I. Options and Strategies/Section 110 Innovation & Expansion Funds

A. Review background information about seeking additional resources to perform SILC duties.
1. SILC-Net webinar: Resource Development within the Scope of SILC Duties, Ann McDaniel (pgs. 17-19) http://www.ilru.org/training/resource-development-within-scope-silc-duties.
* Start with the DSU.
* Understand Section 705(e) (1) of the Rehabilitation Act. It requires a plan for the provision of resources as may be “necessary and sufficient” to carry out the duties of the council.
* In addition, funds may also be available under Section 110.
o States will reserve and use a portion of the funds allotted to the State for the development and implementation of innovative approaches to expand and improve the provision of vocational rehabilitation services…and to support the SRC and SILC.
* Known as I & E funds. Refer to specific language.
B. Options and Strategies:
1. When you approach the DSU to discuss this issue, make reference to the language. Don’t be surprised if there is resistance because the funds are a “portion or designated amount” and are identified and competitive.
* Besides the fact that funding the SILC is an approved use, provide a rationale of why it is a good idea to do so. Be proactive. It should connect to the VR system. So…by funding the SILC, it will open up Part B funds in the SPIL for the network of CILs. During the process:
o Increase the numbers of services to people with significant disabilities.
o Referrals to the VR system.
o Improve outcomes in the VR system.
o Can you get VR to approve employment contracts to CILs so that they are done with an IL peer perspective?
* Another option is that you have I & E funds for the SILC be a temporary source for things like technology acquisition, consultants (needs assessment, SPIL evaluation).
* Last, remember that these funds are connected to the VR State Plan and that you will have to respond to their public hearing/comment process (kind of like the SPIL). So depending on your rationale and approach, you will want to develop a consistent message and have advocates respond during the comment period to provide input to help support the use of the funds for the identified purpose. Agree and have a consistent message.
o The VR State Plan is a 3-year plan with annual updates.

APRIL Consulting		NCSILC July 2014