LOVARC is a nonprofit agency founded in 1964 by a group of concerned parents, based in Lompoc, California. The mission of LOVARC's vocational department is to assist local citizens to secure employment that is compatible with their skills and preferences. Our belief is that meaningful employment is a key element in maximizing personal potential and economic self-sufficiency.

Array of Services

Supported Employment:

• Individual placement at a job in the community or at Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB) with support to help maintain the job
• Group placements at VAFB for food service jobs; Gaviota rest stop (Highway 101 near Santa Barbara) for janitorial services or at other group sites in the community. Grounds maintenance crews that work at a variety of sites throughout the Lompoc area. The crew works on commercial and residential contracts obtained by LOVARC. Crewmembers learn to use and maintain power equipment such as gas powered lawn mowers/edgers and hedge trimmers. The crew is supervised by a rehabilitation professional that is also experienced in providing gardening services. Group placement includes a supervisor who is with the group at all times.

Personal, Vocational & Social Adjustment Services:

• PVSA services are provided to individuals who require additional services to address such issues as interpersonal skills, mobility training, grooming skills and other issues relevant to securing or maintaining employment

Work Services:

• Work services employees are involved in a combination of paid work and vocational education. Paid work may consist of ground maintenance, piecework, assembly, or janitorial duties. Vocational education consists of vocationally orientated games, field trips, and exercises designed to promote job readiness.

Staff members in the Vocational department are required to meet specific educational and or experience levels as stipulated in the job descriptions. Additionally , staff participation in LOVARC's orientation program includes on the job training through "shadowing" of experienced persons in like positions. Staff also receives First Aid/CPR training, a series of training entitled "Professional Knowledge" and other in-service training relevant to providing services.

LOVARC has been determined eligible to provide service by virtue of:

• Certification from the Department of Rehabilitation
• Vendorization through Tri Counties Regional Center under contract from the California State Department of Developmental Services (D.D.S)
• Accreditation of Organizational Employment Services and Community Employment Services through CARF - The Commision on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

An independent party will perform a case review in the event that LOVARC serves dependents or family members of board or staff members. It is LOVARC's desire to provide services that meet the individual's unique needs and interests.

LOVARC collects data on program efficiency, effectiveness, and customer satisfaction. We routinely share this information with funding and referral agencies as well as other stakeholders. The information is available via periodic inclusion in the LOVARC newsletter, and will be made available upon request.