Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired

CHILDREN'S SERVICES employs licensed Teachers of the Visually Impaired to work with children from birth through high school graduation, teaching daily living skills, Braille, socialization, assistive technology, use of adaptive equipment, career education, vision efficiency skills, recreation skills, self determination and orientation and mobility skills. These licensed Teachers of the Visually Impaired work in the home and school environments. Each summer, children can practice independent living skills and meet with friends in a supportive "camp" environment as part of the intensive Residential Life Experiences Program.

VOLUNTEER SERVICES provide statewide transportation for medical appointments as well as personal trips for Vermonters who are blind or visually impaired. Volunteers also record materials on tape or into braille, or go into the home for reading and providing companionship.

ADULT SERVICES offers rehabilitation services to individuals who are blind or visually impaired, helping them to continue performing daily living tasks and activities that may have become difficult. Services are provided in a group, at a central training site, or in the home.

Other program services include Adaptive Equipment and Support and Counseling. Adaptive Equipment such as swing arm lamps with magnifiers, "Talking book" machines, and Closed Circuit TV's can help maintain an independent lifestyle. Training and support is also provided for this equipment. The Support and Counseling program provides trained staff members to help guide individuals through all the resources that are available to them. The cornerstone of the adult support services are the Peer Assisted Learning and Support groups which meet monthly across the state. Members listen to educational speakers and then have an opportunity to share their frustrations and achievements with their peers.