FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  November 19, 2015
CONTACT: Jocelyn Harris, 202-730-1687; [email protected]

REHABILITATION SERVICES ADMINISTRATION INSTALLS NEW STATE COMMITTEE
Washington, DC— Four newly elected members to the Blind Vendors Committee (BVC) were recently sworn into office by the D.C. Department on Disability Services. Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) Deputy Director Andrew Reese issued the oath of service to Nicole Taylor, Billie Ruth Schlank, Brenda Beaty and Hazell Brooks. They are among seven members who will serve as advocates for licensed blind vendors associated with The Randolph Sheppard Vending Facilities Program (RSVFP). 
RSA serves as the State Licensing Agency (SLA) for the vending facilities program, designed to help people who are blind achieve financial independence. Members of the BVC collaborate with the SLA regarding program and policy development affecting vending facilities operations, advocate for blind vendors regarding any grievances or concerns, and ensure that blind vendors are trained as needed to become and remain successful entrepreneurs.
The Randolph Sheppard Act of 1936 established the Business Enterprise Program (BEP) for people who are blind, providing an opportunity for business entrepreneurship and self-support through the operation of vending facilities on federal, state, and other property. DDS/RSA currently supports 18 vendors operating in 32 locations across the metro area.   Learn more about the Randolph Sheppard Vending Facilities Program and the BVC at: www.dds.dc.gov or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DDS.DC.