Vocational Rehabilitation New Hampshire (VRNH), a division of the New Hampshire Department of Education, partnered with MDR to conduct the federally mandated 2024 Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment (CSNA). Required every three years by the Rehabilitation Services Administration, the CSNA evaluates the vocational rehabilitation needs of individuals with disabilities across the state. The assessment focused on underserved populations, youth, individuals with significant disabilities, and those currently receiving VR services. It also incorporated input from a wide range of stakeholders, including VRNH staff, consumers, business partners, community partners, service providers, and the general public, to ensure a holistic understanding of service gaps and opportunities for improvement. 

MDR implemented a rigorous mixed-methods research design across six phases. Quantitative data collection included six tailored surveys targeting key stakeholder groups. These surveys explored service availability, employment barriers, satisfaction with VRNH services, and unmet needs. A total of 689 surveys were completed between April and September 2024: 474 from consumers, 128 from the general public, 47 from staff, 22 from service providers, 12 from community partners, and 6 from business partners. Sampling strategies included push-to-web mailings, online panels, and outreach through community networks. MDR also conducted one consumer focus group and 11 in-depth interviews with consumers, staff, and partners to deepen understanding of service barriers and community needs. All data were rigorously cleaned and analyzed for quality and consistency. 

MDR was responsible for the full lifecycle of the CSNA research process. This included survey and moderator guide development, recruitment and outreach, data collection and management, thematic analysis of open-ended responses, and synthesis of findings into actionable insights. Deliverables included a comprehensive quantitative summary report, detailed appendices with survey instruments and results, redacted transcripts, and a final CSNA report with recommendations. MDR also facilitated stakeholder meetings and provided technical assistance throughout the project. 

This CSNA stands out for its depth of stakeholder engagement, robust mixed-methods design, and emphasis on actionable insights. By integrating quantitative data with lived experiences, MDR helped VRNH develop a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the state’s vocational rehabilitation system. The findings will inform VRNH’s strategic planning and program development, ensuring that services are responsive to the diverse needs of New Hampshire residents with disabilities.