For the past 50 years Nicholls State University’s disabled students have been receiving assistance with the financial burdens of attending college from the Louisiana Rehabilitation Services. Their services date back to World War II when the soldiers returned from the war and required rehabilitation. They provide help with tuition, books and supplies, transportation and room and board. The purchase of supplies can be reimbursed, paid for directly from the Louisiana Rehabilitation Services or the Nicholls bookstore will provide a charge account.

“The ultimate goal for everyone is employment,” Debbie Aymond, district supervisor said.

Louisiana Rehabilitation Services provide assistance to 16-year-olds and older with disabilities including physical, mental and any severe medical illness, according to Aymond. They also provide assistance to those with substance abuse problems requiring treatment.

To be determined for eligibility one must call first.

“They will then receive a letter listing the things required to bring for their appointment,” Aymond said.

If unable to locate their medical information or current grade report or transcript, the staff at the local rehabilitation department will be glad to assist in locating the information. Louisiana Rehabilitation Services works closely with the Nicholls Dyslexia Center and the Office of Student Disabilities according to Aymond. After being referred, they will be assigned a counselor. They will be contacted within 48 hours and given an appointment within 60 days of eligibility.

When eligibility is determined, a developmental plan of service is put into place. A goal of achievement is written out along with what is necessary to achieve it. If needed, the counselor will help in identifying a goal and career choices. They may also help with determining what careers a person may be better suited for. If the goal is to become a lawyer or doctor, Louisiana Rehabilitation Services is willing to help the entire way.

“If students have graduated, we do assist with advanced degrees as long as it is aiming towards the overall goal of employment,” Aymond said.

Louisiana Rehabilitation Services requires that a student maintain full- time status, a 2.0 grade point average and that they continue to work towards their goal. Supplies have a price limit of about $400, but they do strive to grant all the degree requirements, according to Aymond. Their college services are income based.

Louisiana Rehabilitation Services’ success rate is very high.

“Clients are very motivated and many do seek employment following graduation,” Aymond stated.

The students who have used the services often get off government assistance and start paying taxes. The money invested is then returned in services provided, Aymond explained. Louisiana Rehabilitation Services is a state operated program and all their funds come directly from the federal government.

After graduation, Louisiana Rehabilitation Services will help with attaining a job and if need be go to job site, according to Aymond. They will give help to attend any state school. Anyone with a disability and in need of assistance should apply at their local office, or contact either the Thibodaux office at 985-447-0809, 1442 Tiger Drive or Houma office at 985-857-3652, 1198 Barrow Street.