Chairperson's Message

For Pennsylvania's Rehabilitation Council (PA-RC), the 1997-1998 fiscal year provided new opportunities and, of course, many demands.

A two-day strategic planning retreat was conducted in June of 1997, which resulted in the development of a detailed and enthusiastic agenda. Four key goals were articulated and specific objectives under each goal were developed. These goals addressed events and issues of importance to individuals with disabilities which were occurring on both the state and federal levels.

PA-RC committees were realigned and each of the four committees focused upon one of the four key strategic planning goals. Despite the fact that the appointment of new PA-RC members had not as yet occurred and present membership was low, we were able to accomplish a majority of the objectives set forth. This was due to the dedication of our members to our mission and their willingness to increase meeting times via conference calls which occurred between formal meetings in Harrisburg. The ongoing support of our competent and professional full-time and part-time staff also was a key factor in the achievements of the PA-RC.

A detailed list of FY 1997-98 accomplishment can be found in the text that follows. Several accomplishments, however, should be highlighted. For the first time in the history of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, a state-wide conference on disability issues was convened which directly involved the Governor and his Cabinet. This was co-sponsored by the PA-RC. In attendance were individuals representing the various disability communities, the Governor, his entire cabinet, and other invited individuals. Secondly, the PA-RC conducted its first extensive and statistically valid customer satisfaction survey. A 51% response rate was obtained from the random survey of 6,672 individuals who were using or had utilized the services of the PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation in attendance. Thirdly, a series of formal public forums were conducted in various regions of the Commonwealth to obtain input regarding disability issues from our citizens. Finally, a group of members who concentrated upon legislative issues traveled to Washington to provide direct input from PA-RC in regard to workforce development.

In closing, I wish to express my appreciation to my fellow PA-RC members for their time, diligence and efforts during the past year. A special commendation is given to our office personnel for their tireless efforts and for making things happen. To the PA OVR - their counselors, office support staff and administrators - a special thank you for your dedication in assisting adults with disabilities obtain employment and the support of the PA-RC efforts. Finally, a vote of congratulation to our Governor, Tom Ridge, and his Cabinet. We encourage you to continue your interest in the issues facing individuals with disabilities in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It is time and money well spent.

T.W. Fogarty, PA-RC Chairperson