The Rural & Agricultural VocRehab Program (RAVR) has been in existence for over 35 years working cooperatively with University of Vermont Extension and the State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. We assist individuals with disabilities in rural and farm settings to stay employed or to find employment consistent with their abilities.
One such person is Richard. He was receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits because of seizures, migraines and back pain. Richard researched specialized crop production and determined that he could successfully raise these crops on a wholesale basis on his land and produce a substantial income. His significant shortcoming was in finding funds to help with start-up costs.
Rural & Agricultural VocRehab was able to direct Richard to Social Security's "Plan for Achieving Self-Sufficiency PASS" and assist him with limited financial assistance. The PASS program collaborated with the Small Business Development Center to assist Richard with the development of a business plan. The PASS enabled Richard to set aside his Social Security Disability Income to finance his business start up.
Last summer Richard harvested his crops and brought them to market on schedule. He was able to purchase farm equipment with his PASS plan funds and funding from our program.