Item Description:
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Amd 3 to Agmt A2211239 with MN DEED to continue employment services and supports to individuals with mental health challenges, ext end date to 06/30/27, no change to recv amt
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that Amendment 3 to Agreement A2211239 with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development to continue the provision of professional and technical services to individuals with serious mental illness and/or substance use disorders, extending the end date to June 30, 2027 with no change to the receivable amount, be approved; and that the Chair of the Board be authorized to sign the amendment on behalf of the county; and that the Controller be authorized to disburse the funds as directed; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that sponsorship and acceptance of grant funds for this program by the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners does not imply a continued funding commitment by Hennepin County for this program when grant funds are no longer available.
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Background:
The Vocational Services Program (VSP) provides vocational rehabilitation services for Hennepin County residents who experience serious mental illness and/or substance use disorder. The mission of VSP is to assist people with finding and keeping jobs in the community that provide stability, lead toward self-sufficiency, and enhance their quality of life. All individuals participate voluntarily and are referred by the Department of Employment and Economic Development/Vocational Rehabilitation Services who purchases these services using ‘Professional and Technical Services Master Contract’ (P/T Contracts).
In 2023 VSP served a total of 67 individuals. VSP services includes career counseling, job placement, and extended employment assistance. VSP has worked to expand services from 18+ to 16+ by providing early intervention services and support focused on increasing work skills, self-advocacy, career and college exploration, post-secondary supports, and more. VSP received 8 referrals for the transition aged population in 2023.
This Board Action Request seeks to revise contract language and contact information, update and increase the Fee-for-Service Rate Schedule and extend the contract to June 30, 2027.
Disparity Reduction: The program supports the County’s mission to enhance the health, safety, and residents and communities in a respectful, efficient, and fiscally responsible way. The board action request aligns with Hennepin County’s disparity reduction efforts by supporting employment for residents with the goal of gaining a livable wage and moving out of poverty. VSP’s services support Hennepin County’s racial disparity reduction goal in the domain of employment by increasing hiring opportunities and career advancement.
recommendation
Recommendation from County Administrator: Recommend Approval