Evanston, IL– A recent study conducted led by Dr. Michelle Yin of Northwestern University provides insights into the economic and social impacts of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services on transition-age youth with disabilities in Maine. Funded by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services and the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) Disability Innovation Fund, this study marks a significant milestone in understanding and optimizing VR services.
Key Findings:
- Substantial Economic Gains: VR services have led to a 51.4% increase in average quarterly earnings during service periods and an 84.5% increase post-service, contributing significantly to the economic independence of participating youth.
- Long-term Benefits: The lifelong ROI calculation suggests that every dollar invested in VR services results in a return of $21.5 over a 43-year working lifespan for VR clients, highlighting the enduring value of these interventions.
- Social and Tax Benefits: For every dollar spent, the state recoups $3.9 in tax revenues over a participant’s working life, demonstrating the program’s efficiency and its role in reducing reliance on social welfare programs.
- VR services assist over a million individuals with disabilities, potentially generating close to $4 million in tax revenues alone and over $20 million in life-term personal returns.
Impact on Policy and Society:
This study not only confirms the direct benefits of VR services in terms of employment and income but also underscores significant social advantages such as lower crime rates, better health outcomes, and enhanced social inclusion. The findings advocate for increased investment in VR programs, particularly targeting younger transition-age youth, to foster a more equitable and diverse workforce.
Calls to Action:
Policymakers are urged to consider these findings in upcoming legislative sessions to ensure continued and expanded funding for VR programs. Investing in VR services is not just a policy choice—it’s a societal imperative that offers tangible returns and fulfills our collective responsibility towards inclusive economic growth.
Read the full study here: VR ROI policy brief
For more information on the study or to arrange interviews with the research team, please contact: Dr. Michelle Yin, PI, michelle.yin@northwestern.edu