Apprenticeships for youth with disabilities (16–24 years old) seek to bridge the gap between an underserved group and meaningful employment by providing hands-on learning and education in workforce settings. Inclusive apprenticeships have the potential to engage over 1.3 million young people with disabilities who may have otherwise not had access to employment. Apprenticeships for youth with disabilities have social/emotional, economic, educational, and accessibility benefits. Learn more here.
About this Toolkit
This Rural Youth Apprenticeship Toolkit provides resources to support the development of apprenticeship programs for youth with disabilities in rural areas. It shares strategies to address key challenges, such as transportation, internet access, and employer engagement. The toolkit also includes tools for marketing and outreach, promoting diversity and inclusion, and building partnerships.
Additionally, it highlights the role of vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies in developing and implementing apprenticeship programs. VR agencies play a vital role in developing and supporting apprenticeship programs in rural communities. Their involvement helps ensure that these programs are accessible, inclusive, and aligned with the needs of both local employers and individuals with disabilities.
Click the icons below to explore more information about the challenges and innovative solutions for rural youth apprenticeship program development in VR.
What is Vocational Rehabilitation's Role?
Video: Perspectives from Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
About the Rural Youth Apprenticeship Development (RYAD) Project & Participating VR Agencies
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Vermont Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired
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Vermont Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
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Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
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Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
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Arkansas Rehabilitation Services & Career Development Center
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Maine Bureau of Rehabilitation Services
