Region 8 Developmental Disabilities Services
is dedicated to improving the quality of life
for individuals with disabilities by enhancing
their independence, productivity, and full
integration into their communities.
Through Developmental Disability Services,
individuals, families, and caregivers are given
access to services needed for independent,
inclusive functioning. |
|
The four primary areas of focus
under the auspices of Region 8's
Developmental Disabilities Program are
Case Management Services, Prevocational &
Work Activity Services, Supported Employment,
and Transitional Services.
|
Case Management Services 
Case Management Services provides individual and family assistance as needed by a professional case manager who specializes in Developmental Disabilities. The Case Manager advises individuals and their families of available services and programs and assists with all aspects of the application and admission process when needed. Ensuring that the changing needs of the individual are recognized and met is a major focus of the Case Manager. Case Management Services are available in all four counties that make up Region 8 and, if necessary, can provide services to individuals for a lifetime.
Prevocational & Work Activity Services 
Prevocational & Work Activity Services provides training in areas necessary for independent vocational functioning. Individuals receive training in a realistic work environment and receive pay based on their production. Additional training includes appropriate work behavior, grooming skills, and other self-help skills necessary for a work setting. The Prevocational & Work Activity Services program provides individualized plans designed to keep individuals functioning in his/her community and to foster greater independence in vocational skills.
Supported Employment
The Supported Employment Program provides vocational assessment
to determine an individual's skills, abilities, and work interests. Individuals
are assisted with job search, placement, training, and retention, and are provided
the necessary support to enable them to work as independently as possible
within their communities. Supported Employment works collaboratively with
local businesses to develop positions and enable successful job placement.
Transitional Services
Transitional Services provides assistance to students aged 16+
who are currently attending high school to facilitate a successful
transition from school to work. We coordinate services with all school
personnel including a collaborative IEP (Individualized Education Program) development. Transitional Services includes vocational assessment, job search, placement, training, and a half day school/half day work experience at the Prevocational Work Program.
Admission Requirements
All participants must be eligible for a
Developmental Disabilities Certification
based on a current evaluation by a
licensed physician or psychologist.
Prevocational & Work Activity Services
are available to individuals aged 16+
who are residents of the Region 8 area.
A current medical evaluation is required for
admittance into the Prevocational &
Work Activity Services program.
All participants must be residents of
Copiah, Madison, Rankin, or Simpson counties.
Developmental Disabilities Program Locations
Copiah County
1019 Carroll Drive
Hazlehurst, MS 39083
(601) 849-2018
Madison County
103 South Lake Circle
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-8371
Rankin County
613 Marquette Road
Brandon, MS 39042
(601) 939-8800
(601) 824-0342-Administration
Simpson County
3100 Simpson Highway 13
Mendenhall, MS 39114
(601) 847-4410
|