Waze to adulthood: driving toward employment and independent living

Grant Award Summary

Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center, Inc. received a $300,000 Project Grant from the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) under the Rehabilitation Services Demonstration and Training Programs (CFDA 84.235), effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. The grant funds the "Waze to Adulthood: Driving Toward Employment and Independent Living" initiative, which demonstrates and delivers transition services and employment pathway support for youth with disabilities. This project expands the Center's established role as Virginia's designated parent training and information center by building services that prepare young adults with disabilities for competitive employment and increased independence.

The grant supports activities aligned with CFDA 84.235's statutory authority to demonstrate improved service delivery methods and further the purposes of the Rehabilitation Act. Deliverables include training, technical assistance, and demonstration activities focused on career pathways, transition planning, and employment readiness for youth with disabilities in Virginia. The project is positioned to generate evidence and disseminate findings regarding effective transition service delivery models, contributing to the broader field of rehabilitation services while directly serving youth and families in the Commonwealth.