Path to Independence

The Path To Independence (P2I) Program is a collaborative effort of UNR’s Nevada Center for Excellence in Disabilities (NCED), the University of Nevada Reno Extended Studies Department, the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR), Sierra Regional Center (SRC), Washoe County School District (WCSD) and Lyon County School District (LCSD).
P2I is an inclusive, two-year, non-degree certificate program. it is structured into three areas: Academics & Campus Activities, Employment, and Independent Living. Each student participates in Person Centered Planning (PCP) prior to the first semester, and then again each subsequent semester.
The results of the PCP will determine the level of academic involvement, since UNR courses will be the core of each student’s individualized plan. P2I students choose courses from the UNR general catalog. In conjunction with the independent living component and to encourage lifelong healthy living, each student will be urged to take one wellness/physical education class per semester. Students participate in campus activities such as clubs/organizations and sports activities. They receive academic support from educational coaches, who are also students at UNR.  In addition, students minoring in Developmental Disabilities (DD) act as social mentors for the P2I students.
Competitive Employment is the expected outcome for each student.  The employment component is done in conjuntion with Vocational Rehabilitation.  P2I uses the customized employment model and has a job developer on staff.  During the four semesters, students participate in a variety of job experiences:
Semester 1:  As the student is adjusting to college, there are weekly meetings with the job developer to discuss employment goals.
Semester 2:  Sudents participate in a rotation of three one-month on-campus iinternships, depending on their interests and abilities.
Semester 3:  Students work in a paid on-campus student job in an area of career interest.
Semester 4:  Students work in a paid on-campus job and work closely with job developer to obtain competitive employment upon graduation. Students  develop a resume and portfolio in conjunction with UNR's Career Studio.
An important aspect of college life for all students is learning to live independently. Path To Independence staff will assist each student to access community services, classes and supports that will lead to the desired independent living outcomes in the PCP. Beginning in fall 2021, P2I will collaborate with Sierra Regional Center to offer off-campus housing options. P2I students also attend one weekly class in Independent Living Skills, including: Skills to Pay the Bills, Money Matters, Self-Advocacy/Self-Determination, Nutrition & Cooking, and Relationships & Sexuality. Training in public transportation travel is also available.