Arkansas Rehabilitation Services

Unfortunately, my experience with ARS was not a good one. Around 2016-17, due to state budget cuts, their funding was decreased and since then they haven't been the same. When I graduated from high school they were nothing but helpful and for those who have disabilities where are a great resource. Today, I met my new counselor and had a meeting with her regarding getting funding for this next semester, but also my issue with unreceived funds for the previous semester. I attempted to correct the issue, being respectful and not placing blame, regarding the previous semester and explained that I came without my transcript (that is needed to get approval for funding next semester) because it was being held by the school (understandably) due to insufficient funds. What I was told instead by my counselor (Airie G. Kazery) was that I clearly failed at being responsible and I quote: "I don't believe you understand. We are not fixing the issue and you can even go to the head of the department or even the Mayor of Arkansas if you want to, but the problem isn't us and you'll be told exactly the same thing. Our clients are expected to do specific things before they get approved and sent funds to pay for their tuition. I believe there is a confusion with what services we provide as we are not running a... What is it? This is not a... I don't know how to put this or the word to use, but I believe you know what I was getting at. Are we on the same page?" (This is the reason I am writing a bad review because from what I understand she put great emphasis on the fact that they were not running a charity and that I was in the wrong for asking what I could do to fix my problem.) All I could do was smile, stand up and that I would figure something out. I thanked her for her time and meeting with me. She then seemed irritated that I was still there and told me "let's wrap things up and since this meeting doesn't seem to be going anywhere we will just end it here... Let me show you the way out". Now, I'm aware that while writing this review I'm angry and unhappy with the results, but what was said to me was completely unnecessary, unprofessional and came across as demeaning. The reason I'm writing this review partly is to vent, but also let others know if this happens to them that they are not alone and do not deserve being treated that way. - Logan

Caring and knowledgeable staff work hard for people with disabilities and transition needs to meet training, education, and job goals for future independence and self sufficiency.