Bridges to Transition

Darke County Board of Developmental Disabilities

Bridges to Transition is designed to provide training and resources needed to ensure a successful transition from school to work for individuals with developmental disabilities ages 14-22. The goal is to secure independent community employment opportunities for students at the time of graduation.

Bridges to Transition is a partnership between the Darke County Board of Developmental Disabilities, the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC), the Ohio Association of County Boards (OACB), school districts, employers, students and their families.

In Darke County, Bridges to Transition serves individuals of all ages who are eligible for Board services and are in or out of school.

Services include:

Educating individuals, families and school districts about the training and employment options for individuals with developemental disabilities.
Developing a plan of employment that fits each individual's needs.
Monitoring the progress of each individual and ensuring that the plan fits his or her needs.
Providing education about the effects of employment on SSI/SSDI benefits and/or the Ohio Medicaid Card, if applicable.
Coordinating services with school districts in order for the individual to make an easy transition from school to work upon graduation.
Providing individuals with skills necessary to be successful in the workplace. This may include acceptable grooming/hygiene, work attitudes and importance of good attendance.
Linking individuals to the appropriate service for developing the skills needed in the workplace such as job tours, job placement and job coaching in the workplace.

Eligibility Requirements

You must have a documented disability that interferes with your ability to work. RSC determines your eligibility for services. Your RSC Counselor will help you apply for services and will assist you in choosing your service provider such as Community Employment Services. Your SSA may also help you inquire about eligibility for services. You may be referred for services by your RSC Counselor. Income level is not a factor in your eligibility for these services. If you are not placed in the category of highest need, you may be placed on a statewide waiting list, in which case there is no estimated timeframe for receiving services.

For more information please contact Elizabeth Jennings, Program Coordinator at (937) 548-9057, ext. 3018 or email at elizabeth.jennings@rcs.state.oh.us