Life can change in an instant.



So what would happen if the job you had been working at for years suddenly become a struggle because of a disability?



North Dakota's Vocational Rehabilitation Service has been helping people remain employed. They helped 7,000 people across the state last year.



It began in 1917 after World War I, helping veterans who were returning to the United States. The technology has changed since then - but the mission has remained the same.



"The mission is basically to assist individuals who are wanting to work, be able to either find employment or maintain their current employment with accommodations that will allow them to do so," said

Cheryl Hess, a program administrator at Rehabilitation Consulting Services (RCS).



Vocational Rehab says getting assistive technology is good for the employee - but good for the bottom line as well.



"It's very important for business retention,” said Natasha Adamson, RCS consultant. The cost of obtaining a new employee and training a new employee is pretty great."



Vocational Rehab says the cost of hiring and training a new employee can be as much as $25,000. The average cost of one of the assistive devices: $500.



Natasha Adamson says the program has helped thousands across the Peace Garden State. "As our program has grown we've really helped with retaining employment for the client and the businesses,” says Adamson.



If you have difficulty seeing, this program would be one option for you. It enlarges everything on a computer monitor. It talks to you too.



For the grocery store, for reading the paper or for eating out, this portable magnifying device enlarges as well. Cost? 700 dollars.



For people who have difficulty hearing, these computers function as instant messengers allowing people to communicate. It's not all about high-tech though.



"Somebody might come in and they may have a four year degree, it doesn't make sense for us to send them to more schooling,” Hess said “They may have transferable skills they may some additional training or help putting together a resume."



What began decades ago as a means to help people returning from war has changed very little. It's still an organization assisting people who need just a little extra help.



Now if you'd like to learn more about the services offered by North Dakota Vocational Rehabilitation, you can call them toll free. 1-888-862-7342.



They are located at 1237 West Divide Avenue in Suite 2. watch the video | save this article / add to your favorites list