Section 121, refers to the section in the Rehabilitation Act,
which addresses American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation.

The American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Projects
arose from the fact that while American Indians had
one of the highest disability profiles in the country,
they were the least successfully served by State vocational
rehabilitation agencies throughout the country.
 In 1983, Section 121 became part of the Rehabilitation Act.

Many times 121 Projects are asked,
“What is the difference between the 121 program
and state vocational rehabilitation?”

¨ The purpose of the section 121 projects is to provide vocational
rehabilitation services to American Indians with disabilities,
who reside on or near Federal or State Reservations,
who are a member of a State or Federal Tribe.

¨ Applications for funding under Section 121 can only be made
by a State or Federally Recognized Tribe.

¨ Section 121 programs are mandated to establish
a cooperative agreement with the appropriate state
vocational rehabilitation agency.

¨ Section 121 programs provide culturally relevant services
to American Indians with disabilities including:

· Wellness Training

· Instruction in Native Crafts such as pottery, clothing,
beadwork, and finger weaving, which may substantiate
self employment

· Provision of Native Healing Practices,
including participation in Ceremonial Activities.