Empowering Employment Pathways for People with Disabilities

The Washington State Rehabilitation Council (WSRC) plays a vital role in shaping equitable employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities across the state. As an advisory body to the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), WSRC ensures that the voices and experiences of people with disabilities are central in shaping programs and services that support competitive, integrated employment.

WSRC’s members are appointed by the Governor and represent a wide range of perspectives, with a majority of members identifying as individuals with disabilities themselves. This inclusive leadership structure strengthens the Council’s commitment to meaningful advocacy and systems improvement.

Approximately 44% of DVR customers report an intellectual disability as their primary disability, making WSRC’s work especially relevant to the developmental disabilities community. From hosting quarterly public meetings to collecting and analyzing customer satisfaction survey data, WSRC keeps a constant pulse on the needs, barriers, and successes experienced by individuals navigating the vocational rehabilitation system.

One of WSRC’s key efforts this year is partnering with DVR to conduct a Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment. Through surveys and listening sessions held throughout August, individuals with disabilities and their families have the chance to directly shape the future of DVR services.

The Council also builds strong partnerships with fellow disability organizations, including the Developmental Disabilities Council, Special Education Advisory Council, Governor’s Committee for Disability Issues and Employment, and the State Independent Living Council. These collaborations foster shared learning and strengthen collective advocacy.

A recent success story includes WSRC’s involvement in developing the Washington State Transition Map—a resource created in partnership with state agencies to support students and families planning the transition from high school to adult services. Available in 12 languages, the map offers a clear starting point for understanding transition services statewide and can be accessed at www.wsrcwa.org/transition-map.

To learn more about WSRC’s mission, attend a public meeting, or explore their resources, visit www.wsrcwa.org or contact them at wsrc@dshs.wa.gov or (866) 252-2939.