Joining the SRC
The Council is made up of a minimum of fifteen (15) members comprising both voting and non-voting (ex-officio) status. The majority of our members must be persons who self-identify as having a disability or represent someone with a disability. Our membership must include representatives from the following:
- Disability and advocacy organizations
- Business, industry, and labor
- Community rehabilitation service providers
- Client Assistance Program
- Vocational Rehabilitation/Visual Services Counselors
- Current or former consumer of DRS Services
- Parent Training Information Center
- State Board of Education
- State Workforce Investment Board
- Statewide Independent Living Council
- Director of DRS
According to the law, there must be this balance that reflects our state’s diversity. The Council continuously accepts applications for membership from interested citizens. Those applications which meet the specific areas needed are reviewed by the Council and then forwarded to the Governor's Office for appointment. Members serve at the pleasure of the Governor of West Virginia. Members may not be employed by WVSRC or the State of West Virginia.
Members may serve no more than two consecutive three-year full terms. Attendance to the meetings is expected. If a member shall have two consecutive absences, a letter of explanation will be requested, and resignation may follow. The Council meets six (6) times a year. The February meeting may be a conference call if there is inclement weather. There are various committees of the Council which may require additional time spent on those specific functions.
Members will receive reimbursement for approved reasonable and necessary Council expenses as needed to support their active participation at business meetings and other related functions. This may include travel, meals, lodging, registration for meetings and personal assistance services.
Applications are due to the WVSRC by May31st yearly. Anyone meeting the requirements for membership may download an application here or request an application by contacting the WVSRC office at (304) 356-2089 or (800) 642-8207 or email Executive Director Julie Justice for more information.