Director's Statement

Anthony (Tony) P. Sauer Official Photo

Welcome to the California Department of Rehabilitation! We have a number of services to assist people with disabilities. Our vocational rehabilitation program is the largest in the country. In California each year there are over 100,000 individuals with disabilities that receive services at various stages of their individualized plan for employment. Additionally, with federal work reimbursements from the Social Security Administration, the DOR funds 29 Independent Living Centers in California which provide independent living services to over 30,000 individuals who are aged and/or have significant disabilities to live independently outside of institutions.

As a former consumer of the Department of Rehabilitation, who needed help following a motorcycle racing accident as a teenager, I know how important the services are that this department provides. With thoughtful guidance from my vocational counselor, my career began in the construction trades as a successfully self-employed cabinet maker. As I became interested in furthering access and independence for persons with disabilities, I adopted this field as my life's work. After much experience, education, and being a dedicated advocate, I have the privledge of leading the DOR, a great organization that really makes differences in people's lives. Our employees work hard to assist Californians with disabilities with gaining employment, becoming independent, and enjoying equality. We believe all people can achieve their dreams if they work for them.

The department has over 80 locations statewide, with a workforce of approximately 1,800 who are committed to our mission and aspire to our core values and guiding principles. Through these core values and guiding principles the California Department of Rehabilitation is committed to assist in furthering the rights of persons with disabilities through its programs and services. I am personally committed to this charge and am proud to be a part of such an important mission.

If you would like to share your thoughts on how we can better serve the needs of persons with disabilities in California, please send an email to our External Affairs Office (externalaffairs@dor.ca.gov).

Towards Independence,

Anthony "Tony" P. Sauer
Director