Diffusion of Innovations Theory and Veterans of Color: A Framework for Promoting the Adoption of Effective State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies, American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Programs, and Veterans Affairs-Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment Co-Service Practices in Vocational Rehabilitation

Abstract

This article proposes the adoption of co-service practices between state vocational rehabilitation agencies (SVRAs), American Indian vocational rehabilitation programs (AIVRPs), and Veterans Affairs-Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VA-VR&E) programs as a means to increase employment outcomes for veterans of color (i.e., African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asians) with disabilities. Collaborative agency practices are shown to contribute to successful outcomes. However, there is less discussion on how to promote adoption of co-service practices between these agencies. The purpose of this article is to discuss the need for interagency collaborations and Diffusion of Innovations Theory as an approach for promoting adoption of co-service practices across these agency contexts to increase employment services and outcomes for these veterans. Recommended approaches that can be considered for advancing the current state-of-the-science on improving SVRAs and VA -VR&E, and AIVRPs and VA -VR&E co-service strategies for placing these veterans into competitive integrated employment are presented.