INCREASING THE HISPANIC/LATINO CONSUMER NUMBERS FOR THE
DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION, ROSEVILLE OFFICE
A Project
Presented to the faculty of the Graduate and Professional Studies in Education
California State University, Sacramento
Submitted in partial satisfaction of
the requirements for the degree of
MASTER OF SCIENCE
in
Counseling
(Vocational Rehabilitation)
by
Barbara Hughes
SPRING
2014
© 2014
Barbara Hughes
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
ii
INCREASING THE HISPANIC/LATINO CONSUMER NUMBERS FOR THE
DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION, ROSEVILLE OFFICE
A Project
by
Barbara Hughes
Approved by:
__________________________________, Committee Chair
Guy Deaner, Ph.D.
Date
iii
Student: Barbara Hughes
I certify that this student has met the requirements for format contained in the University
format manual, and that this project is suitable for shelving in the Library and credit is to
be awarded for the project.
, Department Chair
Susan M. Heredia, Ph.D.
Date
Graduate and Professional Studies in Education
iv
Abstract
of
INCREASING THE HISPANIC/LATINO CONSUMER NUMBERS FOR THE
DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION, ROSEVILLE OFFICE
by
Barbara Hughes
This project presents a strategy manual that will focus on the Hispanic/ Latino
population in order to assist the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) teams, management
and staff at the Roseville office to increase their Hispanic/Latino consumer numbers and
community outreach. In order to develop this manual, the author consulted several
sources, including those from the State of California DOR, related literature, disability
advocates, cultural resource centers, government websites and counseling textbooks. A
sub-goal of this manual is to educate the DOR teams, management and staff at the
Roseville office.
, Committee Chair
Guy Deaner, Ph.D.
Date
v
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
First and foremost, I would like to thank the all might God for blessing me with
the knowledge, the ability to strive to do my best and without you I wouldn’t be able to
achieve this educational journey, my health challenges and my dreams. I especially
would like to acknowledge my family, Susan Abrahams (Dr. Deaner’s Administrative
Assistant), the Fall 2011 Mob Squad (Kevin Walker, Terry Scott, and Gerardo “Geri”
Oseguera), Dr. Todd Koch, Mark Frayser, Dr. Lisa William-White and Dr. Debra Senna.
Each of you have brought out the best in me and have pushed me to do my best even
when I was having challenges throughout the semester and thank you for encouraging me
to strive forward in my education and in life. To my sister, Doris Louise Carter-Ellis, I
love you very much and thank you for your support!
Additionally, I want to give thanks to Dr. Guy E. Deaner for all of his patience,
encouraging words, educational guidance, jokes, reality checks, and support throughout
the years to accomplish my graduate degree and this project.
To my neighbor Darlene Taylor, my boyfriend, Booker T. Welch, III, friends, and
classmates, thank you for all the wonderful advice that kept me going throughout this
journey and to ALWAYS remember to stay focused on the prize. It TRULY does takes a
village to graduate from the Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling program and be
successful!
vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Acknowledgments.............................................................................................................. vi
List of Tables .................................................................................................................... ix
Chapter
1. INTRODUCTION .........................................................................................................1
Background of the Problem .....................................................................................1
Statement of the Problem .........................................................................................3
Purpose.....................................................................................................................5
Definition of Terms..................................................................................................6
Limitations of the Project.......................................................................................14
Organization of Project ..........................................................................................14
2. LITERATURE REVIEW ............................................................................................16
Introduction ............................................................................................................16
Defining and Identifying the Hispanic/Latino Population .....................................16
National and California Statistics ..........................................................................20
Vocational Rehabilitation Services ........................................................................24
Summary ................................................................................................................30
3. METHODOLOGY ......................................................................................................31
Review of Sources .................................................................................................31
Method ...................................................................................................................32
vii
4. SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS..............................................................41
Summary ................................................................................................................41
Recommendations ..................................................................................................43
Appendix. Increasing the Number of Hispanic/ Latino Consumer for the
California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) Roseville Office ..................45
References ..........................................................................................................................58
viii
LIST OF TABLES
Tables
1.
Page
Services of DOR ....................................................................................................28
ix
1
Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Problem
California's population is among the most diverse in the nation and as such, there
exists a tremendous diversity within the consumer population the Department of
Rehabilitation (DOR) serves (California Rehabilitation Council Annual Report 2012, p.
3). According to the 2014 Statewide Assessment, Hispanics/Latinos (H/L) were
identified in the preliminary findings as a proportionally unserved or underserved
race/ethnicity, accounting for 30.32% of DOR’s caseload compared to the California H/L
population of 38.0%. In comparing years 1 and 2 of the assessment year, the number of
H/L consumers in DOR’s caseload increased by 1.42%. The number of H/L consumers
in DOR’s caseload increased percentagewise by 20.75% in comparison to the increased
population of 3.66% during both triennial years. Despite the increase in caseload, the
H/L community continues to be a proportionally unserved or underserved population
since 38% of Californians are listed as disabled and 30.3% are Latinos (California
Department of Rehabilitation [DOR], 2012a).
Alvarez and Lopez (2005) stipulate a variety of stressors contribute to the
underutilization of services by the H/L population and have identified a variety of fear
factors, such as deportation and consequences for the utilization of numerous services
while going through the process of being legalized. In addition to the various fear factors
identified, there is a lack of awareness of services available, stigma, religious and cultural
2
beliefs surrounding the use of the services, confidentiality concerns, the consumer’s level
of acculturation, language barriers, geographical location, and even the cost of services
they are receiving (Alvarez & Lopez, 2005). For example, accessibility to services is a
factor preventing Latinos from receiving assistance if they have a lack of transportation.
Although there is an assortment of federally funded programs and services requiring legal
residency, not all have a citizenship requirement (Alvarez & Lopez, 2005).
In the state of California, the DOR provides an array of services to consumers of
all races and ethnicities. The 2012 to 2014 DOR Statewide Needs Assessment identified
the H/L consumers as a proportionally unserved or underserved race/ethnicity compared
to several other ethnicities in the state of California. In 2012, the DOR identified 16
primary languages spoken by its consumers. Spanish is included as one of the primary
languages used by its consumers. Although for the purposes of this project, “primary
language” is defined as the self-identified language a consumer primarily uses to
communicate and does not include those who consider themselves bilingual. California
is known as a border state and Spanish is the most common, non-English language
spoken, with 3,670 Spanish-speaking consumers in the total DOR caseload of 104,969
(California State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report, 2012, p. 3).
The DOR conducts a yearly analysis on the foundation of demographic data
including race and ethnicity. The purpose of this analysis is to identify the vocational
rehabilitation (VR) service needs of Californians with disabilities. The data collected by
the DOR include information on consumers classified as American Indian, multi-racial,
3
Asian American, White, Black/African American, Pacific Islander, and Hispanic and
Latino, in addition to the breakdowns by district and local populations (DOR, 2012a, p.
4).
Statement of the Problem
Historically in America, minorities have been denied access to jobs due to
discriminatory employment practices and procedures based on negative attitudes toward
persons with disabilities (Thompson & Dickey, 1994). H/L have been identified as being
a major part of the minority population in the United States and often do not receive
ample support and assistance from government institutions in order to acquire
employment and live independently (Hispanic Access Foundation, 2012).
Disabilities are not race- or ethnicity-specific and only occur for the rich.
Disabilities are identified in every race/ethnicity and occur within any stage of an
individual’s life. Individuals who have a disability are not like people in the general
population; they usually require various forms of support and or assistance so they can
obtain stable, long-term employment and can live independent lives. Although the
individuals with disabilities have some support from various government institutions, a
majority of the issues around disabilities are faced by minorities throughout the US
(Hispanic Access Foundation, 2012).
The best way to capture the reality of the United States (US) is to examine various
statistics and reports to retrieve more insight. The U.S. Census is a good example of providing good insight into our ethnically diverse nation. According to the 2010 U.S.
4
Census, 308.7 million people who resided in the United States on April 1, 2010, and 50.5
million (or 16%) were of Hispanic or Latino origin. The H/L population increased from
35.3 million in 2000 to 50.5 million in 2010. Between the years of 2000 and 2010, the
H/L population increased by 15.2 million (U.S. Bureau of the Census, 2012a).
Not only has the United States has had an increase of H/L but in the state of
California the H/L population is the largest among the minority population (U.S. Bureau
of the Census, 2012a). According to the Department of Finance in 2007, the H/L
population is expected to more than double between the years of 2000 and 2050 and will
represent approximately 52% of the population in the state of California by the year
2050.
According to the 2012 State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) for the State of
California Annual Report, the DOR completed an analysis of the DOR's consumer
demographic data by comparing it to existing available data from the U.S. Census, the
California Department of Finance, the Social Security Administration, and various
statewide education and social services entities. This analysis was performed to identify
and improve services for individuals with disabilities who were potentially unserved by
the DOR (DOR, 2012a).
5
The SRC Annual Report and DOR Statewide Needs Assessment of 2012 concluded the
following:
1. Hispanics are identified as a consistently unserved and under-served race/ethnicity
in the DOR's caseload, in comparison to their racial/ethnic population in
California.
2. Based on the analysis performed by the state of California SRC, there is s a need
for improvements in the DOR process of reaching unserved Hispanic/Latino
consumers and the percentage of this population represented in the DOR’s
caseload. (DOR, 2012a)
Currently the H/L population represents 30.3% of the DOR’s caseload in
California (DOR, 2013). According to the 2007 thru 2010 State DOR Annual Report,
this dilemma of unserved H/L consumers in the DOR caseloads has been identified for
over the last five years (DOR Annual Report, 2007-2012).
Purpose
The purpose of this project is to provide a manual for the California DOR teams,
management and staff to use, in order to increase the numbers of their California H/L
consumers. This project summarizes information about the H/L culture; brings an
awareness of cultural norms of the H/L population to the DOR teams, management, and
staff; and highlights the overall separation among the Hispanics/Latinos population with
disabilities for the DOR, Roseville office in order to increase consumer numbers. The
differences among the H/L population include the fears of cultural discrimination,
6
deportation, ageism, educational barriers, and conditional labels from the federal
government. Increasing the numbers of Hispanic/Latino consumers at the Roseville DOR
office will broaden the diversity and cultural content of the QRP caseloads of consumers
and represent the population of increasing H/L in the community.
Providing culture awareness to the DOR teams, management, and staff about the
increasing population of Hispanic/Latino in the city of Roseville will assist and attract
H/L consumers to the DOR office for services. The cultural awareness will also assist the
DOR in acquiring a much deeper self-knowledge and will give a better understanding of
the H/L beliefs, actions, and responses toward others. More importantly, providing the
DOR with the cultural awareness of the H/L community is the first step in making the
staff proficient in working well with people from a variety of cultures (NCCC, 2012).
The information in this project will add to the cultural knowledge of various DOR teams,
management, and staff regarding Hispanics/Latinos. It is hoped this project will provide
the DOR teams, management, and staff with the cultural knowledge and various ways to
connect with Hispanics/Latinos (H/L) who will come into the DOR office in Roseville.
Definitions of Terms
American with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in employment,
transportation, public accommodation, communications, and governmental
activities. The ADA also establishes requirements for telecommunications relay
services (United States Department of Justice [DOJ], 2013).
7
On July 26, 1999, the ADA act was signed by the President George H.W.
Bush. ADA can be regarded as the most comprehensive piece of legislation
according to which a disabled person should not be discriminated against. ADA
provides guarantee to the disabled persons that they are entitled to have the same
opportunities as everyone else. They are equally allowed to take part in American
life so they can enjoy employment opportunities; they can make purchases of
goods and services, and can take part in state or local government programs and
services (DOJ, 2013).
With regard to the employment issue, ADA delegates this responsibility to
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). It is the job of
EEOC to enforce federal laws through which it can be ensured a person or an
applicant must not be discriminated against because of race, skin color, sex,
religion, age, disability of genetic information (U.S. Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission [EEOC], 2013a).
EEOC asserts that disability discrimination takes place when any
employer or any other entity covered by the American with Disability Act, as
amended, or the Rehabilitation Act, as amended, treats a qualified and deserving
individual with a disability who is an employee or an applicant in an unfavorable
way because he or she has a disability (EEOC, 2013b, para. 2).
8
Counselor Multicultural Competency
Multicultural competency refers to the attitudes and beliefs, knowledge, and skills
in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds (Matrone & Leahy, 2000).
To possess multicultural competency means to approach the process of counseling
with the perspective of the culture of the client (Sue & Sue, 2007). Counselors
are compelled by the professional ethics that they should not let the cultural
values and biases to override those of the clients (American Counseling
Association [ACA], 2005).
Department of Rehabilitation (DOR)
The mission of statement of the California DOR works in partnership with
consumers and other stakeholders to provide services and advocacy resulting in
employment, independent living, and equality for individuals with disabilities
(DOR, 2013).
The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) assists Californians with
disabilities to obtain and retain employment and maximize their equality and
ability to live independently in their communities. The DOR does this by
tailoring their services to each individual to ensure a greater chance of success.
The DOR also provides a vocational rehabilitation team to work closely with each
job seeker to establish the best combination of services and resources necessary to
prepare for, find, and retain employment (DOR, 2013).
9
Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) Teams
Teams are formed within DOR's 14 districts to include:
Six full teams comprised of one Rehabilitation Supervisor (RS) six Senior
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, Qualified Rehabilitation Professionals
(SVRC and QRP); two Service Coordinators (SC); one Employment Coordinator
(EC); and two Office Technician Generals (OT [G]).
Ten half-teams are comprised of one RS; three QRPs; one SC; 0.5 EC; and
one OT (G) (DOR, 2012b). The formation of half teams requires one Team
Manager to supervise two half teams. Human Resources Branch (HRB) staff will
work with District Implementation Planning Teams to staff VRSD teams and to
vet any exceptions to team composition (DOR, 2012c).
Familialismo
According to Merriam Webster Dictionary, familialismo is a social pattern
according to which a position is assumed by family of ascendance over the
interests of individuals (Merriam Webster, 2013). Latinos tend to be highly
group-oriented. A strong emphasis is placed on family as the major source of
one’s identity and protection against the hardships of life. This sense of family
belonging is intense and limited to family and close friends. People who are not
family or close friends are often slow to be given trust. The family model is an
extended one; grandparents, aunts, cousins, and even people who are not
biologically related may be considered part of the immediate family. The term
10
Latinos use to describe their supreme collective loyalty to extended family is
familismo. Financial support of the family by the individual and vice versa is
important and expected. (Cultural Values of Latino Patients and Families, 2011)
The decisions and behavior of each individual in the extended family are
based largely on pleasing the family; decisions are not to be made by the
individual without consulting the family. Failure of the clinician to recognize
familismo can potentially lead to conflicts, non-compliance, dissatisfaction with
care and poor continuity. Familismo can delay important medical or career
decisions because extended family consultation can be time consuming. To gain
the trust and confidence of the Latino patient/parent, it is important to solicit
opinions from other family members who may be present and give ample time for
the extended family to discuss important medical or career decisions. (Cultural
Values of Latino Patients and Families, 2011)
Hispanic or Latino
It refers to a person of Central or South American, Puerto Rican, Mexican, Cuban
or any other Spanish origin or culture, irrespective of their race (U.S. Census,
2012a).
According to the Pew Hispanic Center there are two approaches through which a
person living in USA can be identified as Hispanic/Latino. The first approach
regarded an individual as Hispanic or Latino whose origin can be traced back to
any of the twenty Spanish speaking nations from Latin America and Spain itself
11
(It does not include Portugal or Portuguese speaking Brazil). Another approach
asserts that an individual is Hispanic if he or she considers himself as Hispanic
and those who do not consider themselves as Hispanics are not Hispanics (Pew
Hispanic Center, 2009).
The National Research Center Hispanics and Latinos (2012) sees this
group of ethno-linguistic who live in United States with their origin in the
countries of Latin America or the Iberian Peninsula as Hispanics or Latinos.
National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR)
NIDRR is a part of Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services
(OSERS) in United States. It is the key federal organization that supports training
and development and applied research for improving the lives of people with
disabilities. The accomplishment of mission of NIDR is the first step toward the
improvement of lives of people with disabilities.
Its mission is to develop new knowledge along with promoting its
effective use to advance the skills of people who have disabilities to execute
actions in the community. It also focuses on expanding the capacity of society to
offer complete accommodations and opportunities for the people having
disabilities. Toward such end, it performs coordinated and comprehensive
programs of research and the activities related to it for maximizing the full
inclusion, independent living, employment, and social integration of people of
different ages with disabilities. It also emphasizes research in different areas,
12
which include community integration, independent living, technology for function
and access, health function, employment and other areas of research associated
with disability (ed.gov, 2013).
Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)
RSA provides programs that assist and guide the people who have mental or
physical disabilities for obtaining employment and living more independently by
offering different kinds of support such as job training, psychological and medical
services, counseling, and other types of customized services.
With the help of its many programs and projects, RSA makes the
provision of an array of unrestricted grants and other prospects for funding to
provide the people who are disabled. It is responsible for implementation,
development, and formulation of guidelines, policies, and regulations. It also
serves as a clearinghouse and resource of information for different service
providers at local, state, and national levels in developing national programs for
eliminating or reducing the environmental and social barriers experienced by
people who have disabilities (ed.gov, 2013).
Its grant program called Title 1 formula offers funds to the vocational
rehabilitation organizations at state level for providing services related to
employment for people with disabilities in which priority is given to people who
are significantly disabled. The VR is a state federal partnership. This system is
administered through RSA, which is a division of the OSERS; all of these systems
13
are under the U.S. Department of Education. RSA jointly funds state VR
programs, and state programs determine the focus and structure of their own
system.
The RSA was formed by Congress as the main federal organization, which
has the authorization to perform the Titles I, III, VI and VII along with certain
portions of Title V of the RSA ACT of 1973. It also offers administration and
national leadership of the formula and basic grant programs, service projects,
independent living centers and the discretionary grant programs for rehabilitation
training (Cordingly, 2007).
These different programs implement and develop coordinated and
comprehensive programs of vocational rehabilitation, supported independent
living and employment for people with disabilities through economic
opportunities, training and services for maximizing their employability, and
integration and independence in the workplace and community.
State Rehabilitation Counsel for the State of California (SRC)
SRC's works in partnership with the California Department of Rehabilitation
(DOR) to review evaluate and advise the DOR regarding its specific and overall
performance and effectiveness. The SRC also works in partnership with DOR to
develop, agree to, and review state goals and priorities (rehab.cahwnet.gov, 2013).
14
Limitations of the Project
Every study conducted will have some obstacles that restrict the full and in-depth
exploration of the issue at hand. Similarly, this study also involves certain limitations.
The limitation involved in this project or manual is related to continuous updates on
various statistics used in the study. The data and statistics taken from the various reports
were gathered from the time period of 2006 to 2013.
This project is also limited to and mainly focuses on the Hispanic/Latino
population of California. This project does not address Hispanics/Latinos on a national
basis, except to offer statistics that can be compared to that of California. It does not
address how each of the state and local agencies in California increase the number of
their Hispanic/Latino consumers.
The last and final limitation of this project is the author’s biases. The author who
is African American may be presented with society stereotypes, color biases,
discrimination, and traditions around the Hispanic/Latino cultural and may have
unwillingly excluded generational changes, norms, socioeconomic factors, and privileges.
Organization of Project
This project consists of four chapters and an appendix. The first chapter of this
project provided an overview of the topic and background information, a statement of the
problem, discussed the limitations of this manual, and a few of the terms relevant to the
project were defined. The next chapter is the literature review. The literature review
contains various information and studies previously performed and presented within this
15
topic. The literature review starts with the general introduction of the topic and reviews
basic concepts and then moves on to describe in-depth concepts. The third chapter is the
methodology section. This chapter describes the methodology the author utilized to
achieve the purpose of the study. Chapter 4 provides the summary and recommendations
for future research. The Appendix includes a manual guide on how to increase H/L
consumers for the State of California DOR office.
16
Chapter 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
Introduction
In this chapter, a review of the literature about Hispanics/Latinos in the US and
California with regard to their disabilities and employment is explored. This chapter also
identifies and defines factors of the Hispanic/Latino (H/L) population and relevant
definitions. The second section focuses on the national and the state of California
statistics of the H/L population. The third section focuses on the main vocational
rehabilitation services available at the federal and state of California levels for individuals
with disabilities and the services DOR provides.
The majority of the ethnic groups in the United States are labeled or categorized
for various reasons; however, most of these categories are used to assist various
researchers and governmental officials with statistical data and population changes (U.S.
Bureau of the Census, 2012a). To better understand the population in this manual, it is
essential to first comprehend the uniqueness of the H/L population. The next section
defines and identifies the H/L population and the cultural norms to better understand
them.
Defining and Identifying the Hispanic/Latino Population
Before the various characteristics of the H/L population are presented, there are
some definitions that need to be covered to understand the concept of the material being
presented. First and foremost, the United States (US) government uses the term
17
“Hispanics” or “Latinos” in accordance with the U.S. Census Bureau. This definition
identifies Hispanics or Latinos as people of Central or South American, Puerto Rican,
Mexican, Cuban, or other Spanish origin or culture regardless of race (U.S. Bureau of the
Census, 2012a). Although Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has established
guidelines and a basic definition of this population, in reality the U.S. Census Bureau and
other agencies rely heavily on self-reports in order to govern the ethnicity in terms of
being Hispanic or Latino (Passel & Taylor, 2009).
The usage of terms Latino or Hispanic is to explain Americans of Spanish descent
or origin. These terms are only present in United States due to their meaning, which is
continuously evolving and changing (Pew Hispanic Center, 2013). Although these terms
are used daily in the US, they are not widely used outside the US and might also have a
different meaning (National Research Council, 2006). According to a survey released by
the Pew Hispanic Center in 2012, the term Hispanics is used to explain that individuality
differs from one place to another.
However, when looking at the term Latino(s), this term is referred by many as
being part of a large population composed of mixed subgroups of individuals who are
descendants from different countries in Latin America (Pew Hispanic Center, 2012).
Although H/L are categorized differently by an array of Americans, some individuals
from Mexico see this term as inappropriate, offensive, or even disrespectful to their
culture. On the other hand, there are numerous subcategories for people who are from
Mexico or Latin America identified as Latinos (Pew Hispanic Center, 2012). Each of
18
these identified subcategories fluctuates in their cultural practices, traditions, religious
affiliation, food, and even in language. In general, the H/L make-up is unique and differs
according to age, gender, acculturation, native country, and sexual preference among
other factors (Pew Hispanic Center, 2012). The term Hispanic as well as Latinos are
used interchangeably through the US. Hispanic is more commonly used in places like
Texas while Latino is more commonly used in other areas like California (Rojas, 2012).
Individuals who identify themselves as Latino or Hispanic are people who
categorize themselves as one or the other Latino or Hispanic categories provided by the
U.S. Census Bureau and OMB– “Mexican, Mexican American, Chicano” or ”Puerto
Rican” or “Cuban” – as well as those who indicate they are of “another Hispanic, Latino,
or Spanish origin.” Furthermore, when looking at the origin for an individual or group, it
can also reflect the country of birth, lineage, nationality group or heritage of the people or
their ancestors before they arrived in United States (U.S. Bureau of the Census, 2012a).
Besides the Latino or Hispanic categories identified, there is also an additional
category the US Census Bureau has generated; it is labeled as “Other Hispanic” (U.S.
Bureau of the Census, 2012a). In the American Community Survey (ACS) of 2010,
almost 37% of the Hispanics from New Mexico called themselves as Other Hispanics.
Furthermore, Latino was considered as the alternative to the mandated term of Hispanic
by the government. Presently, both of these terms have become government-mandated
terms. The term Hispanic is used more on the East Coast than in West (Rojas, 2012).
19
The ethnic grouping in the 2010 Census reveals the social classification of race
accepted in the U.S. and not in determination to describe race genetically,
anthropologically, or biologically. The identified race categories consist of socio-cultural
groups, of national and or racial origin. Many individuals might opt to report more than
one race to show their racial mixture such as White or American Indian, but individuals
who categorize their origin as Spanish, Latino, or Hispanic can be from any race (U.S.
Bureau of the Census, 2012a).
Mexicans make up a massive portion of Latinos or Hispanics residing in the
United States, which spreads over into immigration. The migration of people of this
population from Mexico stems back to the signing of the Guadalupe Hidalgo Peace
Treaty of 1848. This treaty sanctioned a great loss of Mexico’s Northern territories and
the working agricultural sector which has attracted many Mexican immigrants (De Fina,
2003). Mexican workers continue to immigrate to the United States today. It is difficult
to find a way to track the number of immigrants of any origin as they live in fear of being
deported if they document their legal status, and many undocumented immigrants hide
their true identity.
A trans-migrant worker in the United States is one who works in the agriculture
sector, 55% of which are undocumented and approximately 95% of the new seasonal
farm workers are foreign-born (Martin as cited in Cazares, 2008). Between the years of
2003 and 2004, 96% of farm workers were from Mexico, and the remaining 4% came
from other parts in Latin America (Aguirre International as cited in Cazares, 2008). For
20
the most part, field workers come from Mexico to work in the fields seasonally as
temporary guest workers and then return to Mexico when the crop season was over. In
most cases, there is more than one member of the family in the guest worker program,
which requires them to transmigrate along with their family. Therefore, single transmigrant workers and trans-migrant families move back and forth between Mexico and the
United States throughout the year, which lacks long-term stable residence and knowledge
of the local resources available in the communities in which they temporarily reside. The
duration in which trans-migrant families live from place to place may exacerbate their
capacity to build a local support network and relationships to alleviate the transitional
stress, which increases their chances of experiencing psychological distress (Furman et
al., 2009). This is only one type of disability Latinos experience in America. However,
many are not served by federal and local agencies (Furman et al., 2009).
National and California Statistics
Among the 50.7 million Hispanics in the US, almost two-thirds, or 33 million,
identify themselves as Mexicans or come from Mexican origins. The tabulation of the
2010 American Community Survey (ACS) conducted, along with the Pew Hispanic
Survey in 2012, a project of the Pew Research Centre, provided the information that no
other Hispanic subgroup could compete with the size of the Mexican-origin population.
Puerto Ricans are the nation’s second largest Hispanic origin subgroup that makes up 9%
of the total Hispanic population in the US.
21
Looking at the percentage of the population of H/Ls in the US, they identify as
either Hispanics or Latino origin (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2011)
However, when this information is broken down by states, California has the largest
Hispanic origin population of 14 million followed by 25 other states (Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, 2012). Ninety-two percent of the US Hispanic population is
comprised of the 10 largest Hispanic group origins. The 10 different Hispanic groups
include Peruvians, Mexicans, Ecuadorians, Puerto Ricans, Hondurans, Cubans,
Colombians, Salvadorans, Guatemalans, and Dominicans (Motel & Patten, 2012).
Although the major origins have been identified with their different perceptions and
views of being H/L, there are heavier concentrations of subgroups in various geographic
concentration, states, and regions. The western states in the US have a vast concentration
of Mexicans, Guatemalans, and Salvadorans, whereas in the South, the majority is
compromised of Cubans, Peruvians, Colombians, and Hondurans (Motel & Patten, 2012).
The Los Angeles region, however, has the largest community of Guatemalans,
Salvadorans, and Mexican groups in the US. The Los Angeles region alone holds 9% of
the country’s Hispanic population, whereas New York, specifically the Bronx region, has
the largest Dominican and Puerto Rican populations and the Queens Region has the
largest Ecuadorian population (Motel & Patten, 2012).
In 2010, approximately 56.7 million people were living with some form of
disability in the US. When adjustment was made for the aging population, the disability
rate declined from 18.6% to 18.1% (U.S. Bureau of the Census, 2012c). According to the
22
Disability Status Report of 2011, in the US in 2011, the overall percentage (prevalence
rate) of disability among people of Hispanic/Latino origin of all ages was 8.3%, in other
words, in 2011, 4.3 million of the 51.4 million people of H/L origin of all ages in the US
(U.S. Bureau of the Census, 2012c). In the Latino population, the general disability rate
was somewhat elevated than average, 20.9%. On the contrary, the age-standardization
raised the disability rate from 13.2% to 17.8% for the H/L population (U.S. Bureau of the
Census, 2012c).
It is also important to consider that as compared to the racial groups, the working
age Latinos (individuals in the age range between 16 to 64) are suffering more from
disability. The data released from the Census Bureau in the year 2000 revealed that 24%
of the working-age Latinos were suffering from some sort of disability as compared to
the 16.2% of working-age non Hispanic white people and 18.6% for all groups (U.S.
Department of Health & Human Services, 2006, Table 2).
In 2011, the prevalence rate for working-age people of ages 21 to 64 was 10.3%
(U.S. Bureau of the Census, 2012a). Among Whites it was 14.2% and Latino Americans
was reported at a level of 8.3%, among all minority groups. However, when looking at
the California numbers, approximately 38.4 million Hispanics live in California.
California is the most populous sub-national entity in North America. If it were an
independent country, California would rank 34th in population in the world. It has a
larger population than all of Canada (Thompson, 2007).
23
In 2010, the state's five most populous counties are Los Angeles County, San
Diego County, Orange County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County, with
Riverside County having the largest percentage increase in population (Tredwell, 2010).
The largest metro areas in California, as of 2010, are Los Angeles, San FranciscoOakland, San Diego, Riverside-San Bernardino, and Sacramento U.S. Census Bureau,
2012b).
In nine counties in California, the population of H/L is considered the majority of
the population. These nine counties consist of Imperial, Tulare, Monterey, Kings, San
Benito, Merced, and Fresno (Lin, 2011). One of the overwhelming facts is that in
California, the majority of the Latinos, approximately 82%, are considered of Mexican
descent (Aguilar-Gaxiola, Loera, Méndez, & Sala, 2012). Among the immigrants of
California, Mexicans make up the largest portion of the Latino population. Between
2000 and 2010, 4 million (33%) Mexican people came to the U.S. with more than 2.8
million (70%) having relocated to California (Aguilar-Gaxiola et al., 2012). For more
than 150 years, the immigrants from Mexico have been migrating to California (AguilarGaxiola et al., 2012). Furthermore, a large number of Latinos from the Caribbean, South
America, and Central America are also immigrating to California (Pew Hispanic Center,
2010).
According to 2011 U.S. Census Bureau, estimates, California's population was
39.7% Non-Hispanic White, 6.6% Black or African American, 13.6% Asian, 1.0%
American Indian, 0.4% Pacific Islander and 3.6% from two or more races. White
24
Americans make up 74.0% of the total population. By ethnicity, 38.1% of the total
population is Hispanic/Latinos (of any race) and 61.9% Non-Hispanic (of any race) (U.S.
Bureau of the Census, 2013).
California has the largest population of White Americans in the U.S., totaling
21,453,934 residents as of the 2010 census. As of 2011, California has the largest
minority population in the United States. While the population of minorities accounts for
100.7 million of 300 million U.S. residents, 20% of the national total live in California
(U.S. Bureau of the Census, 2013). New Mexico and Texas have higher percentages of
Latinos, but California has the highest total number of Latinos of any U.S. state. Only
Hawaii has a higher Asian American percentage than California. However, when looking
at the disability statutes in Roseville, the 2010 US Census the Hispanic population in
Roseville was 9,225 of the total population (Roseville California, 2014).
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
The Vocational Rehabilitation Amendments (1998) reshaped the roles of the
federal and state government in the rehabilitation program, established the basis for a
working relationship between public and private rehabilitation, and expanded the role of
the state agency. They established funding sources for (a) college and university training
of rehabilitation professionals, (b) improvement and remodeling of rehabilitation
facilities, and (c) research and demonstration grants. They increased federal funding to
states (3 federal dollars for each $2 from the state) and increased services to persons with
25
mental retardation and mental illness through items (2) and (3) above along with agency
expansion and improvement grants (Colorado State University, 2014)
Another purpose is to update personnel employed in the public rehabilitation
program with the skills and knowledge to find stable and reliable employment. Clients
involved in the state-federal programs of vocational rehabilitation require a
comprehensive scope of services. In order to provide these services, it is essential that
employees at these centers be provided with numerous skills. To meet this need
rehabilitation training grants are awarded to make sure that staff is trained to teach a
variety of and necessary skills as well a diverse expertise in culture relations. State
vocational rehabilitation agencies and public and private nonprofit organizations through
service arrangements with state vocational rehabilitation agencies provide such services
(Ed.gov, 2012).
Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)
RSA was established to administer portions of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
This federal agency is authorized to carry out Titles I, III, VI, and VII as well as some
portions of Title V of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 after the amendments. RSA makes
the provision of national leadership and administration support with regard to the
following (Ed.gov, 2012):

Helen Keller National Center Programs

Basic state and formula grant programs

Randolph Sheppard vending facilities
26

Independent living centers

Rehabilitation training discretionary grant programs

Service projects
It is the mission of the RSA to make the provision of quality and comprehensive
vocational rehabilitation as well as independent living services to those disabled
individuals who are eligible to get all these services. RSA has the responsibility to
formulate, develop, and implement guidelines, policies, and regulations. At a national,
state, and local level, RSA acts as a source and hub of information for service providers
(U.S. Department of Education, 2014).
RSA is in charge of the following:

administering formula and discretionary grant programs authorized by
Congress;

evaluating, monitoring, and reporting on the implementation of Federal policy
and programs and the effectiveness of vocational rehabilitation, supported
employment, independent living, and other related programs for individuals
with disabilities;

Coordinating with other Federal agencies, State agencies, and the private
sector including professional organizations, service providers, and
organizations of persons with disabilities for the review of program planning,
implementation, and monitoring issues (U. S. Department of Education, n.d.).
27
Department of Rehabilitation (DOR)
The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) in the state of California is an
organization that provides assistance and support to all Californians with disabilities to
get and maintain employment while at the same time to maximize their ability to live in
an independent way within their communities. The DOR addresses all such needs of
individuals who may have every kind and category of disability. All the eligible
Californians get vocational rehabilitation services by DOR. The DOR also makes sure
the American Disability Act’s (ADA) 29 independent living centers provide services and
information and referrals to help individuals suffering from disabilities to live
independently and live active lives. In a nutshell, it can be stated that vocational
rehabilitation services are offered by DOR. These services are devised in such a way so
Californians with disabilities can be prepared for employment. Once people with
disabilities get prepared, they move to the next level where they indulge in training,
education, and transportation and placement of a job (DOR, 2013a).
Programs and services related to vocational rehabilitation and independent living
with a priority on service for people who have disabilities are developed, purchased, and
provided by the DOR of the state of California. Some of the services provided to
consumers by the DOR are in Table 1.
28
Table 1
Services of DOR
Blind services
counseling and guidance
services to the families
referrals and support to get
services from other related
services
support to the employment
services
technical support and
assistance for self
employment
rehabilitation assistive
technology
vocational and other
training services
assistance and support with
regard to the job search and
placement assistance
occupational licenses,
supplies, tools, equipment
and initial stocks
transportation services if
needed
services of interpreter
on the job and personal
assistance services
help disabled people in the
diagnosis and treatment of
the physical and mental
impairment
services related to
orientation and mobility for
individuals who cannot see
Source: DOR (n.d.)
All of the services in Table 1 and many others are designed in such a way that
they provide Californians with disabilities with preparation for employment. While DOR
indulges in the development, purchase and provision of programs and services in
vocational rehabilitation, priority is given to service for persons who have most
significant disabilities (DOR, n.d.).
The California DOR administers the largest vocational rehabilitation programs in
the country. The three-pronged mission of DOR is to provide services and advocacy that
provide assistance to the people who have disabilities to live their lives in an independent
way, to become employed and to have quality in the communities where they live or
where they work (DOR, n.d.). The California DOR forms a partnership with the
consumers and other stakeholders in order to make the provision of services and
29
advocacy that may result in employment, independent living, and equal opportunities and
treatment of people with disabilities (DOR, 2013b).
Various services offered by DOR include consultation, counseling, and vocational
rehabilitation to the people with disabilities. DOR works with the partners of community
to provide assistance to the consumers they serve (DOR, 2013b).
State Rehabilitation Council (SRC)
It is the mission of the California State Rehabilitation Council (SRC), in
partnership with the California DOR, to assure that all Californians with disabilities are
represented, informed and empowered; receive necessary, sufficient and timely
individualized services; and that these services are excellent and lead to meaningful
employment. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended in 1998, requires the existence
of a SRC. The SRC consists of a diverse membership, who are interested in and
representative of Californians with disabilities. The SRC works in partnership with the
Sate of California DOR, to review, evaluate and advise the DOR regarding its specific
and overall performance and effectiveness. The SRC also works in partnership with the
DOR to develop, agree to, and review state goals and priorities (DOR, 2013b).
The amendments of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, passed in 1998, require there
to be a State Rehabilitation Council in every state. The SRC has diverse memberships
who take interest and represent people with disabilities. SRC in the State of California
works in collaboration with DOR to review; formulate and set goals; analyze; and advise
30
on various issues, ideas, and overall performance and effectiveness of the agency (DOR,
2013b).
Summary
In Chapter 2, the author provided a general introduction and a basic review of the
literature regarding Hispanics/Latinos (H/L) in the US and California with regard to their
disabilities and employment. In the first section, the author defined and identified factors
of the H/L population. The next section discusses the national and the state of California
statistics about H/L population and disability statistics. The last section discussed
vocational rehabilitation agencies such as the Rehabilitation Services Administration
(RSA), the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR), and the State Rehabilitation Council
(SRC).
31
Chapter 3
METHODOLOGY
Review of Sources
In preparing the literature review section of this project, the author read books and
performed library research through EBSCO, ERIC, Google Scholar, PROQUEST and
U.S.gov, The Government Web Portal from which the author reviewed several peerreviewed articles. The author gathered these peer-reviewed articles from the
Rehabilitation Counseling Bulletin, the Journals of Head Trauma, Vocational
Rehabilitation, Applied Business Research, and Counseling and Development. The
majority of the reviewed articles were about the Hispanic/Latino (H/L) population. From
the peer review articles gathered, the author focused on information on the H/L
populations, which included information on cultural norms and federal and state
vocational rehabilitation services.
In addition to the various material discussed, the author recovered information
about the H/L population from numerous State of California Department of
Rehabilitation(DOR) reports and publications, State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) annual
reports, and U.S. Census Bureau reports. The one publication the author also utilized is
the Consumer Information Handbook (2011). This publication covers the mission,
purpose, who should apply, how to apply, assessment process, basic eligibility guidelines,
receiving services and order selection, development of Individualized Plan for
32
Employment (IPE), some basic definitions, and the DOR basic overall process. The
Consumer Information Handbook is also published in Spanish for consumers.
The author performed several interviews with DOR management and staff in
regard to inquiring about the unserved and underserved H/L population service needs and
ideas for improvement throughout from September 2010 through March 2014. The
individuals the author interviewed were listed as Senior Vocational Rehabilitation
Counselor – Qualified Rehabilitation Professionals (SVRC-QRP), Rehabilitation
Supervisors (RS), Caseworkers (CS), Service Coordinators (SC), Service Analysts,
Diversity Officer (DO) of the DOR, Chief Training Officer of Staff Development
Section, Workforce Succession Planning, and Diversity Outreach of the DOR and the
DOR External Affairs, Budgets, Fiscal Forecasting, and Research section.
Method
In the fall 2011 semester, the author completed 60 hours of volunteer service for
EDS 462-Observations in Rehabilitation at the California DOR, Roseville office. While
completing these service hours the author discussed some options of doing her graduate
project around the DOR, Roseville office. The author and Almon Holmes, RS, talked
about some possible topics the author could explore for her masters degree in the
Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling program at California State University, Sacramento
(CSUS).
Throughout the fall semester, the author and Mr. Holmes discussed various topics
and determined the author could perform her project on one of the unserved or
33
underserved populations of the DOR. Mr. Holmes also indicated to the author that the
DOR was undergoing some changes throughout the DOR organization and technology
system. One of the major changes the DOR organization implemented in the fall of 2011
was determining how to meet service challenges of the unserved and underserved
consumers with disabilities of California. This project ties into that goal.
The author began to gather, as well as analyze, various DOR and SRC annual
reports that revealing the various challenges of the DOR. The author continued to gather
research articles regarding the unserved and underserved H/L population during fall 2010
and into spring 2012. The author then submitted a proposal in fall 2012 to the advisor of
the Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling program, Dr. Guy E. Deaner, for approval.
After receiving approval from the author’s graduate adviser to officially start her
graduate project on the topic presented, the author consulted Mr. Holmes for additional
information and guidance. Mr. Holmes suggested the author contact the diversity office
and research sections in addition to various personnel within DOR for assistance
retrieving the local ethnic consumer data about the H/L unserved and underserved
population.
On November 3, 2011, the author performed her first interview with Almon
Holmes, RS, at the Roseville office. Subsequent to this informational interview with Mr.
Holmes, the author formulated and developed questions regarding H/L consumer data,
policy, and cultural competency. During this interview, Mr. Holmes mentioned that the
Roseville DOR office H/L consumers’ numbers has not changed much over the previous
34
five years. Mr. Holmes stated that at this time, the H/L consumer numbers were
approximately 0.5% to 2% (at the most) of the total Roseville office caseload of the
approximately 425-500 open cases. Mr. Holmes additionally stated that the numbers of
individuals that are identified as H/L is extremely low in comparison to the increasing
population numbers of the California population and in comparison to the DOR overall
case load. Mr. Holmes concluded by saying, the DOR has expressed and is in great need
of Spanish speaking counselors as well as staff members to better service this increasing
population.
However, during the spring 2012 semester, Mr. Holmes was relocated to another
office due to the DOR organizational needs and reconfigurations. The author then
addressed various questions to Mark Frayser, the new Rehabilitation Supervisor. On
June 13, 2012, the author met up with Mr. Frayser for an interview about his views on the
H/L unserved and underserved consumer service needs and improvements at the DOR.
Mr. Frayser mentioned that according to his reports, Roseville consumers’ numbers were
low and in the previous years had not seen very much change in the numbers of the H/L
population numbers. Mr. Frayser also mentioned the DOR was in great need for Spanishspeaking counselors as well as people to perform a variety of community outreach in
order to better serve and attract more H/L consumers to the DOR.
On July 8, 2012, the author met with Ms. Charlotte Rose-Gomez, DOR Diversity
Officer, for an interview. We discussed her views the Roseville office and the DOR
numbers on the H/L unserved and underserved population. Ms. Rose-Gomez mentioned
35
that her personal views of H/L and her role as a DOR representative and diversity officer
clash. Ms. Rose-Gomez mentioned that the DOR could interact more with the unserved
communities as well as participate in a few cultural activities in order to attract more
consumers from the H/L population. Not only will this attract more H/L consumers but
build trust within the H/L community. Ms. Rose-Gomez also stated that her thoughts
might be ideal but the DOR is limited and do not allocated additional funding or have the
staff. She also believes that her role as the Diversity Officer is to develop the
competencies of all employees within the organization, address the needs of diverse
consumers, communicate with the agency on the diversity population of consumers and
employees and enhance the DOR’s services to the consumers and assist with the
underserved and unserved population. Ms. Rose-Gomez also stated that at times she has
to present ideas as well as and communicate how the DOR could improve their diverse
numbers of consumers and employees. Ms. Rose-Gomez also mentioned that her job
entails a lot of research, communication and education and with the changes that the
DOR is implementing soon her position and role will be changing however in a few
months she will be relocating to southern California.
On July 18, 2012 the author interviewed Danielle Lopez, a representative from the
Hispanics Empowerment Association of Roseville (H.E.A.R.). Ms. Lopez stated that the
Hispanic population in Roseville has increased since 2000. In 2000, there were
approximately 9,200 Hispanics in this area and by 2010 the numbers has almost doubled
to approximately 17,400. Ms. Lopez described the mission of H.E.A.R., their goals and
36
the collaboration with the city of Roseville to assist the H/L community. The
collaboration between the city of Roseville and H.E.A.R. includes translation services.
She explained that the Roseville DOR could utilized the translation services as needed to
communicate with H/L consumers by contacting her. The usual turn around period is
normally 24-48 hours.
Ms. Lopez mentioned that if the Roseville DOR wanted to be build a stronger
relationship with the H/L community and leaders, they could send a representative to
attend the H.E.A.R. monthly community meeting. Ms. Lopez stated that this interaction
would attract more H/L consumers to the Roseville DOR office. This collaboration will
also assist in building a better working between the DOR and the H.E.A.R. agency.
On July 20, 2012, the author performed an interview with Mrs. Latrece Walker, a
SVRC-QRP counselor, about her interactions and views on the H/L unserved and
underserved population at the DOR. During this interview, Mrs. Walker stated that at the
Roseville office, she had not seen very many consumers who identified themselves as
H/L in her caseload. “However, I have seen several of H/L come in for services and not
complete there individual employment plan (IPE) due to their family obligation and
commitments” (L. Walker, personal communication, July 20, 2012). Mrs. Walker also
mentioned that at times it would be beneficial to know more about the H/ L consumers’
in which are a part of her case load. Things such as culture norms and an overview of the
H/L mindsets can help to build a instead of using a blanket concept of things and
believing that all consumers should be treated the same culturally and building IPE for
37
consumers along with performing a variety of community outreach events for this
population during Cinco de Mayo and at career fairs to get more H/L consumers at the
Roseville office.
On August 14, 2012, the author met up with Ms. Cynthia Gooch, a SVRC-QRP
counselor, about her interactions and views on the H/L unserved and underserved
population. Ms. Gooch stated that as a counselor “I shouldn’t have to worry about the
consumers’ cultural views so much and just concentrate on the overall consumer skills
and abilities (personal communication). Ms. Gooch stated, “As a counselor, I focus on
the overall consumer and not just look at their culture so much when it comes to DOR
services and re-training options.” Furthermore, Ms. Gooch mentioned she was not very
knowledgeable about the H/L population besides Mexican food; however, her role as a
counselor was to focus on getting the individual re-trained and employable so they can
re-enter the workforce and be productive members of society. Ms. Gooch closed the
interview by saying, the DOR does not focus on or specialize their practices to an
individual culture or group of people; however, they treat all the consumers equally,
fairly, and according to the federal regulations.
On November 15, 2012, the author had an interview with Mrs. Kimberley Wong,
Service Coordinator (SC) and Administrative Analyst III, about her interactions and
views of the H/L unserved and underserved population at the Roseville office. Mrs.
Wong stated that her interaction with the H/L population of consumers who came in was
that sometimes there were major language barriers and they did not understand the
38
overall DOR process. When it is an issue that the consumer is in need of a Spanishspeaking counselor or interpreter, sometimes the consumers are referred to other offices
such as the Laguna Creek office in Elk Grove to better serve them (K. Wong, personal
communication, November 15, 2012).
On January 21, 2014, the author conducted an interview with Carlos Garcia, the
new DOR Diversity Officer, about his views and for his assistance to gather the Roseville
office numbers on the H/L unserved and underserved population. Mr. Garcia stated that
he is new in his position and not really sure what to think about the H/L population in the
Roseville area or with the DOR. Mr. Garcia also stated that he will have to refer me to his
supervisor, Mrs. Irene Walela for assistance.
On March 3, 2014, the author conducted an interviewed with Ms. Irene Walela,
Staff Services Manager II of the Staff Development Section, Workforce Succession
Planning and Diversity Outreach Office, for her assistance in gathering the unserved and
underserved H/L population Roseville office numbers. Ms. Walela mentioned that the
DOR has changed there policy on releasing and gathering ethnic information and will
have to do some research before she could release the number the author needed.
However, there is some data available online that’s listed by on various reports by
district. After several communications with Mrs. Walela, she responded with an email on
March18, 2014, stating that she spoke with the External Affairs office and the Budgets,
Fiscal Forecasting and Research Section to identify the process for responding to your
request. “Please send a written email request for five years of consumer ethnicity data in
39
the Roseville branch office as a “Public Records Request” to externalaffairs@dor.ca.gov
.If you have additional questions or concerns; please contact External Affairs at (916)
558-5874.”
On March 6, 2014, the author called the DOR External Affairs office and the
Budgets, Fiscal Forecasting and Research Section. The author spoke to an representative
on the phone and expressed to the author that the policies has changed drastically in the
last couple of years regarding specific ethnic data exchange and how its collected. So in
order to receive assistance from External Affairs department, she will need to take the
authors’ name along contact with information, the information that the author is
requesting in addition to requested time period, the purpose for the data. The author
complied with the representative’s request.
On March 7, 2014, the author emailed the External Affairs office at
externalaffairs@dor.ca.gov in regards to the protocol of releasing specific DOR offices
consumer ethnicity data for her graduate project. On March 18, 2014 the author emailed
the External Affairs office and the Budgets, Fiscal Forecasting and Research Section as
advised by Mrs. Walela as well requested a public record request. On March 21, 2014,
the author called the External Affairs office for an update on the last email and
communication request on the policy regarding retrieving and the release of specific
DOR ethnicity data. The External Affairs representative on the phone again expressed to
the author that there has been several policy changes regarding specific ethnic data
40
exchange and how it’s collected. She requested the author give her all of the authors’
information again and if the author do not receive a response in a few days to call back.
On March 21, 2014, the author received an email from External Affairs office
stating, “Unfortunately the information you are requesting, specifically on the ethnic
breakdown for consumers of the Roseville office over the past few years, is not among
the data sets that our Budgets, Fiscal Forecasting, and Research Section routinely draws.
As this data is not readily available it will require an estimated 2 hours of programming at
Full Cost Recovery of $82.77 an hour. If you still choose to proceed please let us know
and we will file this as a California Public Records Act request. If you need another type
of data which may be readily available, please let us know and we will get back to you
with the feasibility.” After receiving the email from DOR External Affairs office, the
author quickly informed her adviser of the situation in which resulted in the author
couldn’t include the data.
41
Chapter 4
SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
Most US states have begun to realize the importance of meeting the needs of
consumers with disabilities and to ensure they are gainfully employed. It is essential to
provide equal employment opportunities to every individual regardless of their disability.
It is also important the clients be treated equally and fairly and not be discriminated
against based on their race or ethnicity. The stigmatization of disability resulted in the
social and economic marginalization of generations of Americans with disabilities, and
like many other oppressed minorities, left people with disabilities in a severe state of
impoverishment for centuries.
In the first chapter of this project, the author provided background information
about the need to increase the H/L population in the Roseville office, outlined the
statement of the problem, and discussed the limitations and terms relevant to the project.
In Chapter 2, the author provided a general introduction and a basic review of the
literature about H/L in the US and California with regard to their disabilities and
employment. The author then defined and identified factors of the H/L population. The
next subject of discussion was national and the state of California statistics. The author
then proceeded to discuss vocational rehabilitation agencies such as the Rehabilitation
Service Administration (RSA), the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR), and the State
Rehabilitation Council (SRC).
42
The third chapter is the methodology section. This chapter described the
methodology the author utilized to achieve the purpose of the study. In this chapter, a
review of resources was revealed along with how the resources were collected, methods
of data collection, and personal interviews used in order to produce the Appendix.
Chapter 4 provides the summary and recommendations for future research. The
Appendix includes a resource guide on how to increase H/L consumers for the State of
California DOR. The project concludes with a list of available resources for H/L in the
surrounding area.
The purpose of this project is to produce a manual that would be useful to
California DOR management and SCs and QRPs in order to increase the numbers of their
H/L consumers. The individuals identified as H/Ls with disabilities continue to be faced
with the legal, social, and cultural concerns described in this project. It is hoped the
project will create awareness, provide knowledge, and assist in the continuous process of
improving equitable service to all persons who look for it at the Department of
Rehabilitation.
The manual summarizes information about the H/L culture and provides
awareness of cultural norms of the H/L population to the DOR teams, management, and
staff and that of the overall separation among the H/L population with disabilities from
the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR), Roseville office in order to increase consumer
numbers. The manual does not just provide the SRV-QRPs with cultural information but
also provides the DOR teams, management, and staff with information that would
43
strengthen their ability to provide culturally competent service to Hispanic/Latino
consumers.
Recommendations
The author recommends this Master’s Project be included as a resource with the
annual and online cultural trainings when it comes to increasing the numbers of H/L
consumers at the Roseville DOR office as well as when building bridges with the local
community.
To effectively bring about change with regard to culturally sensitive strategies, it
is recommended an annual cultural training seminar take place as well as online training
be implemented throughout the DOR agency. The DOR organization, especially the
Roseville office, needs to really consider training their staff members and SVRC-QRP to
make them more accepting and competent with the changes occurring in the communities
in which they work and live. Therefore, it is vital for organizations to ensure their
personnel develop competency and skills. More training requires more funding, and it is
clear through this research that more training is necessary for enhancing DOR
personnel’s cultural competency. In addition to Spanish-speaking counselors, cultural
awareness is needed by all counselors regarding the unserved and underserved population
of the DOR.
By addressing the diversity of consumers and employees, the DOR has ensured
continuous improvement and increasing experience, knowledge, and advocacy on behalf
of individuals with disabilities. Despite the poor economic conditions of the state, the
44
DOR is struggling to meet the needs of its consumers and plan its resources effectively
for maximizing resource utilization. Training and providing necessary services to
minorities requires significant financial assistance from both local and federal sources.
Funding is a major challenge for the DOR due to the fact it relies on the local and federal
governments. However, the created project speaks to a great need for cultural
competency at DOR, Roseville office, and DOR employees cannot ignore the problem it
addresses.
45
APPENDIX
Increasing the Number of Hispanic/ Latino Consumer for the California Department of
Rehabilitation (DOR) Roseville Office
46
Table of Contents
Introduction ........................................................................................................................47
How to Attract Hispanics/Latinos ......................................................................................47
A Guide to Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity ................................................................49
Cultural Values and Traits .................................................................................................51
Basic Cultural Awareness and Tips About the H/L Culture ..............................................53
Summary ............................................................................................................................55
Available Resources...........................................................................................................56
47
Introduction
California's population is one the most diverse in the country. The diversity in
California not only comes with a remarkable diverse population within the state but also
within the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) and its consumer population which it
serves. According to several DOR and State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) reports, there
is a great need throughout DOR to increase the Hispanic/ Latino (H/L) consumer
numbers.
According to the various DOR reports, H/Ls are a part of their unserved or
underserved race/ethnicity population. Given the low numbers of H/Ls being served in
specific DOR offices, many H/L are not receiving services and under served in the DOR
caseloads. As a result of the low numbers of the H/L being served throughout the DOR,
the agency has set a goal to reach its unserved and underserved populations. As a part of
reaching one of the set goals of the DOR of increasing the numbers of the unserved and
underserved population of H/L, the author has created this manual. The purpose of this
manual is to inform the Roseville DOR office of the H/L cultural norms and to assist with
increasing the consumer numbers at the Roseville DOR office.
How to Attract Hispanic/Latino
Traditional strategies such as general announcements advertised in the local newspaper,
don't always tend to work when it comes to reaching the H/L community. Below are a
few tips of some of the ways to increase the number of and attracting more H/L
consumers for the Roseville DOR office:
1. Attend community career fairs yearly such as the ones held at Adelente High School,
Sierra College and the Gold Country Fair Grounds. These career fairs focus on attracting
48
Spanish speaking people. The Roseville DOR office could attend a booth at these fairs to
become more visible within the H/L community.
2. In order to attract more Spanish speaking counselors and staff the DOR could include
the vocabulary for the need of Spanish speaking individuals in the job listings. The DOR
could also include the 5% bilingual incentives increase in salary for Spanish speaking
personnel.
3. The Roseville DOR office could place a more visible sign which can be seen from the
parking lot as well as display a sign in the door as consumers stating interpreters
available.
4. Generate and put up flyers in the high density areas where the H/L population shops
and mingles. On the flyers mention the purpose, mission and the services the DOR
provides and have it written in English as well as in the Spanish language to appeal to
H/L population.
5. Advertise and inform the community about the DOR and the locations on the local H/L
radio such as KCFA (106.1 FM) which is the radio station broadcasting a Regional
Mexican format. It is licensed in Arnold, California. The station is currently owned by La
Favorita Radio Network, Incorporation. In addition the Roseville DOR could advertise on
the Univision H/L television located off of Arden and Howe. The Roseville DOR can
contact the marketing department at http://www.univisionsacramento.com to reach out to
the H/L community.
6. Connect and work with various academic institutions within the Roseville area where
there is high H/L student or community population. The Roseville DOR needs to show
support and build visibility among the next generation of H/L future and generational
consumers.
7. Connect with various H/L associations such as Hispanic Empowerment Association of
Roseville (H.E.A.R) and Latino Leadership Council (LLC). H.E.A.R. is located at 136
49
Donner Ave, Roseville, California, 95678. There contact phone number is (916)7822040. HEAR are mediators for the various agencies within the greater Roseville area,
providing translation and mentoring programs to the H/L community.
The LLC is located at 1376 Blue Oaks Blvd, Roseville, California, 95679. There
contact phone number is (530) 333-3283. The LLC is dedicated to advancing the
wellness and leadership within the H/L community. The LLC provides a multitude of
services to the underserved Spanish-speaking populations through agencies, non-profits,
faith-based organizations.
A Guide to Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity
Cultural awareness and sensitivity is extremely essential in the state of California. Many
of the cities in California have an assortment of cultures that make up the communities.
Over the last 10 years, the communities have been changing drastically. In addition to the
changing cultures within the communities, the H/L population has also become the
biggest minority group in California.
1.
How can the Roseville DOR office develop cultural awareness of the H/L
population?
Here are some suggestions to assist with developing Roseville DOR office cultural
awareness:
 Develop awareness by taking a look at one’s own personal biases of the H/L
population.
 Become aware of the H/L cultural norms, attitudes and beliefs.
 Show the H/L consumer that he/she cares about the person and that he/she
honestly wants to help.
 Take time to listen to the H/L consumer and become aware of the consumer’s
needs.
50
 Acquire knowledge about H/L community by continued education: by attending
classes, seminars, multicultural conferences, webinars, reading books and cultural
events/festivals. The following are examples of the available continued education
opportunities.
 The Mexican Cultural Center of Northern California’s (MCCNC) is a one
of the many places that the Roseville DOR staff could attend classes and
learn more about the H/L population. The MCCNC’s mission is to enrich
the Sacramento area community through entertainment, education and
outreach activities that preserve Mexican heritage by fostering the artistic,
cultural and historical legacy of Mexico.
(http://www.mccnc.org/about.html).
 A website that offers webinars as well as a free 4-week Crash Course on
Multicultural Marketing. The Roseville DOR office can sign up for free
and receive industry-leading insights on multicultural online advertising.
No spam, just very, very interesting stuff. This website can be found at the
following link:
http://multicultural.joinville.se/ret_nov_13/?gclid=COfMrcOOmb4CFYJq
fgodcD8ANA.
 The Roseville DOR staff can also attend the Multicultural Education
Conference at California State University, Sacramento (CSUS) in the
Spring of 2015. The conference will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2015
in the University Union Ballroom at CSUS. For addition information
contact the College of Education department at www.csus.edu/coe.
Now developing cultural awareness and sensitivity is an ongoing process. It is very
important to view the H/L population as distinctive individuals and realize that each
of their experiences, beliefs, values and language affect their ways of interacting with
51
others and the larger community. Be aware that in their H/L population differences
also exist.
2.
How to improve the working relationship between the Roseville DOR counselors
and the local H/L community.
a. The DOR counselors will be able to build a strong working relationship with the
local H/L community and cultural organizations by becoming involved with
organization such as those listed above. The staff can attend board meetings and other
activities offered by the various agencies that are involved with the H/L community.
The word will spread within the H/L community that the Roseville DOR office is a
safe and trusted place to go for assistance after incurring an injury and for people with
disabilities within the H/L community. This will result in more H/L consumers that
will access services from the Roseville DOR office.
b. The DOR can provide annual H/L Cultural Training that are instructed by the
DOR Staff Development office. Another resource that can teach Cultural Training is
the local community leaders and volunteer(s) from the H/L community, such the
H.E.A.R agency. The staff development team and the community leaders can build a
curriculum such as webinars that could include cultures norms, order to educate the
Roseville DOR counselors how to communicate effectively with the H/L population.
Cultural Values and Traits
Having a lack of understanding and responding appropriately to cultural values of
consumers can have a variety of consequences. These consequences range from lack of
participation, non-compliance, and even decreased satisfaction in customer service. The
main challenge in working with consumers from different cultural backgrounds is being
able to use cultural generalizations appropriately without losing sight of the individual
consumer/family. To succeed in this challenge, counselors and government agencies must
52
keep in mind that differences occur between cultural subgroups just as individuals
subscribe to group norms to varying degrees.
A cultural description of Spanish-speaking people should include an understanding of
certain values and traits:

H/L Americans have a habit of avoiding competition or activities that will set
them apart from their own group.

To stand out among the H/L culture or one's peers is to place oneself in a
risky situation and should be avoided at all costs.

"Machismo" plays a substantial role in the Puerto Rican and other
Hispanic/Latino groups

Machismo is a gratifying term among the H/L culture

Significantly influences behavior and attitudes of adolescent males during
time of identity formation.

There is a division between the sexes in the H/L culture.

Boys or men are taught that machismo refers to manhood, courage to
fight, honor and dignity, keeping one's word, and protecting one's name.

Girls or women in the H/L culture are taught “Marianismo.” This means
that girls /women are taught to be responsible for the household, spiritual,
self-sacrificing and to define themselves through their children.

The man is the provider the family and will work hard in order to protect
and provide the needs of their family. The man is considered strong and
fearless.

The men in the H/L culture shows pride in personal conduct, respect for
others, love for the family, and affection for children.

Many children in the H/L culture are taught to not trust European Americans.
53

The H/L culture teaches to look at European Americans with fear and
hostility.

H/Ls have difficulty believing that European American professionals have
their best interests at heart.

many would not agree that the European American ideas of selfadvancement and equality within the family are necessary to sustain the
ideals of freedom, democracy, and progress.

In general, group-oriented Mexican American children are likely to change their
own behavior to adapt to an interpersonal challenge rather than try to change
situations. They are less assertive in expressing themselves to peers and adults
and rely on authority figures to resolve interpersonal problems.
Basic Cultural Awareness and Tips About the H/L Culture
The following is adapted from American Association of Christian Counselors, and
include the cultural awareness that DOR need to consider when counseling or working
with H/L consumers:
1. Be “extra” personal and friendly
Counselors really need to consider the H/L consumer’s views since cultural norms
influence personal communication. H/Ls value personalism. Counselors may need to be
“extra” personal and friendly with Hispanic/Latino consumers. Counselors will need to
be more consumers focused.
2.
Don’t expect the typical H/L
Be open to the diversity of the H/L population within California especially in
Sacramento, Roseville and the surrounding areas. Staff members and counselors should
be aware of the diversity that exists among the H/L population. H/L is multiethnic group
54
of people, of various racial backgrounds including white, black, mulattoes, mestizos and
even Asian. A multitude of countries are represented in the identified H/L group.
3.
Don’t stereotype
Try to avoid stereotyping, by gaining knowledge about the H/L culture. As well as
remember that the Hispanic/Latino population is a multicultural group made up of people
of different generations with varied levels of acculturation and different socioeconomic
background. Don’t assume that the consumer who identifies themselves as H/L speak
Spanish.
4. Avoid being ethnocentric
Try not to judge the H/L based on the norms and views of the American or your own
culture. Learn to appreciate cultural differences.
5.
Not to overstress culture
Be careful not to overstress cultural values such as independence and self-reliance at the
expense of H/L collectivistic values such as familismo and personalism.
6. Avoid focusing solely on an individual-centered approach
H/Ls are family-centered. Counselors need to be aware of considering the whole
family system.
7.
Build a bridge of communication
When Hispanic/Latino individuals show up in your office, it is because H/L need
assistance or guidance. If they lack English proficiency and you do not speak Spanish or
Portuguese, what should you do? Send them away? Not really. Counselors should seek to
build bridges. How? Be prepared to receive them by hiring professional interpreters,
hiring bilingual counselors, and learning Spanish or Portuguese.
55
8.
Don’t assume all H/Ls are acculturation is at the same level
Assuming that all H/Ls are acculturated can cause issues and misunderstandings. Not all
H/Ls are acculturated to American customs and do things so independently and without
the blessing of their family. Beware that there are several levels of acculturation in the
H/Ls culture.
9.
Don’t assume all H/Ls is Catholic
The Catholic religion is very strong among the H/L culture. Don’t assume all of them are
Catholic or religious. Ask before assuming of their religious beliefs instead of assuming.
10. Don’t be ignorant to cultures around you
Learn how to effectively communicate and counseling H/L consumers. Ignorance is no
excuse. Be informed about the culture first hand. Take online multi-cultural classes
annually to updated on cultural trends.
Summary
In summary, this manual briefly covers the importance of the Roseville DOR office
reaching one of the set goals implicated in several reports. The set goal of the DOR, is to
reach its unserved and underserved population in order to have a better representation of
the H/Ls in the DOR caseload. This manual also addresses various aspects of cultural
awareness, importance and how the Roseville DOR office can improve its consumer’s
numbers. The manual also touches on some of the H/L cultural values and traits along
with a few ways to attract more consumers from the H/L population.
56
Available Resources
The author has listed two of the active agencies which work with the H/L community.
a. Hispanic Empowerment Association of Roseville (H.E.A.R.)
136 Donner Avenue
Roseville, CA 95678
Phone: (916) 782-2040
Website: http://www.hear2000.org/
The goal of this organization is to promote active involvement by H/L in
neighborhoods, community organizations, and local government process in
Roseville.
H.E.A.R. also acts as a resource for the City of Roseville. To provide
information that is need to be translated into Spanish in order for the H/L
community to gain better access to the information necessary for them to
secede as a community. H.E.A.R. also provides scholarships and mentoring
programs to Hispanic youth that need role models and guidance toward their
advancement of career and education.
b. Latino Leadership Council [LLC]
2945 Bell Road, #274
Auburn, CA 95603
(530) 333-3283
1376 Blue Oaks Blvd,
57
Roseville, CA
95679
Website: http://latinoleadershipcouncil.org
The Latino Leadership Council (LLC) is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to
advancing the wellness and leadership capacity of Latino populations in
Northern California. The LLC provides education, advocacy, cultural
proficiency, and capacity building to Latino communities and public and
private partners. The LLC is comprised of individuals who provide a
multitude of services to the underserved Spanish-speaking populations
through agencies, non-profits, faith-based organizations, businesses and grass
roots initiatives.
The LLC’s mission is to not only build the skills of community members, but
of the agencies and organizations that serve them. LLC fills the service gaps
faced by Latino communities, work collaboratively to support existing
services or to make them more culturally proficient for the Latino
communities.
58
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