Gathering Essential Information and Moving Forward 

The fourth point of the star quilt emphasizes: 

• person-centered planning (tailored to the individual) 
• additional assessments  
• eligibility/ineligibility determination 

Participant assessment is a crucial step in successful rehabilitation. It involves evaluating a participant’s work and training history, functional abilities, and social and behavioral characteristics. Assessments are most frequently used during two stages of the TVR journey: eligibility determination and IPE development. 

The comprehensive assessment is the most critical evaluation TVR counselors conduct. It is used throughout the TVR journey to maintain up-to-date information, document functional limitations, and track progress toward employment goals. 

Person-centered planning empowers participants to take an active role in shaping their rehabilitation journey. By focusing on the individual’s strengths, interests, cultural values, and community supports, person-centered planning provides the foundation for developing the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). This process ensures that services are meaningful, culturally grounded, and aligned with both participant goals and TVR project capacity. 

Additional assessments may be needed depending on the participant’s situation. These can help identify barriers, determine eligibility, and guide IPE development. They may include: 

• traditional/cultural assessments, 
• medical or psychological evaluations, 
• vocational or functional capacity assessments, 
• environmental or situational assessments, and 
• low-vision or assistive technology (AT) assessments. 

To progress in the TVR journey, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for TVR services outlined in 34 CFR 371.1. According to Section 102(a)(6), an applicant is eligible for TVR services if they meet all of the following six criteria: 

1. The applicant must have a physical or mental impairment (34 CFR 371.1). 
2. The physical or mental impairment must constitute or result in a substantial impediment to employment. 
3. There needs to be a reasonable expectation that the applicant can benefit from TVR services in terms of an employment outcome. 
4. The applicant requires TVR services to prepare for, enter into, engage in, or retain employment consistent with the applicant’s (i) strengths, (ii) resources, (iii) interests, (iv) priorities, (v) concerns, (vi) abilities, (vii) capabilities, and (viii) informed choice (the “Great Eight”). 
5. The applicant is a member of a Federally or State-recognized Tribe (34 CFR 371.1 & 371.4(b)). 
6. The applicant lives in or near the TVR project’s service area (34 CFR 371.1; 371.4(b) & 371.41(b)). 

If applicants meet all six criteria, they are found eligible. If not, they are found ineligible. Eligibility must generally be determined within 60 days, unless circumstances beyond staff control require an extension (with participant agreement), or when a trial work experience is needed to assess skills and potential for competitive employment (per § 361.42(e)).