We have five program divisions that support Oregonians and when the Governor put physical distancing requirements in place, all quickly reacted. Each program found its own way to balance our responsibility to maintain services for the public and staff safety. Each week we’ll be spotlighting a different program’s response to COVID-19. First up is Vocational Rehabilitation (VR).

VR helps people with disabilities find and keep jobs that match their skills, interests and abilities. The program turns 100 this year and VR Director Keith Ozols said innovation is one reason behind the program’s longevity. It’s also why VR was able to swiftly adapt to the coronavirus public health crisis and transition its work into the virtual environment. These days, VR is focused on preparing its clients for the economy to reopen and has become a “voice of hope” to Oregonians with disabilities.

Ozols and DHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht discuss the successes and challenges VR is discovering in the COVID-19 environment. 

Find more information for staff about COVID-19 on the OWL.

Find more information for clients and the public about COVID-19 on the DHS website.

Follow DHS on Twitter @OregonDHS.

Download full script by clicking here.