We help Samish citizens and other tribal members who have a barrier to employment to identify their strengths in order to gain, maintain, or advance employment.

Eligibility

• Be enrolled in a federally recognized tribe
• Live in our 5-county service area: Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, Island, or San Juan counties
• Age 14 or older
• Have the desire to work
• Willing and able to meet program participation requirements
• Have a physical or mental condition that substantially impacts one or more life activities.
  • Some examples of these include:
    • Depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders
    • Substance use disorders
    • Diabetes
    • Mobility limitations
    • Hearing or vision loss
    • Autism, ADHD, and other learning disorders

Employment Services

Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time, returning after an injury or illness, or looking to advance your career, we’re here to support your journey.

Our services are individualized and based on your unique strengths, interests, and goals. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to work and thrive in a job that fits their abilities and aspirations.

Our Services May Include:

• Career exploration and counseling
• Skills assessments and job readiness training
• Education and vocational training support
• Job placement and supported employment
• Assistive technology and accommodations
• Ongoing support for job retention and advancement

We collaborate closely with schools, healthcare providers, employers, tribal programs, and community agencies to ensure a strong support network is in place.

Contact us today if you or someone you know might be interested in making an appointment to meet with a counselor.

Transition Services

Transition services are designed to support eligible youth and young adults as they move from high school into adulthood. We help individuals ages 14 to 24 build the skills, confidence, and resources they need to reach their education, employment, and independent living goals.

Whether you’re exploring career options, planning for college or vocational training, seeking your first job, or learning to navigate life skills, our team is here to help. Transition planning in individualized and person-centered, meaning your goals and strengths guide the way.  

Our Transition Services May Include:

• Career exploration and job readiness
• Assistance with vocational training or post-secondary education
• Independent living skills development
• Support with self-advocacy and decision making
• Linkages to community resources and supports
• Collaboration with schools, families, and service providers.

We believe every young person deserves the chance to lead a meaningful, self-directed life. Our transition services focus on building connections, developing real-world skills, and removing barriers to success.

Let’s take the next step together.

Contact us today if you or someone you know might be interested in making an appointment to meet with a counselor.

Business Services

Business services are designed to support employers in building a stronger, more inclusive workforce. We partner with businesses of all sizes to meet hiring needs, reduce turnover, and create workplaces where everyone can thrive.

What We Offer:

• Candidate Matching – We connect you with qualified, pre-screened job seekers ready to work.
• Recruitment Support – Let us assist with sourcing talent, job postings, and outreach.
• On-the-Job Training (OJT) – Save time and resources with training reimbursement programs.
• Disability Awareness Training – Promote inclusion with customized training for your team.
• ADA and Accessibility Guidance – Ensure compliance and build a welcoming work environment.
• Retention Solutions – We offer ongoing support to help employees succeed on the job.

We understand that a strong business needs strong employees. Our services are free of charge and tailored to your unique workforce needs. Partnering with STVR is a smart way to invest in your team, your culture, and your community.

Ready to find your next great hire? We’re here to help. Contact us today if you or someone you know might be interested in business services.

Goal statement

Operate a culturally appropriate Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation program that will provide services to American Indians/Alaskan Natives with disabilities who reside in the Samish Indian Nation’s service delivery area, consistent with their individual strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, and informed choices, so that they may prepare for and engage in gainful employment, including self-employment, telecommuting, and business ownership. Samish Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation provides and supports traditional healers, spiritual counseling and other culturally related activities that support Native Americans in their employment goals.

NOTE: Samish Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation is not an entitlement program. By federal law and regulation, it is the payer of last resort. This means that if a participant of STVR is also eligible for another financial resource, they are required to take advantage of that program before tribal vocational rehabilitation funds can be authorized to cover payment for outside services.

Meet Our Team

Behind every success story in our Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation (TVR) program is a team of dedicated professionals who care deeply about the people we serve. We believe in building relationships, not just services—and it all starts with trust, respect, and community connection.

Login to View Staff Contant Info

STVR is proud to introduce you to a few of the incredible individuals working hard to support our participants every day. These are the voices on the phone, the hands behind the paperwork, and the hearts walking beside you on your journey to meaningful employment.

Chelsie Brann

Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Director

Chelsie joined the STVR team in December 2022. She earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Healthcare Management from Skagit Valley College and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling at Western Washington University. Chelsie has worked with individuals with disabilities since 2012, specializing in substance use disorders and developmental disabilities. As a licensed Substance Use Disorder Professional, she brings a wealth of expertise and experience to her role, enhancing the program’s ability to support individuals in overcoming challenges and achieving their goals.

Joanna Hanson

Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

Joanna joined the STVR team in February 2024. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from Cleveland State University, and she is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling at Western Washington University. Since 2018, Joanna has been helping individuals secure and maintain employment, with a focus on supporting justice-involved adults in achieving their career goals. Her expertise and dedication make her a valuable resource in guiding participants toward sustainable employment options.

Sam Wise

Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

Sam joined the STVR team in June 2024. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Strategic and Professional Communication from University of Colorado and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling at Western Washington University. With over 9 years of military service and more than two years of experience at the WA Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Sam specializes in supporting veterans in their transition to civilian employment. His extensive background and focus on veteran services make him a valuable asset to the STVR team.

Tatum Kenn

Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

Tatum joined the STVR team in August 2023. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences from Central Washington University and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling at Western Washington University. With previous experience as a paraeducator for the Mount Vernon School District, Tatum brings valuable skills and insight to her role, where she focuses on supporting STVR’s youth, ages 14-24, as they transition into adulthood.

Laura Jandreau

Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Support Specialist

Laura joined the STVR team in January 2025. She is a citizen of the Yankton Sioux Tribe of South Dakota. She holds an Associate Degree in Business Management from Ihankonwan Community College. With previous experience in data entry, Laura is happy to bring her attention to detail and organizational skills to the team. She is excited to contribute to the mission of STVR and continue growing professionally in a supportive and collaborative environment.

🤝 Our Team’s Promise to You

We’re more than just staff—we’re part of the community we serve. Some of us have walked similar paths. Some of us have family who’ve experienced the barriers that come with disability, unemployment, or discrimination. All of us believe in your potential and are here to walk beside you—not ahead of you.

We’re here to listen, support, and help you reach your goals in a way that honors your values, your pace, and your vision for the future.