KMXT 100.1 FM Public Radio in Kodiak, Alaska
This week Alaska Governor Sean Parnell appointed a Kodiak man to the State Vocational Rehabilitation Committee. Don Roberts was appointed to a seat reserved for those who have used the services of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Roberts says he was alerted by Representative Alan Austerman’s office that a seat was open, and encouraged him to apply. Even before his appointment was announced on Tuesday, Roberts found himself in Anchorage at his first committee meeting.
— (Roberts 1 23 sec "The memorable parts … toured those facilities.")
Roberts says he sees a link between disabilities and poverty, and would like to see that addressed in rehabilitation services:
— (Roberts 2 31 sec "There’s some issues that … for long term stuff.")
He says it’s a vicious cycle:
— (Roberts 3 26 sec "It exactly becomes that … homeless and stuff like that.")
Roberts said the forum he attended this week was noticeably short on employers:
— (Roberts 4 37 sec "I think employers need … don’t have to hire them.")
The State Vocational Rehabilitation Committee o consults with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation regarding the development, implementation, and revision of state policies and procedures relating to the services it offers.
