By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
For many tribal members, barriers such as permanent physical or mental impairment, medical conditions, substance use disorder, suspended driver’s licenses, past legal issues, or limited work history can make steady employment feel out of reach. The North Intertribal Vocational Rehabilitation Program is addressing those barriers one by one, helping Native individuals move toward stable and meaningful work.
At Tulalip and in neighboring Native communities, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Sandy Gotts with the North Intertribal Vocational Rehabilitation Program works directly with clients, helping them identify their goals and remove the obstacles standing in their way.
“We don’t find jobs for people,” Sandy explained. “What we do is help eliminate the barriers of why they haven’t been able to become employed.”
The process begins with an application and eligibility determination. Once approved, clients work one-on-one with Sandy to develop an individualized employment plan. That plan outlines a clear employment goal, identifies the barriers to progress, and determines the steps needed to reach it.
The program is available to enrolled members of federally recognized tribes who qualify, reside in Skagit, Snohomish, or Whatcom counties, and have a permanent physical or mental impairment that affects their ability to find or keep employment. They must need vocational rehabilitation services and be able to benefit from those services to achieve an employment goal.
Disabilities may include diabetes, arthritis, depression, hearing or vision loss, substance use disorders, learning difficulties, or permanent injuries such as back or head trauma. If a medical condition or recovery journey has made it difficult to get or keep a job, assistance may be available.
Many referrals originate from Family Services, Behavioral Health, and the Wellness Program. A significant number of clients are either currently in treatment for substance use disorder, transitioning out of treatment, or rebuilding stability during recovery while working toward employment goals.
At Tulalip and in neighboring Native communities, Sandy Gotts works directly with clients through the program, helping them identify their goals and remove the obstacles standing in their way.
Services may include:
- disability evaluation and assessment
- vocational exploration and goal setting
- resume development and job search assistance
- vocational training
- education assistance
- medical referrals
- transportation assistance
- assistive devices
- behavioral health counseling
- advocacy and coordination with other programs
One of the most impactful services in recent years has been assistance with restoring driver’s licenses. With changes in state law allowing individuals to enter payment plans for outstanding fines, many tribal members can now regain eligibility for their licenses. The program can help cover testing fees, license costs, insurance, tabs, and, in some cases, vehicle-related needs, removing a major barrier to employment and supporting long-term recovery.
Sandy shared the story of one woman who came to the program after years of struggling with substance use disorder. Nearly two years sober and working toward reunification with her children, she needed help rebuilding her life. Through vocational counseling and support, she restored her driver’s license, addressed court-related barriers, built a resume, and explored her interest in working with children. She secured employment at a childcare center and has now held the lead role there for nearly two years. She has regained custody of her children and secured stable housing.
“That’s just one of so many stories,” Sandy said. “When people remove those barriers and have the right support, they succeed.”
If you are a Native American or Alaska Native living in Skagit, Snohomish, or Whatcom counties and have a disability or condition that has made it difficult to obtain or maintain employment, help may be available through NIVRP.
To learn more or begin the application process, contact Sandy Gotts at sgotts@stillaguamish.com or call (360) 502-5589.