I want to go to work. Where do I begin?
There are many avenues for getting connected to job supports that match your needs. Take a look at the options available for people with disabilities to get meaningful employment in inclusive settings.
I am a high school student.
Schools have assigned DVR counselors and many have a School to Work Alliance Program. Inquire with a teacher or counseling office.
I need retraining in order to go back to work.
If an injury stands in the way of work you used to do, retraining may be available through DVR and/or your local Workforce Center.
I am a veteran.
Veterans with service-connected disabilities may be eligible for the Veteran Readiness & Employment program as well as DVR.
I receive Social Security benefits.
Social Security beneficiaries are presumed eligible for DVR and may also look into services from an Employment Network.
I am a senior.
No age limitations exist for DVR, and low-income seniors may also be interested in the Senior Community Service Employment Program.
I am a college student.
If already enrolled, be sure to check out the disability resource center on your campus and look into your eligibility for DVR.
I have a job but am underemployed.
If a disability is keeping you from your potential, you may be eligible for DVR to help address the barriers you experience.
Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
DVR is a primary resource for services leading to employment for people with disabilities. Eligible individuals can get assistance to prepare for, obtain, advance in and maintain employment, including self-employment.
Offices Throughout the State
Get connected to a DVR counselor. To learn about the intake process and the office closest to you, check out this locator tool on the DVR website.
You May or May Not Need to Financially Contribute
If eligible, a number of job supports are free and some are based on financial need. A DVR counselor can help you learn more.
Approaches to Fit Your Needs
Services are not one-size-fits-all and are determined by you and your DVR counselor. Take a look at some of the options on our Services page.
What to Expect
Knowing what to anticipate as you begin the process of going to or returning to work can help ease the process of getting started.
Expect Person-Centered Services
You direct and are the center of your plan to get to meaningful employment.
Expect Options
from Which to Pick
You have a say in your employment goal and the sources of support along the way.
Expect a Partnership
Your efforts, along with support from those on your employment team, will result in success.
I am young and just want to begin exploring employment.
If you are not ready for your first job but are ready to begin thinking about career paths, you are encouraged to visit our Youth page and also to look at opportunities for Pre-employment Transition Services which may be available at your school. The more you learn about how your interests line up with occupations in the labor market, the more prepared you will be to transition into work or education after high school ends. Job shadows, work experiences, apprenticeships, summer jobs and more await for your exploration.
Can I connect to DVR and the Workforce Center?
Yes! Many people find that working with both programs offers fuller supports and options. For example, Connecting Colorado is the Workforce Center system’s jobs database and helps career seekers find employers with jobs to fill. The Workforce Center system offers a variety of self-service or staff-assisted options to meet their employment needs. Workforce Centers are located throughout the state.