A new grant is providing critical support to youth and young adults age 14-24 with disabilities, mental health challenges, or substance use disorders, to help them overcome barriers and explore meaningful career paths.
Funded through the State of Tennessee and administered by the American Job Centers, the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Grant is part of the Tennessee Youth Employment Program (TYEP). This initiative is designed to help participants gain valuable work experience while developing the skills and habits needed to succeed in the workplace.
The goal of the VR TYEP program is to expand access to employment opportunities for young people with disabilities who may otherwise face challenges entering the workforce.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible participants must:
- Be between the ages of 14-24
- Have a disability, including:
- Physical disabilities
- Mental Health challenges
- Developmental and intellectual learning challenges
- Sensory disabilities (including blindness/low vision, deafblindness, or hard of hearing)
- Substance use disorders
Service Area
The VR TYEP grant is available to residents in the following Southwest Tennessee counties: Chester, Decatur, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, and McNairy.
How to Apply
To apply or learn more, please complete the form below (also found HERE>).
Eligible applicants will meet with a career advisor to explore a variety of work experience opportunities available in their area. Both individuals ready to enter the workforce immediately and those interested in summer work experiences are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
This project is funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee. Auxiliary aids & services are available upon request. EOE. TDD #711.
The Tennessee Youth Employment Program (TYEP) grant funding by Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a strategy to lessen the effects of poverty, ensure youth with disability gain valuable work experience, and develop productive workplace habits that will better prepare them for future careers. TYEP is also a way to expand opportunities to teens and young adults with disabilities who otherwise might struggle to find employment. The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD), Workforce Services Division, and VR support local efforts to increase youth employment through the Tennessee Youth Employment Program grant.