 23-year-old uses her friendly and patient demeanor to help Texans straighten out their taxes, which isn't always easy to do.

Krystle never has shied away from hard work or let her blindness stop her. She graduated from Paris High School and Stephen F. Austin State University, and her hard work brought her to a successful career. Legally blind since birth, Krystle has been given a hand up by programs in DARS' Division for Blind Services.

Stacey Sewell, a vocational rehabilitation counselor in the Texarkana field office, explained that Krystle has benefitted from agency services since childhood, including the Blind Children's Vocational Discovery and Development Program, the Transition Program, and Vocational Rehabilitation.

Children's Caseworker Marcie Glass and Transition Counselor Judy Moore attended all of Krystle's admission, review, and dismissal meetings to ensure that she received the accommodations needed to complete high school. Krystle also has worked with Employment Assistance Specialist Roger Purdy, who recommended the assistive technology she needed to succeed in college.

She learned orientation and mobility skills, which allowed her to travel independently...

While in school, Krystle was outfitted with desktop and handheld closed-circuit televisions, which magnify text from paper so she is able to read. She also was given magnification software for her computer.

She learned orientation and mobility skills, which allowed her to travel independently and were invaluable when she went to Spain with a university study-abroad program. Krystle also received low-vision services, books on tape, and technology evaluations from the DARS Assistive Technology Unit.

Following her European travels, Krystle pursued a career with the Internal Revenue Service. She was accepted into the IRS' Blind Training program, which she successfully completed. Now she confidently helps people navigate a frequently confusing array of issues in their taxes.

Through the services, encouragement, and support she received from DARS, Krystle lives an independent life. She loves her job with the IRS, earns a good salary, and has health and retirement benefits. VRC Stacey Sewell says Krystle is grateful for all the services she's received from DARS.

Gia Octavia Alexander: Maintaining Independence

"The assistance I received from DARS has preserved my independence, kept my family together, and kept us in our home," says Consumer Gia Octavia Alexander of College Station.

"I was almost completely helpless and within hours of admittance to an assisted living facility," adds Gia, who was born blind. "I have gone from that to regaining my mobility, taking care of my personal hygiene needs, getting in and out of bed, doing my laundry, cooking one of my meals each day, and washing my dishes."

Gia had to stop working as a teacher and technical writer and editor when her doctors diagnosed her with chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis. Following a short period living with relatives in Louisiana, she and her mother, who lives with Gia and requires her assistance, moved back to Texas, and Gia applied for DARS services.

"Because of DARS, I remain as self-sufficient as I can possibly be..."

Counselors in the Division for Blind Services updated Gia's training in Braille, orientation and mobility, and general activities of daily living. She also received a closed-circuit television (CCTV). The CCTV allows Gia to monitor her mother's medication and diabetic glucometer and read prescription labels and warnings. It also helps her manage financial and medical paperwork.

After Gia's case was closed in DBS, she contacted the Division for Rehabilitation Services for help relating to household and mobility needs, and she was accepted into the Independent Living Program.

At this point, Gia was in "imminent jeopardy" of being admitted to an assisted living facility. She was even advised to contact Adult Protective Services for admission into a nursing home. On the last day of 2008, DARS Counselor Jim Sinsky worked all day to get Gia a power wheelchair, which was delivered three weeks later. Her house also was outfitted with ramps to make getting in and out with her wheelchair easier.

Gia now lives independently and is no longer homebound.

"Because of DARS, I remain as self-sufficient as I can possibly be," she said. "And that is, after all, the goal of the Independent Living Program."

Rafael Librado Trevino: An Unconventional Path to Success

Sometimes a DARS counselor must "throw out the textbook" in order to help a consumer.

Take Fernando Rivera, a vocational rehabilitation teacher in Beaumont. Fernando had just joined DARS when he was assigned to Rafael Librado Trevino. When Fernando and Trainer Lilly Gregory met Librado, he was living in his son's converted garage. He greeted Fernando and Lilly and apologized for his appearance; he said he didn't care what people thought of him anymore.

Librado started losing his vision years earlier and subsequently lost his job. He felt alone and ashamed. If it wasn't for his church, he said, he might have taken his own life.

Lilly encouraged Librado and promised to bring him an electric razor. He reluctantly accepted their help. Fernando wondered why Lilly offered Librado a razor. She explained that counselors sometimes have to approach people from a different angle.

Fernando recalls, "Lilly told me that after Librado shaves, he will look clean and respectable when he goes to church. Since he will not have anyone helping him shave, he will feel independent. It's going to show him that he can achieve almost anything."

Fernando built a rapport with Librado and introduced him to assistive technologies he could use when he returned to work. Months went by, and Librado filled out at least three job applications before every visit, as Fernando instructed.

"He is proud of the fact that he can contribute and do his share as a citizen..."

Fernando suggested that Librado attend an employment training, but the long, unsuccessful job search had discouraged him. There was only one person who could convince him to attend: Librado's pastor. So Fernando enlisted the pastor's help.

"The following Monday, Librado informed me that he would attend the training," Fernando said. "It gave him a full dose of 'I-can-do-it' attitude, and Librado started looking for employment again." Soon, Librado got a job with Walmart.

"We still speak at least once a week," Fernando said. "He is proud of the fact that he can contribute and do his share as a citizen. The managers at Walmart say he is a model employee and that they would hire 100 Librado's in a heartbeat."

DBS Statistics

Vocational Rehabilitation

Operating Budget: $49,621,810

Average cost per consumer: $4,892

Consumers

• Disability: 48% had more than one disability
• Race/Ethnicity: 45% White, 34% Hispanic, 21% African American (Consumers may report multiple race/ethnic categories.)
• Gender: 52% male, 48% female
• Average age at application: 38 years
• Veterans, honorably discharged: 294
• Education:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

Services

• Regional offices: 12
• Field offices: 26

DBS Vocational Rehabilitation expenditures by type of service*

*Total service expenditures: $19,428,886

Outcomes

• Total consumers served: 10,144
• Number of new applicants: 3,451
• Rehab rate: 70%
• Successful Closures:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

Business Enterprise of Texas

Operating Budget: $2,848,510

Consumers

• Race/Ethnicity: 70% White, 23% Hispanic, 7% African American (Consumers may report multiple race/ethnic categories.)
• Gender: 84% male, 16% female
• Average age at application: 46 years

Services

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%
**Administrative Costs include BET Trust Fund amount of $614,347

Outcomes

• Total consumers served: 118
• Businesses operated by consumers: 120
• Individuals employed by BET businesses: 1,535

Independent Living

Operating Budget: $3,001,772

Average cost per consumer: $860

Consumers

• Disability: 48% had more than one disability.
• Race/Ethnicity: 52% White, 21% Hispanic,16% African American (Consumers may report multiple race/ethnic categories.)
• Gender: 34% male, 66% female
• Average age at application: 68 years
• Veterans, honorably discharged: 7
• Primary Cause of Disability:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

• Education:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

Services

DBS Independent Living expenditures by type of service*

*Total case service expenditures: $981,389

Outcomes

• Total consumers served: 3,490
• Successful closures: 1,421
• Number of new referrals: 2,169

Blind Children's Vocational Discovery and Development Program

Operating Budget: $4,574,981

Average cost per consumer: $1,306

Consumers

• Disability: 64% had more than one disability.
• Race/Ethnicity: 40% White, 42% Hispanic, 13% African American (Consumers may report multiple race/ethnic categories.)
• Gender: 55% male, 45% female
• Average age at application:

*Percentages are rounded and may not add to 100%

Services

DBS Blind Children's Vocational Discovery and Development Program expenditures by type of service*

*Total case service expenditures: $1,146,425

Outcomes

• Total consumers served: 3,503
• Successful closures: 318
• Number of new referrals: 894
• Number of new applicants: 697

Blindness Education, Screening, and Treatment

Operating Budget: $477,169

Average cost per consumer: $60

Consumers

• Race/Ethnicity: 93% Hispanic
• Gender: 44% male, 56% female
• Average age at application: 56 years

Consumer by Disability:

Total number receiving BEST treatment: 168

Services

DBS BEST Program expenditures by type of service*

*Total service expenditures: $388,174

Outcomes

• Total consumers served (number screened + number who received treatment): 7,909
  • Number screened: 7,741
  • Number who received treatment: 168
• Number of persons referred for follow-up exams: 4,235
• Successful closures: 165

Helping Children and Their Families - Early Childhood Intervention Services

Mission

The DARS Division for Early Childhood Intervention Services (ECI) assures that families with young children with developmental delays have the resources and supports they need to reach their goals.

ECI Overview

ECI serves families with children birth to 36 months with developmental delays or disabilities by helping them access resources and improve their child's development through daily activities.

ECI contracts with 58 local agencies and organizations that serve all Texas counties. Contractors include mental health/mental retardation community centers, school districts, education service centers, and private nonprofit organizations.

A team that includes ECI professionals and family members determines eligibility. Children are eligible for services if they meet one of the following criteria:

• Developmental delay: Children with delays in one or more areas of development (motor, communication, cognitive, social-emotional, or self-help skills).
• Atypical development: Children whose patterns of development are unusual or different from their peers. They may include children with unusual sensory-motor or language patterns and children with auditory and/or visual impairment.
• Medically diagnosed conditions: Children who have a condition (such as Down syndrome or spina bifida) that probably will cause a developmental delay.

Services are funded through federal, state, and local funds; Medicaid; private insurance; and a family cost-share system.

To locate an ECI program or for more information, call the DARS Inquiries Unit at 800.628.5115 or visit the DARS web site at www.dars.state.tx.us and select Early Childhood Intervention Services.

ECI Programs

Referral

Anyone can make a referral to an ECI program. Most referrals come from the medical community or directly from families. Other referral sources include the Department of Family and Protective Services, childcare providers, and social service agencies.

Individualized Planning Process

An interdisciplinary team determines eligibility and develops an individualized family service plan. These activities occur in a location chosen by the family (home, childcare center, or other).

Family-Centered Services

Services may include family education and support; audiology, vision, nursing, and nutrition services; and services from a physical therapist, occupational therapist, and speech-language pathologist. ECI professionals and family members promote child development through daily activities.

Case Management

ECI service coordinators help access community services for the family and their child and coordinate services from other agencies. They provide additional resources as family needs change.

Home and Community Settings Services

Services are provided in familiar surroundings where children live, learn, and play. These may include the family's home or childcare center, neighborhood parks, grocery stores, a library, or other community settings.

ECI Professionals

Licensed or credentialed specialists, including early intervention specialists, speech and language pathologists, physical and occupational therapists, nurses, dietitians, social workers, counselors, and hearing and vision specialists are part of ECI teams.

Beyond ECI

As children near age 3, the team, including the family, decides on the next step. Children may transition to public school services, preschool programs, Head Start, or childcare centers or they may stay home with their family or another care provider or go to other community activities and programs.

ECI at a Glance

From ECI families:

• "Early intervention helped my son tremendously. He is now walking—something I thought he never would do. Thank you!"
• "ECI has been the most valuable tool for us. It helped us through some tough times by providing excellent solutions. Thanks so much!"
• "The ECI program has successfully done their job of helping our family understand our daughter's needs. Our daughter has progressed so much, and we are very satisfied."
• "The staff was excellent. Very professional. Always kind, caring, and easy to work with. They gave easy-to-understand instructions and suggestions. My child improved rapidly, and we learned many good, easy tools we've implemented."

ECI Consumer Success Stories

Justice: A Long Journey for a Little Girl

For Christmas 2006, Linda and Leon Thomas received an unexpected gift—their great-niece Justice came to live with them. Just 14 months old, Justice was born in California and was a ward of the state because of tragic circumstances. She spent her first two months of life at the hospital and then lived in foster care until finding a home in Dallas with Linda and Leon.

Linda noticed that Justice did not act like a typical 14-month-old. She did not babble or respond to Linda in a natural way. As a teacher of children with special needs, Linda knew to get help quickly, and she enrolled Justice in DARS Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) services right away.

Justice's ECI team included a service coordinator and physical therapist. The physical therapist helped Linda and Leon work with Justice on her gross motor skills. Linda was amazed by the orthopedic braces that were made for Justice to wear inside her shoes. They supported her feet and prevented her ankles from rolling as she walked. Once she had those on, Justice was off and running.

Justice succeeds because Linda and Leon implemented everything that the ECI staff taught them.

As Justice settled into this nurturing environment, she began to develop communication skills. She imitated single words she heard and repeated three-word phrases. Soon she began putting together short sentences on her own and responding appropriately to questions.

Justice is now doing many things like her peers, like working on age-appropriate skills such as puzzles, songs, and finger plays. This would not have been possible without the early identification of her developmental delays and the determined team surrounding her.

"It's amazing what love will do for a child," Linda said. Justice succeeds because Linda and Leon implemented everything that the ECI staff taught them. That's the goal of ECI: developing a team in which the parents or caregivers become experts, using the ECI staff as guides.

Recently Linda saw that a doctor in California had written that Justice had "failure to thrive." Linda shares that early diagnosis with a chuckle in her voice, knowing just how far Justice has come.

Early Childhood Intervention Services Statistics

Total Operating Budget: $168,709,023

Comprehensive Services Operating Budget: $166,681,111

Average Cost per Consumer: $2,919 (based on Comprehensive Services)

Consumers

• Race/Ethnicity: 49% Hispanic, 36% White, 12% African American, 3% other
• Primary language: 82% English; 18% Spanish
• Gender: 63% male, 37% female
• Medicaid: 61%
• Age at enrollment:

• Reasons for Eligibility:

• Referral Source:

Services

*Total Planned Service Types sum to more than 100% because consumers may receive multiple services

Outcomes

• Contracts with local community agencies and organizations: 58

Helping Children to Reach Their Potential - Autism Program

Mission:

The DARS Autism Program funds services for children ages 3 through 8 with an autism spectrum disorder.

Autism Program Overview

In August 2007, the Legislative Budget Board, in conjunction with the Office of the Governor, instructed the Health and Human Services Commission to fund services for children ages 3 through 8 with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Following a competitive procurement process, DARS awarded grant contracts to four organizations to provide autism treatment beginning April 1, 2008, and ending August 31, 2009. In 2009, the 81st Legislature provided additional funding that enabled DARS to award a two-year contract extension to the original four providers and add two more contractors, for a total of six.

With the increased level of funding for the 2010 – 2011 biennium, autism services will be provided by the following contractors:

• Child Study Center, Fort Worth
• Easter Seals North Texas, Dallas
• MHMRA of Harris County, Houston
• Texana Center, Rosenberg
• Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Austin
• Any Baby Can, San Antonio

For more information on the Autism Program, call the DARS Inquiries Unit at 800.628.5115 or visit the DARS web site at www.dars.state.tx.us and select Find Services at the top of the page.

Autism Program Services

• Assessments
• Psychological testing
• Applied behavior analysis (ABA) treatment
• Speech-language therapy
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Audiology evaluations
• Home-based services

Autism Program at a Glance

Autism spectrum disorder is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the United States, affecting an estimated 1 in 150 children. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention "CDC Releases New Data on Autism Spectrum Disorders [ASDs] from Multiple Communities in the United States." Web site news release February 8, 2007. See: http://www.cdc.gov/od/oc/media/pressrel/2007/r070208.htm.)

In 2008, there were an estimated 50,100 Texas children under age 21 with ASD. (Demography Team. Strategic Decision Support. Texas Health and Human Services Commission. July 2008.)

During 2009, the DARS Autism Program provided services to 277 children.

Autism Program Consumer Success Story

Caleb: Dramatic Changes for the Better

Caleb Barngrover was just 7 when he was admitted to the Child Study Center in Fort Worth, one of four centers that worked with the DARS Autism Program in 2009.

Caleb refused to wear anything other than a specific pair of shorts, a tank top, and flip-flops, and he would remain naked in his room while these articles of clothing were washed. He rarely ate anything other than uncooked spaghetti. He drank only an occasional sip of soda and water every few days. When Caleb's parents encouraged him to eat different foods or wear different clothes, he threw severe tantrums, screaming loudly, threatening them, destroying property, and banging his head against the wall.

Caleb was significantly underweight because of his limited diet, but he was strong. Due to the severity of Caleb's tantrums and his physical strength, his parentl activities.

Caleb's treatment plan had three goals: (1) decrease Caleb's problem behavior so that he could benefit from the services of the Jane Justin School for children with developmental disabilities, (2) help him eat a healthy diet, and (3) enable him to wear appropriate clothing. To help achieve these goals, Caleb was rewarded for appropriate behavior, a technique called reinforcement. He was allowed access to activities he liked only after accepting food or clothing without problem behavior.

As a result of his treatment, Caleb's problem behavior decreased dramatically. Therapists trained Caleb's parents to use reinforcement at home, where his behavior also improved. He started requesting a variety of foods and added more choices to his wardrobe, including a Halloween costume he selected himself — a space suit.

Caleb was attending the Jane Justin School within three months of starting treatment. At first, tutors accompanied Caleb, providing one-on-one instruction and shadowing him constantly. The tutors gradually decreased their assistance so Caleb could function as any other student in the classroom. Eventually he was discharged from the Study Center's Autism Services Program and admitted to the school.

Caleb's behavior is now exemplary, and he engages in many learning and social activities.

Autism Program Statistics

Autism Program Operating Budget: $4,131,348

Average cost per consumer: $14,903

Consumers

• Race/Ethnicity: 49% White, 23% Hispanic, 15% African American, 12% Asian (Consumers may report multiple race/ethnic categories.)
• Primary Language: 84% English, 10% Spanish
• Gender: 87% male, 13% female
• Age at entry to services: 59% were 3 or 4 years, and 41% were 5 - 8 years
• Gross family income:

Services

Outcomes

• Total consumers served: 277
• Hours of service provided: 106,120
• In a survey of parents, 86% of respondents said that their child made good or excellent progress.

Increasing Awareness and Collaboration - Employment and Disability Connections and Medicaid Infrastructure Grant

Mission

The DARS Medicaid Infrastructure Grant (MIG) supports the employment of people with disabilities.

MIG Overview

DARS competed for and received a grant in the amount of $500,000 in 2008 and $750,000 in 2009. The grant is issued on a calendar-year basis, rather than a federal fiscal year, but DARS has until December 31, 2011, to obligate the funds. The program is funded by a four-year Medicaid Infrastructure Grant (Grant number 1QACMS030236) from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and is a part of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services. The grant funds are used to develop the infrastructure for a comprehensive system of competitive employment supports for people with disabilities, including the Medicaid Buy-In program (MBI).

With annual continuation awards through 2011, the total grant will be $2.75 million. Additionally, HHSC received state general revenue funding of $140,819 in state fiscal year 2010 and $250,000 in state fiscal year 2011 for outreach on the MBI program. DARS will work with HHSC to use these funds.

In other developments, CMS is reviewing DARS' and HHSC's request that MBI be added as a new eligibility category for participants receiving expanded Medicaid services through the 1915(c) waiver. The monthly premium limit for MBI has been reduced from $1,100 to $500 for people who earn a paycheck and also receive unearned income.

For more information on the MIG, call the DARS Inquiries Unit at 800.628.5115 or visit the DARS web site at www.dars.state.tx.us, select Find Services at the top of the page, and follow the drop-down menu to Employment and Disability Connections/Medicaid Buy-In.

MIG Activities

• Train select staff members from the Department of Aging and Disability Services, DARS, and MHMR centers on MBI
• Increase participation in and awareness of the MBI program through education, outreach, and training
• Map resources in the state of Texas that support employment of people with disabilities
• Solicit input from MBI applicants and other people with disabilities to examine gaps in existing employment support services and identify ways to improve the system
• Maintain and update the Employment and Disability Connections web site, designed for job seekers, business and service providers, and professionals
• Collaborate with the HHSC enterprise and the MIG Advisory Committee of 23 public- and private-sector partners to develop and implement strategies to improve employment supports for Texans with disabilities

MIG at a Glance

The MIG's goals are to:

• Increase participation in the Medicaid Buy-In and Personal Assistance Services
• Map and analyze system services and evaluate system needs
• Continue partner collaboration
• Sustain and improve efforts to inform consumers
• Sustain and improve efforts to inform employers

MIG Statistics

Employment and Disability Connections and Medicaid Infrastructure Grant Operating Budget: $732,037

Outcomes

• Developed brochures, an educational PowerPoint presentation, and the Employment and Disability Connections web site
• Sponsored Employment and Disability Connections Conference
• Made 73 presentations to enterprise staff, consumers, employers, service providers, transitioning youth, stakeholders, and advocates
• Distributed EDC brochures and MBI Fast Facts to all DRS and DBS offices
• Provided MBI training for 125 individuals
• Conducted quarterly meetings of the MIG Advisory Committee

MBI Applications through August 2009

Between December 2008 and August 2009, the number of enrolled or pending applications to the Medicaid Buy-in Program rose from less than 50 to almost 100, while the number of certified applications rose from approximately 100 to 175, and the total number of applications rose from 150 to almost 350.

Helping Qualified Texans Access Their Benefits - Disability Determination Services

Mission

DARS Division for Disability Determination Services (DDS) improves the quality of life for Texans with disabilities who apply for or receive Social Security Administration disability benefits by making timely and accurate disability determinations.

DDS Overview

DDS makes disability determinations for Texans with severe disabilities who apply for Social Security Disability Insurance and/or Supplemental Security Income. The Division is funded by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Texans with physical and/or mental impairments apply for benefits at their local SSA field office, and their applications are forwarded to DDS, which determines whether the applicant is disabled, according to federal criteria. SSA makes final decisions as to whether a person is eligible to receive benefits.

DDS develops medical evidence and determines whether a claimant is disabled under the law. Usually, the division first tries to obtain evidence from the claimant's own medical sources. If that evidence is unavailable or insufficient to make a determination, arrangements are made for a consultative examination to obtain additional information.

After completing its development of the evidence, trained staff makes the disability determination and returns the case to the field office for appropriate action. If the staff determines that the claimant is disabled, SSA completes an eligibility determination, computes the benefit amount, and begins paying benefits. If the claimant was found not to be disabled, the file is kept in the field office in case the claimant decides to appeal the determination.

To apply for disability benefits or learn more about the application process, call the Social Security Administration at 800.772.1213 or visit their web site at www.socialsecurity.gov. If you already have filed a disability claim with Social Security, you may contact DDS at 512.437.8000 or 800.252.7009 to obtain information or ask questions about your claim.

DDS Services

SSA administers two disability programs that provide cash benefits and medical coverage to people who are unable to work because they have severe physical or mental impairments. Cash benefits are designed to replace part of the income lost if a person becomes disabled. Many people are qualified to apply for both of these programs. Regardless of the program, DDS makes the disability determination for SSA, but only SSA can determine who is eligible to receive benefits.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

• SSDI is related to work. People earn coverage for themselves and family members by paying Social Security tax.
• SSDI covers workers age 18 to 65 who are disabled, disabled widows/widowers, and disabled adult children of workers.
• Claimants must wait five months from the onset of their disability before getting their first check; they must wait 24 months after the first check before Medicare starts.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is related to what a person has or owns. A person who does not own much or have much income may qualify for this program. SSI covers adults age 18 to 65 and children from birth to age 18. There is no waiting period for benefits to start; Medicaid coverage for medical care begins with the first check.

DDS at a Glance

Texans receive $699 million each month in Social Security disability benefits. (Source: SSA Office of Research, Statistics, and Policy Analysis)

In 2009, DDS received a Commissioner's Citation, the Social Security Administration's highest award for state disability determination agencies. The citation recognizes exemplary performance in accuracy, timeliness, and productivity in providing exceptional service to the disabled citizens of Texas.

DDS staff, individually and as teams, also received numerous recognitions and citations from SSA throughout 2009.

The Texas DDS is the largest centralized DDS in the United States.

DDS Statistics

DDS is federally funded, and statistics are based on Federal Fiscal Year 2009.

DDS Operating Budget: $111,436,390

Cases Received

*Total cases received: 326,631

Outcomes

• Total cases processed: 302,393
• Percent of initial disability cases allowed:
  • Texas: 44%
  • National average: 37%
• Average initial case processing time (in days):
  • Texas: 59
  • National: 81
• Accuracy rate:
  • Texas: 96%
  • National: 95%

Guiding Decisions and Leading with Actions - Advisory Councils, Committees, and Boards

The DARS Council

The DARS Council helps the Commissioner and the Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner develop rules and policies for the Department. The council is composed of nine members of the public appointed by the Governor. To be eligible for appointment to the council, a person must have demonstrated an interest in and knowledge of problems and available services related to early childhood intervention services or to people with disabilities other than developmental delay and mental retardation and people who are blind, deaf, or hard of hearing.

More information on the council is available on the internet at www.dars.state.tx.us/news/darscouncil.shtml.

Members

• Timothy J. Flannery, Seabrook, presiding officer
• David Coco, Austin
• Lance L. Goetz, Dallas
• Diane M. Novy, Bellaire
• Lee Chayes, El Paso
• Berkley Dyer, Austin
• Diego Demaya, Houston
• Donald Roy, Mount Pleasant
• 1 vacancy

Rehabilitation Council of Texas

The Rehabilitation Council of Texas reports to and advises the DARS Commissioner regarding the Department's performance in providing vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities. Council members are appointed by the Governor.

More information on the council is available on the internet at www.dars.state.tx.us/announcements/rct.shtml.

Members

• Shawn Patrick Saladin, Edinburg, chair
• Roy "Larry" Evans, San Angelo, vice chair
• Corbett "Chase" Bearden, Austin
• Jeanette Brayboy-Alexander, Pearland
• Lori Henning Crutchfield, Austin
• Brenda Lynn Dunn, Austin, ex officio
• Elizabeth Ann Gentry, Schertz, ex officio
• Rames Gonzalez, Jr., Palmview
• Mike Halligan, Georgetown
• Richard Giles Hatfield, Austin
• Paula Jean Margeson, Plano
• William Mullican, Austin
• Richard Poe, Austin
• Thelma Scott, Houston
• Karen Stanfill, Houston

Early Childhood Intervention Advisory Committee

The ECI Advisory Committee assists the DARS Division for Early Childhood Intervention Services in the development and implementation of policies that constitute the statewide ECI system. The Governor appoints the committee members.

More information on the committee is available on the internet at www.dars.state.tx.us/ecis/advisorycommittee.shtml.

Members

• Katherine (Kathy) Lee, Temple, chair
• Richard Adams, MD, Dallas
• Terry Beattie, Austin
• Yvonne Caldera, Lubbock
• LaShonda Brown, Houston
• State Rep. Myra Crownover, Denton
• Katrina Daniel, Austin
• Kathy de la Pena, Edinburg
• Peter W. Ellis, San Antonio
• Beth Engelking, Austin
• Barbara Fountain, Austin
• Michelle Gee, Austin, ex officio
• Dottie Goodman, Austin
• Teresa Hernandez, Austin
• Rachel Hernandez-Reynolds, Weslaco
• Mirella Garcia, El Paso
• Barbara W. James, Austin
• Diane Kazlow, McKinney
• Laura Logan Kender, Lubbock
• Alba A. Ortiz, PhD, Austin
• Pamela M. Perez, El Paso
• Michelle J. Smith, Justin
• Harvey Salinas, Corpus Christi
• Lynn Sullivan, Fort Worth
• Monica Villegas-Thyssen, Austin
• Lesa Walker, MD, MPH, Austin, ex officio

State Independent Living Council

The State Independent Living Council (SILC) is an equal partner with DARS in the development, approval, and implementation of the State Plan for Independent Living. The Texas SILC leads, promotes, and advances the independent living philosophy and advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities. The Governor appoints council members, with the majority being individuals with disabilities.

More information on the council is available on the internet at www.dars.state.tx.us/news/silc.shtml.

Members

• Michelle Crain, Lubbock, chair
• Kristen Jones, Austin, vice chair
• Dennis Borel, Austin, treasurer/secretary
• Gloria N. Greeder, El Paso
• Donald Landry, Beaumont
• Paula Jean Margeson, Plano
• Tracey Michol, Fort Worth
• Scotty Sherrill, Nacogdoches
• Saul Herrera, Midland
• Karen Swearington, Rowlett
• Randall Resneder, Lubbock
• Glenda Embree, Austin, ex officio
• Larry Gardner, Cedar Park, ex officio
• Marc S. Gold, Austin, ex officio

Board for Evaluation of Interpreters

The Board for Evaluation of Interpreters advises the DARS Division for Rehabilitation Services, Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, in administering the interpreter certification program. The DARS Commissioner appoints the board members.

More information on the board is available on the internet at www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/bei.shtml.

Members

• Allison Randolph, Fort Worth, chair
• Roger Brown, Austin, vice chair
• Sharon Grigsby Hill, Houston, secretary
• Kristin Lund, Austin
• Marcus Myers, Corpus Christi
• Daniel Diffee, Fort Worth
• 1 Vacancy

DARS Executive Staff Profiles

Terrell I. Murphy, Commissioner

Terrell I. Murphy was appointed commissioner of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services in 2003. Before his appointment, Commissioner Murphy served more than three decades at the Texas Commission for the Blind. His positions included placement specialist, mental health/mental retardation (MH/MR) program specialist, assistant state supervisor for community-based MH/MR services, assistant state supervisor for field services, director of field services, deputy director for programs, and executive director. He has served in several national organizations, including the Council of State Administrators for Vocational Rehabilitation, National Council of State Agencies for the Blind, and the American Foundation for the Blind. He also has been on the Advisory Board of the National Rehabilitation Leadership Institute. He currently serves on both the P-16 Council and the Texas Workforce Investment Council. Commissioner Murphy has received the Texas Rehabilitation Action Network's Lifetime Achievement Award and the Texas Rehabilitation Association's Professional of the Year Award. In addition to his distinguished career in public service, Commissioner Murphy is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and a proud veteran who was awarded three Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart during his service in Vietnam.

Debra Wanser, Deputy Commissioner for Executive Support

Debra Wanser joined DARS in July 2007. She works closely with the commissioner on day-to-day operations and provides strategic direction to programs. The DARS Centers for Policy and Innovation, Learning Management, and Program and External Relations and the DARS Leadership Institute report to Ms. Wanser. Before joining DARS, she was the assistant commissioner for adult protective services at the Department of Family and Protective Services and associate commissioner for family health at the Texas Department of Health. Ms. Wanser is a registered nurse and has more than 30 years of direct care and administrative experience in nursing, mental health, public health, and social services. She has degrees from the University of Texas LBJ School of Public Affairs, St. Edward's University, and Oklahoma State University School of Nursing.

Alvin Miller, Chief Operating Officer

Alvin Miller became chief operating officer (COO) for DARS in March 2004. Before coming to DARS, Mr. Miller served in senior management positions with several state agencies. He joined the Comptroller's Field Operations Division in 1973 as a state tax auditor and later served as assistant regional director of the Northeast Texas Field Operations Region. He was promoted to director of field operations audit in 1981. He also served as director of the State Comptroller's Human Resources, Training, Revenue Management, and Internal Audit Divisions. In 1992, Mr. Miller joined the Office of Attorney General (OAG) as chief fiscal officer. While with the OAG, he served as chief administrative officer of the State Employee Workers' Compensation System and director of the Child Support Enforcement Information Systems Development Division, where he led the systems implementation of federal welfare reform. He was chief financial officer for the Texas Commission for the Blind from 1999 until he joined DARS as COO. Mr. Miller is a certified public accountant, a certified governmental financial manager, and a project management professional.

Bill Wheeler, Chief Financial Officer

Bill Wheeler has been the chief financial officer (CFO) for DARS since its inception in 2004. Before that, he was the CFO at the Texas Rehabilitation Commission. He has 15 years of state government experience – all in financial management positions. Before joining the state, Mr. Wheeler spent 15 years in the private sector in financial management positions, including jobs as CFO and budget manager in Dallas, Houston, and Austin. Mr. Wheeler holds a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Texas at Austin and a master of business administration (MBA) degree from Texas State University. He is also a graduate of the Governor's Executive Development Program.

Jim Hanophy, Assistant Commissioner for Rehabilitation Services

Jim Hanophy began his role as assistant commissioner for rehabilitation services in March 2008. He has 29 years of professional and volunteer experience working with children and adults with disabilities in Texas, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Mr. Hanophy first came to DARS in 2006 as a program specialist, a position in which his areas of responsibility included customized employment services, case consult, and business development. Before joining DARS, he worked as an organizational consultant with the University of North Texas and was a faculty member in the Department of Rehabilitation, Social Work, and Addictions. Mr. Hanophy holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Binghamton University and a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling from West Virginia University.

Barbara J. Madrigal, Assistant Commissioner for Blind Services

Barbara J. Madrigal has provided services to Texans who are blind for more than 30 years, working in direct service delivery, program development and implementation, and management. Ms. Madrigal has a bachelor's degree in education for the deaf and master's degrees in counseling and human services administration. She has taught deaf and hearing-impaired students, served as an instructor for the migrant program at St. Edward's University, and worked with the American Red Cross in its services to military families. She is on the Executive Committee of the National Council of State Agencies for the Blind. She also serves on the Council of State Administrators for Vocational Rehabilitation Executive Committee as Chair of the Employment Committee. Her many honors include Texas Commission for the Blind Employee of the Year, recognition from the Texas House of Representatives for her efforts to enhance employment opportunities for blind Texans, the State Agency Council's Outstanding Women in State Government award in management, and the Texas RehabAction Network 2007 Award for Lifetime Achievement in Public Vocational Rehabilitation.

Kim Wedel, Assistant Commissioner for Early Childhood Intervention Services

Kim Wedel joined DARS in August 2006. She brings a wealth of experience from the private and public sectors to her leadership role with the Division for Early Childhood Intervention Services. For eight years, Ms. Wedel led the Department of Family and Protective Services Prevention and Early Intervention Services and Contract Administration Division and the Department of Aging and Disability Services Community Based Long Term Services and Support Division. Before entering the public sector, she spent 17 years working with community-based nonprofits in California, New York, and Texas. This blend of public and private sector knowledge brings a unique skill set to a system that delivers services to more than 52,000 infants and toddlers and their families through contracts with 58 local entities. She holds a master's degree in public administration from Columbia University and a master's degree in social work (licensed master of social work in Texas) from Hunter College School of Social Work of the City University of New York.

Mary Wolfe, Assistant Commissioner for Disability Determination Services

Mary Wolfe became assistant commissioner for disability determination services (DDS) in March 2004. Ms. Wolfe started her public service career with the Texas Rehabilitation Commission (TRC). Over the past 30 years, she has held both staff and management positions. Ms. Wolfe has worked in various divisions and assignments in DDS, the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program, and DARS central administrative offices in Austin. Also during this time, Ms. Wolfe served briefly as the interim commissioner of TRC and was responsible for administering policy, oversight, and administrative functions. Ms. Wolfe is an alumnus of St. Edward's University in Austin, with a degree in public administration.

Dianne Skinnell, Director of Internal Audit

Dianne Skinnell has been the director of internal audit at DARS since November 2008. She leads the Internal Audit Division in performing risk assessments, developing annual audit plans, and providing support and guidance within the Internal Audit Division. Ms. Skinnell works with the DARS executive management team to address areas related to control, risk management, and governance for the agency. Before joining DARS, she was the internal audit director at the Department of Family and Protective Services and also at the Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. She worked at the Texas State Auditor's Office for 10 years. She held other positions with the University of Texas at Austin-Physical Plant, Texas Department of Water Resources, and Texas Water Commission. Ms. Skinnell has 28 years of state service in the areas of accounting and auditing. She has a bachelor's degree from Southwest Texas State University, and she is a certified public accountant.

DARS Maps

DBS Office Addresses and Telephone Numbers

DRS Office Addresses and Telephone Numbers

ECI Service Areas - locate programs by county or by ZIP code