Adjustment to Vision Loss

When vision decreases, adjustments will be needed at home and at work. Our training in areas such as cooking and other activities, use of adaptive aids, safe travel instruction, communication skills, and technology can help you and your family in making this adjustment. Please contact a Social Worker for the Blind in your area.

Rehabilitation Center for the Blind

After a substantial visual loss, many people will need a comprehensive adjustment program to develop personal and vocational skills to live and work independently.

The Rehabilitation Center for the Blind, located on the campus of The Governor Morehead School in Raleigh, North Carolina, provides such a program. If these services are required, you will want to know what to expect from such a program. The Rehabilitation Center provides a residential program for its participants. Students live in dormitories on campus with meals provided by the campus cafeteria. Around the clock staffing is provided to work with participants and handle any special needs. Each student will work on personal and work goals developed jointly by the student and the rehabilitation staff. Classes are small with students receiving a considerable amount of individual attention.

• Rehabilitation Center for the Blind Video

Safe Travel Training (Orientation and Mobility)

We provide instruction in all aspects of safe travel through our Orientation and Mobility Instructors. Skills can be taught in the use of a sighted guide, white cane, public transportation, and environmental cues and directions. We do not train dog guides nor do we train people to use dogs. However, we can assist with orientation to routes if a dog guide has been obtained. Please call your nearest district office for more information.

Assistive Technology

In addition to basic keyboarding and computer training, we provide training in the use of various types of assistive technology that can enable you to have access to print information. Examples of assistive technology include speech output software, large print software, Braille display devices, scanners, and Braille printers Please call your nearest district office for more information.

College/University

If you need college or university training in order to get or keep a job, one of our Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors may be able to assist you. Training may be provided if necessary to meet your work goal. Please call your nearest district office for more information.

Vocational

If you need training through a community college, technical school, business or trade school to get or keep a job, one of our Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors may be able to assist you.

On the Job

We can assist you with training on a job (OJT) while you learn skills and gain the knowledge necessary to fully and adequately perform the required duties. Please call your nearest district office for more information.

Supported Employment

Sometimes a job can be learned best by having a one-on-one instructor or job coach. Through our Supported Employment Service we can provide short-term job coaching and ongoing follow-up. Please call your nearest district office for more information.

Food Service/Vending Training

We provide training to legally blind people who are interested in working in food service or vending through our Business Enterprises Program. After successfully completing training provided by the Division, an individual may compete to operate one of the food or vending facilities under contract with the Division. Facilities are located across the State on federal, state, county, and private property. If you are interested in this training contact a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor in the District Office nearest you.