• Blindness Skills Training • Computer Access Technology Training • Residential Services • In-Home Rehabilitation • Low Vision Services • Social Services • Volunteer Program • Prevention of Blindness • IDEAL • Occupational Therapy Brochure

Read what CBVI students have to say about their BST experience

CBVI’s philosophy, that with quality training, people with blindness and visual impairment can lead welladjusted, independent, productive and rewarding lives, drives the Blindness Skills Training program. Courses prepare clientele for opportunities of family life, community access, employment and personal achievement. Skills learned in this program are referred to as “alternative techniques” – simply different ways of doing the same things as sighted people. The successful achievements of the alumni of the CBVI program attest to the value of the program.

The goal of the Blindness Skills Training Program is to develop functional skills which enhance independent living and employment potential for people who have blindness or vision loss. Service areas include:

Orientation and Mobility Instruction in travel skills incorporates training in safety and orientation techniques, cane usage, street crossing, mobility/low vision devices, and utilization of all types of public transportation.

Home and Personal Management Hands-on training for independent living consists of alternative techniques for housekeeping, cooking, marking appliances, shopping, grooming, sewing, and first aid, as well as strategies for organization, basic home repair, and personal financial management.

Communications New tools for communication are taught including: keyboarding training on computers equipped with adaptive software, braille instruction, enhanced audio and tactile technologies for home, work and educational use, adaptive techniques for money identification, telling time and using the telephone, and if needed, remedial academics.

Vocational Assessment and Career Exploration (VACE) With instructor assistance, students identfy vocational strengths, interests, workstyles and needs. Following this assessment period, clients are assisted in a computerized search through thousands of occupational briefs based on their personal vocational profile. For the college bound, college briefs are also available. This invaluable program lends needed direction to individuals setting new career and/or educational goals.

If you are interested in our Blindness Skills Training, please call the Communications Coordinator at 610-874-1476, ext. 161.