Joyanna Davis Success Story w/ASL
About MDRS
We provide resources to help Mississippians with disabilities find new careers, live more independently, overcome obstacles, and face new challenges.
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Public Information
Public Information
Hearing Officers Needed
The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services is accepting applications for the purpose of contracting with qualified vendors to serve as Impartial hearing officers and mediators for its Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, and Disability Determination Services. These services will be paid at a rate of $100/hr for hearing officers and $75/hr for mediators. The minimum qualifications and application may be obtained below or by contacting Lee Shirley at 601-853-5217, lshirley@mdrs.ms.gov, or at PO Box 1698, Jackson, MS 39215-1698.
Hearing Officer Minimum Qualifications
Click HERE
Hearing Officer/Mediator Application
Click HERE
Request for Qualifications - RFQ 3120003152
Request for Qualifications - RFQ 3120003152
The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services will accept sealed qualifications until 12:00 PM CST, Thursday July 10, 2025 for the purpose of contracting with qualified vendors to host and create comprehensive job training events for MDRS clients, RFQ 3120003152. Detailed specifications may be obtained below or by contacting Lee Shirley at 601-853-5217, lshirley@mdrs.ms.gov, or at PO Box 1698, Jackson, MS 39215-1698.
Click HERE for PDF
Click HERE for Amendment #1 - Questions and Answers
Read MoreGovernor Tate Reeves redesignates Client Assistance Program (CAP)
Client Assistance Program, or often referred to as CAP, is a state managed and federally funded program designed to advise and inform clients and client applicants in the state of Mississippi. CAP assists in providing information obtaining to available services and benefits under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as well as the services and benefits available to individuals under Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).
The redesignation moves the Client Assistance Program from the Mississippi Society for Disabilities to the Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities.
Click HERE to view PDF
Read MoreMDRS Events
MDRS Events
No Upcoming Events
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Success Stories
Joyanna's Story
Joyanna Davis has overcome life’s challenges because of an attitude that broke barriers and led her to open the doors that allow her to live out her dream.
Learning was a challenge at every stage of life. She was born with the genetic eye condition, Ocular albinism (OA). The disease reduces pigmentation in the eyes, resulting in vision impairment requiring specialized glasses at a young age. But Joyanna pushed through the difficult years, choosing not to listen to those who told her she couldn’t achieve her goals.
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Success Stories
Faith, Hope, Love Outdoors
The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) provides life-changing opportunities for independence to individuals with disabilities. Through a partnership with Faith, Hope, Love Outdoor Ministry and funding from the TBI/SCI Trust Fund, MDRS made it possible for Brock, who has a traumatic brain or spinal cord injury, to go hunting for the first time.
Using specialized adaptive hunting equipment, Brock and others with similar conditions were able to safely participate in the sport. The technology includes a mounted rifle controlled by a remote and a screen for aiming, allowing individuals with limited mobility to independently harvest an animal.
Faith Hope Love Outdoors w/ASL -
Success Stories
Toyota Success Stories
Toyota Mississippi and the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) have formed a strong partnership to create inclusive employment opportunities. Toyota recognized the value of a diverse workforce and worked closely with MDRS to integrate employees with disabilities, providing necessary accommodations and support.
Employees like Toby Mayhall, who lost his arm at age three, have thrived in their roles with the help of workplace modifications. Deaf employees like Colin Ellzy and Degentry Jenkins effectively communicate using text messaging and gestures, fostering a supportive environment. Toyota's leadership and employees embrace a culture of continuous improvement (Kaizen), ensuring that all workers can contribute meaningfully.
Toyota Success Stories w/ASL -
Success Stories
Dennis McLauchlin - Giving Back
Dennis McLauchlin is a true ambassador for the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS), using the support he receives to give back to his community. After being diagnosed with West Nile virus, he began building and giving away over 500 birdhouses to help control mosquitoes and prevent the spread of the disease. Through the Independent Living Waiver Program, Dennis is able to live at home rather than in a nursing facility, saving taxpayers money while maintaining his independence. His case manager, Anita Scott, ensures he has the resources he needs, allowing him to continue his woodworking and ministry. For Dennis, MDRS has been a blessing, enabling him to live a fulfilling life while helping others.
Dennis McLauchlin - Birdhouses
