DATE: February 14, 2011
TO: Disabled Persons
FROM: Steven Juarez
RE: Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)
Visually impaired and blind individuals may sometimes feel as though they are being left behind by the rest of society. There are, however, groups and organizations across the country that provide support and services to state residents with disabilities. Though it does not happen often, these individuals might not be aware that such organizations exist or that there are a plethora of resources that could be at their disposal. These organizations go by different names, but one organization that resides in Texas is the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, or DARS. This organization not only provides services for the disabilities mentioned, but for many physical and mental handicaps as well.
There are many different branches within DARS that deal with different communities. There is one that helps spinal cord and brain injury patients receive the care that they need and help them to be able to become independent. Another keeps track of new technology that can then be made available to each discourse community of disabled individuals in order to allow them to be more independent. Deaf or hard of hearing, and blind or visually impaired individuals can also find a department for them. Independent living centers are also an option for people to learn how to be independent and function on their own, or with the help of adaptive technology, in society. There are also councilors who help high school student’s transition into adult life as well as support for competitive employment when in their Vocational Rehabilitation Program.
The Vocational Rehabilitation Program is great for people with disabilities that hinder their ability to work. The program assists in the areas necessary in order for the individual to be able to find and keep a job. They will help with medical issues, adaptive equipment, counseling, job placement, and many more services.
DARS does a good job of informing the public of special events and new services that have been made available. There is a News and Information section on their website that includes links to announcements, meeting notices, financial information, and publications. There is also a link to a contact page where individuals can submit their contact information. They will then be contacted by a representative and the individual can choose which genres are to be used based on his or her discourse community. For example, blind or visually impaired students might choose to be contacted by phone, large print mail, e-mail, or brail embossed mail. Each discourse community of disabled individuals has its own genres and it is always best to speak to a representative to decide which is best for oneself. DARS is a great organization that helps those with disabilities stay on track with society and keeps them from being discriminated against or left behind.
