Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS)

Overview

The New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) is a state agency within the Department of Labor and Workforce Development dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve independence through employment. The Mercer County local office, located at Station Plaza in Trenton, serves as a critical resource for residents who face physical, mental, cognitive, or emotional barriers to finding or keeping a job. The agency’s primary mission is to provide personalized vocational rehabilitation that enables clients to enter the workforce, retain employment, or advance in their careers. DVRS counselors work one-on-one with individuals to develop an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE), ensuring that services are tailored to each person’s unique skills, interests, and needs. The office also collaborates with businesses to promote inclusive hiring practices and provides guidance on reasonable accommodations in the workplace.

Core Employment Services

The DVRS offers a wide array of services designed to prepare clients for the job market. These include Vocational Counseling and Guidance, where counselors help identify career goals, and Job Placement Services, which assist with resume writing, interview preparation, and job searching. for those who need more intensive support, the agency provides Supported Employment (SE) and time-limited job coaching, where a coach assists the employee at the worksite until they are proficient in their duties. The agency also offers Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) for students with disabilities aged 14-21, helping them transition from school to the workforce through job exploration and workplace readiness training.

Training and Financial Support

While many DVRS services like counseling and job placement are free, the agency may also provide financial assistance for specific goods and services needed to achieve an employment goal, based on a financial needs assessment. This can include funding for Skills Training at vocational or trade schools, and in some cases, college education. The Division may also cover the costs of Assistive Technology, such as screen readers or hearing aids, and vehicle modifications required to commute to work. Additionally, DVRS helps facilitate physical or mental restoration services, such as therapy or prosthetics, if they are essential for the individual to secure employment.

Location and Accessibility

The Mercer County DVRS office is situated at 28 Yard Avenue within the Station Plaza complex, directly adjacent to the Trenton Transit Center. This location ensures excellent accessibility for clients utilizing public transportation from across the county and state. As a government facility, visitors should expect security protocols upon entry. The office operates in close coordination with the local One-Stop Career Center, creating a comprehensive hub for workforce development resources.