DBTAC Coordination, Outreach and Research Center

In 2006, the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research sought to further strengthen the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers network and expand the core activities beyond technical assistance and Americans with Disabilities Act compliance to include programs in conducting and utilizing research.
                           
In response, NIDRR developed a Coordination, Outreach and Research Center at Virginia Commonwealth University to discover constructive ways for businesses to institute best practices in employment and public access. The CORC’s premise is that employment leads to fuller integration in all areas addressed by the ADA. By highlighting and encouraging best practices in employment and public access, the full promise of the ADA can eventually be achieved.

In order to reach these goals, CORC established the following objectives:

  • Develop the DBTAC Information Network, an online ADA resource that includes materials, databases, publications, products and tools for applying ADA best practices in a business environment.
  • Create a CORC Research Review Board to coordinate, support and review research activities initiated by the regional DBTAC programs.
  • Increase the research capacity of the DBTAC network to conduct and utilize quality research by providing direct and meaningful consultation.
  • Coordinate dissemination of regional DBTAC and CORC publications and products to appropriate NIDRR research centers.

In addition, the CORC’s plan of operation includes 19 original research studies, 18 training activities, nine dissemination projects, 12 technical assistance projects and a structure for program evaluation. CORC’s own research emphasizes employment and is rooted in the National EEOC ADA Research Project, which began in 2003.

For additional information about the CORC, contact:

Brian T. McMahon
Principal investigator
DBTAC CORC at VCU
P.O. Box 980330
Richmond, Virginia 23298
btmcmaho@vcu.edu