National Coalition of State Rehabilitation Councils

In November 2005, a handful of people affiliated with State Rehabilitation Councils shared lunch during the CSAVR Conference in San Diego. We began considering the benefits and drawbacks of establishing a national organization. Those present were not elite. Like many of you, some were Governor-appointed volunteers serving on their respective Councils; others were staff with the sole responsibility of working for a Council; and others were agency staff assigned to provide support to their SRC.  Some around the table were fortunate to serve on well-resourced Councils; others had no budget. There were representatives from states and territories with both Blind and general programs, and some with combined programs. Despite our notable differences, we had a great deal in common.

Common ground and the power of our collective potential is what led a motivated core of individuals to move us from brainstorming to organizing.  A National Steering Committee was formed and they have, with the support of the Rehabilitation Services Administration, convened regular national conference calls of State Rehabilitation Councils on a bi-monthly basis.  In addition, the Steering Committee meets on a regular basis to further the structure and development of the NCSRC.

At each CSAVR Conference, the Sunday SRC Session has focused on strategic planning, including the drafting of a mission and vision statement, core values and bylaws. The organizational documents along with the strategic plan goals and activities have evolved over four CSAVR Conference – Sunday Sessions.  As a result of tenacious commitment by a number of SRCs, the hard work was finalized in October at the CSAVR 2007 Fall Conference held in San Antonio.  The result is seen in a foundation which will position all of us to be more effective within our respective states and as a national entity.