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This online document is accessable and searchable. The Table of Contents provides general categories of information. To locate specific information: Hold down the ‘Control’ key and the letter ‘f’. Enter the word or phrase in the find box. All items assocaited with the word/phrase will pop up.
Last addition 7-20-2016
ACCESS Foreword
ACCESS to Resources for Students with Disabilities, known as ACCESS, is designed as a user-friendly guide to resources to empower the readers with relevant knowledge and information. ACCESS will provide resources for people with various abilities and disabilities along the journey toward independent and meaningful living.
ACCESS was originally a publication of the California Transcribers and Educators for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CTEBVI), formerly known as the California Transcribers and Educators for the Visually Handicapped (CTEVH). This transition guide was originally provided as a gift to blind and visually impaired high school juniors and seniors in California. In past years, this guide was made available in braille and on the CTEBVI Web site.
The 2015 edition of this transition guide is available as an on-line resource and offers information and Internet links concerning various populations with special abilities and disabilities. The primary focus of this guide is the population transitioning to independent living, employment, and careers. The students and young adults will find appropriate resources that will lead to greater independence. Parents will find resources necessary to help the children during the transition to independent living. Teachers will find learning tools addressing the Expanded Core Curriculum.
As an online transition guide, ACCESS will be changed and updated as needed, to address the continuous changes in products and services that are brought by advancement in technology, industry, and the global economy.
Original Contributors ACCESS was originally developed by the California Transcriber and Educators for the Visually Handicapped (CTEVH). The work has been helpful to generations of blind and visually impaired students. Much of the original work remains in this resource with updated information. We recognize the original contributors to the ACCESS guide:
Susan Adams, Adrian Amandi, Lorraine Smith Beaman, Liz Barclay, Cheryl Besden, Anna Lee Braunstein, Rod Brawley, Leslie Burkhardt, James Carreon, Mike Cole, Theresa Duncan, Gerri Finkelstein, Barbara Haase, Elizabeth Hart, Jana Hertz, Jerry Kuns, Francey Liefert, Susan Mangis, Carol Nicholson, Jean Olmstead, Martha Pamperin, Mary Alice Ross, Lucinda Talkington, Donna Wittenstein
Current Editors
Richard Rueda, Director of Transition Services, Junior Blind of America
Georgeta Tanase, Rehabilitation Counselor QRP, CA Department of Rehabilitation
Jonn Paris-Salb, Assistive Technology Consultant, CA Department of Education
Volunteers Adrianna Tobon
Ana Zambrano
Cayla Mladenik
Cy Lugo
Duoa Her
Jason Sevier
Sarah Ann Horning
Peer Review Experts
Autism Spectrum Disorder Patricia Schetter MA, BCBA Coordinator of Autism Education Initiatives, CEDD at the MIND Institute
Cognitive Disabilities Stephen Brock – Professor and Program Coordinator, California State University, Rehabilitation School Psychology, and Deaf Studies
Communication Disabilities Judy Henderson –President and CEO of Empowerment Resource Associates (ERA)
Deaf-Blind Maurice Belote – Project Coordinator, California Deaf-Blind Services
Visually Impaired Richard Rueda - Director of Transition Services, Junior Blind of America
Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing Brian Winic – Staff Services Manager I, Blind Field Services, Department of Rehabilitation
Learning Disabled Phyllis Hallam – Education Programs Consultant
Professional Learning Support Division, California Department of Education
Mobility Disabilities Linda Wyatt - Special Education Consultant, Policy Program Services, California Department of Education
Multiple Disabled Sharon Sacks - Superintendent of the California School for the Blind
How to use the ACCESS Guide
The guide is divided into five general categories and an Appendix;
Education and Training
Daily Living Skills
Assistive Technology
Laws and Rights
Specific Population Resources
Appendix
The table of Content links are active and will take you to the sections with the same name/title. Another way to is to search using key words embedded in each section of information;
Note: To ensure accuracy, most of the descriptions for the listings in this transition guide are taken directly from the websites of the respective agencies, organizations and retail companies. Links to Web sites are provided for additional information at the end of the transition guide in the Organization Contact Information section. It is often a good idea to also search for reviews and comments from current and former clients/customers/users to find out what others think about these programs, services, and/or devices.
Note: The majority of the resources are from California. Most states have equivalent organizations and resources for students with disabilities.
ACCESS
Table of Contents
1. Education and Training…………………………………………………….. 8
a. Lending Libraries……………………………………………………. 8
b. Transition Services………………………………………………….… 10
c. Online Courses………………………………………………………… 14
d. News/Periodicals………………………………………….…………… 15
e. Service Dogs…………………………………………………………… 16
f. College/Career……………………………………………….………… 21
g. Post-Secondary Information…………………………….…………….. 25
h. Employment…………………………………………………………….. 29
2. Daily Living Skills / Leisure Skills…………………………..…………… 33
a. Expanded Core Curriculum………………………………………… 33
b. Orientation and Mobility…………………………………………..…… 34
c. Consumer Organizations………………………………………………. 43
d. Medical Information………………………………………..……. 45
e. Banking and Bill Paying………………………………….………. 53
f. Independent Living Centers……………………………….…………. 56
g. Support Organizations……………………………………………. 58
h. Internet for Ordering…………………………………………………... 68
i. Internet for Socializing………………………………………………. 69
j. Living Skills…………………………..……………………………. 70
k. Cooking……………………………………………………………..…. 71
l. Labeling………………………………………………………………. 73
m. Laundry…………………………………………………………….…. 76
n. House Keeping…………………………………………….…………. 77
o. Personal Safety………………………………………………………. 78
p. Sewing……………………………………………………………. 79
q. Shopping………………………………………………………….…. 81
r. Time and Schedules………………………………………………. 82
3. Assistive Technology ……………………………………………………. 83
a. Computer Access…………………………………………….……. 83
b. Electronic Travel Aids………………………………………..……. 88
c. Digital Note-Taking…………………………………………………. 90
d. Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) ………………..…………………. 93
e. Global Positioning System (GPS) ………………………………. 95
f. Electronic Reading Machines………………….………………. 96
g. Calculating Devices……………………………………………………… 98
h. YouTube Assistive Technology Demonstrations…………………… 100
i. Web Accessibility……………………………………………………..… 110
4. Laws and Rights …………………………………………………………….… 111
a. Legislation…………………………………………………….…...……… 111
b. IEP, 504…………………………………………………………......…… 123
c. Elections & Voting……………………………………………….……….. 125
d. Government Agencies……………………………..…………………… 126
e. Advocacy………………………………………………………………… 127
5. Specific Population Resources……………………….……………………… 128
a. Blind / Low Vision……………………………………….……. ………… 129
b. Deaf-Blind ……………………………………………………………..…. 169
c. Deaf / Hard-of-Hearing…………………………………….……………. 176
d. Mobility…………………………………………………………................ 183
e. Learning Disabilities………………………………..….……………….. 187
f. Communication………………………………………………………..... 193
g. Autism………………………………………………………………..…... 196
h. Cognitive………………………………………………….………………..206
i. Medically Fragile………………………………………………….…….. 210
j. Multi-Disabled……..…………………………………………………… 212
Appendix…………………………………………………………………….….. 215
a) Product Categories………………………………………….………… 215
b) Transition Tool Kit (2015) ………………………………...…………. 221
c) Guidance and Career Toolkit ……………………..……..l…………. 235
d) Liz Cooper “Some thoughts about using ACCESS” ………….……. 236
e) Mentors and Pathway Leaders……………………………………… 237
Organization Contact Information…………………………..………………… 240
EDUCATION and TRAINING
LENDING LIBRARIES
Books in braille, in large print, on tape, and on the computer can be borrowed from a variety of libraries throughout the United States. Some libraries deal with only one subject, such as religious materials, while others cover many topics. Some libraries have braille and audio, while others have just braille, audio or large print. Libraries generally provide accessible online catalogs on a Web site. The catalog may be available as a catalog in braille, large print, on tape.
Some libraries charge a fee to join, and others are free. For more information contact the library directly. Today many public libraries have large print or recorded books. The librarian may be able to order material for you.
Resources
Books Aloud, Inc.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library
150 E. San Fernando Street
San Jose, CA 95112
Phone: (408) 808-2613
Email: Info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Books Aloud, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
supported by donations from individuals, corporations, foundations, trusts,
businesses and service clubs. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for people unable to benefit directly from the printed page by providing a service to stimulate minds, stir emotions and foster independence through our "Reading by Listening" program. Reading by Listening Program provides a wide variety of recorded reading literature to eligible individuals of all ages. We keep the “Magic of Reading” alive for our clients. This is a FREE service.
Braille Transcription Project of Santa Clara, Inc.
101 N. Bascom Ave., San Jose, CA 95128
Phone: (408) 298-4468
Web site:
E-mail: brlsanjose@
Agency/business Profile: Braille Transcription Project of Santa Clara agency offers already transcribed braille books for individuals of all ages who are blind. The books are primarily novels, fiction and children’s titles and they also offer brailler repair.
Fresno Talking Book Library
Fresno County Library
770 N. San Pablo Avenue, Fresno, CA 9728
Phone: (800) 742-1011 ext. 3217
Contact information, Lisa Lindsay, Supervisor.
Web site:
E-mail: tblb@
Agency/business Profile: The Fresno Library has over 700 talking books in circulation that are accessible.
Kenneth Jernigan Library for the Blind
Children-Twin Vision Books
1800 Johnson Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9315
Web site:
E-mail: actionfund@
Agency/business Profile: The Kenneth Jernigan Library for Blind Children and Adults, a lending library, is a nonprofit charitable foundation dedicated to the reading pleasure and education of blind children and young adults. The books catalogued in the library are transcribed by volunteers, who have contributed countless hours of time and effort to bring the total collection of the Library to more than 14,000 braille books.
Braille and Talking Book Library
California State Library
900 N Street, Suite 110, Sacramento, CA 94237-0001
Phone: (916) 651-0812, (800) 952-5666, Fax (916) 654-1119
Email: btbl@library. or mike.marlin@library.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Braille and Talking Book Library, the Northern California Regional Library for the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) is a free library service for people with temporary or permanent print disabilities, including low vision, blindness, or physical disabilities that prevent them from reading conventional print, such as dyslexia or the inability to hold a book. BTBL offers popular fiction and nonfiction books, playback equipment, and descriptive videos mailed for free, and instantly downloadable audio and electronic braille books (via your computer or free iOS and Android apps).
Braille Institute
741 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: (800) 272-4553
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Braille Institute agency serves individuals who are blind from birth to seniors. They provide classes that pertain to blindness. They have a lending library and offer services to the Spanish speaking community.
National Association for Visually Impaired (see Lighthouse International)
Bookshare
480 South California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: (650) 644-3400
Website:
Agency/Business Profile: On-line digital library of accessible images for students with print disabilities such as visual impairments, physical disabilities and learning disabilities. At the time of production the Bookshare collection houses over 370,000 educational materials. Bookshare is free to all US students and schools thanks to a grant from the Department of Education. K-12 and Post-secondary
Books are available in audio, braille ready formats and large print. Bookshare books can be accessed on a variety devices such as refreshable braille machines, personal computers, tablets and phones.
Learning Ally (formerly Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic)
20 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: (800) 221-4792
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Learning Ally lending library provides recorded materials for individuals of all ages who are blind or dyslexic. They loan a collection of accessible college-level textbooks and textbook materials for K-12.
Librivox
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: LibriVox volunteers record chapters of books in
the public domain, and then we release the audio files back onto the net for free.
All our audio is in the public domain, so you may use it for whatever purpose you wish. Free public domain audiobooks that are free for anyone to listen to, on their computers, iPods or other mobile device, or to burn onto a CD.
Media Access Group
One Guest Street, Boston, MA 02135
Phone:(617) 300-3600, Fax: (617) 300-1020
E-mail:access@
Web site: access.
Agency/business Profile: Dedicated to providing access to present and future media for people with disabilities. The Media Access Group at WGBH has pioneered and delivered captioned and described media for over 30 years to people in their homes, classrooms, at work and in the community. And the Media Access Group continues to develop new solutions to access challenges as technology, and the way we all consume media, evolves. Members of our group's collective staff represent the leading experts in their fields.
Volunteers of Vacaville / Blind Project
P.O. Box 670, Vacaville, CA 95696
Phone: (707) 448-6841 ext.2044
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Volunteers of Vacaville Blind Project is meeting the growing demands for transcription of printed materials onto audio tape for the visually and physically impaired community.
TRANSITION SERVICES
Career Connect
American Foundation for the Blind has a program called AFB CareerConnect. It helps students who are visually impaired connect with successful mentors who are visually impaired and working in careers they might be interested in. The program has an interactive tool that helps you write a resume, store a personal profile, and track appointments. It is a source for finding, landing and holding on to jobs. Web site:
California Department of Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation Services
A major purpose of the Department of Rehabilitation (DR) is to help individuals with disabilities develop abilities to pursue occupational or professional careers. The services of the agency are designed to assist the student after high school graduation or upon leaving school. The initial interview, doctors’ examinations, and some vocational counseling may take place while the student is still in high school, services such as job training and job placement are not offered until the student is out of high school.
In response to individual needs, one or more of the following services may be available to eligible clients:
1. Vocational evaluation and counseling
2. Post-high school job training
3. College training and support
4. Job placement services
5. Medical evaluation and treatment
6. Transportation allowance
7. Reader services
8. Tools and equipment required for training and placement
9. Daily living skills training
10. Supported employment
11. Start-up supplies for a small business
Most of the above services are available without cost; however, a statement justifying financial assistance is required before medical treatment or supplemental allowances may be provided. The Department of Rehabilitation is also affiliated with The Hatlen Center, now a part of Junior Blind of America, and the Davidson Orientation Center.
Note: as of 2015, the passage of the Workforce Investment Opportunity Act (WIOA) at the federal level is directing more resources to transition-age populations. New services are expected as a result.
The Business Enterprise Program (BEP) is administered by the Department of Rehabilitation. This program enables visually impaired entrepreneurs to establish businesses, primarily operating cafeterias within federal and state buildings. Web site:
General Adult Transition Information
Association of University Centers on Disabilities Transition Resources
1100 Wayne Avenue, Suite 1000, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: (301) 588-8252
E-mail: aucdinfo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AUCD envisions a future in which all people, including those living with developmental and other disabilities are fully included, participating members of communities. We see equitable access to supports and services that reflect the preferences and values of diverse communities and that lead to self-determination, independence, productivity, and a healthy and satisfying quality of life.
Call 2-1-1 Sacramento
Phone: (800) 500-4931
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The 2-1-1 Sacramento staff is a dedicated group of trained call specialists who provide a confidential information and referral service that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Assistance is available in multiple languages, and services are accessible to people with disabilities.
Family Resource & Information Guide (PDF)
1 AAA Drive, Suite 203, Trenton, NJ 08691
Phone: (800) 376-2345, Fax (609) 392-5621
Web site: 0UG8qE2bsyJvAZxgCifm6lpRoCmHPw_wcB
Agency/business Profile: Family Resource & Information Guide provides residents living with epilepsy, autism, developmental disabilities and chronic illness.
Leadership through Personal Change: Think-Plan-Do
California Department of Developmental Services
1600 9th Street, Room 240, MS 2-15, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 654-1690, TTY (916) 654-2054
Web site:
Email: Ohras@dds.
Agency/business Profile: The Leadership through Personal Change guide was created to help people with developmental disabilities to have self-determined lives. To learn simple ways, using supports, everyone can participate in directing the futures.
Warmline
Moving On: Transition to Adult Services Workbook for Parents (PDF)
2035 Hurley Way, Suite 250, Sacramento, CA 95825
Phone: (916) 922-9276, (800) 660-7995
E-mail: warmline@
Web site:
Pamphlet at:
Agency/business Profile: Warmline is an information and support center for parents and professionals involved with children with special health care and developmental needs.
Success Defined: Transition Planning Project (PDF)
Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities
2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817
Phone: (916) 703-0336
Web site:
Pamphlet at: rochure_2014.pdf
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities is to collaborate with individuals with developmental disabilities and families to improve quality of life and community inclusion.
National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth (NCWD/Youth)
4301 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 100, Washington, DC 20008-2304
Phone: (877) 871-0744 871-0665 (Toll Free)
Web site:
The 411 on Disability Disclosure: A Workbook for Youth with Disabilities
The Guideposts for Success: A Framework for Families Preparing Youth for Adulthood (PDF)
Agency/business Profile: NCWD/Youth works to ensure that transition age youth are provided full access to high quality services in integrated settings to gain education, employment and independent living.
Transition to Adult Living: An Information and Resource Guide (PDF)
Web site:
California Department of Developmental Services
1600 9th Street, P. O. Box 944202, Sacramento, CA 94244-2020
Phone: (916) 654-1690, TTY (916) 654-2054
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Developmental Services is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.
ONLINE COURSES
Correspondence Courses
The Hadley School for the Blind
700 Elm Street, Winnetka, IL 60093
Phone: (800) 323-4238, TTY (847) 441-8111, Fax (847) 446-0855
Web site: hadley.edu
E-mail: info@hadley.edu
Agency/business Profile: The mission of The Hadley School for the Blind is to promote independent living through lifelong, distance education programs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, families, and blindness service providers. Hadley offers courses free of charge to blind and visually impaired students and families and affordable tuition to blindness professionals. Offers courses in reading and writing braille for students, parents and teachers of the visually impaired, there are courses in life-skills and hobbies. Finding Employment is a course designed to help students look for a job, while Going Places targets those who cannot drive and not familiar with public transportation.
Affordable Colleges Online
Web site: (article with links to additional information).
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
1291 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20542
Phone: (202) 707-5100, TDD (202) 707-0744
Web site: nls
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NLS offers books and magazines to serve people with vision impairments and physical disabilities.
Factsheet:
Perkins eLearning
175 North Beacon Street
Watertown, MA 02472
Website: : (617) 972-7841
Agency/Business Profile: Perkins eLearning strives to share the insights and expertise of Perkins educators – as well as the valuable expertise of our colleagues across the country – with teachers, families and professionals around the globe. They’re committed to helping fulfill the potential of people who are blind, visually impaired or deafblind, including those with additional disabilities, by sharing the transformative power of knowledge and unlocking opportunities for their education and engagement.
NEWS / PERIODICALS
News
Blind and visually impaired people can keep up with the news by accessing Newsline for the Blind or by listening to a radio reading service. Both types of news service are staffed by volunteers who read newspapers and magazines aloud. The Internet can also be a connection to local and worldwide radio stations.
A radio reading service is available in many areas. To hear these programs requires a special receiver. In some areas the programs are on the second channel of the public television station. To receive these programs, push the SAP button on the stereo television or on a stereo VCR. For information, contact a local agency serving blind and visually impaired people.
Newsline for the Blind allows legally blind people to read just the articles they want when they want from current newspapers. Currently, articles are read from the Sacramento Bee, Los Angeles Times, and other papers. All that is needed is a push button phone. For more information, contact the National Federation of the Blind at or the San Francisco Library for the Blind and Print Disabled at (415) 557-4253. The access number for Newsline in San Francisco is (888) 882-1629.
Periodicals
Many periodicals are available in braille, large print, and/or recorded format. They cover a variety of subjects. Some are available through the NLS lending program and others can be purchased from a variety of sources.
American Printing House for the Blind puts Reader’s Digest into Braille and records Newsweek and U.S. News and World Report weekly. APH offers free subscriptions for Reader’s Digest and Newsweek in audio format
Web site: .
AccessWorld is an online magazine about technology for the visually impaired. It is a service of American Foundation for the Blind
Web site: aw
BlindWorld is an online magazine for the blind and visually impaired that carries news and events of the visually impaired community
Web site: .
For a complete list of magazines, contact the regional library for the NLS catalog Magazines in Special Media Web site: nls.
Choice Magazine Listening
85 Channel Drive
Port Washington, NY 11050
Phone: (516) 883-8280
Toll Free: (888) 724-6423
Web site:
Agency/Business Profile: Choice Magazine Listening is a nonprofit organization that provides audio recordings of memorable articles, stories, interviews, essays and poems, completely free of charge, to blind, visually impaired, physically disabled or dyslexic adults
SERVICE DOGS
Guide Dogs (Wiki at Web site: )
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), privately owned businesses that serve the public, such as restaurants, hotels, retail stores, taxicabs, theaters, concert halls, and sports facilities, are prohibited from discriminating against individuals with disabilities. The ADA requires these businesses to allow people with disabilities to bring their service animals onto business premises in whatever areas customers are generally allowed.
Dog Guides
Schools for learning to use a dog guide usually take clients who are sixteen and older. Many of them require students to live in the facility for a number of weeks in order to learn to care for and work with the dog. The criteria for having a dog vary from agency to agency, but most require a competent level of travel skills using a cane. Contact dog guide schools and ask them to send you information about a particular school. To find out if you qualify for a dog, call the school in which you are interested and ask when a representative will be in your home area.
A dog guide provides an efficient and reliable means of mobility for a person who is blind or visually impaired. There are several dog guide schools in the US. Most provide services free of charge and some charge a nominal fee. The basic criteria for acceptance into most of the programs are: The client must be:
• legally Blind
• a minimum age of 16 years
• an independent traveler, able to travel without the assistance of another person on meaningful routes
• be physically capable of working a dog guide on a daily basis
• be mentally and emotionally stable
• have the ability to provide a loving, safe, and stable home to a dog
• be able to demonstrate the need for a mobility aid
Orientation and mobility skills are critical in order to work with a dog guide. You need to know how to reach the intended destination so you can give the dog guide the verbal commands in order to get there.
Most schools visit dog guide applicants in home environments to determine if a dog guide would be useful to them. This assessment process gives the applicant a chance to gain a clear picture of the program and the responsibilities of living and working with a dog guide. It also allows the school to obtain a good understanding of the applicant's lifestyle and mobility needs which will help the school to make the best possible dog-person match.
At most schools, first-time students attend an in-residence training program for approximately one month. Other training options, such as in-home and in-community training are sometimes available at certain schools on a case-by-case basis. Training includes dog obedience exercises and guide work as well as daily feeding, relieving, and grooming sessions. The dog guide will have been trained to stop for steps, curbs, and on-coming traffic, and will lead the handler around obstacles such as broken pavement, other pedestrians, or even overhead obstructions. Dogs cannot read traffic signals; the handler must be able to listen to the flow of traffic to determine when it is safe to cross the street.
When choosing a dog guide school you should ask about each school's particular services. Find out if they provide any after care or extended service in the event you were to have a problem with the dog at home. Some schools provide help with veterinary expenses.
A helpful book for anyone wishing to obtain a dog guide is A Guide to Guide Dog Schools by Eames, Gardiner and Gingold. This book is now available from Ed and Toni Eames. The book discusses how a dog guide can help a blind person, and describes its impact on the dog guide's family and the rest of the world. It also enumerates and describes all of the guide dog schools available.
California's Department of Social Services provides a Guide Dog Special Allowance Program, giving a $30 per month cash grant to legally blind recipients of the State Supplemental Program (SSP) and/or In-Home Supportive Services (Homemaker/Chore) for the purchase of food for bona fide guide dogs.
Leader Dogs for the Blind
1039 S. Rochester Rd., Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Phone: (248) 651-9011, (888) 777-5332, TTY (248) 651-3713
Email: leaderdog@
Web site:
Agency/Business Profile: Leader Dogs for the Blind empowers people who are blind, visually impaired or Deaf-Blind with skills for a lifetime of independent travel, opening doors that may seem to have closed with the loss of sight.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind
611 Granite Springs Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
Phone: (800) 942-0149
Web site: guiding-
Agency/Business Profile: Guiding Eyes provides superbly bred and trained guide dogs to men and women who are blind or visually impaired.
The Seeing Eye
10 Washington Valley Rd., P.O. Box 375, Morristown, NJ 07963
Phone: (973) 539-4425
E-mail:info@
Web site:
Agency/Business Profile: The Seeing Eye is a philanthropic organization whose mission is to enhance the independence, dignity, and self-confidence of blind people through the use of Seeing Eye® dogs
Guide Dogs of America
13445 Glenoaks Boulevard, Sylmar, CA 91342
Phone: (818) 362-5834, Fax (818) 362-6870
E-mail: mail@
Web site:
Agency/Business Profile: Guide Dogs of America is dedicated to its mission to provide guide dogs and instruction in the use, free of charge, to blind and visually impaired men and women from the United States and Canada so that they may continue to pursue goals with increased mobility and independence.
Guide Dogs for the Blind
Training facility: 350 Los Ranchitos Rd, San Rafael, CA 94903
Phone: (866)512-9103, (800) 295-4050
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: GDB creates exceptional partnerships between highly trained guide dogs and people who are blind or visually impaired. They offer a lifetime of support and all services are provided free of charge.
Guide Dogs of the Desert
PO Box 1692, Palm Springs, CA 92263
Phone: (760) 329-6257
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Guide Dogs of the Desert provides custom trained guide dogs for the blind, and for those with special needs, for safe mobility, companionship, and independence.
Hearing Dogs (Wiki at )
Dogs for the Deaf
10175 Wheeler Road, Central Point, Oregon 97502
Phone: (541) 826-9220, (800) 990-3647
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Dogs for the Deaf, Inc.'s mission is to rescue and professionally train dogs to help people and enhance lives, maintaining a lifelong commitment to all dogs they rescue and all people served.
Dogs for the Deaf and Disabled Americans
P.O. Box 1100, Princeton, MA 01541
Phone: (978) 422-9064 Voice/TDD, Fax (978) 422-3255
E-mail:info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NEADS (National Education for Assistance Dog Services, also known as Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans), is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was established in 1976 and is based in Princeton, Massachusetts. The Assistance Dogs become an extension of handlers and bring freedom, physical autonomy and relief from social isolation to human partners who are deaf or have a disability.
San Simeon Foundation
30765 Pacific Coast Hwy #113, Malibu, CA 90265
Phone: 310-457-5898 (voice/TTY), Fax (310) 457-9312
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Hearing Dogs are specially trained to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing to common household sounds such as door knocks, telephones, and smoke alarms.
Canine Companions for Independence
P.O. Box 446, Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446
Phone: (800) 572-BARK (2275), (866) CCI-DOGS (224-3647)
Web site:
Email form: info@
Agency/business Profile: Founded in 1975, Canine Companions for
Independence is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with
disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to
ensure quality partnerships.
Medical Alert Dogs (Wiki) at )
Service Dogs for America
920 Short Street, P.O. Box 513, Jud, North Dakota 58454
Phone: (701) 685-2242
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Service Dogs for America continues the rich tradition of encouraging and empowering those with special needs through custom trained service dogs. The goal and mission is to facilitate specialized training, education, and ensure the placement of service dogs to individuals with special needs, without causing financial burdens.
Dogs for Diabetics
1400 Willow Pass Court, Concord, CA 94520
Phone: (925) 246-5785
Web site: //standards/medical-alert-dog-standards/
Agency/business Profile: Dogs for Diabetics (D4D) is the seminal organization to research, train and place Medical Assistance Diabetic Alert Dogs with insulin-dependent diabetics to assist them in managing insulin therapy.
Medical Mutts
Phone: (317) 258-9999, Fax (317) 802-1187
E-mail: medicalmutts@
Web site: //#!medical-alert-dogs/cktc
Agency/business Profile: Medical Mutts was created under the expert supervision of Jennifer Cattet, Ph.D. with the goal to assist people and dogs in need of help. Jennifer Cattet is an ethologist, a psychologist, a dog behaviorist and a trainer and has worked with dogs and people for over 30 years.
Service Dogs for Independence
Phone: (520) 909-0531
E-mail: info@sd4i.us
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Service Dogs for Independence
Mission Statement: Not every person or disability is the same. Not every service dog should be trained in the same way. The educated, dedicated staff will take the time to listen to the needs of the disabled to help determine how the dog should be custom trained.
Service Dogs (wiki: )
Canine Companions for Independence
P.O. Box 446, Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446
Phone: (800) 572-BARK (2275), (866) CCI-DOGS (224-3647)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Founded in 1975, Canine Companions for Independence is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.
Pawsitive Service Dog Solutions
P.O. Box 383, Olivehurst, CA 95961
Phone: (530) 788-8179
Web site: //2012/05/service-dog-therapy-dog-companion-dog-samedifference/
Service Companion Dogs of America (SCDOA)
Phone: (760) 295-2222
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Service Companion Dogs of America was created to help individuals who could benefit from the assistance of a Service Dog. The organization provides highly trained dogs, free of charge, as well as guidance and education to the recipient in how to utilize and interact with the dog.
Good Dog Autism Service Dogs
855 South Main Ave, Suite K-162, Fallbrook, CA 92028
Phone: (858) 245-0032
E-mail: gooddogautism@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Good Dog is dedicated to educating both the general public and the autism community about the benefits and laws pertaining to autism service dogs.
PAWS With A Cause
4646 South Division, Wayland, MI 49348
Phone: (800) 253-7297, Fax (616) 877-0248
E-mail: paws@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Paws With A Cause® enhances the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities nationally through custom-trained Assistance Dogs. PAWS® increases awareness of the rights and roles of Assistance Dog Teams through education and advocacy.
Assistance Dog Special Allowance
Office of Services to the Blind
744 P Street, MS 8-16-94
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 657-2628 (Voice)
(916) 653-7651 (TTY)
Email: ADSAUser@dss.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ADSA Program provides monthly payment of $50 to guide dog users, or service dog to help w/ needs related to disabilities. The allowance helps pay the costs of food, grooming, & health care for the dogs.
COLLEGE / CAREER
Scholarships
Scholarships are available for visually impaired college students from a broad variety of sources. These can be applied to undergraduate and graduate schools as well as to vocational schools. Each scholarship has its own qualifications, restrictions and application. Some organizations offer several scholarships for a variety of career choices. THE JOURNAL OF VISUAL IMPAIRMENT & BLINDNESS, published by the American Foundation for the Blind, provides a listing of available scholarships about every five years. Copies of these articles are available upon request. The Blind Students of California, part of the California Council of the Blind, has a booklet listing over 50 scholarships and providing tips about scholarship hunting. In addition, each State Department of Rehabilitation provides financial support for college to clients according to the individual rehabilitation plan. School counseling offices and public libraries have books listing general scholarships that a student who is visually impaired may qualify for based upon a particular talent or cultural background.
American Council of the Blind
2200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 650, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (800) 424-8666
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: American Council of the Blind serves individuals of all ages who are blind or low vision. They house a list of agencies and groups that transcribe books and other resources are listed as well.
California Council of the Blind (CCB)
1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814-2900
Phone: (916) 441-2100, (800) 221-6359
E-mail: ccotb@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CCB's mission is to increase the independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for all Californians who are blind and visually impaired.
Deque University Scholarships for People with Disabilities
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: No cost access to Deque’s in-depth web accessibility curriculum for a full year at no cost.
Expanded Core Curriculum for Blind and Visually Impaired Youths
American Foundation for the Blind
2 Penn Plaza, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10121
Phone: (212) 502-7600, (202) 469-6833
E-mail: mrichert@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) is the body of knowledge and skills that are needed by students with visual impairments due to the unique disability-specific needs. The ECC includes: Compensatory or Functional Academic Skills, Including Communication Modes, Orientation and Mobility, Social Interaction Skills, independent Living Skills, Recreation and Leisure Skills, Career Education, Technology, Sensory Efficiency Skills, and Self-Determination.
Association of Blind Citizens
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Association of Blind Citizens (ABC) purpose is to advance relevant causes, increase opportunities in education, employment, cultural, recreational and other life activities, as well as enhance the social, political, and economic well-being for all persons who are blind or visually impaired.
Association of Educators and Rehabilitators for the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER)
1703 N. Beauregard Street, Suite 440 Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone: (703) 671-4500
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of AER is to support professionals who provide education and rehabilitation services to people with visual impairments. The vision of AER is to be recognized as the leading authority in providing the necessary services and tools to help educators and rehabilitation personnel in serving the blind and visually impaired. Applicants must be legally blind and pursuing a career in services for people who are visually impaired.
Blind Students of California (a branch of California Council of the Blind)
1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814-2900
Contact: Angela Fowler at (530) 902-0987 or fowlers@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CABS has advocated for equal, accessible education for blind elementary school, secondary school, and college and university students.
Christian Record Braille Foundation Scholarships
Phone: (402) 488-0981
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Christian Record Services for the Blind improves the quality of life for children, teens, and adults with visual impairments by providing them with free programs and services focused on needs. Applicant must be legally blind.
Dominican College
School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
50 Acacia Avenue, Angelico Hall, San Rafael, CA 94901
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Dominican University of California is committed to providing effective, reasonable accommodations to qualified students with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act, Department of Music, applicant accepted at Dominican College must be legally blind and be a music major.
Jewish Braille Institute of America, Inc.
Phone: (212) 889-2525
E-mail: admin@
Web site: nyu.edu/pages/gsas/files/jewishb
Agency/business Profile: JBI International is a non-profit organization dedicated
To meeting the Jewish and general cultural needs of the visually impaired, blind,
Physically handicapped and reading disabled worldwide. Applicant must be
working toward a career in Jewish education or theology.
National Federation of the Blind
1800 Johnson St., Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9314, Fax (410) 685-5653
Web site:
National Federation of the Blind of California
39481 Gallaudet Drive Apt. 127, Fremont, CA 94538
Phone: (510) 248-0100, (877) 558-6524
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day they raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and dreams. Live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.
College Accessible materials
Learning Ally (formerly Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic)
20 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: (800) 221-4792
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Learning Ally is lending library that provides recorded materials for individuals of all ages who are blind or dyslexic. They loan accessible college-level textbooks and textbook materials for K-12 students.
Bookshare
480 South California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: (650) 644-3400
Website:
Agency/Business Profile: On-line digital library of accessible images for students with print disabilities such as visual impairments, physical disabilities and learning disabilities. At the time of production the Bookshare collection houses over 370,000 educational materials. Bookshare is free to all US students and schools thanks to a grant from the Department of Education. K-12 and Post-secondary
Books are available in audio, braille ready formats and large print. Bookshare books can be accessed on a variety devices such as refreshable braille machines, personal computers, tablets and phones.
Alternative Text Production Center (ATPC)
1175 Calle Suerte, Camarillo, California 93012
Phone: TTY (805) 383-0187, Fax (805) 383-9202
Web site:
Email: braille@
Agency/business Profile: ATPC is the post-secondary services program for students attending junior college in Southern California needing braille, large print, and accessible digital files for college coursework.
POST-SECONDARY INFORMATION
The California Community College program of High Tech Centers for the Disabled provides training and access to assistive computer technologies for students with disabilities. Services and available equipment vary from college to college, but they generally include assistive computer technology for students with visual impairments.
High Tech Center staff remains abreast of legislation that impacts students with disabilities, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and current trends in adaptive computer technology. Students considering attending a community college can find out which colleges have High Tech Centers by calling the main office. Students can gain more knowledge about speech synthesis, scanning devices, and a host of other adaptive computer equipment by visiting a near-by High Tech Center.
High Tech Center Training Unit
21050 McClellan Road, Suite A, Cupertino, CA 95014
Phone: (408) 996-4636, (800) 411-8954, (408) 252-4938, FAX (408) 996-6042
E-mail: info@
Web site: htctu.fhda.edu
Agency/business Profile: The High Tech Center Training Unit of the California Community Colleges is a state of the art training and support facility for community college faculty and staff wishing to acquire or improve teaching skills, methodologies, and pedagogy in Assistive Computer Technology, Alternate Media and Web Accessibility. The HTCTU supports High Tech Center programs at one-hundred and fourteen community colleges and satellite centers. More than ten thousand students with disabilities are enrolled in High Tech Center programs state-wide.
Disabled Student Services Programs at Colleges and Universities
These programs are available on most California junior college and university campuses. Staffed by trained professionals, the programs provide a broad range of support services for students with disabilities. Among the services available are counseling, tutoring, and reader assistance. Office staff will assist students in working with professors and lecturers to make tests and handouts accessible. The facility for students with disabilities frequently has specialized equipment available such as speech-access computers, braillewriters, CCTVs and reading machines. These programs are valuable resources for any student with special needs.
Heath Resource Center of the American Council on Education and the Association on Handicapped Student Services Programs has published, HOW TO CHOOSE A COLLEGE: GUIDE FOR THE STUDENT WITH A DISABILITY. The following are some questions students with visual disabilities should ask:
1. Will my textbooks be made accessible in the medium I use? How can I obtain accessible textbooks?
2. Will I have assistance in obtaining and using readers? How many reader hours may I use?
3. What kind of arrangements will be available for taking tests?
4. What kinds of adaptive equipment are available to me? How many people will be using each piece?
5. How accessible is the library in terms of equipment and services?
6. What help will I have learning to get around the campus?
7. Will I need to make special arrangements for my dog guide?
8. Where will I get personal, academic, or career counseling?
9. Are there other services available for people with vision disabilities?
10. What do I need to do to assure the services I need?
FinAid
Web site: otheraid/disabled.phtml
Agency/business Profile: FinAid (Financial Aid) was established in the fall of 1994 as a public service. This award-winning site has grown into the most comprehensive source of student financial aid information, advice and tools -- on or off the web.
Tests in College and After Graduation
Throughout a student’s college experience, test taking is a reality. In community college and four-year universities, the student who is visually impaired facilitates the communication between the instructor and the disabled students’ center. Professors and lecturers provide the tests, usually on computer disk, to be transcribed into the appropriate media. The tests are transcribed into braille, audio or large type as required by the student. A reader/scribe may also be provided. Generally, the test is administered at the same time as the class by the testing service, unless specialized equipment is required. Then, the test would be taken in the disabled students’ center.
When a test is provided on disk by the instructor, the student may use laptop computers with speech output to enable a student to take a test at the same time as the rest of the class. The test responses can then be submitted on disk to the instructor minimizing the need for other special equipment.
At a school without support for disabled students, it is the individual student’s responsibility to arrange for transcribing, enlarging, or reader service in cooperation with the instructor. These arrangements need to be in place at the beginning of the term so that the student can complete the course work in a reasonable time.
Admission and Certification Tests
The Educational Testing Service (ETS) publishes college and graduate school qualification tests. These tests include the SAT, GRE (graduate school), GMAT (management), MCAT (medicine), CBEST (education) and National Teacher's Exam. Each of the tests is available in accessible format. For complete information concerning these tests and accommodations (for example, extra time), contact the ETS.
Qualification for many professions involves one or more certification tests. The California State Bar has a special accommodations packet available upon request. The Medical Board of California will provide tests in appropriate format for persons with documented disabilities. Contact the certifying agency regarding testing. If agencies are not knowledgeable or willing to give accommodations, contact The American Printing House for the Blind for the transition guide, Making Tests Accessible for Students with Visual Impairments: A Guide for Test Publishers, Test Developers, and State Assessment Personnel
Web site: tests/access2/index.html.
General Educational Developmental Test (GED):
The GED is available in braille, in large print, and audio. The Department of Rehabilitation will assist with preparation for this test. For further information, call the California State Department of Education at (916) 657-3346 or contact the American Council of Education at (202) 939-9490.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: GED Testing Service offers the only learner-centric program that is recognized and portable from state to state. The program is based on the expectations and standards for college- and career-readiness and will lead to better outcomes in education.
Test Preparation
Kaplan Educational Center provides tutoring which assists students in preparing for college admission and professional qualification examinations. They offer individual tutoring using tapes to persons with disabilities. Contact the center in the area.
American Council of Education
One Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 939-930
Web site: acenet.edu
Agency/business Profile: ACE is consistently at the center of federal policy debates in areas critical to higher education. Because the role as a convener of higher education associations and agencies, the higher education community is able to speak with one clear voice on vital issues affecting institutions and students.
Educational Testing Service,
GRE-ETS, P.O. Box 6000, Princeton, NJ 08541-6000 USA
Phone: (609) 771-7670, (866) 473-4373, (609) 921-9000
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ETS is committed to providing reasonable testing accommodations for candidates with documented disabilities or health-related needs, as recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA). The information on this website is intended to help test takers, evaluators and disability service providers complete the process that enables candidates to request accommodations.
Kaplan Educational Center
50 First Street, Suite 250, San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone: (415) 905-9000
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Kaplan is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET), a U.S. Department of Education nationally recognized agency.
California Department of Education: Special Education
1430 N Street, Suite 2401, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-4613
Web site: cde.
Email:
Agency/business Profile: California Department of Education: Special Education provides a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The Department of Education serves the state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners. Together, as a team, they prepare students to live, work, and thrive in a highly connected world.
California State Department of Rehabilitation
P.O. Box 944222, Sacramento, CA 94244-2220
Phone: (916) 324-1313, (916) 558-5480
E-mail: blindinfo@dor.
Web site: rehab.
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) administering the largest vocational rehabilitation program in the country. DOR offers a broad range of career opportunities for advancement and training, along with State government service benefits.
LD Online
WETA Public Television
2775 S. Quincy St., Arlington, VA 22206
Life Success for Students with Learning Disabilities: A Parent's Guide at (pamphlet)
Web site: //article/12836/.
Agency/business Profile: LD OnLine seeks to help children and adults reach the full potential by providing accurate and up-to-date information and advice about learning disabilities and ADHD.
EMPLOYMENT
Ability Jobs and Job Access
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Goal of JobAccess and ABILITYJobs is to enable people with disabilities to enhance professional lives by providing a dedicated system for finding employment.
"Because" Outreach Toolkit
Web site: blog/index.php/because-toolkit/
Agency/business Profile: “Because” is an inspirational PSA that features seven people, not actors, with disabilities who are pursuing and realizing goals and passions as a result of the support and encouragement they received from everyday people in the lives.
California Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities
Website: dor.boards-and-committees/CCEPD
Email: EPD@dor..
Agency/business Profile: Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities (GCEPD) will further advance employment opportunities for people with disabilities in California.
California State Department of Rehabilitation
P.O. Box 944222, Sacramento, CA 94244-2220
Phone: (916) 324-1313, (916) 558-5480
Web site: rehab.
E-mail: blindinfo@dor.
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) administering the largest vocational rehabilitation program in the country. DOR offers a broad range of career opportunities for advancement and training, along with State government service benefits.
California Employment Consortium for Youth
11000 Kinross Avenue, Suite 211, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1406
Phone: (310) 794-1141
Web site: Programs/AIDD/Programs/PNS/Resources/CECY.aspx
Agency/business Profile: The main activities for CECY are to: 1) develop a shared vision and skills for collaborative partnerships at the state and local level; 2) identify models for transition to employment through eight Local Employment Collaborative teams and in postsecondary education through the College to Career Program; 3) enhance knowledge, skills, and attitudes through local training, webinars, state and national conference; and 4) disseminate information.
Career One Stop
Phone: (877) US2-JOBS, (877) 872-5627), TTY (877) 872-5627
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CareerOneStop is a source for employment information and inspiration, the place to manage a career, a pathway to career success, and tools to help job seekers, students, businesses and career professionals.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
3803 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 100 Arlington, VA 22203
Phone: (703) 524-7600
E-mail: contact@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.
National Center on Workforce and Disability/Adult
100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Center on Workforce and Disability/Adult (NCWD) provides training, technical assistance, policy analysis, and information to improve access for all in the workforce development system.
Office of Disability Employment Policy
U.S. Department of Labor
200 Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20210
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: To foster, promote, and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers, and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights.
Pacer Center (Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights)
8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, MN 55437
Phone: (888) 248-0822, (952) 838-9000
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of PACER Center is to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life of children and young adults with disabilities and families, based on the concept of parents helping parents.
Sacramento Employment and Training Agency,
925 Del Paso Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95815
Phone: (916) 263-3800
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Sacramento Employment & Training Agency (SETA), a joint powers agency of the City and County of Sacramento, was formed in 1978. From its inception SETA has been an effective force in connecting people to jobs, business owners to quality employees, education and nutrition to children, and assistance to refugees.
Ticket to Work
Address: P.O. Box 1433. Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: (866) 968-7842 (V) or 866-833-2967 (TTY)
Web site:
E-mail: support@
Agency/business Profile: The United States Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program is the centerpiece of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. This voluntary program is designed to help people who are receiving disability benefits from Social Security "find good jobs, good careers, and better self-supporting futures.
DAILY LIVING SKILLS / LEISURE
EXPANDED CORE CURRICULUM
Expanded Core Curriculum for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Note: Living skills and leisure activities can be adaptable to other populations.
Compensatory and functional academic skills, including communication modes: Compensatory skills involve the adaptations necessary for accessing the core curriculum, which can include: braille, tactile symbols, sign language, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and digital materials.
Orientation and Mobility: Skills to orient children and young adults who are visually impaired, mobility impaired, learning disabled, and/ or cognitive concerns to surroundings, and travel skills to enable them to move independently and safely in the environment.
Social Interaction Skills: Since nearly all social skills are learned by observation of the environment and people, this is an area where students with vision loss need careful, conscious and explicit instruction. Students on the spectrum may not read social cues well and will need help in this area.
Independent Living Skills: This area includes the tasks and functions people perform in daily life to optimize independence - skills such as personal hygiene, food preparation, money management, and household chores.
Recreation & Leisure Skills: Skills to ensure students' enjoyment of physical and leisure-time activities, including making choices about how to spend leisure time.
Career Education: Students with disabilities benefit most from an experiential learning approach. Structured visits to community sites and discussions with people who perform various jobs, enable them to understand concepts and specific skills that are needed to be successful in those jobs.
Assistive Technology: Assistive technology is a powerful tool that can enable students with vision loss and other accessibility disabilities to overcome some traditional barriers to independence and employment.
Sensory Efficiency Skills: Skills that help students use the senses – including any functional vision, hearing, touch, smell, and taste – to access skills related to literacy and concept development.
Self-Determination: Skills to enable students to become effective advocates for themselves based on needs and goals.
Web site:
Advocacy
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) and Perkins School for the Blind launched a joint website on ECC
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Expanded Core Curriculum is an essential curriculum for blind and visually impaired youth.
ORIENTATION & MOBILITY
Orientation and Mobility )
It may sometimes be useful to receive service from an orientation and mobility specialist in becoming familiar with a new school, new neighborhood or new job or just to brush up on skills. The local Department of Rehabilitation or the County Office of Education should be able to assist you in locating an O&M instructor. You can find the Department of Rehabilitation near you by calling (916) 445-8638 or by looking on the Internet at dor..
Braille Institute
741 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: (800) 272-4553
Web site: Spanish,
Agency/business Profile: The Braille Institute is an agency that serves individuals who are blind from birth to seniors. They provide classes that pertain to blindness. They have a lending library and they offer services to the Spanish speaking community.
LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
214 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California 94102
Phone: (415) 694-7371
Fax: (415) 863-7568
Web site:
E-mail: info@lighthouse-
Agency/business Profile: Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides a range of rehabilitation services including Orientation and Mobility, Independent living skills, assistive technology assessment and training, and braille instruction. Our Changing Vision, Changing Life immersion guides newly blind and visually impaired students toward independence and confidence.
Youth and transition age students gain valuable life and vocational skills through leadership and advocacy workshops, while building valuable networks on group trips to blindness conventions. Our Community Services department supports students in building connections with fellow blind youth and adults, and also encourages integration into the wider community. We promote fitness, nutrition, and a healthy dose of recreation.
The LightHouse prides itself on offering innovative accessible media, production of braille, tactile maps and 3D objects. An array of camping opportunities can be found at Enchanted Hills, The LightHouse campground, located in the rolling hills of Napa. Students immerse themselves in camp sessions focused on science, music, horseback riding, and the natural beauty of the woods all around them.
Our comprehensive Employment Immersion program builds valuable job preparation and search skills, while also addressing soft skills critical in achieving gainful employment. The LightHouse for the Blind is ready to help you live a full, productive, healthy and independent life.
Society for the Blind
1238 S Street, Sacramento, CA 95811
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Society for the Blind offers O&M skills to help visually impaired move around and expand the world. They teach alternative techniques and skills to travel safely, efficiently, and independently, whether in the home or out and about.
Lions Center for the Blind
1722 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 450-1580
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Lions Center for the Blind is an Oakland based training center in operation in the Bay Area since 1942. The organization provides core services of Orientation & Mobility Training, Independent Living Skills, Assistive Technology training, Braille, and Employment Services. The agency works in partnership with schools, community based organizations, businesses, and state & local governments to facilitate engagement and integration for visually impaired individuals.
Lions Center programs are conducted in both cohort learning models designed to foster social and interpersonal skill development, and individual one-on-one training for specific skill development. Students regularly experience cross-training between the various programs and instruction typically focuses on applicable uses for life after training.
Perkins
175 North Beacon Street, Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: (617) 924-3434
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Perkins believes strongly in access to independence, literacy and employment for people with visual impairment and other disabilities through innovative technology and services.
O&M Pages:
Texas School f/t Blind Instructional Resources
1100 W. 45th St., Austin, Texas 78756
Phone: (512) 206-9183, Fax (512) 206-9452
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Texas School f/t Blind provides articles and training for O & M.
Explore Health Careers: Orientation and Mobility
655 K Street, NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 289-7201, or (347) 365-9253
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists teach individuals with visual impairments to travel safely, confidently and independently in the environment.
California Association of Orientation and Mobility Specialists (CAOMS)
E-mail: contactcaoms@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CAOMS is a statewide organization whose mission is to facilitate professional growth and to support the roles of the O&M Specialists in the rehabilitation and education of individuals with visual impairments.
San Francisco State University: O & M Certification
1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132
Phone: (415) 338-1245
Web site: mobility.sfsu.edu
E-mail: mobility@sfsu.edu
Agency/business Profile: The Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Program at San Francisco State University is nationally approved by The Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER). The program curriculum prepares O&M specialists with the specific skills needed to work with people of any and all ages (infancy through adulthood) who have visual impairments, including those who have multiple disabilities and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. After graduation, specialists provide individualized training to students on skills that promote independent travel and productive lifestyles.
Wonder Babies
E-mail: help@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: , a project funded by Perkins School for the Blind, is dedicated to helping parents of young children with visual impairments as well as children with multiple disabilities.
O&M for Deaf-Blind People Resources
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Articles and handouts from presentations are available.
Canes
Canes are the most common mobility device. There are many types available: rigid, folding, telescopic, and electronic. Choice is a decision made based on feel, weight, and usage. Web site:
Free White Cane Program
200 East Wells Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The NFB provides the long white cane is a means to independence. The white cane has proved a useful tool to millions of blind people in navigating environments with confidence and safety. It is a tool which allows blind people to travel where and when they want, and as such leads to self-sufficiency.
Global Position Systems (GPS)
Many smart phones have apps that speak to the user telling where you are, business or attractions on the route, and directions to where you need to go.
511
Web site:
Product information: Free app initially designated for road weather information, is a transportation and traffic information telephone hotline in some regions of the United States and Canada. Travelers can dial the three-digit telephone number 5-1-1 on traditional landline telephones and most mobile phones.
Blindsquare
Web site:
E-mail: support@
Product information: BlindSquare is the World’s Most Popular accessible GPS-app developed for the blind and visually impaired. It describes the environment, announces points of interest and street intersections as you travel. In conjunction with free, third-party navigation apps it is a powerful solution providing most of the information blind and visually impaired people need to travel independently. Your safety is our highest priority. BlindSquare is self-voicing, announcing points of interest, intersections and user-defined points through a dedicated speech synthesizer. The most important BlindSquare functions can be accessed through an audio menu via any headset or speaker that supports Apple’s music controller.
Global Positioning Systems (Wiki)
Web site: )
GPS Technology for the Blind
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Currently blind consumers can choose from three GPS products: the Trekker produced by HumanWare, a portable GPS system that connects to a personal data assistant; a GPS system from the Sendaro Group for HumanWare’s BrailleNote portable notetaker; and a GPS system for PAC Mate produced by Freedom Scientific.
Trekker Talking GPS - Humanware
Phone: (800) 722-3393
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Product information: The Trekker Breeze+ is the next generation of the popular Trekker Breeze navigation system by Humanware, offering the most accurate, intuitive, and effective navigation information for travelers who are visually impaired.
Considerations for Blind Travelers using GPS (APH)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are so common now that most people either use one in the car or employ a hand-held unit on a daily basis. These devices pinpoint a position on earth by triangulating signals from three or more satellites. When this positional information combines with detailed maps and the appropriate software, a powerful tool emerges.
Carol Center for the Blind
770 Centre Street, Newton, MA 02458
Phone: (617) 969-Toll-Free (800) 852-3131
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Carroll Center Established in 1936, The Carroll Center has pioneered many innovative services for the blind and visually impaired. They have developed many methods for people with low vision to learn the skills to be independent in homes, in class settings, and in work places.
EBSCO GPS Talking
Phone: (800) 653-2726
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The device based on GPS (Global Positioning System), the raw data for location coordinate where the blind people stands is detect by GPS receiver, processing these data by PIC microcontroller to calculate real coordinate related with current position, then translate it to specific voice message which are presorted in voice recorder, the blind person hears voice message through the headset.
Sendero GPS
Phone: (888) 757-6810, Fax (888) 757-6807
E-mail: orders@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Sendero founders began developing accessible GPS in 1993. They released the first GPS version for a laptop in 2000. Sendero software is now at the core of 5 accessible GPS products such as BrailleNote, Braille Sense, Mobile Geo/Adventure, Sendero PC Maps and GPS, Sendero LookAround for iPhone. The Seeing Eye GPS (U.S. and Canada), RNIB Navigator (U.K.), and Guide Dogs NSW/ACT (Australia) are the only fully accessible turn-by-turn apps for the iDevices.
Transportation
Para-transit Access
Door to door public transportation for people who have disabilities is mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act. You may be eligible if you cannot access written bus schedules and bus stop signs, if bus stops you would use require street crossing which are too dangerous or if other obstacles make public buses inaccessible for you. You can reach para-transit, also called Dial-A-Ride, by calling the public transportation company in your area. You will need to register with the para-transit provider, which will probably require having a doctor or rehabilitation worker certify that you have a disability that makes travel by public bus difficult or impossible at least some of the time.
Bus/Trolley/Light Rail Transportation
Fares on public transportation, rapid transit, and commuter trains may be discounted for people who have disabilities. Find out how to register for a discount by calling the local bus company. You may need to have a doctor certify that you are impaired in order to access the discount.
Public bus transportation can vary in method of payment. Some require exact change, or tokens purchased at banks or other commercial facilities. Many systems now include a monthly card pass that is used to show the driver or may magnetically activate a screen on the bus.
Hiring a Driver
It is possible to hire a private driver, particularly if you need someone to drive you at predictable, regular times each week. A center for independent living in your area would be a good place to start when looking for a driver.
Web site: links/ilcenters.htm
Uber
Web site:
Product information: Uber Technologies Inc. (stylized as U B E R) is an American international transportation network company headquartered in San Francisco, California The company develops, markets and operates the Uber mobile app, which allows consumers with smartphones to submit a trip request which is then routed to Uber drivers who use their own cars.
Lyft
Web site:
Product information: Lyft is a privately held American transportation network company (TNC) based in San Francisco. The company's mobile-phone application facilitates peer-to-peer ridesharing by connecting passengers who need a ride with drivers who have a car
Low Vision Driving
Some people who have low vision are eligible to drive in California, provided that the acuity with best correction is better than 20/200. For information about bi-optic telescopes for driving and about driver’s training for people who are visually impaired, call the Low Vision Clinic at UC Berkeley at (510) 642-5726. Ask to speak to the educator on staff.
Long Distance Travel
While it is possible to develop enough familiarity with the bus, train, and airport facilities near your home to feel comfortable traveling in them independently, the most efficient method of navigating these facilities is by using the luggage porter or other transportation employee as a sighted guide. It is easiest if you call ahead to the airline and let them know what kind of assistance you will need and when you will need it. These employees can also assist in connecting you with a taxi, or hotel van.
Multiple Disabilities Mobility
O&M Multiple Disabilities
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Sauerburger organization provides orientation and mobility (O&M) services to visually impaired people with multiple disabilities presents an exciting challenge. It enables students to achieve a meaningful life (personal, family, community and vocational) -- a life which they and families might not have thought possible.
National Center on Deaf-Blindness
345 N. Monmouth Avenue, Monmouth OR 97361
Phone: (503) 838-8754, Fax (503) 838-8150
E-mail: info@
Web site: library/list/55
Agency/business Profile: Orientation and Mobility instruction teaches individuals who are blind or visually impaired how to travel safely and independently. More comprehensive information on Orientation and Mobility can be found in the resources from the recommended readings section.
Cognitive Impairment Mobility
Secure Care
39 Chenell Drive, Concord, NH 03301
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Secure Care electronic monitoring devices can be used to protect these vulnerable individuals while still being mindful of need for independence and dignity. Personal wander monitoring technology typically falls under two categories – radio frequency identification (RFID) and global positioning systems (GPS).
Autism Tracking Devices (article)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Federal government provides information about how to apply for autism tracking devices.
Government to Fund Tracking Devices (article)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The federal government made the announcement at the end of January that $10 million will be allocated funding to the Justice Department for a grant program to provide tracking devices.
Emfinders Emseeq
Disabled World
Phone: (450) 844-0576
E-mail: admin@disabled-
Web site: Agency/business Profile: EmFinders EmSeeQ is an emergency response solution designed to work in conjunction with law enforcement officials and the 9-1-1 community to help locate adults with cognitive and developmental disabilities and children who wander, including those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and autism. The solution utilizes a watch-like wearable device and cellular network-based U-TDOA technology to provide unparalleled tracking information.
Electronic Mobility Aids
Independent Living Aids (ILA)
Address: 137 Rano Rd., Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 537-2118
Web site:
Product information: Stay active, independent, and make your life easier with the superb selection of low-vision aids, tools and technology from ILA. We carry everything for the blind and visually impaired including canes and mobility aids, magnifiers, talking watches, talking clocks, talking bibles, large print books, smoke detectors, Braille products, talking cooking gadgets, voice recognition software and much, much more.
Miniguide US (American Printing House for the Blind)
1839 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Product information: The Miniguide US is a tiny, handheld electronic travel device that can enhance the effectiveness of a blind person's primary travel method. It uses ultrasound to detect objects, and gives tactual or auditory feedback by vibrating or chirping more rapidly as you approach an object.
LS&S Group, Inc.
145 River Rock Drive, Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 468-4789, TTY (866) 317-8533
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The LS&S Group carries low vision aids, hard of hearing products and assistive technology. They serve the low vision/blind community as well as the hard of hearing/deaf communities.
MaxiAids; Electronic travel aids
42 Executive Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735
Phone: (800) 522-6294, TTY (800) 281-3555
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: MaxiAids carries independent living products for those who are blind, low vision, hard of hearing and who have other physical/mobility disabilities.
Sendero Group
Davis, CA 95616
Phone: (888) 757-6810
Web site:
E-mail: gps@
Agency/business Profile: The Sendero founders began developing accessible GPS in 1993. They released the first GPS version for a laptop in 2000. Sendero software is now at the core of 5 accessible GPS products such as BrailleNote, Braille Sense, Mobile Geo/Adventure, Sendero PC Maps and GPS, Sendero LookAround for iPhone. The Seeing Eye GPS (U.S. and Canada), RNIB Navigator (U.K.), and Guide Dogs NSW/ACT (Australia) are the only fully accessible turn-by-turn apps for the iDevices.
CONSUMER ORGANIZATIONS
National Disability Consumer Groups
The National Council on Disability (NCD)
1331 F Street, NW, Suite 850, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: (202) 272-2004 (Voice), or (202) 272-2074 (TTY)
E-mail: ncd@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Council on Disability is an independent federal agency that makes recommendations to the President and Congress to improve the quality of life for Americans with disabilities and families. The NCD works to empower individuals with disabilities.
The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)
820 1st Street NE, Suite 740
Washington, DC 20002
Phone: (202) 408-9514, Fax (202) 408-9520, TTY (220) 408-9521
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NDRN believes that Congress and the White House must address the significant and growing unmet needs of children and adults with disabilities and families by increasing existing federal funding.
Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) provides training and information to parents of disabled children and to people who work with them.
Web site:
Email questions: ww2.about/contacts/gen/index.html
Agency/business Profile: OSERS is committed to the broad values of inclusion, equity and opportunity for infants, toddlers, children, youth and adults with disabilities to actively participate in all aspects of life. OSERS supports programs that help educate children and youth with disabilities, provides for the rehabilitation of youth and adults with disabilities and supports research to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. OSERS provides a wide array of supports to parents and individuals, school districts and states through two main programs: Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) and Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA).
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
1291 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20542
Phone: (202) 707-5100, TDD (202) 707-0744
Web site: nls
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NLS offers books and magazines to serve people with vision impairments and physical disabilities.
Factsheet:
Blindness Organizations
American Council of the Blind
2200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 650, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (800) 424-8666
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The American Council of the Blind serves individuals of all ages who are blind or low vision. They house a list of agencies and groups that transcribe books and other resources are listed as well. Information may be accessed through the website or by phone.
California Association of Parents of the Visually Impaired (CAPVI)
414 West Mill Street, Ukiah, CA 95482
Phone: (209) 586-2652, or (707) 463-2296
E-mail: pierce1004@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CAPVI (the California Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments) is the California affiliate of NAPVI, the National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments. CAPVI exists to promote and provide information to parents of children with visual impairments, provide opportunities to network, increase public awareness about children with visual impairments, foster communication and coordination of services between state and local agencies and advocate for educational needs and welfare of children who are blind or visually impaired.
The ACB Radio
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ACB Radio, a project of the American Council of the Blind, streams via the internet, up-to-date and relevant information worldwide for persons who are blind or who have low vision, provides programming produced by blind programmers, and a platform on which blind musicians and artists express talents.
National Association of Parents of the Visually Impaired (NAPVI)
P.O. Box 317
Watertown, MA 02471
Phone: (800) 562-6265, (617) 972-7441
E-mail: napvi@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NAPVI helps parents to find information and locate resources for children. It also advocates on a national level for the resources necessary to educate those children. An affiliate of Lighthouse Guild, NAPVI was founded by volunteers, principally parents of children who are visually impaired. They believe that if parents obtain the support and information they need they will become the best advocates for the children.
National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
1800 Johnson St., Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9314, Fax 410) 685-5653
Web site:
National Federation of the Blind of California
39481 Gallaudet Drive Apt. 127, Fremont, CA 94538
Phone: (510) 248-0100, (877) 558-6524
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines the future. Every day they raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.
MEDICAL INFORMATION
There are many medical conditions that can lead to or are concomitant with visual impairment. Diabetes is one of the leading cause of blindness in the United States. People with diabetes can develop eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts. Managing diabetes is important. Other medical conditions include Stargardt’s (juvenile version of macular degeneration), and Retinitis Pigmentosa. Every person should have yearly eye exams, more often if advised by medical specialists. Even if you are totally blind, eye exams are important to monitor eye health.
Talking and large print devices for managing medical conditions are available through catalogs. Local agency stores and drug stores have weekly pill containers with large print and braille markings for days of the week.
On July 26, 1990 the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) was passed by Congress. The ADA provides major civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities. The intent of this federal law is to reduce barriers to persons with disabilities and provide equal opportunity in employment, public accommodations, public services, transportation, and telecommunications. The various subchapters of the ADA affect many aspects of the lives of people with disabilities.
Title I makes it unlawful to discriminate against qualified people with Disabilities in employment.
Title II makes it unlawful for state and local governments and agencies to discriminate in programs and services, including state or county medical services and substance abuse clinics.
Title III prohibits discrimination in access and enjoyment of public accommodation and commercial facilities, such as hotels, motels, restaurants, professional offices, lawyers’ offices, convention centers, stores, banks, museums, parks, schools, recreation facilities, and substance abuse clinics.
Title IV requires accessibility of telecommunication services to people who are deaf or hearing impaired.
Title V prohibits retaliation and coercion against individuals for opposing or participating in an investigation of illegal acts or practices under the ADA
Social Security: Benefits for People with Disabilities
The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. While these two programs are different in many ways, both are administered by the Social Security Administration and only individuals who have a disability and meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under either program.
Health Resources
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
PO Box 66122, Washington, DC 20035DC 20035
Health Care Guide for Youth and Families
Pamphlet:
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) is a non-profit organization run by and for autistic people. ASAN provides support and services to individuals on the autism spectrum while working to change public perception and combat misinformation.
Association on Higher Education of Disability
107 Commerce Centre Drive, Suite 204, Huntersville, NC 28078 USA
Phone: (704) 947-7779, Fax (704) 948-7779
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AHEAD is the premiere professional association committed to full participation of persons with disabilities in postsecondary education.
HEATH Resource Center at George Washington University
2134 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20052-0001
Phone: (202) 994-1000
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Since 2000, the HEATH Resource Center has served as a national clearinghouse on postsecondary education for individuals with disabilities, managed by The George Washington University Graduate School of Education and Human Development.
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition
University of Minnesota, Pattee Hall
150 Pillsbury Drive SE, Minneapolis MN 55455
Phone: (612) 624-2097, Fax (612) 624-9344
E-mail: ncset@umn.edu
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Center on Secondary Education and Transition (NCSET) coordinates national resources, offers technical assistance, and disseminates information related to secondary education and transition for youth with disabilities in order to create opportunities for youth to achieve successful futures.
California State Independent Living Council Website
1600 K Street, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-0142, (866) 866-7452, TTY (866) 745-2889
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Independent Living Council Web site was created to set policy and systems change for independent living.
California Foundation for Independent Living Centers
1000 G Street, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 325-1690 Voice, (916) 325-1695 TTY
E-mail: info@
Web site: ,
Agency/business Profile: California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC) is California’s trade organization of Independent Living Centers. It also houses the following programs that serve Californians with disabilities: Ability Tools, YO! Disabled and Proud, Disability Organizing Network and the Digital Access Project.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: is here to help you decide what type of wheelchair ramp is right for the specific situation.
Sacramento Housing & Redevelopment Agency
801 12th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 444-9210
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: SHRA is a Joint Powers Agency created by the Sacramento City Council and Sacramento County Board of Supervisors to represent both jurisdictions for affordable housing and community development needs.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Science Writing, Press, and Dissemination Branch
6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 6200, MSC 9663, Bethesda, MD 20892-9663
Phone: (866) 615-6464, or (301) 443-8431 (TTY)
Email Us: nimhinfo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of NIMH is to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical research, paving the way for prevention, recovery, and cure. NIMH is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Road Atlanta, GA 30329-4027 USA
Phone: (800-232-4636), TTY 888-232-6348
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CDC works to protect America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S. Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are chronic or acute, curable or preventable, human error or deliberate attack, CDC fights disease and supports communities and citizens.
Medical Services; Vision
California Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons
1201 J Street, Suite 200, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (415) 777-3937
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The California Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (CAEPS) is the only statewide organization representing California ophthalmologists and patients. CAEPS' activities include legislative advocacy, interaction with third party payers about reimbursement and coverage issues, public education about important eye health care concerns, and continuing medical education for ophthalmologists and staffs.
American Diabetes Association
1701 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone: (800) DIABETES or (800) 342-2383
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: American Diabetes Association leads the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fight for those affected by diabetes.
Glaucoma Research Foundation
251 Post Street, Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: (415) 986-3162, Fax (415) 986-3763
Email: grf@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Glaucoma Research Foundation mission is to prevent vision loss from glaucoma by investing in innovative research, education, and support with the ultimate goal of finding a cure.
Macular Degeneration International
Prevention Sciences Research Center, Morgan State University
1700 East Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21251
Phone: (443) 885-4030
E-mail: fernando.wagner@morgan.edu
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the PSRC will be accomplished through coordinated inter-institutional efforts in research, training and community outreach. The Center has a national focus, but much of its work is conducted in the local Baltimore community.
MaxiAids
42 Executive Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735
Phone: (800) 522-6294, TTY (800) 281-3555
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Maxi Aids carries independent living products for those who are blind, low vision, hard of hearing and who have other physical/mobility disabilities.
Access to Medical Care for Individuals with Mobility Disabilities
Phone: (800) 514-0301 (voice), (800) 514-0383 (TTY).
Pamphlet site:
Understanding Medical and Disability Information
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Understanding Medical and Disability Information provides additional links for medical information.
Medical Information Center
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Medical Information Center is the free online information center you can turn to for reliable medical information.
Assistive Technology, Adapted Products & Apps
7500 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD 21244-1850
Phone: (800) 633-4227
Web site: durable medical equipment (DME)
Agency/business Profile: Learn about how the health care law (Affordable Care Act or ACA) affects people who need durable medical equipment.
The Center for Assistive Technology
3075 Adeline, Suite 220, Berkeley, CA 94703
Phone: (510) 841-3224, Fax (510) 841-7956
E-mail: info@
Website:
Agency/business Profile: The Center for Assistive Technology provides children with disabilities opportunities so that they can succeed in school, adults with disabilities can find (and keep) jobs and all people with disabilities can use the internet, email and benefit from the digital revolution.
Eye Specialists
Low Vision Specialist: A low vision specialist is an optometrist who specializes in the evaluation of low vision and the prescription of low vision aids.
Ophthalmologist: An ophthalmologist is a doctor of medicine (M.D.) who has completed four years of college, four years of medical school, a one year medicine and surgery internship, and three years of special training in ophthalmology. He/she diagnoses and treats all disorders of the eyes, does eye surgery, may refract (measure the focus of the eyes), and may prescribe glasses.
Optometrist: An optometrist is a doctor of optometry (O.D.). He/she measures the focus of the eye in order to prescribe glasses and may also supply the lenses. The optometrist is not qualified to treat ocular diseases, do eye surgery or prescribe medication.
Optician: An optician is a trained and skilled technician who, on authorization of an ophthalmologist or optometrist, takes the necessary facial measurements to make glasses or other appliances.
Low Vision Clinics
Low vision clinics are designed to help persons who are visually impaired use remaining vision as efficiently and effectively as possible. They provide a functional vision assessment, offer strategies to assist you to maximize vision, evaluate and prescribe low vision aides and low vision systems (magnifiers, monocular, CCTV) for each individual’s visual needs.
Clinics can be found in such settings as colleges of optometry, hospitals, departments of ophthalmology at medical schools, and agencies serving blind and visually impaired persons. The ophthalmologist may have trained personnel associated with his or her office who offer low vision services. If you have trouble locating a low vision clinic in your area, contact either your local State Department of Rehabilitation, the local agency serving blind and visually impaired people, the American Foundation for the Blind, and/or Lighthouse International’s locator. Web site:
Berkeley: University Of California, School of Optometry
School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-2020
Web site: optometry.berkeley.edu/
Agency/business Profile: In addition to offering comprehensive clinical training, the School of Optometry offers a world-class faculty are committed to cutting-edge research in vision science.
Vista Center Low Vision Clinic (Stanford University)
2470 El Camino Real, Suite 107, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: (650) 858-0202
E-mail: info@
Web site: stanford.edu/dept/diversityaccess/access/resources/vision.html
Agency/business Profile: The Vista Center provides services such as a low vision clinic with an optometrist specialist, training in daily living skills and mobility training.
Blind and Visually Impaired Center of Monterey County, Inc.
225 Laurel Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
Phone (831) 649-3505, Fax (831) 649-4057
Email vision@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Blind and Visually Impaired Center of Monterey County mission is to encourage and inspire the people who are blind or visually impaired to transcend the loss of sight.
Society for the Blind
1238 S Street, Sacramento, CA 95811
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Low Vision Clinic of the Society for the Blind is one of the longest-running community-based eye clinics in the Sacramento Region. The clinic was established in 1975 by a group of volunteers who saw a need to provide eye healthcare and training in low vision devices. More information about the Low Vision Clinic at
California Pacific Medical Center, Low Vision Clinic
2333 Buchanan Street, San Francisco, CA 94115
Phone: (415) 600-6000
Web site: services/eye/LVRprogram.html
Agency/business Profile: California Pacific Medical Center is one of the largest private, not-for-profit, academic medical centers in California and is a Sutter Health affiliate.
BANKING AND BILL PAYING
Large print or braille checks: Banking can be done with large print checks or braille checks if they are available from the bank. Raised line checks are available from some banks.
Direct deposit: If the employer offers direct deposit, have your paychecks deposited into an account by the company you work for.
Writing guides
Web site:
Product information available at the Web site.
Money management training: Wells Fargo Bank has developed a training program called Hands on Banking – Money Skills You Need for Life.
Phone: (866) 650-6228, (877) 644-7819
E-mailing WellsFargoADACoordinator@
Web site:
Pamphlet site: .
Accessible Banking
Bank of America
Web site:
Email form: customer@
Agency/business Profile: The Bank of America provides sign language
interpreters in banking centers and home loans offices free of charge. If wishing
to utilize a sign language interpreter, please contact the banking center or home
loans office so that an appointment with an interpreter may be scheduled.
QuickBooks: Banking software accessibility with VoiceOver at
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: This is a YouTube video tutorial on QuickBooks.
Editor’s note: People using ATMs can often be targets for robbery, either as they use the machine, and have backs to the street, or as someone takes notices them leaving the machine with money in hand. They are especially vulnerable at night. Disabled people may be more vulnerable to this crime because criminals perceive them as easy targets. Some people tend to avoid using ATMs or to use ATMs in supermarkets and other stores that have them.
Wells Fargo Bank Accessibility
800 Walnut Street, MAC N0003-053, Des Moines, IA 50309-3605
Phone: (866) 650-6228, (877) 644-7819
E-mailing WellsFargoADACoordinator@
Web site:
U.S. Bank accessibility
425 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: (800) US BANKS, or (800) 872-2657
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: U.S. Bank is committed to providing ready access to products and services so customers, including people with disabilities, can succeed financially.
Money reading apps
LookTel Money Reader
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: LookTel Money Reader instantly recognizes currency and speaks the denomination, enabling people experiencing visual impairments or blindness to quickly and easily identify and count bills. Point the camera of your iOS device at a bill and the application will tell you the denomination in real-time. Twenty-one currencies are supported: the US Dollar, Australian Dollar, Bahraini Dinar, Brazilian Real, Belarusian Ruble, British Pound, Canadian Dollar, Euro, Hungarian Forint, Israeli Shekel, Indian Rupee, Japanese Yen, Kuwaiti Dinar, Mexican Peso, New Zealand Dollar, Polish Zloty, Russian Ruble, Saudi Arabian Riyal, Singapore Dollar, and United Arab Emirates Dirham.
IDEAL Currency Identifier for Androids
Web site:
Product Information: IDEAL is an App for Android phone systems.
Talking Calculators
Orion TI-36X Talking Scientific Calculator
Web site:
Product information from the APH.
Talking Calculators
Web site:
Product information from Maxiaids.
Talking Calculator
Web site:
Product information from the APH.
Signed Banking:
Barclays provides online interpretation for Deaf customers
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Barclays gives the customer instant access to a sign language interpretation service (SignVideo) so they can communicate with us directly.
Bank of America
Web site:
Email form: customer@
Agency/business Profile: The Bank of America provides sign language
interpreters in banking centers and home loans offices free of charge. If wishing
to utilize a sign language interpreter, please contact the banking center or home
loans office so that an appointment with an interpreter may be scheduled.
Financial Aid
Social Security: If a visually impaired person is in need of financial aid, he/she may be eligible for one of two programs operated by the Social Security Administration. One program is based upon contributions to the Social Security System and not on financial need. The other program, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), is based upon need. Applications must be made in person. Funds can be used for meeting direct expenses of daily living, mobility training, rehabilitation, medical evaluation, or special aids.
Loans: In addition to standard bank loans, there are a few loans specific to the needs of the visually impaired. One such loan is available through the American Foundation for the Blind for assistive technology. To obtain information regarding this loan, contact the AFB Hotline, (800) 232-5463. Other manufacturers of special equipment may also be part of loan programs. They will be glad to inform you of any available funds.
Other funding: The National Science Foundation has funds available for adaptive technology. The foundation also promotes the development of materials to make science accessible to all persons with disabilities.
“Resources the Disabled Can Use to Acquire and Fund Computers” is a booklet of sources for grants, programs, services and technology-related assistance. It describes where to purchase equipment at a discount. It also contains a list of companies that produce special computer-related products for individuals.
INDEPENDENT LIVING CENTERS
Residential Rehabilitation Centers
California has three Residential Rehabilitation Centers:
Davidson Program for Independence in Los Angeles, California
The Hatlen Center in San Pablo, California
Orientation Center for the Blind in Albany, California
All four centers work with “consumers” of the Department of Rehabilitation who have Individual Plans for Employment (IPEs) with Department of Rehabilitation, a state agency. Students live in apartments while attending The Hatlen Center. Students live in dormitories at Davidson Program for Independence and Orientation Center for the Blind.
All four programs help students become independent, self-reliant, and confident as they seek to successfully live independently or obtain employment. All four programs emphasize independent travel, communication skills such as braille, and the use of accessible technology. Intense instruction is provided in living skills such as cooking, home management, personal business methods, and alternative techniques for performing everyday tasks.
The four programs differ in the way they deliver various curricula. OCB and DPI teach in a classroom setting, while Hatlen and BSS work with students in apartments and in classrooms. OCB and DPI tend to have students who are newly blind, while The Hatlen Center tends to have students who are just starting out being independent.
Blindness Support Services, Inc.
3696 Beatty Drive, Suite A, Riverside, CA 92506
Phone: (951) 341-9244
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: BSS was incorporated in May 1992, to provide innovative approaches to achieving independence and self-reliance for blind and visually impaired residents of Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, San Diego and Los Angeles Counties in Southern California.
Davidson Program for Independence
5300 Angeles Vista Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90043
Phone: (800) 352-2290, (323) 295-4555
Web site:
Email: aburdett@
News:
and-adult-services/davidson-program-for-independence.
Agency/business Profile: The Davidson Program for Independence provides a comprehensive residential program designed to help adults who are blind or visually impaired. Through training in four core areas: Braille, Assistive Technology Skills, Orientation and Mobility and Independent Living Skills, such as cooking, cleaning and money management, graduates of the program attain the skills to find employment and enjoy productive and fulfilling lives in homes, communities and places of work.
The Hatlen Center for the Blind, a program of Junior Blind
(formerly Living Skills)
2430 Rd. 20, B112, San Pablo CA 94806-5005
Phone: (510) 234-4984
Web site:
Email: Efoley@ (Erin Foley, Director)
Agency/business Profile: In 1972, The Hatlen Center became the first transition agency of its kind.
Hip Housing
364 South Railroad Avenue,
San Mateo, CA 94401
Phone: (650) 348-6660
E-mail: mailbox@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Invests in human potential by improving the housing in
our community. HIP Housing enables people with special needs, either from low income or circumstances, to live independent, self-sufficient lives in decent, safe, low-cost homes. To achieve our mission, HIP Housing provides Home Sharing, Self-Sufficiency, and Property Development. (San Mateo County)
Orientation Center for the Blind
400 Adams Street, Albany CA 94706
Phone: (510) 559-1208
Web site:
Agency/Business Profile: The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) operates the Orientation Center for the Blind (OCB). Located in Albany, CA, the OCB fosters independent living for blind or visually impaired adults through an immersion program in a residential environment.
Independent Living Organizations
National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)
2013 H St. NW, 6th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20006
Phone: (202) 207-0334, (877) 525 -3400, TTY (202) 207-0340
E-mail: ncil@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Council on Independent Living is the longest-running national cross-disability, grassroots organization run by and for people with disabilities. Founded in 1982, NCIL represents thousands of organizations and individuals including: individuals with disabilities, Centers for Independent Living (CILs), Statewide Independent Living Councils (SILCs), and other organizations that advocate for the human and civil rights of people with disabilities throughout the United States.
California Foundation for Independent Living Centers
1000 G Street, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 325-1690 Voice, (916) 325-1695 TTY
E-mail: info@
Web site: ,
Agency/business Profile: California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC) is California’s trade organization of Independent Living Centers. It also houses the following programs that serve Californians with disabilities: Ability Tools, YO! Disabled and Proud, Disability Organizing Network and the Digital Access Project.
Independent Living Research Utilization (ILRU)
TIRR Memorial Hermann Research Center, 1333 Moursund, Houston, TX 77030
Phone: (713) 520-0232, Fax (713) 520-5785
E-mail at: ilru@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ILRU, founded in 1977, has a long history of providing research, education and consultation in the areas of independent living, home and community-based services, and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Orientation Center for the Blind
400 Adams Street, Albany CA 94706
Phone: (510) 559-1208
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) operates the Orientation Center for the Blind (OCB). Located in Albany, CA, the OCB fosters independent living for blind or visually impaired adults through an immersion program in a residential environment.
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
Agencies Supporting the Blind and Visually Impaired
Throughout California private not-for-profit organizations deliver services to people of all ages who are blind. The large cities and towns of California have more services for blind people, but even in rural areas a real effort is under way to bring services to people with severe vision loss.
Fresno, Sacramento, San Pablo, San Bernardino, Sunnyvale, Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Rafael, Palm Springs, Santa Rosa, and Santa Barbara, along with many other towns have knowledgeable people willing to provide mobility instruction, technology training, low vision services, braille instruction and other programs.
Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Oakland, and Anaheim have larger agencies that have the resources to expand services through whole regions of California.
Guide Dog schools, low vision services, employment assistance services, volunteer matching, and support group sponsorship can be found at many of California’s private agencies for the blind and visually impaired. Youth recreation, summer camping programs, orientation and mobility training, social gathering opportunities, and outdoor activities can be found as components of many agencies.
A very helpful aspect of many private agencies is that they sell limited catalogs of products designed or modified for people who are blind or visually impaired. Private agencies employ people with vision disabilities, consequently, blindness is often considered an asset when agencies for the blind recruit employees.
National Federation of the Blind
1800 Johnson St., Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9314, Fax (410) 685-5653
Web site:
National Federation of the Blind of California
39481 Gallaudet Drive Apt. 127, Fremont, CA 94538
Phone: (510) 248-0100, (877) 558-6524
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines the future. Every day they raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and dreams. Live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.
California State Department of Rehabilitation
P.O. Box 944222, Sacramento, CA 94244-2220
Phone: (916) 324-1313, (916) 558-5480
Web site: rehab.
E-mail: blindinfo@dor.
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) administering the largest vocational rehabilitation program in the country. DOR offers a broad range of career opportunities for advancement and training, along with State government service benefits.
Private agencies and programs In California
Audio Editions, Placerville
Web site:
Product information is available.
Blind and Visually Impaired Center of Monterey County, Inc.
225 Laurel Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
Phone (831) 649-3505, Fax (831) 649-4057
E-mail vision@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Blind and Visually Impaired Center of Monterey
County mission is to encourage and inspire the people who are blind or visually
impaired to transcend the loss of sight.
Blind Babies Foundation, San Francisco
1814 Franklin Street, Suite 300, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 446-2229 Fax: (510) 446-2262
E-mail: bbfinfo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: When an infant or preschooler is identified as blind or
visually impaired, Blind Babies Foundation provides family-centered services to
support the child's optimal development and access to the world.
Blind Children's Resource Center
4120 Marathon St., Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: (800) 222-3566, (973) 377-0976
Web site:
E-mail: blindchildren@
Agency/business Profile: The goal of the Blind Children's Resource Center is to help blind/visually impaired children grow up to be productive, fully functioning, independent members of society and to help blind/VI children with additional disabilities reach their full potential. See also the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC).
Blind and Visually Impaired of Marin, Inc.
851 Irwin St., Suite 206, San Rafael, CA 94901
Phone: (415) 459-5066, (415) 455-9869
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Blind and Vision Impaired of Marin hosts six support
groups throughout the County; even one for Spanish speaking members.
Braille Institute
741 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: (800) 272-4553
Web site: Spanish: or
Agency/business Profile: The Braille Institute serves individuals who are blind from
birth to seniors. They provide classes that pertain to blindness. They have a lending
library and they offer services to the Spanish speaking community.
California Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons
1201 J Street, Suite 200, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (415) 777-3937
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The California Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (CAEPS) is the only statewide organization representing California ophthalmologists and patients. CAEPS' activities include legislative advocacy, interaction with third party payers about reimbursement and coverage issues, public education about important eye health care concerns, and continuing medical education for ophthalmologists and staffs.
California Association of Orientation and Mobility Specialists (CAOMS)
E-mail: contactcaoms@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CAOMS is a non-profit statewide organization whose mission is to facilitate professional growth and to support the role of Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Specialists in the habilitation and education of individuals who have visual impairments. Founded in 1966, CAOMS hosts an annual statewide conference. Membership consists primarily of credentialed O&M Specialists. Student and associate memberships also make up the ranks of its membership.
California Department of Education: Special Education
1430 N Street, Suite 2401, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-4613
Web site: cde.
Email:
Agency/business Profile: California Department of Education: Special Education provides a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The Department of Education serves the state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners. Together, as a team, they prepare students to live, work, and thrive in a highly connected world.
California Department of Rehabilitation
P.O. Box 944222, Sacramento, CA 94244-2220
Phone: (916) 324-1313, (916) 558-5480
E-mail: blindinfo@dor.
Web site: rehab.
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) administering the largest vocational rehabilitation program in the country. DOR offers a broad range of career opportunities for advancement and training, along with State government service benefits.
California School for the Blind
500 Walnut Ave, Fremont, CA 94536
Phone: (510) 794-3800
Web site: csb-cde.
Agency/business Profile: The California School for the Blind provides intensive,
disability-specific educational services to students who have primary learning needs
related to the visual impairment. The school serves as a statewide resource to
provide expertise to Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) and families in evidenced
based assessment, specialized curriculum, cutting-edge research and technology,
and innovative models of instruction that prepare students for adult life.
Braille and Talking Book Library
California State Library
900 N Street, Suite 110, Sacramento, CA 94237-0001
Phone: (916) 651-0812, (800) 952-5666, Fax (916) 654-1119
Email: btbl@library. or mike.marlin@library.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Braille and Talking Book Library, the Northern California Regional Library for the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) is a free library service for people with temporary or permanent print disabilities, including low vision, blindness, or physical disabilities that prevent them from reading conventional print, such as dyslexia or the inability to hold a book. BTBL offers popular fiction and nonfiction books, playback equipment, and descriptive videos mailed for free, and instantly downloadable audio and electronic braille books (via your computer or free iOS and Android apps).
California Transcribers and Educators for the Blind and Visually Impaired
(CTEBVI)
8182 Fillmore Dr., Anaheim, CA 92804
Email: ctebvi@
Web link:
Agency/business Profile: CTEBVI is an organization whose mission is to provide accessible materials for students who are blind or visually impaired. The CTEBVI Journal is produced three times a year with articles from the specialists regarding braille, written for transcribers, educators, and students.
Center for Living Independence for Multi-handicapped Blind (CLIMB)
161 West Sierra Madre Boulevard, Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Phone: (626) 355-1447, Fax (626) 289-5378
E-mail: climbwac@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of CLIMB is to design and deliver vocational, residential and community integration services to developmentally disabled individuals that will result in the fullest participation in all aspects of community living and the work force.
Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired, Bakersfield
1721 Westwind Drive, Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone: (661) 322-5234, Fax (661) 324-1176
E-mail:inquiries@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) was
founded in 1950 as a volunteer-run organization for Braille education and
recreational activities. Today, CBVI's mission is to provide rehabilitation programs for
greater independence to adults who are blind or visually impaired.
Center for the Partially Sighted
12301 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Phone: (310) 458-3501
E-mail:
Web site: low-
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Center for the Partially Sighted is to
provide the tools and techniques that maximize the ability of partially sighted children
and adults to live successful and independent lives.
Community Center for the Blind, Stockton
130 West Flora Street, Stockton, CA 95202-1636
Phone: (209) 466-3836
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: To provide the means by which people who are visually
impaired can improve and sustain the capabilities and potentials to re-establish
purpose and self-esteem in society.
Earle Baum Center
4539 Occidental Rd., Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Phone: (707) 523-3222
E-mail: ebc@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Earle Baum Center mission is to provide opportunities
for people who are blind or visually impaired to improve and enrich personal
social and economic lives.
Eye Dogs Foundation, Bakersfield
PO Box 519, Claremont, CA 91711
Phone: (800) 393-3641
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Eye Dog Foundation was organized as a non-profit
corporation in 1952. Ever since that time, it has been dedicated to giving guide dogs
to the blind and the visually impaired at absolutely no cost to them.
Fresno Talking Book Library
Fresno County Library, 770 N. San Pablo Avenue, Fresno, CA 9728
Phone: (800) 742-1011 ext. 3217
E-mail: tblb@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Fresno Library has over 700 talking books in circulation that are accessible for people with visual impairments.
Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc. National Office
PO Box 151200, San Rafael, CA 94915
Phone: (800) 295-4050
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: GDB creates exceptional partnerships between highly
trained guide dogs and people who are blind or visually impaired. They offer a
lifetime of support and all services are provided free of charge.
Guide Dogs of the Desert
PO Box 1692, Palm Springs, CA 92263
Phone: (760) 329-6257
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Guide Dogs of the Desert provides custom trained guide dogs for the blind, and for those with special needs, for safe mobility, companionship, and independence.
Helen Keller National Center
141 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY 11050-1218
Phone: (516) 944-8900, Fax (516) 944-7302
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults is to enable each person who is deaf-blind to live and work in his or her community of choice.
Junior Blind of America (formerly Junior Foundation for the Blind)
5300 Angeles Vista Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90043
Phone: (323) 295-4555, or (800) 352-2290 (outside of Southern California)
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: In 2013-2014, Junior Blind’s programs served more than 14,000 students and the family members—all at no cost to them. Through programs that offer education, recreation and rehabilitation services, students are one step closer to reaching goals and achieving the greatest levels of independence.
Library Reproduction Services
1916 Van Ness Avenue, Torrance, CA90501
Phone: (800) 255-5002
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Library Reproduction Services provides large-print
materials as made-to-order by request. Materials include dictionaries, k-12
instructional books, juvenile and children’s fiction books. They serve the low-vision
community and have local websites that can be accessed through the main
website. Other large print dictionaries may be found through local bookstores.
Lions Center for the Blind
1722 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 450-1580
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Lions Center for the Blind is an Oakland based training center in operation in the Bay Area since 1942. The organization provides core services of Orientation & Mobility Training, Independent Living Skills, Assistive Technology training, Braille, and Employment Services. The agency works in partnership with schools, community based organizations, businesses, and state & local governments to facilitate engagement and integration for visually impaired individuals.
Lions Center programs are conducted in both cohort learning models designed to foster social and interpersonal skill development, and individual one-on-one training for specific skill development. Students regularly experience cross-training between the various programs and instruction typically focuses on applicable uses for life after training.
LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
214 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California 94102
Phone: (415) 694-7371
Fax: (415) 863-7568
Web site:
E-mail: info@lighthouse-
Agency/business Profile: Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides a range of rehabilitation services including Orientation and Mobility, Independent living skills, assistive technology assessment and training, and braille instruction. Our Changing Vision, Changing Life immersion guides newly blind and visually impaired students toward independence and confidence.
Youth and transition age students gain valuable life and vocational skills through leadership and advocacy workshops, while building valuable networks on group trips to blindness conventions. Our Community Services department supports students in building connections with fellow blind youth and adults, and also encourages integration into the wider community. We promote fitness, nutrition, and a healthy dose of recreation.
The LightHouse prides itself on offering innovative accessible media, production of braille, tactile maps and 3D objects. An array of camping opportunities can be found at Enchanted Hills, The LightHouse campground, located in the rolling hills of Napa. Students immerse themselves in camp sessions focused on science, music, horseback riding, and the natural beauty of the woods all around them.
Our comprehensive Employment Immersion program builds valuable job preparation and search skills, while also addressing soft skills critical in achieving gainful employment. The LightHouse for the Blind is ready to help you live a full, productive, healthy and independent life.
The Hatlen Center for the Blind, a program of Junior Blind
(formerly Living Skills)
2430 Rd. 20, B112, San Pablo CA 94806-5005
Phone: (510) 234-4984
Web site:
Email: Efoley@ (Erin Foley, Director)
Agency/business Profile: In 1972, The Hatlen Center became the first transition agency of its kind.
National Association for Visually Impaired, San Francisco
Now a part of Lighthouse International
Orientation Center for the Blind
400 Adams Street, Albany CA 94706
Phone: (510) 559-1208
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) operates the Orientation Center for the Blind (OCB). Located in Albany, CA, the OCB fosters independent living for blind or visually impaired adults through an immersion program in a residential environment.
Peninsula Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired *Now a part of Vista Center .
Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic *Now Learning Ally
Library for the Blind and Print Disabled,
San Francisco Public Library
100 Larkin Street, San Francisco CA, 94102-4733
Phone: (415) 557-4400, TTY (415) 557-4433
Web site:
E-mail: lbpd@
Agency/business Profile: NLS Sub-regional library offers free services to San
Francisco residents of any age who are unable to read traditional print materials due
to a visual or physical disability. Provides popular fiction and non-fiction talking books
(over 100,000 titles), magazines, and the special playback equipment needed to
listen to them. Some audio described movies also available. Materials can be sent
free of charge by mail, checked out at LBPD, or downloaded from a website. Visitors
can use a range of Adaptive Technology, including computers with Internet access
and braille output. The LBPD works to make the whole public library accessible to
our patrons.
Smith Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, San Francisco
2318 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA 94115-1813
Phone: (415) 345-2000, TTY (415) 345-2290, Fax (415) 345-8455
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Smith Kettlewell Eye Research Institute mission is to create a unique environment for research on human vision to increase the understanding of normal vision in support of vision disorders, clinical research to develop new diagnostic procedures and treatments for visual and other sensory disorders, and engineering research to produce better techniques for aid and rehabilitation of the blind and partially sighted.
Society for the Blind
1238 S Street, Sacramento, CA 95811
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Society for the Blind offers O&M skills to help move around
and expand the world. They teach alternative techniques and skills to travel safely,
efficiently, and independently, whether in the home or out and about.
San Diego Service Center for the Blind
5922 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA 92115
Phone: (619) 583-1542, Fax (619) 583-2335
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The San Diego Center for the Blind (SDCB) provides services to legally blind adults who are age 18 or older. This includes adults with no vision to those with changing vision. Programs are provided to clients regardless of the disability, race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, gender and/or socioeconomic status.
INTERNET FOR ORDERING
Internet ordering
Time, mobility, and patience can be challenges in getting material items you need. Today’s Internet allows for shopping online in the comfort of your own home, or anywhere you have access to a computer and the Internet.
Internet safety
Internet Safety and Download Tips
Web site: //intranet.cde.te/se/pr/internetsafetytips.aspx
Agency/business Profile: California Department of Education document
Privacy Rights Clearinghouse
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Link to documents about Internet safety
10 Tips for Shopping Safely Online
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Link to documents about Internet safety
OnGuard Online
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Link to documents about Internet safety
Online Shopping Sites
Amazon
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Online ordering Web site
Overstock
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Online ordering Web site
eBay
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Online ordering Web site
Yahoo shopping
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Online ordering Web site
INTERNET FOR SOCIALIZING
Social Media Access
Connecting with others in a social realm is an important job skill as well as an avenue to opportunity for employment. Not all social media Web sites are accessible, and many can level the playing field once you have the tools to help you gain access to the social site you want to investigate.
Sociability: Social Media for People with a Disability
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: This Australian publication goes through social media and provides information on how to convert it to an accessible option to communicate.
Disabled Social Network
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Disabled Social Network helps connect and share with the people.
Social Media & People with Disabilities (Webcast)
Web site: (1:01:47)
Disability and Social Media (slide show)
Web site:
A Word about Social Networking
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Document
LIVING SKILLS
There is no absolute answer, no moment when a person knows she is fully self-reliant. Nobody is ever completely on his own. But, as a person with low vision or blindness, you want to be taken seriously. Make decisions. Know how important it is to be confident and to seem confident dealing with other people, and when getting around in the community. Obviously, the need to be good at various skills. It is important to learn how to perform hundreds of interrelated tasks and to perform them reasonably efficiently.
Training in living skills is available, however, it is crucial that you know you are capable of living independently. To actually live independently will require learning a sense of the world and how things work. In other words, as you seek greater independence, you must become more sophisticated regarding the complexity of everyday self-reliant community life. For with independence comes responsibility.
When you live independently, you will use the mathematics you took in school in managing money. The hours of homework in English are essential in writing letters, E-mails, shopping lists, and filling out forms. Orientation and mobility classes enable you to become a resourceful traveler.
If you are a curious person, then work to get answers to questions. If you see the dozens of items in a kitchen store, remember that each item is a specialized tool that requires a certain skill to make it work. The task of peeling, serving, cutting, measuring, pouring, stirring, slicing, and grating each require different methods. Or, go to a hardware store and notice all the tools. Many people who work with tools and equipment on the job develop very exact knowledge and skill in using those tools. They don’t have to be experts to drive a nail, screw in a screw, cut a board, or fix a leaking faucet. Once you put in a light bulb or put together a new piece of furniture, it makes the next time when you have to do it much easier.
Having low vision or being blind does not mean you can’t cook or do laundry. Being blind isn’t an excuse for avoiding helping families, and it doesn’t mean you can’t live independently or with non-family roommates. Replace the batteries in electronic equipment and decide how the living space should be set up. Opinions are valid about the kinds of clothes you like, even if you do wish to turn to a trusted sighted person for advice on color. There are legitimate visual concerns when it comes to where things are placed, so a blind person might find it helpful to work with others in a spirit of compromise, but a blind person should have aesthetic views too. The sighted word should not necessarily be the “last word.”
This is also true in the workplace. At work a blind person may find that a lot of time is spent getting systems working. But the blind person also must be a part of the work unit or team. It’s important to know how co-workers cope with the demands of the job. It’s fine to get snacks, lunch items, drinks, etc. It’s beneficial to engage with others at work about things they want to discuss. The price for getting others to understand needs is that you must develop genuine interest in the needs of others, even when the methods may be different. For example, if I want my co-worker to understand my frustration working my computer using a screen reader or enlarger, I will have to listen when my co-worker is frustrated operating his or her computer with the mouse, and not simply ignore the situation because I can’t use a mouse. And when everybody in the office knows how to replace paper in the fax machine, you are more a part of the team when you also know how to replace paper.
It’s definitely not easy finding focused living skills instruction that specifically addresses each person’s individual needs. It can be embarrassing to admit to people that we don’t know how to do some basic thing they are sure everyone else knows how to do. Many people who look toward an independent life are not sure of personal skills involving nail care, shaving, hair styling, etc. Household management can also be a puzzle. How does a person fold clothes so they fit neatly in drawers? If you get a new apartment, how do you hang the new shower curtain? How do you change the bag on the vacuum cleaner? How do you hook up a stereo, hang a poster, or fold a fitted sheet?
It’s important to know that everyone who knows how to live independently had to learn the skills and develop the motivation to practice the skills of independence. You can learn a great deal from people whom you know are good at many of the skills it will take to function independently. You might wish to look into attending a program where actually live in a situation that teaches you the skills. California has four residential Rehabilitation Centers you can read about elsewhere in this guide. The Hatlen Center for the Visually Impaired specifically addresses issues of people who are beginning an independent life.
A vision disability will present challenges with regard to independence. There will always be print that is inaccessible, new tasks to master, and times when the lists of things to know seems far too long. But the rewards of the independent life are many. Just as you endeavored to work through school, the lessons of every day community participation are mostly achievable! The most important thing to know about living skills is that you can do it.
Individuals who wish to receive training in skills of daily living such as mobility, housekeeping, personal business management or prevocational skills can obtain training from several agencies.
INDEPENDENT LIVING CENTERS
The mission is to increase access and equal opportunity for people with
disabilities. The birth of the independent living movement has been attributed to a group of students at U.C. Berkeley with disabilities. In 1962, the first severely disabled student was admitted to U.C. Berkeley. By 1969, there were twelve severely disabled students. The medical surroundings were familiar to the new tenants, who had spent countless days and nights in custodial institutions.
Phone: (916) 558-5775 (Voice), or (916) 558-5778 (TTY)
E-mail: ILInfo@dor.
Web site:
List of California centers:
COOKING
Cooking with a Physical Disability
For those with a permanent or temporary physical disability involving mobility impairment, cooking can present challenges as well as opportunities for creative problem solving.
Strategies
Plan ahead: While planning saves time, money and hassle for every home cook, it is crucial for those with disabilities. An accident like a broken glass or missing ingredient might leave a disabled person without anything to eat. Make careful shopping lists, and build leeway into a cooking schedule. Work with small quantities, saving bulk cooking for days you have help.
Break it down: Look at whatever you want to cook and break it down. For example, plan to hit the refrigerator once instead of 10 times throughout the process of making a dish. Have everything ready before you start cooking.
De-clutter: Storing too many things together makes it physically difficult to get to what you need, especially when heavy items are stored.
Rest if needed: Fatigue can be an issue, so take frequent breaks and keep a chair or stool nearby in case you need to sit down.
Kitchen Design
Countertop height: If you're in a wheelchair, lowering counters is good.
Countertop material: Easy clean, smooth, surfaces and clean lines throughout the kitchen help the cleaning process, for a healthier kitchen.
Appliances: Install appliances that have good lighting and easy access into the appliance.
Hardware: Replace hardware for better access – small knobs can be difficult to use. Pulls can often be a better solution.
Faucets: A faucet that is hands free or electronic touch is very welcome for many people as it is a simple touch to turn on and off.
Kitchen Tools
Adaptive equipment: Many people don't even know about the range of adaptive tools that exist. For example, there are cutting boards with a spear that help you secure the food, rocker knives, silverware with built-up handles, and more.
Push cart: A push cart on wheels, like the kind you can get at Target or Home Depot, is a good secret weapon. You can use it if you have difficulty carrying foods, and it's easy to slide from the fridge to the counter or stove.
Cutting boards: If you cannot stand, use a cutting board on your lap.
Hook on a stick: Make-shift tools, such as a hook on a stick, can make it easier to collect items set deep on a countertop.
Pastry cutter: Pastry cutters can substitute for a knife when cutting.
Disposable gloves: From the health and hygiene point of view, disposable gloves are useful to keep contaminates away from food being prepared.
Cooking Tips and Hints Preparing Great Food Safely
Web site:
Link to cooking tips from Disabled World
Kitchen Tools for Disabled People
Web site:
Link and suggestions for people with disabilities.
How to Teach Cooking to Persons with Intellectual Disabilities
Web site:
Article on cooking techniques for people with disabilities.
Suggestions for the blind cook
Web site:
Article on cooking techniques for people with disabilities.
Low Vision Chef
Web site:
Article on cooking techniques for people with disabilities.
Blind cooking: 10 tips from chefs
Web site:
Article on cooking techniques for people with disabilities.
Kitchen of Champions
2272 San Pablo Avenue
Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 877-9236
Web site:
ofchampions.html
Agency/business Profile: St. Vincent de Paul of Alameda County’s Kitchen of
Champions culinary training program is an intensive, comprehensive 12-week session for low-income and disenfranchised individuals, many of whom are formerly incarcerated. The program was created in 2007. Kitchen of Champions uses a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on kitchen food handling safety technique, along with case management, job placement assistance and follow-up services for graduates.
LABELING
Braille or large print labels can make a multitude of things easier to find. Canned and frozen food, medicine, books, documents, drawers, and even clothing can be labeled for quick and easy identification.
Large print readers will find a wealth of labeling tools in any store carrying office or school supplies. Self-adhesive labels come in many sizes. Black felt tipped pens, colored heavy or fine tip pens, crayons, and self-adhesive colored dots are all useful for making things easy to identify at a glance.
Braille users can use a brailler or slate and stylus to write on ordinary self- adhesive labels. The braille dots will be readable on almost any label material and will hold up quite well on heavier grades. For labeling cassette tapes, there are specially made labels and slates.
Plastic labeling tape will hold braille dots very well. Both colored and clear labelling tape as well as magnetic tape can be purchased from most stationery stores. Magnetic tape can also be used for labeling cans of food. Magnets or magnetic tape can be used in conjunction with braille labeling materials.
To emboss braille characters on either plastic or magnetic label tape, a braille writer, braille slate, or braille labeling machine can be used. Howe Press makes a device which holds the tape firmly in the Perkins braille writer. One-line slates, and slates with slots through which to guide the labeling tape are both available. A hand held machine, as found at for making braille labels, such as on labelling tape can also be purchased. Clear plastic self-adhesive sheets come in a variety of sizes. Any size or shape desired can be cut from page sized sheets. Most plastic sheets will hold a sharp sturdy braille dot.
A quick and easy way to label cans of food is to wrap a brailled or large print index card around the can with a rubber band. When the can of food is consumed, the index card can then be used as part of a shopping list.
Where a dot or a raised line is needed rather than a letter, white glue dots, shapes made from self-adhesive felt or plastic sheets, felt dots, bump dots () or cork dots may work. Products especially made for visually impaired people include a special, very brightly colored glue-like substance in a tube, called Hi-Marks, and self-adhesive single plastic dots that feel like braille dots.
For marking clothing, metal tabs stamped with braille letters representing a color can be obtained at . These tabs have a hole at each end so that they can be sewn into clothing. Alternatively, a color code using safety pins, buttons, or any other material which can be attached to clothing or to the container in which the clothing is stored can be invented to solve particular clothing labeling problems.
Large print letters, also known as KeyCaps, are available for Computer Keyboards. They come in black on white, black on yellow, and white on black. Different color combinations provide better contrast for different people. They are also available with braille/letter combinations. Hooleon Corporation also makes foreign language KeyCaps and customized labels along with specialized keyboards.
Resources
ACCESS-USA
P.O. Drawer160
242 James Street, Clayton, NY 13624
Phone: (800) 263-2750
E-mail: info@access-
Web site: access-
Agency/business Profile: The Americans with Disabilities Act is opening doors in the business world. Employers have found that employees with disabilities have proven to be hard working and reliable, while accommodations are often less complicated or expensive than anticipated. Good employees make good consumers and these consumers have desires, disposable incomes and disabilities.
American Printing House for the Blind Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Link to labeling:
Agency/business Profile: APH serves individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. The products include tactile graphics/maps, accessible math supplies, braille, and large-print materials. APH sells hard and soft binders and dividers.
American Thermoform Corp.
Web site:
E-mail: sales@
Label information: sturdy plastic labels
Exceptional Teaching, Inc. clear plastic labels
Web site:
Label information; clear plastic labels
LS&S Group
Web site:
Labeling found at
MaxiAids
Web site:
Labeling found at
Quick and Easy Expanded Core Curriculum The Hatlen Center Guide available through APH on Federal Quota. Quick & Easy Expanded Core Curriculum is designed for transition students who are visually impaired. The lessons were chosen to address the most common gaps found within this population and require little time, expertise, or equipment to implement by the educational team and family members.
Web site:
LAUNDRY
Doing laundry is a life skill beneficial for any person to acquire. A step-by-step process will allow the student to gain the necessary knowledge and practice of how to do laundry. Here are some adaptations, tips and ideas that can help people with special needs become independent in doing laundry. Web site: //articles/areas-of-daily-living-articles/laundry-tips-for-people-with-special-needs/
How can I make my laundry room more accessible?
Web site:
Locate the laundry area on the main floor if possible.
Create a comfortable work space.
Use a wheeled laundry cart, hamper, or laundry basket to move heavy clothing (clean or dirty) from room to room.
Install a laundry chute to a lower-level laundry area.
Replace a top-loading washer with a front-loading model.
Raise the washer and dryer. Build a platform under the front-loading washer and dryer to raise them 18 inches off the floor; this height is more comfortable for both people who are standing and for those in a seated position.
Vent the dryer to outside; especially if it is a gas dryer.
Pre-Measured Packets can just be dropped into the washing machine.
Washers and Dryers, Web site:
Labeling clothes, Web site:
How to Teach Students with Disabilities How to Do Laundry
Web site:
Laundry Tips for People with Special Needs Web site: //articles/areas-of-daily-living-articles/laundry-tips-for-people-with-special-needs/
HOUSE KEEPING
Organizing and keep personal space in order: Housecleaning Tips for Independent Living with Vision Loss
Web site:
Prepare and Follow a Cleaning Schedule
Store cleaning supplies in a bucket or plastic carrier
Label cleaning items and keep them in a location separate from food supplies.
Clean the stovetop immediately after cooking
Routinely wipe all countertop surfaces after food preparation and clean the microwave
Sweep, mop, and vacuum regularly
Wipe down the shower immediately after bathing
Clean the bathroom mirror regularly
Surfaces and Windows
A "static" duster will collect the dust, rather than move/push it from place to place.
A vacuum or dust buster will pick up the dirt or dust
Use a feather duster to dust small objects.
Dust cloths are now available with furniture polish included
When cleaning a tabletop or window, apply the cleaning agent directly to the cloth.
If you use a spray cleaner, locate the nozzle and spray into the cloth
You can also use multi-purpose pre-moistened cleaning cloths or wipes
When cleaning windows, clean in vertical and horizontal patterns
When cleaning a tabletop, remove all items from the area to be cleaned.
Use a free hand to measure the work area
Run fingertips lightly over stove, countertop, and table surfaces to locate food residue
When cleaning tabletops, follow a pattern
Use a tray or cookie sheet surface to collect crumbs.
Always check picture frames, and windowsills, since dust settles on horizontal surfaces
Check the cleaning cloth periodically
Floor Cleaning Tips
When sweeping or mopping, divide the floor into smaller sections
Gather dirt toward your feet and move it with you as you sweep
Use a dustpan with a long handle
Remember to plan cleaning so that you end up near the dustpan
Familiarize yourself with the vacuum cleaner to find the attachments, change the settings, replace bags, or clean filters
Tips for Washing Dishes
Make sure the sink is clean prior to filling it with hot water
Fill the sink with hand-hot water, with the water level no higher than one hand's length
Wash glasses first and finish with pans containing cooking residue
Use a hand to locate a free/open space prior to placing dishes in the rack
Make sure the sink is free of objects or debris after washing the dishes
Additional Resources for Cleaning: Clean to the Touch: Housekeeping for Teenagers and Young Adults with Visual Impairments
Web site:
PERSONAL SAFETY
All people need to be aware of personal safety. This awareness can save lives, but for people with disabilities it can be challenging. Suggestions for personal safety are available from most local police stations. A few resources are provided below.
Safety Tips for Persons with Disabilities (pamphlet)
Web site:
Disability and Personal Safety (pamphlet)
Web site:
Home Safety for People with Disabilities
Home Fire Sprinklers and Smoke Alarms (pamphlet)
Web site:
Home Safety for People who Are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing (pamphlet)
Web site:
Product information: People who are deaf or hard-of-hearing use alarms with strobe (flashing) lights that have been tested by an independent testing laboratory.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Web site: (pamphlet)
Emergency Preparedness
Federal Lifeline Cell Phone Service
Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554
Phone: (888) 225-5322
TTY: (888) 835-5322
ASL Videophone: (844) 432-2275
E-Mail: webfeedback@
Web site: or
Agency/business Profile: Lifeline program provides a discount on phone service
for qualifying low-income consumers to ensure that all Americans have the
opportunities and security that phone service brings.
Preparing for Disaster for People with Disabilities and other Special Needs (PDF pamphlet)
Web site:
Guide to Teaching Fire Safety to Students with Disabilities (PDF)
Web site: (pamphlet)
Nobody Left Behind (pamphlet)
Web site:
SEWING
The task of sewing on a button can be a challenge without adaptive equipment or tools to assist people with various disabilities. Including in this task are marking of clothing to that socks and other clothes match for wearing in public.
Organizing and Labeling Clothing When You Are Blind or Have Low Vision Web site:
Check the Lighting
If you have low vision, first check the lighting in the closets and dressing areas:
Does the position of the lighting help or hinder when tring to identify and select clothing independently?
Match colors, hold clothing items side-by-side under bright or natural light.
Keep a flashlight in your nightstand drawer or near the closet to help read labels or distinguish colors.
Use Organizing and Sorting Systems
Before implementing a labeling system, try using any of the following organizational techniques:
Use tactile cues, such as texture, cut, style, and button design. Using these cues can help you identify many clothing items without needing to label them.
Place matching outfit together on one hanger (suit, shirt, belt, tie, and slacks).
Group similar clothing together; all slacks in one part of the closet, all shirts in another.
Storing Jewelry
Use a jewelry box with dividers to hold individual pieces, such as earrings, rings, bracelets/bangles, and necklaces.
Organize jewelry by color, style (formal, informal), or material.
Use Labeling Techniques
Please note: If you use a label that is applied directly to the clothing item, make sure that the label is not visible and does not rub on the neck, back, waist, or any other part of the body
Cut a large ring/donut from heavy cardboard. Mark it with a large print, braille, or tactual symbol/letter. Loop the ring over the hanger.
Use a safety pin coding system to determine color; for example, blue = one safety pin and red = 2 safety pins. Place the pins in an inconspicuous location, such as inside a pocket or a hem, where they will not be visible or rub on the neck, arm, or leg. Use safety pins to label clothes that go together: all clothes with one safety pin are pastels that go together; all with two pins are jewel tones that go together, for example.
Create a master list in large print, braille, or another accessible format
Use iron-on patches in various sizes and shapes.
Use buttons or French knots.
Use an electronic color identifier that will speak the color aloud when you hold it against the garment.
Use small metal braille labels. Each label is just one or two letters that you can learn to recognize by touch without having to learn to read the entire braille system.
Accessible Sewing equipment and accessories
Web site: //.uk/leisure/sewing-equipment-and-accessories-1634-p/
Agency/business Profile: Product information available online
Style adaptations are a must when sewing for the disabled (pamphlet)
Web site
Labeling and Marking Web site: ///everyday-living/home-modification-/labeling-and-marking/125 (pamphlet)
SHOPPING
Living independently includes the task of getting groceries and other items from retail stores. Some stores provide carts for physically disabled shoppers. Assistance with shopping may be given by locating the Returned Services Counter—typically located near one of the entrances opposite the check stands, so you need to call the store to inquire about this service. Generally you will need to get to the store, shop, and after paying for goods, get them back home.
Getting to the store
Para-transit is recognized in North America as special transportation services for people with disabilities, often provided as a supplement to fixed-route bus and rail systems by public transit agencies. Para-transit services may vary considerably on the degree of flexibility they provide customers. The simplest may consist of a taxi or small bus that will run along a more or less defined route and then stop to pick up or discharge passengers on request. Check with the local city or area for the availability of this service.
Wiki Web site:
Electric Mobility Scooters Guide
Web site:
Scooter information
Shopping Tips
Accessible Shopping (Disability World)
Web site: Guide to shopping independently
Enabling Disabled Shoppers
Web site:
Guide to shopping independently
12 Ways Businesses Can Better Serve People with Disabilities
Web site: Guide to shopping independently
TIME AND SCHEDULES
Knowing the time is crucial for daily living, especially for work related events, reminders for taking medication, and other calendar events. There are a number of products that can help you organize you day.
Tactile watches, talking watches (article)
Web site:
Information regarding telling time for people who arte blind.
Talking Clocks (Maxiaids)
Web site:
Product information about telling time for people with low vision.
Talking watches (Maxiaids)
Web site:
Product information about telling time for people with low vision.
Top 5 Smart Watches Of 2014
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Article discussing and evaluating all smart watches and smart watch apps from concept through production, including after-sale firmware and software updates, attempting to determine the best smart watch.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
COMPUTER ACCESS
A very large number of devices and computer programs are available which make it possible or easier for people with impairments to use computers. New devices are added almost daily. If you are not able to see the computer screen well or if you are having trouble using the standard computer keyboard, you may wish to consider purchasing and learning to use specialized equipment designed to help visually impaired people use computers. Here are some ways that you can begin to find computer needs and what is available.
Find someone near you who is using computer technology which is like what you think you might need. This person might be willing to demonstrate the equipment for you.
Visit a large display of products that are designed to help people with visual impairments use computers. The National Federation of the Blind, the American Council of the Blind, and CTEVH all have conferences at which many vendors of computer access equipment display products. An annual conference put on by the California State University at Northridge (CSUN) features a display of computer products designed to help people with many different disabilities.
The Hadley School for the Blind offers several courses designed to help visually impaired people learn to use computers, beginning with a course called, “Access Technology: Beginnings.” Hadley offers its courses by correspondence to legally blind individuals. Course materials are provided in braille, audio or in large print.
Local agencies serving visually impaired people may offer evaluation of individual computer access needs and may also offer training. They will also often be able to recommend other local services and tell you about near-by vendors of computer equipment.
There are several sources of annotated lists of computer equipment designed for use by people who are visually impaired which contain such sections. They are available for a modest price in braille or in large print. The American Foundation for the Blind, the Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Technology, and the National Federation of the Blind are some of the groups which maintain databases of specialized computer access products which enable them to answer many questions about where to find specific kinds of equipment.
Several agencies assist people who are visually impaired meet the computer access needs: Center for Accessible Technology (Berkeley), formerly the Disabled Children's Computer Group, focuses on children and addresses needs of a broad range of disability groups. The Braille Institute of America has a demonstration center in Los Angeles. Most residential rehabilitation programs include a computer training component.
There are many books and periodicals covering the topic of computer access for visually impaired people. For information, contact the National Library Service, Recording for the Blind, Inc., and/or National Braille Press.
There are many companies, large and small, which sell computer access products for use by visually impaired people. You can visit such companies and/or arrange for a company representative to bring equipment to you for demonstration. Be sure to shop around so that you know about products from more than one company.
Some community colleges and a few universities have “High Tech Centers.” These are demonstration and training centers planned especially to meet the needs of post-secondary students. These centers help people with a variety of different disabilities learn to access computers.
Resources
American Council of the Blind
2200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 650, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (800) 424-8666
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The American Council of the Blind serves individuals of
all ages who are blind or low vision. They house a list of agencies and groups
that transcribe books and other resources are listed as well. Information may be
accessed through the website or by phone.
California Council of the Blind (CCB)
1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814-2900
Phone: (916) 441-2100, (800) 221-6359
E-mail: ccotb@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CCB's mission is to increase the independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for all Californians who are blind and visually impaired. Through CCB's offices in the Bay Area, Sacramento and Los Angeles, and its 40 local chapters and statewide special interest associations, the Council provides information and referral, technical assistance, advocacy, leadership development, publications, emergency funds, accessible technology loans, and scholarships.
American Foundation for the Blind
Expanded Core Curriculum for Blind and Visually Impaired Children and Youths
2 Penn Plaza, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10121
Phone: (212) 502-7600
E-mail:
Web site:
Contact information: Mark Richert, Director of Public Policy
E-mail: mrichert@
Phone: (202) 469-6833
Agency/business Profile: The Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) is the body of knowledge and skills that are needed by students with visual impairments due to unique disability-specific needs. The ECC includes: Compensatory or Functional Academic Skills, Including Communication Modes, Orientation and Mobility, Social Interaction Skills, independent Living Skills, Recreation and Leisure Skills, Career Education, Technology, Sensory Efficiency Skills, and Self-Determination.
American Printing House for the Blind Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY 40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: APH serves individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. Products include tactile graphics/maps, accessible math supplies, braille, and large-print materials. APH sells hard and soft binders and dividers.
Bookshare
480 South California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: (650) 644-3400
Website:
Agency/Business Profile: On-line digital library of accessible images for students with print disabilities such as visual impairments, physical disabilities and learning disabilities. At the time of production the Bookshare collection houses over 370,000 educational materials. Bookshare is free to all US students and schools thanks to a grant from the Department of Education. K-12 and Post-secondary
Books are available in audio, braille ready formats and large print. Bookshare books can be accessed on a variety devices such as refreshable braille machines, personal computers, tablets and phones
Braille Institute
741 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: (800) 272-4553
Web site: Spanish: or
Agency/business Profile: The Braille Institute serves individuals who are blind
from birth to seniors. They provide classes that pertain to blindness. They have a
lending library and they offer services to the Spanish speaking community.
California Transcribers and Educators for the Blind and Visually Impaired
(CTEBVI)
8182 Fillmore Dr., Anaheim, CA 92804
Email: ctebvi@
Web link:
Agency/business Profile: CTEBVI is an organization whose mission is to provide accessible materials for students who are blind or visually impaired. The CTEBVI Journal is produced three times a year with articles from the specialists regarding braille, written for transcribers, educators, and students. Center for Accessible Technology, Web site:
Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Translations (CSMT)
1430 N Street, Suite 3207, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-5103
E-mail: csmt@cde.
Web site: Contacts: cde.re/pn/sm/csmtcontacts.asp Resources: Ordering:
Contact information, Laurie Garcia, Manager lgarcia@cde.
Agency/business Profile: The CSMT provides braille, large print, audio, and accessible digital files of adopted K-8 instructional materials for qualified students with print disabilities.
Computers for the Blind
3101 High Plateau
Garland, Texas 75044
Phone: 214-340-6328
Email: Info@
Web site:
David Jeppson, Executive Director
E-mail: djeppson@
Phone: 214-293-8819
Agency/business Profile: Computers for the Blind (CFTB) is a volunteer organization devoted to providing computers to persons who are blind or visually impaired. It is our hope that each person who is visually impaired may experience the information age in a positive and productive manner. We believe technology opens new worlds and creates opportunity for greater personal freedom.
Hadley School for the Blind
700 Elm Street, Winnetka, IL 60093
Phone: (800) 323-4238, TTY (847) 441-8111, Fax (847) 446-0855
E-mail: info@hadley.edu
Web site: hadley.edu
Agency/business Profile: The mission of The Hadley School for the Blind is to promote independent living through lifelong, distance education programs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, families, and blindness service providers. Hadley offers courses free of charge to blind and visually impaired students and families and affordable tuition to blindness professionals.
High Tech Center Training Unit
21050 McClellan Road, Suite A, Cupertino, CA 95014
Phone: (408) 996-4636, (800) 411-8954, TTY (408) 252-4938
FAX: (408) 996-6042
E-mail: info@
Web site: htctu.fhda.edu
Agency/business Profile: The High Tech Center Training Unit of the California
Community Colleges is a state of the art training and support facility for community college faculty and staff wishing to acquire or improve teaching skills, methodologies, and pedagogy in Assistive Computer Technology, Alternate Media and Web Accessibility. The HTCTU supports High Tech Center programs at one-hundred and fourteen community colleges and satellite centers. More than ten thousand students with disabilities are enrolled in High Tech Center programs state-wide.
National Braille Press
88 Saint Stephen Street, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: (888) 965-8965
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The guiding purposes of National Braille Press are to promote the literacy of blind children through braille and to provide access to information that empowers blind people to actively engage in work, family, and community affairs.
National Federation of the Blind
1800 Johnson St., Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9314, Fax (410) 685-5653
Web site:
National Federation of the Blind of California
39481 Gallaudet Drive Apt. 127, Fremont, CA 94538
Phone: (510) 248-0100, (877) 558-6524
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day they raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
1291 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20542
Phone: (202) 707-5100, TDD (202) 707-0744
Web site: nls
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NLS offers books and magazines to serve people with vision impairments and physical disabilities.
Factsheet:
Recording for the Blind, Inc., (See Learning Ally )
Sensory Access Foundation
300 West Iowa Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Phone: (408) 245-7330, Fax (408) 245-3762
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Sensory Access Foundation assists people who
are blind or visually impaired to obtain or retain competitive employment by
providing the highest quality access technology assessment, computer training,
job placement and accommodation services.
ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AIDS
The most-used independent travel aid continues to be the long cane. A variety of cane styles are in use. Canes can be rigid, folding, or telescoping. They can be made of aluminum, fiberglass, or graphite. Most have golf grips; some have crooks or weighted tops. Modified tips are available to add on (mushroom, teardrop, rolling). Some experimental canes have built in lights for increased visibility at night. Both rigid and folding canes for blind persons (as well as replacement tips) can sometimes be obtained from a local agency serving blind people. Thinner and lighter folding canes, known as identification canes, are available.
Several electronic travel aids (ETAs) have been and are being developed for specialized travel needs. The usefulness of a particular electronic aid for any individual needs to be jointly assessed by the individual and a mobility specialist trained in the use of the equipment. The following descriptions provide some general information about aids that are currently available.
‘K’ Sonar Sonic Perceptual Aid: The 'K' Sonar is a small, electronic travel device that attaches to a standard long cane. By listening to the sounds that the 'K' Sonar produces, the blind user can determine not only the distance and location of an object, but can also learn about some of its features and even achieve object recognition. The unit can be used independently or attached to the golf grip handle of an O & M cane. Headphones provide audio feedback to the user, changing in pitch to indicate distance to the object being "scanned." Two range modes allow for long range (about 16 feet with slower pulses) and short range (about 6 feet with faster pulses).
LaserCane™: It is a sturdy, impact resistant cane, comprised of three optical triangulation systems, which, by means of pulses of laser, is reflected by objects in front of it. It detects obstacles in the travel path at three levels - head-height, straight-ahead, and drop-offs. It warns the user of approaching obstacles through varied audible tones and/or vibrating stimulators under the index finger. The user has the option of turning the audible tones off and rely on only vibrating stimulators. The present version, can be folded in two sections for storage when not in use and is powered by two “AA” size rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries. If the power is off, it can be used as a traditional white cane. The LASER cane requires excellent cane technique to be used effectively.
MiniGuide: The Miniguide is a small hand-held device that detects obstacles in front of the user. It is designed to be a secondary ETA. Both an audible and a tactile Miniguide are available. The audio aid indicates the distance to the closest object via an audio tone. The higher the pitch of the tone, the closer the object. A 3.5mm earphone socket is provided for more discreet operation and earphones with volume control are included. The tactile Miniguide is slightly larger than the original audio aid. The aid does not have a speaker or earphone socket, but it does have a small vibration unit. The vibration unit is powered by an extra battery attached to the back of the aid. The battery is a small AAA type battery. The battery life depends on the type of battery used, and how often the aid is vibrating. Both have a range of 1 to 4 meters. One could expect over 100 hours use from an alkaline battery with normal usage. A single push button is used to switch the aid on/off in each model and also select modes. In addition, there is a watchdog mode, a very low power mode that is used to detect people coming within a 1 or 2 meter range.
Normally the aid powers down automatically after one hour. In the watchdog mode the aid only powers down after about 13 hours. This allows the aid to be placed on a person's desk and indicate if a person is approaching (for up to 13 hours). In this mode the battery should be able to last over 400 hours.
Polaron: Polaron is a hand-held or chest-mounted mobility device, using ultra-sonic waves, producing either sound or tactile cues. It detects objects within four, eight, or sixteen feet. It can be used with or without a cane. It is especially useful for blind wheelchair users and for Deaf-Blind persons.
Pathfinder: This is another sensing device for blind wheelchair users. It consists of small rectangular boxes that can inconspicuously mounted on the sides of the wheelchair or other mobility devices. It uses ultrasonic beams to detect forward and side obstacles and lasers to detect drop-offs. Drop-off detection is only on certain models. It gives feedback through varied audible warning signals or optional tactile signals. The forward detection can detect objects above head height up to 8 feet away, or 4 feet if selected. The side detection detects objects up to 12 feet away and has different pitches to indicate the left or right side. Step detection, in those models that include it, detect drop-offs within 4 feet.
Canes, Non-electronic
Ambutech
34 DeBaets St., Winnipeg, Canada R2J 3S9
Phone: (800) 561-3340
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AmbuTech is a leading manufacturer and marketer of mobility canes and mobility aids for the blind and visually impaired. Since its inception in 1985, the company has grown to be the dominant supplier of these products in Europe and North America.
LS&S, LLC
145 River Rock Drive, Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 468-4789, TTY (866) 317-8533
Web site:
E-mail form: contact
Agency/business Profile: The LS &S, LLC agency carries low vision aids, hard
of hearing products and assistive technology. They serve the low vision/blind
community as well as the hard of hearing/deaf communities.
MaxiAids
42 Executive Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735
Phone: (800) 522-6294, TTY (800) 281-3555
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: MaxiAids carries independent living products for those who are blind, low vision, hard of hearing and who have other physical/mobility disabilities.
National Federation of the Blind
1800 Johnson St., Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9314, Fax (410) 685-5653
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day they raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.
Revolution Enterprises
Phone: (800) 382-5132,
Web site (Product information): .
DIGITAL NOTE-TAKING
Some students with disabilities have difficulty taking notes. For example, a student with an auditory processing problem may take few or unclear notes. Physical and hearing impairments may also limit speed and make note taking difficult. A note taking accommodation is intended to provide information that the student would have gotten on his own, if it were not for his disability. Common ways to provide note taking accommodations include the following:
Guided notes
Instructor lecture notes
Copies of notes by a designated note taker
Audio recordings
Assistive note taking devices can provide students with physical or processing deficits the ability to take notes for themselves in a form that they can use.
Assistive note taking devices include any software or equipment supporting a student's ability to take notes in class. Braille note taking devices allow blind students who read braille to take notes for themselves. Students with visual impairments or mobility impairments may be better able to take notes using laptop computers. Audio recording devices and digital recording pens can be used to record lectures or take down abbreviated notes, allowing a student to replay the lecture at a different speed or volume, or to review or fill in missed gaps in notes.
Related Functional Characteristics
Motor Skill (Fine): Students who are unable to write legible notes may benefit from using a lap top computer or audio recording device to assist them with taking notes.
Inability to Stay Awake: Audio recording devices may be used to record class lectures so a student with difficulty staying awake in class can replay ant material they may have missed.
Low Vision: Audio recording devices can provide students with an auditory, rather than visual, record of class information.
Blindness: Students who are blind may benefit from use of a laptop, Braille note taking device or audio recorder to assist them with note taking.
Working / Short Term Memory Deficit: Using an audio recorder or a digital recording pen can assist students in reviewing information and to fill in missing or incomplete information.
Sensory Distractibility: An assistive note taking device, such as a digital recording pen, may be used to review information missed when the student became distracted by extraneous sights or sounds in the classroom.
Processing Deficit (Visual): A digital recording pen that records auditory information along with a student's notes can be useful later to clarify diagrams or other visually presented information.
Processing Deficit (Language): An audio recorder or a digital recording pen allows students to compensate for processing difficulties by reviewing lectures at a slower pace and using visual and auditory input to clarify class notes.
Processing Deficit (Auditory): An audio recorder or a digital recording pen allows students with auditory processing deficits to review lectures later at a slower pace and clarify auditory information that might have been missed or misunderstood.
Information Processing Speed: An audio recorder or a digital recording allows students the opportunity to review lectures later at a slower pace and to clarify notes, diagrams or lecture information that might have been missed in class.
Fatigue (Cognitive): An audio recorder or a digital recording pen can assist students who have difficulty concentrating as a result of cognitive fatigue.
Attentional Underfocus: The recording provided by an audio recorder or a digital recording pen can assist students in reviewing information and to capture information that they missed during lecture.
Attentional Overfocus: An audio recorder or a digital recording pen can assist students in reviewing information and to capture information that they missed during lecture because they were focused on certain details.
Production (Written): Auditory recording devices may assist students who have difficulty with grammar, word choice, spelling, or organization of sentence or paragraph structure by providing class information in an auditory format which can be reviewed later.
Web site:
Resources
Livescribe Echo Smartpen Set
Web site:
egoryID=63&SolutionType=Products
Product information: The Livescribe Echo Smartpen Set records notes two
ways: it creates digital copies of everything you write by hand while recording
audio at the same time. It also goes one step further and links the two together,
so you can quickly access audio by tapping parts of the notes.
Apps to Help Students with Dysgraphia and Writing Difficulties: Technology
Can be a great tool for students (and adults!) who have learning disabilities
like dysgraphia or dyslexia that affect written expression.
Web site:
National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
32 Laight Street, Second Floor, New York, NY 10013
Web site:
Email options:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of NCLD is to improve the lives of the one in five children and adults nationwide with learning and attention issues—by empowering parents and young adults, transforming schools and advocating for equal rights and opportunities. Additional information is available at Understood at .
PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTIANTS (PDA)
A PDA is a mobile device that functions as a personal information manager. PDAs were discontinued in early 2010s after the widespread adoption of smartphones.[4] Nearly all PDAs have the ability to connect to the Internet. A PDA has an electronic visual display, enabling it to include a web browser, all models also have audio capabilities enabling use as a portable media player, and also enabling most of them to be used as mobile phones. Most PDAs can access the Internet, intranets or extranets via Wi-Fi or Wireless Wide Area Networks. Most PDAs employ touchscreen technology.
Wired connectivity: While early PDAs connected to a user's personal computer via serial ports or another proprietary connection many today connect via a USB cable. Older PDAs were unable to connect to each other via USB, as the implementations of USB didn't support acting as the "host"
Synchronization: Most PDAs can synchronize data with applications on a user's computer. This allows the user to update contact, schedule, or other information on the computer, using software such as Microsoft Outlook or ACT, and have that same data transferred to PDA; or transfer updated information from the PDA back to the computer.
For blind users, choices are beginning to emerge that allow access to PDAs using speech and/or braille output. For example, Dolphin Smart Hal is a full-fledged screen reader that runs on PocketPC devices. Freedom Scientific's PAC Mate product line also provides access to the PocketPC operating system, though it is a self-contained device, whereas the Dolphin product actually runs on standard over-the-counter PocketPC devices. Humanware Maestrouses a standard HP iPAQ PDA with a slip-on cover and Bluetooth technology to enable a user to interact with the device via braille or a QWERTY keyboard. Nuance’s TALKS and ZOOMS software offers a limited series of voice-activated commands for use on cell phones using SYMBIAN technology.
Speech recognition and text-to-speech may ultimately be a viable solution for people who are blind, as well as other individuals who are unable to use either the stylus or an attached keyboard. Current speech input/output products for PDAs include Microsoft Voice Command and IBM Embedded Via-Voice.
Resources
PDAs Web site:
Microsoft Accessibility
Web site:
Links to additional information about accessibility from Microsoft.
Personal Digital Assistant (AbleData)
Web site: Accessible tools, product information.
Use of a Hand-Held Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) to Self-Prompt Pedestrian Travel by Young Adults with Moderate Intellectual Disabilities (pamphlet)
The purpose of this study was to evaluate use of a personal digital assistant (PDA) with picture, auditory, and video prompts as a portable self-prompting device to facilitate independent pedestrian travel by three high school age students with moderate intellectual disabilities
Web site: .
Personal Digital Assistants as Cognitive Aids for High School Students with Autism (pamphlet)
Results: Eight weeks after completion of training, the group demonstrated statistically significant improvement on COPM occupational performance and satisfaction with occupational performance scores, all PDA calendars showed reminder alarms scheduled for each day of the week across the eight week post-training period and all participants demonstrated the ability to respond to reminder alarms appropriately
Web site: .
GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEMS (GPS)
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system made up of a network of 24 satellites placed into orbit by the U.S. Department of Defense. Military actions was the original intent for GPS, however in the 1980s, the U.S. government decided to allow the GPS program to be used by civilians. The satellite data is free and works anywhere in the world.
GPS devices may have capabilities such as: maps, including streets maps, displayed in human readable format via text or in a graphical format, turn-by-turn navigation directions to a human in charge of a vehicle or vessel via text or speech, directions fed directly to an autonomous vehicle such as a robotic probe, traffic congestion maps (depicting either historical or real time data) and suggested alternative directions, information on amenities such as restaurants, fueling stations, and tourist attractions.
GPS devices may be able to answer: the roads or paths available, traffic congestion and alternative routes, roads or paths that might be taken to get to the destination, if some roads are busy (now or historically) the best route to take, The location of food, banks, hotels, fuel, airports or other places of interests, the shortest route between the two locations, the different options to drive on highway or back roads.
Resources
GPS for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities
Access to the GPS can be in the form of objectives in the Individual Education Program (IEP) aligned (matched) with standards in the GPS or in the form of grade-level activities in which the student will practice and use skills and knowledge.
Web site:
(general information)
GPS for the Visually Impaired
Lists of products for visually impaired and other disabilities at
Web site:
Accessible GPS
Web site:
Product information: Mike May and Charles LaPierre began working on the first accessible GPS prototype at Arkenstone in 1994. In addition to the Sendero based GPS products there is one stand-alone Trekker product from HumanWare and a GPS app for Android devices from APH called Nearby Explorer. The great thing for blind people is that there are options to fit a variety of needs and way-finding situations.
AppleVIS: iOS Apps Developed Specifically for the Blind or People with Low Vision
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Listed are iOS apps that have been developed specifically for the blind or people with low vision. Utilizing the potential of Apple's iDevices, these apps are intended to assist with everyday tasks, increase independence and generally make things easier.
Tracking Devices to Find a Lost Child
Web site:
Product information: Tracking devices can be worn as wristwatches, anklets or clipped onto belt loops or shoelaces.
ELECTRONIC READING MACHINES
Electronic reading machines use modern computer technologies to help individuals read print material independently. These devices recognize characters on printed pages and convert the characters so that computers can understand them. This is why they are called “optical character recognition (OCR) systems”. Some people refer to this technology as “scanning”. Many libraries, community college high-tech centers, and universities use them to assist the visually impaired and others who cannot benefit from conventional print. For many, the personal productivity, independence, and freedom these personal reading systems offer far outweigh the high cost.
There are two groups of optical character recognition systems. The first group consists of dedicated reading machines. These are designed only to read and save what has been read. Some features of these tools include the capability to 1) provide synthesized speech output from standard printed material in a variety of page sizes, fonts, and page formats; 2) record documents on a tape recorder; 3) save documents on a personal computer through a serial communications port for manipulation and braille output; 4) save thousands of pages or several books; and 5) listen privately using headphones. The second group consists of personal computers that have been adapted to provide reading functions. They scan, recognize, and convert print to a computer text file. Then the reader can use adaptive equipment on his or her computer to “read” the document. In addition, depending upon individual need, the adapted computer system can offer the user a host of other applications including 1) word processing; 2) database management; 3) electronic mail; and 4) connection to computer networks. Should you be in the market for a personal reading system, it is very important for you, as a consumer, to assess individual needs, availability of funds, the quality of technical support, and ability of the system to read the kind of material you will wish to read.
To get names of manufacturers and descriptions of optical character recognition systems or other assistive devices, in addition to those listed below, call the California Department of Education's Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Technology, (916) 445-5103.
Recording: Tone Indexing
Tape recorders have been designed for the use of people who use recorded materials. Many recorded books and other materials for these recorders are played at 15/16 speed on 4 tracks. They are prepared in a special way to be used only on equipment which is designed for the purpose. Special features include:
1. A marking technique called tone indexing* is often used to mark chapters, pages, bold headings, etc.
2. Four-track formatting of the cassette tapes allows for twice the amount of material to be recorded as is possible when the conventional two-track format is used. Set the switch to track 1-2 in order to play side one and two. After playing side 2, turn the tape back to side 1 and move the track switch to track 3-4.
3. Half speed record and playback, doubles the amount of material that can be recorded on 1 tape. Set the speed switch to 15/16 for these tapes. (Commercially made tapes can be played at the 1 7/8 speed.)
4. Variable speed control makes it possible for the listener to speed up the tape in order to cover recorded material faster.
5. Pitch restoration is available on some cassette tape recorders. This allows fast playback without higher pitch. The faster playback speed is achieved by a technique called compressed speech, in which small bits of the playback flow are taken out. At the more rapid rates, the speech may sound somewhat clipped, or jerky.
Tone indexing is a system of “beep” tones used to help readers locate pages, chapters, sections or other divisions of recorded books.
When a book is being recorded, a low frequency tone is recorded as each page, chapter, section or other division is announced. At fast forward or rewind speeds, the low frequency tone becomes a clear “beep” which indicates new page or new section. By counting the beeps, a listener can easily locate a given place. For example, if you know that cassette #3 contains pages 51-64 and you want to begin reading at page 58, start the cassette player at fast forward and count "beeps" until you reach page 58. Other divisions of the book, such as chapters, sections, or parts will be indicated by two or three “beeps.” Ordinarily, two "beeps" identify chapter changes. Indications of other divisions, if any, will be specified by the reader at the beginning of the tape. Recordings of recreational reading in which the page number may not be announced may still be tone indexed.
To use the tone indexing system, you must have a recorder/player that has a cue/review mode. The cue/review mode allows the playback head of the recorder/player to remain in contact with the tape during fast forward and rewind. On these machines, you can put tones in as you record the materials.
The National Library Service makes special play-back units available without charge to users of the Braille and Talking Book Library. Tape recorders and play-back units which can use half speed and four track cassette tapes and tone indexing can also be purchased. Several types of tape recorders are available with various features.
A portable tone indexing device can be purchased and easily attached to the external microphone jack of any tape recorder so that tapes can be tone indexed. Contact the California Department of Education's Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Technology at (916) 445-5103 to locate tone indexers or other assistive devices for the visually impaired.
Resources: Tone indexing (Wikipedia)
CALCULATING DEVICES: ELECTRONIC
Electronic calculating devices with enlarged visual readout, voice output, or both, are available through stores and mail order catalogs. Features vary widely. Some have little more than the basic operations. Others have memory and advanced calculating ability. Calculators with speech are usually available to a jack for a headphone.
Longs, Target, and Radio Shack are among the chain stores that carry calculators with large displays. Talking calculators may be purchased through Radio Shack. Electronic notetakers, such as BrailleNote, also include talking calculators. Local agencies serving people with visual impairments may sell or assist in locating either type of calculator.
Talking scientific calculators are available from LS&S Group, the American Printing House for the Blind, and from Science Products. With appropriate software, most computers can be used as scientific calculators.
Resources
American Printing House for the Blind
Web site:
Product information;
Independent Living Aids, LLC
137 Rano Street, Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 537-2118
Web site:
Contact:
Product information: Category and key-word option provide navigation for products on this site at .
Innovative Rehabilitation Technology, Inc. (IRTI)
Web site:
Product information: Catalog of tools by type with detailed information.
LS&S Group, Inc.
Web site:
Product information: Catalog of tools by type with detailed information.
Large Print display
Low Vision Scientific Calculator MaxiAids
Web site:
Product information: Catalog of tools by type with detailed information.
Reizen 12-Digit Jumbo Talking Calculator
Web site:
Product information: Large watch display options.
Platon XL Talking Low Vision Scientific Calculator
Web site:
Product information: Large display for calculators and other low vision tools.
Talking Calculator
Talking Calculator # 87193
Web site:
Product information: Talking calculator information.
Talking Calculator
Web site: Talking calculator information.
Talking Graphing Calculator
Orion TI-84 Plus Talking Graphing Calculator
Web site:
Product information: Details of functions available on the graphing calculator.
Calculator software/apps
Talking Calculator App (Apple)
Web site:
Product information: Talking calculator information.
Simple Talking Calculator App (Android)
Web site:
FRS Talking Calculator software
Web site:
Talking Calculator software
Web site:
YOUTUBE ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATIONS
Overview of Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology in Action: Meet Mason (4:15)
Web site:
The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD) and PACER Center are pleased to announce the release of new assistive technology awareness series, AT in Action. Funded by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), this fully-captioned video series is designed to strengthen awareness of AT devices that help individuals with disabilities participate fully in school, at home, and in the community.
Hadley Demonstrations
Youtube demonstrations to making iOS devices accessible can be found at
Understanding Assistive Technology: Simply Said (2:32)
Web site:
The definition of Assistive Technology presented by the PACER Simon Technology Center stc
What is Assistive Technology (A.T.) (4:05)
Web site:
Discover what Assistive Technology can do. For more information please contact assist@ or by phone: 0113 2070 449 (international).
Discover what Assistive Technology Can Do
Web site: assist@ / 0113 2070 449.
Product information: Introducing evoassist from RSLSteeper. This software application allows you to operate: lights, entertainment devices, doors, curtains and more from the iPad, iPhone or iPod touch.
Technology for Children with Disabilities (2:43)
Web site:
Product information: Children and toys: TN Technology Access Center demonstrates use of a large button switch to aid a child with cerebral palsy in the development of motor skills. Produced by United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee.
Augmentative & Alternative Communication Devices (5:20)
Web site:
Product information: This video introduces viewers to the concept of augmentative and alternative communication and how speech communication devices can help those challenged by significant speech disabilities to speak.
EyeMax Eye Tracking AAC Device (4:11)
Web site:
Product information: Augie Nieto, founder of Life Fitness, vice-president and co-chairman of the MDA's ALS division, and founder of Augie's Quest talks about how the DynaVox EyeMax System allows him to communicate orally, use e-mail and the Internet, as well as control his environment using his eyes.
Assistive Technology for Kids with Learning Disabilities (10:19)
Web site:
Product information: In this episode of Heads Up, it takes you through the assistive technology scene in India, and what exists for those suffering from learning disabilities. Also on the show, it takes a look on the role played by educators in assisting a child with a learning challenge do better academically.
How Technology is Helping Children with Learning Challenges (8:08)
Web site:
Product information: While there is a huge number of children with learning challenges like dyslexia, dyscalculia and autism in the country, the number of organizations working towards inclusive learning is not sufficient. In this episode of Heads Up, they are bringing to you stories of start-ups and people who are looking to help children with learning challenges to bridge the gap that exists in the sphere of education and learning through technology, identification and remedial measures.
Technology Helps Teach Kids with Autism (4:10)
Web site:
Product information: UC Irvine informatics assistant professor Gillian Hayes designs computer devices to aid instruction, record-keeping
Specific Assistive Technology Tool Tutorials on YouTube
Bookshare
Website:
Various videos on how to use Bookshare as well as specific Bookshare features.
Braille + QWERTY Docking Station (3:44)
Web site:
Product information: Braille+ QWERTY Docking Station with Larry Skutchan describes an accessory for use with APH's Braille+™ Mobile Manager. Smaller than a laptop, the Docking Station provides connectivity and comfort on-the-go or at a desk. Simply snap the Braille+ Mobile Manager into the QWERTY Docking Station and you have a highly functional, comfortable-to-use, portable notetaker with Ethernet connectivity!
Orion TI-84 Plus Talking Graphing Calculator
APH-Orion TI-84 Plus Talking Graphing Calculator (3:10)
Web site:
Product information: This video describes the process for adjusting the Speech on the APH-Orion TI-84 Talking and Graphing Calculator.
How to Print from the Orion TI-84 Plus Talking Graphing Calculator (1:26)
Web site:
Product information: Ken Perry from the Research Department shows us how to print from the Orion TI-84 Plus Talking Graphic Calculator.
APH Orion TI-84 Talking Graphing Calculator (10:33)
Web site:
Product information: This first look at the APH Orion TI-84 Talking Graphing Calculator is an unboxing.
APH Braille + Mobile Manager
APH Braille+ Mobile Manager: Installing the Battery (4:50)
Web site:
Product information: Beginning to use the Braille+ Mobile Manager.
APH Braille+ Mobile Manager: Part 1 Buttons & Keys (10:09)
Web site:
Product information: Using the Braille+ Mobile Manager.
APH Braille+ Mobile Manager Part 2 Buttons & Keys (5:28)
Web site:
Product information: Part two of using the Braille+ Mobile Manager.
APH Braille+ Mobile Manager: Setting the Time (5:04)
Web site:
Product information: How to set the time on the Braille+ Mobile Manager.
APH Braille+ Mobile Manager: Synchronizing (8:47)
Web site:
Product information: How to synchronize information using the Braille+ Mobile Manager
APH Braille+ Mobile Manager: The Workspace (9:38)
Web site:
Product information: A tutorial on the APH BraillePlus focusing on the new feature called the Workspace.
APH Braille+ Mobile Manager: Contacts from PC ... (7:28)
Web site:
Product information: How to add contacts to the APH Braille+ Mobile Manager: Braille+ to the PC.
APH Braille+ Mobile Manager: Add Addresses to Folders (3:46)
Web site:
Product information: How to add addresses to folders to the APH Braille+ Mobile Manager: Braille+ to the PC.
APH Braille+ Mobile Manager: Changes in Addresses ... (5:18)
Web site:
Product information: This video describes the changes in the Address Book with the new software version 1.1.
Refreshabraille 18
Refreshabraille 18 from APH with Larry Skutchan (4:08)
Web site:
Product information: Larry Skutchan describes this unique hand-held refreshable braille display that sets a new standard in functionality, flexibility, and portability.
APH-Connecting the Refreshabraille Display: Bluetooth and USB (8:46)
Web site:
Product information: Connecting the new Refreshabraille 18 Display using both Bluetooth and USB connections.
Connect the Refreshabraille 18 to the Mac Using Bluetooth and USB (6:02)
Web site:
Product information: Refreshabraille 18 is connected to the Macintosh MacBook computer. Both USB connection and Bluetooth connection is demonstrated.
APH Refreshabraille Display paired with the iPod Touch and iPhone (8:04)
Web site:
Product information: Pairing the APH Refreshabraille 18 cell display with the Apple iPod Touch/iPhone
Book Port Plus
Book Port Plus Basic Tutorial 1 by Nalida Lacet Besson (8:56)
Web site:
Product information: Book Port Plus is a digital book and music/mp3 player.
Book Port Plus Tutorial 2 by Nalida Lacet Besson (10:57)
Web site:
Product information: The second Book Port Plus Tutorial video.
Book Port Plus Tutorial by Nalida Lacet Besson (10:16)
Web site:
Product information: The third Book Port Plus Tutorial video.
Book Port Plus Tutorial 4 by Nalida Lacet Besson (7:17)
Web site:
Product information: The fourth Book Port Plus Tutorial video.
Book Port Plus Tutorial 5 Voice Memos (6:39)
Web site:
Product information: The fifth Book Port Plus Tutorial video.
BrailleNote
CCVIP Demonstrates the BrailleNote Apex, part 1 (9:36)
Web site:
Product information: Karen Gourgey demonstrates Humanware's BrailleNote Apex.
CCVIP demonstrates the BrailleNote Apex, part 2 (7:24)
Web site:
Product information: BrailleNote Apex, a braille notetaker, PDA, mp3 player, book reader.
Apex
Apex from HumanWare (5:30)
Web site:
Product information: A video describing the features of the HumanWare BrailleNote Apex Braille note taker.
Apex from HumanWare part 2 (5:45)
Web site:
Product information: Helping people who are blind maximize digital communications
Braillenote apex battery (9:32)
Web site:
Product information: An external battery pack for his iPhone.
Sense Nav
Sense 2.1 on Hero pinch to navigate (4:44)
Web site:
Product information: New 2.1 sense UI with pinch to navigate, new icons and full weather options.
Perkins Braille Writer
Introduction to the Perkins Brailler (6:31)
Web site:
Product information: Learn how to use a Perkins Brailler.
Perkins Smart Brailler (4:21)
Web site:
Product information: Perkins Products is proud to present the Smart Brailler.
Introduction to Repair for the Perkins Brailler 1 of 6 (3:25)
Web site:
Product information: Introduction to the history and repair of the Perkins Brailler.
Introduction to the Perkins Brailler (12:18)
Web site:
Product information: The Perkins brailler is, its component parts and how to use it
iPhone
Useful iOS 5 Accessibility Features (4:36)
Web site:
Product information: iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad has a great set of accessibility features.
Apple Ed Accessibility iphone Navigation (5:50)
Web site:
Product information: Accessibility iphone Navigation.
iphone ios7 accessibility options (3:05)
Web site:
Product information: Accessibility options menu in the Settings app.
Overview of Accessibility Features in iOS 7 (4:56)
Web site:
Product information: Overview of some of the new features for accessibility in iOS 7.
iFocus Instructional videos
Kurzweil
15 Kurzweil 1000 (4:27)
Web site:
Email: customerservice@
Assistive Technology, Kurzweil 1000, Anna Garzya (10:53)
Web site:
Product information: How blind and visually impaired people read mail or read different materials.
Window-Eyes
Getting Started With Window-Eyes for Office (27:31)
Web site:
Product information: How to download, install and get started with the Window-Eyes screen reader software
Window-Eyes Introduction (1:53)
Web site:
Product information: A brief introduction to Window-Eyes.
Focus 40 Refreshable Braille
Focus 40 Assistive Technologies Keyboard Tool (3:40)
Web site:
Product information: The lightweight and compact Focus 40 Blue Braille Keyboard.
Using the Focus 14 Blue Refreshable Braille Display with iOS (6:01)
Web site:
Product information: The Focus 14 Blue can navigate, read, and execute commands on the iOS device.
Pocketalker
Pocketalker Ultra Demo (2:39)
Web site:
Product information: The Pockettalker Ultra-portable amplifier can be used during one-on-one conversations, in a small group, or when listening to the TV or radio. It can be used with or without a hearing aid to reduce background noise.
Williams Sound Pocketalker (2:55)
Web site:
Product information: Overview of the Williams Sound Pockettalker.
CapTel
CapTel 840: Overview of CapTel 840 (4:42)
Web site:
Product information: Overview of CapTel 840
CapTel 840: Calling & Answering (4:27)
Web site:
Product information: Tutorial on the CapTel 840; calling and answering.
CapTel 840: Changing Caption Font Size & Color (3:47)
Web site:
Product information: Changing Caption Font Size & Color on the CapTel 840.
CapTel 840: How CapTel Works (1:18)
Web site:
Product information: How CapTel 840 works.
SARA (Scanning and Reading Appliance)
SARA Scanning and Reading Appliance, Low Vision, Blindness Products (10:05)
Web site:
Product information: Using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology, the SARA works like a computer scanner.
SARA CE (Scan and Read Appliance for Low Vision) (2:03)
Web site:
Product information: Tutorial on how to scan and read an appliance for low vision users.
SARA CE Reading Appliance (4:38)
Web site:
Product information: The next-generation self-contained scanning and reading appliance for who are low vision or blind.
Dynamic Display (Dynavox)
Dynamic Display Devices (10:08)
Web site:
Product information: Dynamic display devices offer a large selection of language systems, and vocabulary may be displayed in a variety of ways. Messages can be composed using picture symbols, spelling or pre-stored words and phrases.
Dynamic Display Devices Overview (8:34)
Web site:
Product information: Speech generating devices can be divided into two categories: static display and dynamic display.
Dynamic Display Devices – Access (9:25)
Web site:
Product information: Children with motor impairments can access dynamic display devices in a variety of ways.
Android phones Accessibility
Using accessibility options on your Android (2:06)
Web site:
Product information: Accessibility options available on the Android phone.
Advanced Android voice commands (4:21)
Web site:
Product information: Advanced uses for the voice search option on Android.
Mobile Accessibility for Android (9:39)
Web site:
Product information: Making Android phones accessible to the blind and visually impaired.
Android 5 0 Lollipop accessibility features (3:08)
Web site:
Product information: Accessibility features in Android 5.0 Lollipop remain the same as on KitKat.
FRS Custom Solutions Headpointer
How to use The Head Pointer (8:29)
Web site:
Product information: Tutorial on how to use the head pointer.
Using a speech generating device with a headpointer (1:27)
Web site:
Product information: A teenager demonstrates how he uses a headpointer to activate messages on a touch screen.
Head-mounted pointer for iPad (3:36)
Web site:
Product information: Carol Girt, Equipment Specialist at Easter Seals Crossroads, shows us head-mounted chin pointer for the iPad
Eyegaze Edge Tablet
Web site:
Email:
Product information: The Eyegaze Edge Tablet is a one-piece eye-operated unit that combines processor and display in a small 5-pound package with an adjustable arm with camera bracket, high-speed infrared sensitive camera and lens, keyboard. Programs include: eyegaze communication software, email, internet, Kindle, SMS, music player, computer control for PC or Mac and programs for children.
Beamz and Accessibility with Tobii EyeGaze (2:00)
Web site:
Product information: Overview of the Tobi EyeGaze.
Inclusive EyeGaze Attention & Looking (5:33)
Web site:
Product information: 18 carefully graded activities designed to assess and teach attention and looking skills, simple access skills and understanding of eye gaze.
Sophie Patmore Tobii Eye Gaze (2:46)
Web site:
Product information: Sophie doing her school homework on her eye gaze.
WEB ACCESSIBILITY
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) that may be of use to
colleagues. Web site: .
LAWS and RIGHTS
LEGISLATION
Americans with Disabilities Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act, (ADA) enacted in 1990, is a federal law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of a disability. Among the many areas that are affected are transportation, access to buildings, telecommunications, licensing and credentialing examinations, and employment. The latter two areas are of prime importance to persons with disabilities. While the federal government now enforces anti-discrimination laws in these areas, a person should be knowledgeable regarding the ADA.
An excellent document regarding the ADA is The Americans with Disabilities Act Questions and Answers, published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division. In addition to answering questions, this pamphlet provides additional sources of information. A one-page fact sheet is also available. Copies of the law are available without cost from a Congresspersons' offices and the Department of Justice. These are available in braille, large print, audio tape, electronic file on computer disk, and on an electronic bulletin board. The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research has a web portal that offers approximately 3400 documents on ten subject categories on the ADA, Web site: .
The Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (Office of Program Compliance and Disability Rights) offers assistance concerning provisions of ADA and accessibility rights. The State of California Department of Fair Housing investigates complaints of discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations. Consult with the IRS for information on tax credits and deductions that may assist businesses in complying with ADA.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION 34 CFR Parts 300 and 301RIN 1820-AB57
IDEA 2004 introduced important changes in the provision of special education services for students with disabilities. One of the most significant changes concerns the requirement that students with disabilities receive access to the general curriculum. Specifically, the new Amendments require that students with disabilities: (1) have access to the general curriculum; (2) be involved in the general curriculum; and (3) progress in the general curriculum.
TITLE I Part B Section 612 (a)(23)(A) IN GENERAL
The State adopts the National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard for the purposes of providing instructional materials to blind persons or other persons with print disabilities, in a timely manner after the publication of the National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard in the Federal Register…. (E) DEFINITIONS—In this paragraph: (i) NATIONAL INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS ACCESS CENTER—The term 'National Instructional Materials Access Center' means the center established pursuant to section 674(e).
(ii) NATIONAL INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS ACCESSIBILITY STANDARD—The term 'National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard' has the meaning given the term in section 674(e)(3)(A)(iii) SPECIALIZED FORMATS—The term 'specialized formats' has the meaning given the term in section 674(e)(3)(D).
TITLE I Part B Section 613(B) RIGHTS OF LOCAL EDUCATIONAL AGENCY
Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to require a local educational agency to coordinate with the National Instructional Materials Access Center. If a local educational agency chooses not to coordinate with the National Instructional Materials Access Center, the local educational agency shall provide an assurance to the State educational agency that the local educational agency will provide instructional materials to blind persons or other persons with print disabilities in a timely manner.
TITLE III SEC. 306 Copyright, Section 121 of title 17, United States Code
(1) by re-designating subsection (c) as subsection (d); (2) by inserting after subsection (b) the following: (c) Notwithstanding the provisions of section 106, it is not an infringement of copyright for a publisher of print instructional materials for use in elementary or secondary schools to create and distribute to the National Instructional Materials Access Center copies of the electronic files described in sections 612(a)(23)(C), 613(a)(6), and section 674(e) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act that contain the contents of print instructional materials using the National Instructional Material Accessibility Standard…. (4) 'specialized formats' means— (A) braille, audio, or digital text which is exclusively for use by blind or other persons with disabilities; and (B) with respect to print instructional materials, includes large print formats when such materials are distributed exclusively for use by blind or other persons with disabilities. IDEA requires public agencies to ensure that a continuum of alternative placements is available to meet the needs of children with disabilities for special education and related services. The continuum includes “regular classes, special classes, special schools, home instruction, and instruction in hospitals and institutions.” 34 C.F.R. § 300.115. Schools for the deaf and schools for the blind are schools required to be included in this continuum. A child’s educational placement is based on his Individualized Education Program (IEP), which is developed by his teachers and parents, based on his needs. The IEP and placement must be designed to provide the child a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). The placement must be in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), and one in which the IEP can appropriately be implemented. For many deaf and hard of hearing children and many blind and visually impaired children the LRE is a specialized setting. According to the United States Department of Education: Any setting which does not meet the communication and related needs of a child who is deaf, and therefore does not allow for the provision of FAPE, cannot be considered the LRE for that child. The provision of FAPE is paramount, and the individual placement determination about LRE is to be considered within the context of FAPE.
U.S. Department of Education. Deaf Students Education Services; Policy Guidance; Notice. 57 Fed. Reg. 49274 (October 30, 1992).[1]
Some [blind and visually impaired] students have been inappropriately placed in the regular classroom although it has been determined that the IEPs cannot be appropriately implemented in the regular classroom even with the necessary and appropriate supplementary aids and services. In these situations, the nature of the student's disability and individual needs could make it appropriate for the student to be placed in a setting outside of the regular classroom in order to ensure that the student's IEP is satisfactorily implemented.
The Chafee Amendment
Under the Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, H.R. 3754, Congress approved a measure, introduced by Senator John H. Chafee (R-R.I.) on July 29, 1996, that provides for an exemption affecting the NLS program. On September 16, 1996, the bill was signed into law by President Clinton. The act making appropriations for the Legislative Branch for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997, sets forth the Chafee amendment as follows: Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, that . . . and for other purposes, namely: (a) IN GENERAL-Chapter 1 of title 17, United States Code, is amended by adding after section 120 the following new section: SEC.121. Limitations on exclusive rights: reproduction for blind or other people with disabilities (a) Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 106 and 710, it is not an infringement of copyright for an authorized entity to reproduce or to distribute copies or phonorecords of a previously published, nondramatic literary work if such copies or phonorecords are reproduced or distributed in specialized
formats exclusively for use by blind or other persons with disabilities (b) (1)
Copies or phonorecords to which this section applies shall… (A) not be reproduced or distributed in a format other than a specialized format exclusively for use by blind or other persons with disabilities; (B) bear a notice that any further reproduction or distribution in a format other than a specialized format is an infringement; and (C) include a copyright notice identifying the copyright owner and the date of the original publication. (2) The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to standardized, secure, or norm-referenced tests and related testing material, or to computer programs, except the portions thereof that are in conventional human language (including descriptions of pictorial works) and displayed to users in the ordinary course of using the computer programs. (c) For purposes of this section, the term…. (1) 'authorized entity' means a nonprofit organization or a governmental agency that has a primary mission to provide specialized services relating to training, education, or adaptive reading or information access needs of blind or other persons with disabilities; (2) 'blind or other persons with disabilities' means individuals who are eligible or who may qualify in accordance with the Act entitled 'An Act to provide books for the adult blind', approved March 3, 1931 (2 U.S.C. 35a; 46 Stat. 1487) to receive books and other publications produced in specialized formats; and (3) 'specialized formats' means braille, audio, or digital text which is exclusively for use by blind or other persons with disabilities." (b) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMENDMENT-The table of sections for chapter 1 of title 17, United States Code, is amended by adding after the item relating to section 120 the following: 121. Limitations on exclusive rights: reproduction for blind or other people with disabilities."
California Education Code (Listed in sequential order)
Low Incidence Disability
§56026.5. “Low incidence disability” means a severe disabling condition with an expected incidence rate of less than one percent of the total statewide enrollment in kindergarten through grade 12. For purposes of this definition, severe disabling conditions are hearing impairments, vision impairments, and severe orthopedic impairments, or any combination thereof. For purposes of this definition, vision impairments do not include disabilities within the function of vision specified in Section §56338.
Assistive Technology
§56020.5 "Assistive technology device," as provided in paragraph (1) of Section 1401 of Title 20 of the United States Code, means any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially without the need for modification, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of an individual with exceptional needs. The term does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted, or the replacement of that device.
Individuals with Exceptional Needs
§56026."Individuals with exceptional needs" means those persons who satisfy all the following… (b) Their impairment, as described by subdivision (a), requires instruction and services which cannot be provided with modification of the regular school program in order to ensure that the individual is provided a free appropriate public education pursuant to Section 1401(9) of Title 20 of the United States Code.
Severely Disabled
§56030.5. "Severely disabled" means individuals with exceptional needs who require intensive instruction and training in programs serving pupils with the following profound disabilities: autism, blindness, deafness, severe orthopedic impairments, serious emotional disturbances, severe intellectual disability, and those individuals who would have been eligible for enrollment in a development center for handicapped pupils under Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 56800), as it read on January 1, 1980.
Special Education
§56031. (a) "Special education," in accordance with Section 1401(29) of Title 20 of the United States Code, means specially designed instruction, at no cost to the parent, to meet the unique needs of individuals with exceptional needs, including instruction conducted in the classroom, in the home, in hospitals and institutions, and other settings, and instruction in physical education
Individual Education Program
§56032. "Individualized education program" means a written document described in Sections §56345 and §56345.1 for an individual with exceptional needs that is developed, reviewed, and revised in a meeting in accordance with Sections §300.320 to §300.328, inclusive, of Title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations and this part.
Free Appropriate Public Education
§56040 (a) Every individual with exceptional needs who is eligible to receive special education instruction and related services under this part, shall receive that instruction and those services at no cost to his or her parents or, as appropriate, to him or her. A free appropriate public education shall be available to individuals with exceptional needs in accordance with Section 1412(a)(1) of Title 20 of the United States Code and Section §300.101 of Title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Least Restrictive Environment
§56040.1 In accordance with Section §1412(a)(5) of Title 20 of the United States Code and Section 300.114 of Title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations, each public agency shall ensure the following to address the least restrictive environment for individuals with exceptional needs:
(a) To the maximum extent appropriate, individuals with exceptional needs, including children in public or private institutions or other care facilities, are educated with children who are nondisabled.
(b) Special classes, separate schooling, or other removal of individuals with exceptional needs from the regular educational environment occurs only if the nature or severity of the disability is such that education in the regular classes with the use of supplementary aids and services cannot be achieved satisfactorily.
Child Find
§56300. A local educational agency shall actively and systematically seek out all individuals with exceptional needs, from birth to 21 years of age, inclusive, including children not enrolled in public school programs, who reside in a school district or are under the jurisdiction of a special education local plan area or a county office of education.
Speech Disorder
§56333. A pupil shall be assessed as having a language or speech disorder which makes him or her eligible for special education and related services when he or she demonstrates difficulty understanding or using spoken language to such an extent that it adversely affects his or her educational performance and cannot be corrected without special education and related services. In order to be eligible for special education and related services, difficulty in understanding or using spoken language shall be assessed by a language, speech, and hearing specialist who determines that such difficulty results from any of the following disorders:
(a) Articulation disorders, such that the pupil's production of speech significantly interferes with communication and attracts adverse attention; (b) Abnormal voice, characterized by persistent, defective voice quality, pitch, or loudness. An appropriate medical examination shall be conducted, where appropriate; (c) Fluency difficulties which result in an abnormal flow of verbal expression to such a degree that these difficulties adversely affect communication between the pupil and listener; (d) Inappropriate or inadequate acquisition, comprehension, or expression of spoken language such that the pupil's language performance level is found to be significantly below the language performance level of his or her peers; (e) Hearing loss which results in a language or speech disorder and significantly affects educational performance.
Specific Learning Disability
§56337(a) A specific learning disability, as defined in Section §1401(30) of Title 20 of the United States Code, means a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or in using language, spoken or written, which may manifest itself in the imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell, or perform mathematical calculations. The term "specific learning disability" includes conditions such as perceptual disabilities, brain injury, minimal brain dysfunction, dyslexia, and developmental aphasia….
Dyslexia or related reading dysfunction
§56337.5(a) A pupil who is assessed as being dyslexic and meets eligibility criteria specified in Section §56337 and subdivision (j) of Section §3030 of Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations for the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. §1400 and following) category of specific learning disabilities is entitled to special education and related services.
Transition Services
§56345.1(a) The term "transition services," as defined in Section §1401(34) of Title 20 of the United States Code and as used in subparagraph (B) of paragraph (8) of subdivision (a) of Section 56345, means a coordinated set of activities for an individual with exceptional needs that does all of the following:
(1) Is designed within an results-oriented process, that is focused on improving the academic and functional achievement of the individual with exceptional needs to facilitate the movement of the pupil from school to post-school activities, including postsecondary education, vocational education, integrated employment, including supported employment, continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation.
(2) Is based upon the individual needs of the pupil, taking into account the strengths, preferences, and interests of the pupil.
(3) Includes instruction, related services, community experiences, the development of employment and other post-school adult living objectives, and, if appropriate, acquisition of daily living skills and provision of a functional vocational evaluation.
Braille instruction
§56351 Local educational agencies shall provide opportunities for braille instruction for pupils who, due to a prognosis of visual deterioration, may be expected to have a need for braille as a reading medium.
Braille Reading and Mathematics Code Standards
§56351.9(a) By June 1, 2006, the state board shall adopt braille reading and mathematics standards for pupils who, due to a visual impairment, are functionally blind or may be expected to have a need to learn the braille code as their primary literacy mode for learning. Note: The braille standards are being updated to reflect the Common Core State Standards at this time (AB455)
Designated instructions and services
§56363. (a) As used in this part, the term "designated instruction and services" means "related services" as that term is defined in Section 1401(26) of Title 20 of the United States Code and Section 300.34 of Title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations. The term "related services" means transportation, and such developmental, corrective, and other supportive services (including speech-language pathology and audiology services, interpreting services, psychological services, physical and occupational therapy,
recreation, including therapeutic recreation, social work services, school nurse services designed to enable an individual with exceptional needs to receive a free appropriate public education as described in the individualized education program of the child, counseling services, including rehabilitation counseling, orientation, and mobility services, and medical services, except that such medical services shall be for diagnostic and evaluation purposes only) as may be required to assist an individual with exceptional needs to benefit from special education, and includes the early identification and assessment of disabling conditions in children.
Accommodations
§56385(a) As provided in paragraph (16) of subsection (a) of Section §1412 of Title 20 of the United States Code, individuals with exceptional needs shall be included in general statewide and districtwide assessment programs, including assessments described under Section 1111 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. Sec. §6301 et seq.), with appropriate accommodations and alternate assessments where necessary and as indicated in their respective individualized education programs.
Certificate or document of educational achievement or diploma
§56390 Notwithstanding Section §51412 or any other provision of law, a local educational agency may award an individual with exceptional needs a certificate or document of educational achievement or completion if the requirements of subdivision (a), (b), or (c) are met (a) The individual has satisfactorily completed a prescribed alternative course of study approved by the governing board of the school district in which the individual attended school or the school district with jurisdiction over the individual and identified in his or her individualized education program (b) The individual has satisfactorily met his or her individualized education program goals and objectives during high school as determined by the individualized education program team (c) The individual has satisfactorily attended high school, participated in the instruction as prescribed in his or her individualized education program, and has met the objectives of the statement of transition services.
Procedural Safeguards
§56500.1(a) All procedural safeguards under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 and following) shall be established and maintained by each non-educational and educational agency that provides education, related services, or both, to children who are individuals with exceptional needs (b) At each individualized education program meeting, the public education agency responsible for convening the meeting shall inform the parent and pupil of the federal and state procedural safeguards that were provided in the notice of parent rights pursuant to Section §56321.
Confidentiality of personally identifiable information
§56515(b) Pursuant to paragraph (3) of subsection (b) of Section §300.500 of Title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations, "personally identifiable," as used in this part, includes all of the following information:
(1) The name of the child, the child's parent, or other family member.
(2) The address of the child.
(3) A personal identifier, including, but not limited to, the child's social security number, a pupil number, a list of personal characteristics, or other information that would make it possible to identify the child with reasonable certainty.
(c) In accordance with subsection (b) of Section 300.571 of Title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations, an agency or institution subject to Section §99.1 of Title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations shall not release information from the education records of an individual with exceptional needs to participating agencies without the consent of the parent or guardian, unless authorized to do so under Section §99.1 of Title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Low Incidence funding
§56836.22(a) Commencing with the 1985-86 fiscal year, and for each fiscal year thereafter, funds to support special education and related services as required under the individualized education program for each pupil with low-incidence disabilities, as defined in Section §56026.5, shall be determined by dividing the total number of pupils with low-incidence disabilities in the state, as reported on December 1 of the prior fiscal year, into the annual appropriation provided for this purpose in the Budget Act.
Pupils with Autism
§56846.2(a) For purposes of this chapter, a "pupil with autism" is a pupil who exhibits
autistic-like behaviors, including, but not limited to, any of the following behaviors, or
any combination thereof:
(1) An inability to use oral language for appropriate communication.
(2) A history of extreme withdrawal or of relating to people inappropriately, and
continued impairment in social interaction from infancy through early childhood.
(3) An obsession to maintain sameness.
(4) Extreme preoccupation with objects, inappropriate use of objects, or both.
(5) Extreme resistance to controls.
(6) A display of peculiar motoric mannerisms and motility patterns.
(7) Self-stimulating, ritualistic behavior.
California School for the Deaf
§59001 The California School for the Deaf is part of the public school system of the state except that it derives no revenue from the State School Fund, and has for its object the education of the deaf who, because of their severe hearing loss and educational needs, cannot be provided an appropriate educational program and related services in the regular public schools.
California School for the Blind
§59101 The California School for the Blind is a part of the public school system of the state except that it derives no revenue from the State School Fund, and has for its object the education of visually impaired, blind, and Deaf-Blind pupils who, because of their severe sensory loss and educational needs, cannot be provided an appropriate educational program and related services in the regular public schools.
California Diagnostic Centers
§59201 The diagnostic centers are a part of the public school system of the state, except that they derive no revenue from the State School Fund. The diagnostic centers provide services, including pupil assessment, consultation, technical assistance, and training, to school districts, county offices of education, and special education local plan areas.
Adoption of Basic Instructional Materials
§60001 For the purposes of any provision of the California Constitution that requires the adoption of textbooks for use in the elementary schools, the state board shall adopt at least five separate basic instructional materials for each grade level and each subject area as required by Section §60200.
Basic Instructional Materials
§60010(a) "Basic instructional materials" means instructional materials that are designed for use by pupils as a principal learning resource and that meet in organization and content the basic requirements of the intended course….(h) "Instructional materials" means all materials that are designed for use by pupils and their teachers as a learning resource and help pupils to acquire facts, skills, or opinions or to develop cognitive processes. Instructional materials may be printed or non-printed, and may include textbooks, technology-based materials, other educational materials, and tests.
Technology-based materials
§60010(m)(1) "Technology-based materials" means basic or supplemental instructional materials that are designed for use by pupils and teachers as learning resources and that require the availability of electronic equipment in order to be used as a learning resource. Technology-based materials include, but are not limited to, software programs, video disks, compact disks, optical disks, video and audiotapes, lesson plans, and databases.
Social Content Reviews
§60050(a) The state board shall adopt regulations to govern the social content reviews conducted at the request of a publisher or manufacturer of instructional materials outside the primary instructional material adoption process. A social content review is intended to determine compliance with Sections §60040, §60041, §60042, §60043, §60044, §60048, §60200.5, and §60200.6, and the guidelines for social content adopted by the state board.
Publisher requirements
§60061(a) A publisher or manufacturer shall….
(7) Provide to the state, at no cost, computer files or other electronic versions of each state-adopted literary title and the right to transcribe, reproduce, modify, and distribute the material in braille, large print if the publisher does not offer a large print edition, recordings, American Sign Language videos for the deaf, or other specialized accessible media exclusively for use by pupils with visual disabilities or other disabilities that prevent use of standard instructional materials. Computer files, or other electronic versions, of materials adopted shall be provided within 30 days of request by the state….
Print material requirements
§60061.8(a)(1) Print materials shall have sharp, clear, high contrast, and highly legible fonts. Print materials designed for kindergarten shall use fonts that are at least 20 point. Print materials designed for grade 1 shall use fonts that are at least 18 point. Print materials designed for grade 2 shall use fonts that are at least 16 point. (2) Video products designed for pupils in kindergarten and grades 1 to 12, inclusive, shall be closed-captioned, as defined by the Federal Communications Commission, except for the following: (A) Video products or portions of video products, if any, for which the publisher does not have the rights to close-caption. (B) Video products or portions of video products that are open-captioned, meaning that all viewers see the captioned information. (3) (A) Internet resources and digital multimedia programs intended for use by the general population of pupils, for pupils in kindergarten and grades 1 to 12, inclusive, shall at least meet the standards for accessibility, as set forth in Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. Sec. §794d), and regulations implementing that act as set forth in Part 1194 of Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations, unless meeting those standards would do any of the following:
Digital Format
§60063(a) A publisher …. shall ensure that the printed instructional material is also available in an equivalent digital format during the entire term of the adoption.
Sufficiency
§60119(1)(A) The governing board of a school district shall hold a public hearing or hearings at which the governing board shall encourage participation by parents, teachers, members of the community interested in the affairs of the school district, and bargaining unit leaders, and shall make a determination, through a resolution, as to whether each pupil in each school in the school district has sufficient textbooks or instructional materials, or both, that are aligned to the content standards adopted pursuant to Section §60605 or §60605.8 in each of the following subjects, as appropriate, that are consistent with the content and cycles of the curriculum framework adopted by the state board:(i) Mathematics, (ii) Science, (iii) History-social science, and (iv) English language arts, including the English language development component of an adopted program.
Availability of accessible instructional materials
§60312 The state board shall make available copies of adopted textbooks and other state adopted print materials in large print and other accessible media for pupils enrolled in the elementary schools whose visual acuity is 10/70 or less or who have other visual impairments making the use of these textbooks and alternate formats necessary. The state board shall make available adopted textbooks in braille characters for pupils enrolled in elementary schools whose corrected visual acuity is 20/200 or less. The state board may purchase or contract for the development of those materials.
Central Clearinghouse
§60313(a) The Superintendent of Public Instruction shall maintain a central clearinghouse-depository and duplication center for the design, production, modification, and distribution of braille, large print, special recordings, and other accessible versions of instructional materials for use by pupils with visual impairments or other disabilities who are enrolled in the public schools of California.
High School Textbooks
§60400 The governing board of each school district maintaining one or more high schools shall adopt instructional materials for use in the high schools under its control. Only instruction materials of those publishers who comply with the requirements of Article 3 (commencing with Section §60040) and Article 4 (commencing with Section §60060) of Chapter 1 of this part and of Section §60226 may be adopted by the district board.
National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard (NIMAS)
Provides definitions related to purchase of and access to instructional materials.
Requires the adoption of NIMAS.
Establishes SEA rights and responsibilities.
Establishes requirements for the preparation and delivery of files.
The complete law can be found at the Web site: //idea.explore/view/p/,root,dynamic,TopicalBrief,12,
Transition Services: WorkAbility I
Web site:
WorkAbility I was initiated in November 1981 as a pilot project to test the concept of work experience for youth with disabilities. WorkAbility I continues to successfully conduct interagency coordination of services, which began with a September 1982 Employment Development Department, State Department of Rehabilitation and California Department of Education (CDE) non-financial interagency agreement. Through a designation as one of the ten best transition programs of its type in the United States, WorkAbility I has received national recognition of its success in matching young adults who have disabilities with employers who need workers.
California Education Code
Web site:
Workability partnership
§56470(d) That project workability is a true partnership established at the state level through nonfinancial interagency agreements between the State Department of Education, the Department of Employment Development, and the Department of Rehabilitation, and has elevated awareness in the private sector of the employment potential of individuals with exceptional needs, and focuses its efforts in developing careers for these youth, and preventing needless economic and social dependency on state and community agencies and resources. (e) That local education agencies in California establish linkage between agencies, eliminate duplication of effort, and develop precedent-setting employment training practices which should be preserved and advanced to better assure future productive employable citizens.
Workability grants§56471(c)
The Superintendent shall develop criteria for awarding grants, funding, and evaluating workability projects.(d) Eligible applicants shall include local educational agencies, including school districts, county offices of education, state special schools, and charter schools, and nonpublic, nonsectarian schools, as defined in Section 56034.(e) Workability project applications shall include, but are not limited to, the following elements:(1) recruitment, (2) assessment, (3) counseling, (4) pre-employment skills training, (5) vocational training, (6) student wages for try-out employment, (7) placement in unsubsidized employment, (8)other assistance with transition to a quality adult life, and (9) utilization of an interdisciplinary advisory committee to enhance project goals.
IEP, 504 LEGISLATION
Individualized Education Program (IEP)
A Guide to the Individualized Education Program. Each public school child who receives special education and related services must have an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Each IEP must be designed for one student and must be a truly individualized document. The IEP creates an opportunity for teachers, parents, school administrators, related services personnel, and students (when appropriate) to work together to improve educational results for children with disabilities. The IEP is the cornerstone of a quality education for each child with a disability.
To create an effective IEP, parents, teachers, other school staff-and often the student-must come together to look closely at the student's unique needs. These individuals pool knowledge, experience and commitment to design an educational program that will help the student be involved in, and progress in, the general curriculum. The IEP guides the delivery of special education supports and services for the student with a disability. Without a doubt, writing-and implementing-an effective IEP requires teamwork.
Web site:
The process for providing qualifications, and then services and supports for students is detailed in this online guide. Assessment, placement, and scheduled updates are all part of the plan for each qualified student.
Resources on IEPs for Children with Disabilities; Resources to improve instruction, assessment, and accountability for students with disabilities.
Web site:
Parent Guide to IDEA; The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the key federal education law that serves students with LD. Being informed will help you support a child’s learning needs and advocate for his or her success. Visit the chapters below for information on requesting an evaluation, student discipline and more. Web site:
Common Core Resources for Special Education; Resources and guidelines on the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for the Special Education Community. Web site:
Multi-Tiered System of Supports; A framework that aligns Response to Instruction and Intervention with the Common Core State Standards and the systems necessary for academic, behavior, and social success. Web site:
Section 504 Plan
An important responsibility of the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is to eliminate discrimination on the basis of disability against students with disabilities. OCR receives numerous complaints and inquiries in the area of elementary and secondary education involving Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, 29 U.S.C. § 794 (Section 504). Most of these concern identification of students who are protected by Section 504 and the means to obtain an appropriate education for such students.
Section 504 is a federal law designed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities in programs and activities that receive Federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education (ED). Section 504 provides: "No otherwise qualified individual with a disability in the United States . . . shall, solely by reason of her or his disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance . . . ."
OCR enforces Section 504 in programs and activities that receive Federal financial assistance from ED. Recipients of this Federal financial assistance include public school districts, institutions of higher education, and other state and local education agencies. The regulations implementing Section 504 in the context of educational institutions appear at 34 C.F.R. Part 104.
Web site:
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities:
"no other qualified handicapped individual in the United States…shall solely by reason of his handicap, be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.”
Web site:
504 and IDEA Comparison Chart
Understanding how Section 504 and IDEA work with each other and complement each other allows you as the parent to better assist the child's educational team in ensuring the child's right to a Free and Appropriate Education (FAPE) is provided allowing for maximum educational success.
Web site:
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
To be protected under Section 504, a student must be determined to: have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; or have a record of such impairment; or be regarded as having such impairment. Web site:
ELECTIONS AND VOTING
To vote, you must be 18 and a registered voter. You must be registered at least 15 days before the first election in which you wish to vote. Registration forms are available at local post offices. You can also register online or at the Department of Motor Vehicles at the same time you apply for a State Identification Card. Once registered, you are a permanent voter and do not need to register again unless you move or change a name.
When going to the polling place to vote (determined by a street address), go with a trusted friend or family member who can read the ballot to you and accurately record the vote. Be prepared by knowing which candidates, propositions, and members you want to vote for to save time. Many people request permanent Absentee Ballots so they can take more time and vote. The State of California produces an audio-recorded version of the ballot pamphlet. It is available at most public libraries. Contact the County Registrar of Voters for information.
More information is available through The League of Women Voters. The League, with branches in different states, is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization of women and men, which never supports or opposes candidates or political parties. It gives voting information and encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government.
County Registrar of Voters
League of Women Voters of California Web site: ca.
GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES
Internal Revenue Service, Tax Code Information, Web site: or
(800) 829-1040
State Franchise Tax Board, California, Web site: ftb., or (916) 854-6500
Office for Civil Rights
Federal civil rights laws and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Rule, together protect fundamental rights of nondiscrimination and health information privacy. Civil Rights help to protect from unfair treatment or discrimination, because of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex (gender), or religion.
Web site:
The Social Security Administration
The programs serve as vital financial protection for working men and women, children, the disabled, and the elderly. The Social Security administration is the largest disability program in the nation. Unfortunately, there are some common misconceptions about the program.
Web site:
California Department of Rehabilitation
The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is an employment and independent living resource for people with disabilities.
Web site:
ADVOCACY
Understood (Website) for learning and attention issues: “Be an Advocate” Training Center, Web site:
Agency/business Profile: City & Local Governments often have appointed commissions which serve as a conduit between public comment and local government. (E.g., Mayor’s Commission for Persons with Disabilities). Individuals should contact city & county government to learn what is happening at the local level and engage with local officials.
About Disability Benefits 101
Youth benefits can be found at .
Website:
Agency/business Profile: Many people with disabilities fear that if they go to work, they'll lose needed health care and other disability benefits. DB101 helps people with disabilities and service providers understand the connections between work and benefits. DB101 will help you make informed choices and show you how you can make work part of your plan.
SPECIFIC POPULATION RESOURCES
Each population has unique needs. Resources are divided into three categories; Organizations, Services, and Products
BLIND & LOW VISION
Note: Additional information about the Web sites and links can be found in the Organizations Contact Information at the end of the transition guide.
ORGANIZATIONS
American Council of the Blind
2200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 650, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (800) 424-8666, (202) 467-5081, Fax: (703) 465-5085
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The American Council of the Blind serves individuals of all ages who are blind or low vision. They house a list of agencies and groups that transcribe books and other resources are listed as well. Information may be accessed through the website or by phone. Offers college scholarships for students who are legally blind in both eyes. Applications are available on the website around December 1, and are due back March 1. Holds an annual conference with a large trade show featuring the latest high- and low-tech items designed for blind and visually impaired people. Publishes a magazine, “The ACB Braille Forum,” every other month in braille, large print, on four-track cassette and IBM-compatible CD; also available on the website (readable and downloadable files), podcast and via e-mail. Holds annual legislative seminar featuring a day on Capitol Hill.
American Printing House for the Blind Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: APH serves individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. The products include tactile graphics/maps, accessible math supplies, braille, and large-print materials. APH sells hard and soft binders and dividers.
Bookshare
480 South California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: (650) 644-3400
Website:
Agency/Business Profile: On-line digital library of accessible images for students with print disabilities such as visual impairments, physical disabilities and learning disabilities. At the time of production the Bookshare collection houses over 370,000 educational materials. Bookshare is free to all US students and schools thanks to a grant from the Department of Education. K-12 and Post-secondary
Braille Institute
741 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: (800) 272-4553
Web site: Spanish, or
Agency/business Profile: The Braille Institute serves individuals who are blind
from birth to seniors. They provide classes that pertain to blindness. They have a
lending library and they offer services to the Spanish speaking community.
California Council of the Blind (CCB)
1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814-2900
Phone: (916) 441-2100, (800) 221-6359
E-mail: ccotb@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CCB's mission is to increase the independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for all Californians who are blind and visually impaired. Through CCB's offices in the Bay Area, Sacramento and Los Angeles, and its 40 local chapters and statewide special interest associations, the Council provides information and referral, technical assistance, advocacy, leadership development, publications, emergency funds, accessible technology loans, and scholarships.
Hadley School for the Blind
700 Elm Street, Winnetka, IL 60093
Phone: (800) 323-4238, TTY (847) 441-8111, Fax (847) 446-0855
E-mail: info@hadley.edu
Web site: hadley.edu
Agency/business Profile: The mission of The Hadley School for the Blind is to promote independent living through lifelong, distance education programs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, families, and blindness service providers. Hadley offers courses free of charge to blind and visually impaired students and families and affordable tuition to blindness professionals
Perkins, Web site:
LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
214 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California 94102
Phone: (415) 694-7371
Fax: (415) 863-7568
Web site:
E-mail: info@lighthouse-
Agency/business Profile: Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides a range of rehabilitation services including Orientation and Mobility, Independent living skills, assistive technology assessment and training, and braille instruction. Our Changing Vision, Changing Life immersion guides newly blind and visually impaired students toward independence and confidence.
Youth and transition age students gain valuable life and vocational skills through leadership and advocacy workshops, while building valuable networks on group trips to blindness conventions. Our Community Services department supports students in building connections with fellow blind youth and adults, and also encourages integration into the wider community. We promote fitness, nutrition, and a healthy dose of recreation.
The LightHouse prides itself on offering innovative accessible media, production of braille, tactile maps and 3D objects. An array of camping opportunities can be found at Enchanted Hills, The LightHouse campground, located in the rolling hills of Napa. Students immerse themselves in camp sessions focused on science, music, horseback riding, and the natural beauty of the woods all around them.
Our comprehensive Employment Immersion program builds valuable job preparation and search skills, while also addressing soft skills critical in achieving gainful employment. The LightHouse for the Blind is ready to help you live a full, productive, healthy and independent life.
National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (NAPVI)
P.O. Box 317, Watertown, MA 02471
Phone: (800) 562-6265, (617) 972-7441
E-mail: napvi@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NAPVI helps parents to find information and locate resources for the children. It also advocates on a national level for the resources necessary to educate those children. An affiliate of Lighthouse Guild, NAPVI was founded by volunteers, principally parents of children who are visually impaired.
National Federation of the Blind
1800 Johnson St., Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9314, Fax (410) 685-5653
Web site:
National Federation of the Blind of California
39481 Gallaudet Drive Apt. 127, Fremont, CA 94538
Phone: (510) 248-0100, (877) 558-6524
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines the future. Every day NFB raises the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. Live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.
American Foundation for the Blind
2 Penn Plaza, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10121
Phone: (212) 502-7600
E-mail:
Web site:
Contact information: Mark Richert, Director of Public Policy
E-mail: mrichert@, Phone: (202) 469-6833
Agency/business Profile: The American Foundation for the Blind removes barriers, creates solutions, and expands possibilities so people with vision loss can achieve full potential.
Junior Blind of America (formerly Junior Foundation for the Blind)
5300 Angeles Vista Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90043
Phone: (323) 295-4555, or (800) 352-2290 (outside of Southern California)
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: In 2013-2014, Junior Blind’s programs served more than 14,000 students and the family members—all at no cost to them. Through programs that offer education, recreation and rehabilitation services, students are one step closer to reaching goals and achieving the greatest levels of independence.
LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
214 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, California 94102
Phone: (415) 694-7371
Fax: (415) 863-7568
Web site:
E-mail: info@lighthouse-
Agency/business Profile: Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides a range of rehabilitation services including Orientation and Mobility, Independent living skills, assistive technology assessment and training, and braille instruction. Our Changing Vision, Changing Life immersion guides newly blind and visually impaired students toward independence and confidence.
Youth and transition age students gain valuable life and vocational skills through leadership and advocacy workshops, while building valuable networks on group trips to blindness conventions. Our Community Services department supports students in building connections with fellow blind youth and adults, and also encourages integration into the wider community. We promote fitness, nutrition, and a healthy dose of recreation.
The LightHouse prides itself on offering innovative accessible media, production of braille, tactile maps and 3D objects. An array of camping opportunities can be found at Enchanted Hills, The LightHouse campground, located in the rolling hills of Napa. Students immerse themselves in camp sessions focused on science, music, horseback riding, and the natural beauty of the woods all around them.
Our comprehensive Employment Immersion program builds valuable job preparation and search skills, while also addressing soft skills critical in achieving gainful employment. The LightHouse for the Blind is ready to help you live a full, productive, healthy and independent life.
Light House of Marin
851 Irwin Street
Suite 206
San Rafael, CA 94901
Phone: (415) 258-8496
Fax: (415) 258-8501
Light House of the East Bay
Ed Roberts Campus
3075 Adeline, Suite 110
Berkeley, CA 94703
Phone: (510) 845-8700
Fax: (510) 845-8705
TTY: (510) 845-8703
Light House North Coast
Humboldt Senior Resource
Center
1910 California Street, Third
Floor, Eureka, CA 95501
Phone: (707) 268-5646
Fax: (707) 268-5647
TTY: (707) 268-5655
Web site:
Society for the Blind
1238 S Street, Sacramento, CA 95811
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Society for the Blind offers O&M skills to help you move
around and expand the world. They teach alternative techniques and skills to
travel safely, efficiently, and independently, in the home or out and about.
Lions Center for the Blind
1722 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 450-1580
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Lions Center for the Blind is an Oakland based training center in operation in the Bay Area since 1942. The organization provides core services of Orientation & Mobility Training, Independent Living Skills, Assistive Technology training, Braille, and Employment Services. The agency works in partnership with schools, community based organizations, businesses, and state & local governments to facilitate engagement and integration for visually impaired individuals.
Lions Center programs are conducted in both cohort learning models designed to foster social and interpersonal skill development, and individual one-on-one training for specific skill development. Students regularly experience cross-training between the various programs and instruction typically focuses on applicable uses for life after training.
Braille Information
Braille Authority of North America (BANA) For help in the interpretation of braille rules, changes in the braille codes, or questions about large print and enlarged drawings, contact the Braille Authority of North America (BANA).
Web site: .
California Transcribers and Educators for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CTEBVI) Specialists provide articles three times a year in the journal. Past copies are available on the CTEBVI Web site: .
Sighted Guide Technique
9709 Third Ave NE #100
Seattle, WA 98115–2027
Phone: 206–525–5556
V/tdd: 800–458–4888 toll free
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Sighted guide is a guiding technique for people who are
blind or low vision.
SERVICES
Lending Libraries
School wouldn't be school without books. In order for students who are blind or visually impaired to fully participate they must have the same books as sighted colleagues, on time, and in accessible formats. Sources for recorded books are Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic, and the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress. Books are available on cassette and in a variety of digital formats that can be played on specialized CD players and MP3 Players. Books can be downloaded into computers and portable devices, such as Book Port and BrailleNote.
American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults
1800 Johnson Street, Baltimore, MD21230
Phone: (410) 659-9315
E-mail: actionfund@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults is an organization devoted to assisting blind youth, elderly blind and, deaf blind individuals when they are not able to find the assistance they need from governmental agencies or other entities. The American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults' name used to be just American Action Fund, but was changed to better identify the groups of individuals for which they provided services.
Be My Eyes
Hans Jørgen Wiberg (app inventor):
Phone: (45) 60 85 86 87
Web site:
Skypename: hans.jorgen.wiberg
Product: An iPhone app that lets blind people contact a network of sighted volunteers for help with live video chat.
Bookshare
480 South California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: (650) 644-3400
Website:
Agency/Business Profile: On-line digital library of accessible images for students with print disabilities such as visual impairments, physical disabilities and learning disabilities. At the time of production the Bookshare collection houses over 370,000 educational materials. Bookshare is free to all US students and schools thanks to a grant from the Department of Education. K-12 and Post-secondary
Braille and Talking Book Library
California State Library
900 N Street, Suite 110, Sacramento, CA 94237-0001
Phone: (916) 651-0812, (800) 952-5666, Fax (916) 654-1119
Email: btbl@library. or mike.marlin@library.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Braille and Talking Book Library, the Northern California Regional Library for the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) is a free library service for people with temporary or permanent print disabilities, including low vision, blindness, or physical disabilities that prevent them from reading conventional print, such as dyslexia or the inability to hold a book. BTBL offers popular fiction and nonfiction books, playback equipment, and descriptive videos mailed for free, and instantly downloadable audio and electronic braille books (via your computer or free iOS and Android apps).
Carnegie Library f/t Blind
4724 Baum Blvd., Pittsburg, PA 15213
Phone: (800) 242-0586
E-mail: lbph@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, Library for the Blind & Physically Handicapped has an audio book, Braille book, and large print book collection with thousands of fiction and nonfiction titles on a variety of genres and topics. Once registered, patrons receive materials through the mail free of charge. Playback equipment and digital download services are also available.
M.C. Migel Library and Barr Library
American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, P.O. Box 6085, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
E-mail library@
Web site:
Contact information: APH Libraries library@ Agency/business Profile:
The Migel Library collection contains items on aging, orientation and mobility,
education, employment, and rehabilitation. It also includes a collection of items
relating to Deaf-Blindness, fictional titles that feature blind or visually impaired
characters, books on Helen Keller, children's books that touch on blindness and
visual impairment, and many important AFB publications dating back to the
1920s. The Library contains approximately 40,000 volumes in its holdings,
including a number of current titles and many out-of-print and historic titles.
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
1291 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20542
Phone: (202) 707-5100, TDD (202) 707-0744
Web site: nls
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NLS offers books and magazines to serve people with vision impairments and physical disabilities.
Factsheet:
Books Aloud
150 E. San Fernando Street, San Jose, CA 95112
Phone: (408) 808-2613
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Books Aloud offers service to individuals of all ages
who are blind/visually impaired; have physical disabilities or any print disability.
The books are in audio format and range from educational to leisure and they
provide the equipment for schools to play the materials.
BARR Library
American Printing House for the Blind
1839 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY 40206
Phone number (212) 502-7675, (502) 899-2357
Web site: Migel..
Agency/business Profile: The Barr Library supports the organization’s mission: “The American Printing House for the Blind promotes independence of blind and visually impaired persons by providing special media, tools, and materials needed for education and life.”
Books on Tape
Random House Publishing Group
1745, Broadway, 15-3, New York, NY 10019
Phone: (800) 733-3000
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Books on Tape is chock full of useful materials for
educators and librarians looking to expand knowledge and collections.
There is a wide selection of articles ranging from grant writing, to using
audiobooks with English Language Learners, to increasing teen listening. Plus,
the toolbox provides practical tips for using audiobooks in the classroom.
Braille and Talking Book Library
The California State Library
900 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 654-0640, (800) 952-5666
Email: btbl@library.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Braille and Talking Book Library, the Northern California Regional Library for the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) is a free library service for people with temporary or permanent print disabilities, including low vision, blindness, or physical disabilities that prevent them from reading conventional print, such as dyslexia or the inability to hold a book. BTBL offers popular fiction and nonfiction books, playback equipment, and descriptive videos mailed for free, and instantly downloadable audio and electronic braille books (via your computer or free iOS and Android apps).
Braille Institute
741 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: (800) 272-4553
Web site: Spanish, or
Agency/business Profile: The Braille Institute serves individuals who are blind
from birth to seniors. They provide classes that pertain to blindness. They have a
lending library and they offer services to the Spanish speaking community.
Braille Transcription Project of Santa Clara
101 N. Bascom Ave., San Jose, CA 95128
Phone: (408) 298-4468
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Braille Transcription Project of Santa Clara offers
already transcribed braille books for individuals of all ages who are blind. The
books are primarily novels, fiction and children’s titles. The project also offers
brailler repair.
Fresno Talking Book Library
Fresno County Library
770 N. San Pablo Avenue, Fresno, CA 9728
Phone: (800) 742-1011 ext. 3217
E-mail: tblb@
Web site: tblb/index.html
Valley Cat Talking Books at Web site: //hip1.ipac20/ipac.jsp?menu=search&aspect=basic_search&index=.GW&term=TALKING+BOOKS&submit=Find+It%21
Agency/business Profile: The Fresno Library has over 700 talking books in circulation that are accessible for people with visual impairments.
Kenneth Jernigan Library f/t Blind
Children-Twin Vision Books
1800 Johnson Street, Baltimore, MD21230
Phone: (410) 659-9315
E-mail: actionfund@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Kenneth Jernigan Library for Blind Children and Adults, a lending library, is a nonprofit charitable foundation dedicated to the reading pleasure and education of blind children and young adults. The books catalogued in the library are transcribed by volunteers, who have contributed countless hours of time and effort to bring the total collection of the Library to more than 14,000 braille books.
Learning Ally
20 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: (800) 221-4792
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Learning Ally lending library provides recorded
materials for individuals of all ages who are blind or dyslexic. They house a
collection of accessible college-level textbooks as well as textbook materials for
K-12 students.
Lighthouse International
111 E. 59th Street, New York, NY 10022
Phone: (800) 284-4422
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Since 1905, Lighthouse International has led the charge in the fight against vision loss through prevention, treatment and empowerment. Founders, Winifred and Edith Holt, blazed a trail of firsts and opened up new doors of opportunity for people without sight. Today, they are proud to continue the Holt legacy on behalf of all those who look to the Lighthouse as a beacon of hope today and will for many years to come.
Volunteers of Vacaville / Blind Project
P.O. Box 670, Vacaville, CA 95696
Phone: (707) 448-6841 ext.2044
Web site:
Contact: Sherry Dovichi, Program Director sherry.dovichi@cdcr.
Agency/business Profile: The Volunteers of Vacaville Blind Project, the very first
program of its kind in California, began in 1960 as a cooperative effort between
the California Department of Corrections staff, and the inmates housed at the
California Medical Facility in Vacaville seeking assistance in meeting the growing
demands for transcription of printed materials onto audio tape. Mr. Savides
enlisted the aid of Lt. Jim Boling, Lt. Ben Jarvis, and Sgt. Jim Todd to
immediately develop an implementation plan and begin the processes necessary
to procure the funding and equipment needed to produce aural transcriptions for
the visually and physically impaired community.
News and Periodicals
Accessible Magazines from the APH
American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, P.O. Box 6085, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: APH is proud to offer accessible editions of Reader’s Digest®, Newsweek®, and Scholastic News® (formerly Weekly Reader®) to eligible readers who are blind and visually impaired. Subscriptions to Reader’s Digest® and Newsweek® are FREE to eligible U.S. citizens, although donations are appreciated to help defray costs.
Blind World Access
American Foundation for the Blind
2 Penn Plaza, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10121
Phone: (800) 232-5463
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Blind World Access offers objective information you can
trust, smart and informed commentary, and cutting-edge news and trends
concerning information technology and visual impairment are published monthly
in AccessWorld®: Technology and People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.
Blind World Magazine
George Cassell, Editor
E-mail: BlindWorld@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Blind World is a free online magazine; an impartial retrospect of recently published, blindness-related articles. Here you will find an eclectic assortment of interesting, entertaining and informative articles, on a wide variety of topics that are relevant to the blind and visually-impaired. The Editors constantly scan hundreds of sources from around the world, selecting only those items known to be of interest to members of the blind and visually impaired communities. They have assembled an impressive variety of blindness related articles for reading enjoyment, from an equally impressive collection of electronic and print sources, including newspapers and magazines, scientific and medical journals, specialty newsletters and more.
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
1291 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20542
Phone: (202) 707-5100, TDD (202) 707-0744
Web site: nls
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NLS offers books and magazines to serve people with vision impairments and physical disabilities.
Factsheet:
NFB Newsline
National Federation of the Blind
200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place, Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (866) 504-7300 (Newsline info)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NFB-NEWSLINE® is well over 300 publications. Four Spanish-language newspapers are available to all subscribers. The service handles thousands of phone calls each day for individuals across the country who now access daily newspapers and magazines as never before. This also enables those who cannot read conventional print to have access to all content offered on NFB-NEWSLINE® when traveling throughout the United States twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
The menu provided allows the user to change the speed and voice settings, spell out words, or search for a particular word or subject.
San Francisco Library f/t Blind
100 Larkin Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: (415) 557-4400, TTY (415) 557-4433
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The San Francisco Library provides the following service; Standards of Service for the Library of Congress Network of Libraries for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, The Magazine Program of the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library Resources for the Blind & Physically Handicapped, Library Resources for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, and The California State Library Offers Service to Blind Readers.
Blindness podcasts
Dr. Bill Takeshita Foundation Podcasts
Dr. Bill Web site:
YouTube: A Blind Eye Doctor (26.52)
Dr. Bill is one of the foremost eye doctors focused on helping children overcome profound visual difficulties. This is something Bill knows personally: he lost his eyesight due to a retinal degenerative disorder. And then he returned to practice.
This half-hour weekly radio program and podcast discusses products, services and daily living tips for people with vision loss. It is available through radio reading services across the US and Canada, via 3 internet streaming services, and to everybody else as a podcast at the link above. To date, the show has been downloaded in all 50 states in the US, 8 Canadian provinces and over 90 other countries on all the inhabited continents. Eyes On Success is hosted and produced by Peter Torpey and Nancy Goodman Torpey and distributed by WXXI Reachout Radio in Rochester, NY.
Binders and Bindings
A wide variety of three-ring and multi-ring notebooks and other binding materials is available at stores carrying office or school supplies. Most copy shops will bind any loose-leaf materials in ring, spiral, or comb bindings.
Binders which are wide enough to hold 11 by 11-1/2 inch paper, commonly used for braille in the United States, are hard to find except in catalogs of companies which handle braille materials or from stores run by agencies serving blind people. APH sells hard and soft binders and dividers for 11 by 11-1/2 inch paper. An easy and relatively inexpensive way to bind large pages of braille is to have them bound with comb or spiral bindings at a local copy shop or use rings with or without a cardboard cover front and back.
Small multi-ring notebooks packaged with a slate in a pocket, a stylus attached with a string or ribbon, and appropriately sized and punched braille paper are available in several sizes.
Independent Living Aids, LLC
137 Rano Street, Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 537-2118
Web site:
Contact:
Product information: Category and key-word option provide navigation for products on this site at .
LS&S, LLC
145 River Rock Drive, Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 468-4789, TTY (866) 317-8533
Web site:
E-mail form: contact
Agency/business Profile: The LS &S, LLC agency carries low vision aids, hard
of hearing products and assistive technology. They serve the low vision/blind
community as well as the hard of hearing/deaf communities.
MAXI-AIDS
42 Executive Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735
Phone: (800) 522-6294, TTY (800) 281-3555
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Maxi Aids carries independent living products for those who are blind, low vision, hard of hearing and who have other physical/mobility disabilities. They serve individuals of all ages and products range from educational materials, card games to household and medical items.
Braille Books (Already Transcribed)
Many textbooks, general interest books, reference works, magazines, religious materials, craft instruction books, and cookbooks are available in braille. They can be borrowed from lending libraries and agencies, or purchased from other sources. Catalogs are available from sources listed below.
American Council of the Blind
2200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 650, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (800) 424-8666, (202) 467-5081, Fax: (703) 465-5085
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The American Council of the Blind serves individuals of all ages who are blind or low vision. They house a list of agencies and groups that transcribe books and other resources are listed as well. Information may be accessed through the website or by phone. Offers college scholarships for students who are legally blind in both eyes. Applications are available on the website around December 1, and are due back March 1. Holds an annual conference with a large trade show featuring the latest high- and low-tech items designed for blind and visually impaired people. Publishes a magazine, “The ACB Braille Forum,” every other month in braille, large print, on four-track cassette and IBM-compatible CD; also available on the website (readable and downloadable files), podcast and via e-mail. Holds annual legislative seminar featuring a day on Capitol Hill.
Braille Superstore
33222 Lynn Avenue, Abbotsford, BC V2S 1C9 Canada
Phone: (800) 987-1231
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Agency provides braille Transcription services and have braille books and audio books for sale. They serve individuals of all ages who are blind or low vision.
Braille Transcription Project of Santa Clara
101 N. Bascom Ave., San Jose, CA 95128
Phone: (408) 298-4468
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Agency offers already transcribed braille books for individuals of all ages who are blind. The books are primarily novels, fiction and children’s titles and they also offer brailler repair.
Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Translations (CSMT)
1430 N Street, Suite 3207, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-5103
Web site: cde.re/pn/sm/csmtcontacts.asp
Contact information: Laurie Garcia, Manager lgarcia@cde.
Agency/business Profile: The CSMT provides braille, large print, audio, and accessible digital files of instructional materials adopted by the State Board of Education for students in public schools with print disabilities.
LOUIS DATABASE
American Printing House for the Blind
1839 Frankfort Avenue, P.O. Box 6085, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
Web site: louis.htm
Agency/business Profile: The APH serves individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. They house a database called “Louis” that offers information on thousands of accessible titles including braille, large print, sound recording and electronic files from many agencies across the United States.
Non-fiction and fiction titles available under general interest are often used as reference or supplemental material in college courses. Some sources have both textbooks and general reading materials. There are volunteer agencies and businesses that sell braille books or have lending libraries.
National Braille press
88 Saint Stephen Street, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: (888) 965-8965
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The guiding purposes of National Braille Press are to promote the literacy of blind children through braille and to provide access to information that empowers blind people to actively engage in work, family, and community affairs.
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
1291 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20542
Phone: (202) 707-5100, TDD (202) 707-0744
Web site: nls
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NLS offers books and magazines to serve people with vision impairments and physical disabilities.
Factsheet:
Seedling Braille Books For Children
P.O. Box 51924, Livonia, MI 48151-5924
Phone: (734) 427-8552, (800) 777-8552
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Seedlings Braille Books for Children is a
501(c)3 non-profit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to increasing
the opportunity for literacy by providing high quality, low cost braille
books for children.
Transcription Guidelines
Braille Books: How to Have Books Transcribed
If a thorough search of sources has been made and the needed transcription has not been located, follow the procedures listed below.
Allow as much time as possible for transcribers to complete the material. If you are a student, try to stay a semester ahead. If you can't have the book transcribed in advance, ask the transcriber to start the book at a point you will need in a few weeks. Use a reader until then.
Locate a volunteer transcribing group. The sources listed below maintain lists of groups.
Provide copies of the print text. Some groups may want two copies. Some groups may need to take the book apart and give parts to different transcribers, in order to get materials to you quickly.
Discuss business arrangements, such as cost (usually materials only), time needed, arrangements for delivery (partial or complete), etc.
When the braille material arrives, let the transcribers know and thank them for help.
The American Council of the Blind has an extensive list of companies and groups that transcribe books.
Web site: resources/transcribers.html
American Printing House f/t Blind (APH) Braille Transcription Specifications can be found. Web site: .
Transcription Contractors
American Council of the Blind
2200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 650, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (800) 424-8666
Web site: , node/1304
Agency/business Profile: Agency serves individuals of all ages who are blind or low vision. They house a list of agencies and groups that transcribe books and other resources are listed as well. Information may be accessed through the website or by phone.
Braille Transcription of Santa Clara, Web site:
National Braille Press
88 Saint Stephen Street, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: (888) 965-8965
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The guiding purposes of National Braille Press are to promote the literacy of blind children through braille and to provide access to information that empowers blind people to actively engage in work, family, and community affairs.
Braille Technical Tables
Braille Technical Tables Bank Technical tables, such as the Periodic Table of the Elements, have already been transcribed. To determine if the technical table you need is available, send a clear print copy of the table along with request to .
Tactile Graphics Guidelines
Although no publisher provides a catalog of tactile graphics, some maps and tactile drawings for science and geography are available from the American Printing House for the Blind.
Princeton Braillists makes tactile maps that are inexpensive and come highly recommended. An 84-page set of California maps costs $15. The work is done by volunteers who charge only for materials.
The Disability Resource Center (formerly TAEVIS, Tactile Access to Education for Visually Impaired Students) is an electronic library containing over 2,500 tactile diagrams used in college level courses. You must have a subscription to download diagrams. They can be reproduced using thermal expansion paper and an image enhancer.
Students who need specific drawings, such as a campus map, graphs from a book, etc. may follow the procedures outlined in the section braille books: How to Have Books Transcribed.
Several kits are available for making raised lines. Such kits usually consist of a packet of polyester film that serves as paper, a rubber covered drawing board with clips which hold down the polyester film, and a ball point pen filled with a colored lubricant. Such drawings can be produced quickly for immediate use but are not suitable for permanent storage. High quality raised line drawings can be produced on aluminum sheets with special tools from a tactile graphics kit produced by the American Printing House for the Blind. These drawings can then copied onto plastic sheets by a Thermoform machine.
Raised lines can be made on braille or other types of paper with a tracing wheel. The paper is placed on a pad such as a rubber typewriter pad, and the wheel is used to emboss the raised lines. The raised lines then appear on the reverse side of the paper.
Wheels designed specifically for making raised line drawings can be purchased singly or in kits. Kits contain wheels having various sizes of teeth and even double rows of teeth. With these wheels a variety of kinds of raised lines can be made. Howe Press makes tracing wheels separately and on compasses for drawing raised line circles. Generic tracing wheels from sewing and craft stores can be used as well. These stores also carry various types of puff paint that can make tactile drawings.
Several different tools are available for making different sizes and shapes of raised dots. These tools place a single dot on the face-up side of a piece of paper. Paper punches can also be used to make raised dots. Hardware stores carry tactile dots in various materials and sizes, such as those used as furniture protectors.
Machines, such as the Pictures in a Flash (PIAF) are available to convert print graphics into tactile graphics using special paper. The Tiger Embosser connected to a computer can be used to generate tactile graphics. Graphics can be created through Microsoft Word, Adobe Illustrator and other programs, or downloaded from the Internet and embossed with these machines.
APH Tactile Graphic Image Library
American Printing House for the Blind
1839 Frankfort Avenue, P.O. Box 6085, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The APH serves individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. The products include tactile graphics/maps, accessible math supplies, braille and large-print materials and independent living aids. The instructional/educational materials primarily focus on grade levels k-12 and they carry accessible textbooks. This is a free service.
Tactile Contractors
Princeton Braillists
76 Leabrook Lane, Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: (609) 924-5207
Web site:
Contact information, Nancy Amick, Admin
E-mail: princetonbraillists@
Agency/business Profile: The Princeton Braillists produce atlases and books of tactile/braille maps for blind individuals of all ages. Both physical and political maps are included. Individual map books are available for 18 U.S. States; Atlases cover most countries around the world.
Scientific Tactiles
Independence Science
3000 Kent Ave., West Lafayette, IN 47906
Phone: (866) 862-9665
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Scientific Tactiles has a list of downloadable graphics on the site and they create tactile graphic kits for purchase. Scientific tactile graphics are for school age individuals and adults who are blind/visually impaired. Tools for creating tactile graphics can also be purchase through local craft, sewing and hardware stores.
Disability Resource Center (formerly TAEVIS, Tactile Access to Education for Visually Impaired Students)
Web site: taevisonline.purdue.edu
Agency/business Profile: The Disability Resource Center is an electronic library containing over 2,500 tactile diagrams used in college level courses. They can be downloaded, enlarged and printed.
Exceptional Teaching, Inc.
PO Box 2330, Livermore, CA 94550
Phone: (925) 961-9200, (800) 549-6999, Fax: (925) 961-9201
E-mail info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Exceptional Teaching has been in business for over 40 years. The mission is to help individuals with special needs acquire the skills and attitudes required to function effectively as contributing members of society. Catalog of tactiles available online.
Telephone Service Guidelines
Local and long distance telephone companies provide several free services to visually impaired people. Upon request an exemption from charges for the use of the information (411) line is provided. Customers must have approved certification indicating a visual or physical disability that prevents use of a telephone directory. This exemption applies to directory assistance calls for personal use, billed to one residential telephone line per certified customer. To apply for this exemption, fill out an application with The California Telephone Access Program, Web site: . Another free service for dialing information from any phone is available. The number for information about that service is (800) 373-3411, or (800) free-411).
A wide variety of free equipment is also available through The California Telephone Access Program. This equipment includes telephone with large print numbers, a speaker phone for braille users who need to take notes while talking, and a talking caller ID phone. In California, contact the California Telephone Access Program to obtain an application for eligibility and information on free equipment available to suit customers’ needs.
Sprint offers a voice-dialing service, Sprint PCS Voice Command. It is free to customers who are visually impaired or physically disabled. The service includes 10 free directory assistance calls per month. Voice activated and talking cell phones are also available. Check with vendors of cell phones for special features. Talking Caller ID devices are available through RL & Associates, Inc. catalogs and local agencies.
Some cell phone company’s offer reduced monthly rates for visually impaired customers. There are many different companies offering a variety of phones, phone services and monthly plans. There are companies that offer local service, long distance service, cell phone service, and internet service bundled together.
Telephone Service Contractors
California Telephone Access Program (CTAP)
DDTP Consumer Affairs
P.O. Box 30310, Stockton, CA 95213
Phone: (877) 546-7414, TTY (800) 867-4323
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The California Telephone Access Program provides accessible communication products for individuals who are blind/low vision, deaf/hard of hearing or those with speech impairments. They have offices throughout California and those agencies may be accessed through the main website. They also provide service and talking products in a variety of languages. Local phone service providers may also provide specialized services for those with disabilities.
Clear Captions
Phone: 916-259-6385
Web site:
Developed by Purple Communications™, a leading video and text relay services provider, ClearCaptions provides an innovative suite of communication services for people with hearing loss. Making communication easier has been our passion from the beginning. Live captioners transcribe conversations for both parties which can be saved and printed if needed.
Sprint
Phone: (800) 877-4646, (888) 211-4727
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Sprint is committed to working with phone manufacturers and the blind and visually impaired community to deliver user-friendly, accessible wireless devices and service to customers with vision loss. Over the years, phones have become increasingly accessible as text-to-speech (TTS) capabilities have improved. TTS is particularly important because the user interaction with mobile phones is often dependent on information displayed on the phone's screen.
Described Video Guidelines
Today blind and visually impaired individuals can enjoy many movies and television programs without missing the action. Descriptions have been added to a growing number of videos. Some programs on the public television stations have descriptions. To enjoy the program with descriptions, push the SAP button (standard on most new televisions) on a stereo television, or purchase an adapter to connect to the television. For a list of programs available check with local public television station, or contact WGBH Boston. DVS Home Video is a service of WGBH Boston. The local station may not carry all the programs with descriptions. Some movie theaters in major cities provide descriptive video. As of December, 2015 Disney/Pixar is currently beta-testing audible description service application for iOS devices. The app requires installing the application, and downloading software for the particular movie ahead of time. It uses the phone’s microphone to sync the description to the movie when at the theater.
Descriptive video service is also available online. By accessing the Narrative Television Network’s website, Web site: , you can watch a large selection of described films online at no charge. Access-USA video services produces video with audio description.
Accessible Media Inc. (AMI)
1090 Don Mills Road, Suite 200, Toronto, ON M3C 3R6
Phone: (617) 300-3400, Voice (617) 300-2489 TTY
Contact: Robert Pearson, Accessibility Officer robert.pearson@ami.ca
Web site: ami.ca
Agency/business Profile: Described Video Best practices at
Practices.aspx is a PDF document on the Web created for the producers of descriptive programming in Canada in efforts to provide guidance.
Descriptive Video (Wiki Web site: //en.wiki/Descriptive_Video_Service)
Described video (DV) is also called video description or described narrative. DV is a narrated description of a program's main visual elements, such as settings, costumes, or body language. The description is added during pauses in dialogue, and enables people to form a mental picture of the program. It works best for pre-recorded programs, such as dramas and documentaries. Described video uses an audio track. Additional information:
Web site:
Media Access Group
One Guest Street, Boston, MA 02135
Phone: (617) 300-3600, Fax (617) 300-1020
E-mail:access@
Web site: access.
Agency/business Profile: Media Access Group shows how to provide descriptive video. Additional information:
Described Video Contractors
Access-USA
P.O. Drawer 160, 242 James Street, Clayton, NY 13624
Phone: (800) 263-2750
E-mail: info@access-
Web site: access-
Agency/business Profile: Access-USA offers accessible information services and products to large and small businesses, organizations and individuals who aim to be more accessible to more people. Access-USA produces braille business cards, braille document services, large print, captioning and audio description as well as braille specialties/custom made products to enhance corporate and entrepreneurial efforts in access.
Audio Description Project
American Council of the Blind
Web site: adp/movies.html
Contact: Joel Snyder, PhD. Director jsnyder@, (202) 467-5083
Agency/business Profile: The Audio Description Project is a subdivision of the ACB’s services. The site contains information regarding descriptive video products and services that are useful to those who are blind or visually impaired. Information regarding close captioning and descriptive video can be obtained through local television providers as well.
Described and Captioned Media Program
1447 E. Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29307
Phone: (800) 237-6213, TTY (800) 237-6819
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Described and Captioned Media Program Web site promote and provide equal access to communication and learning for students who are blind, visually impaired, deaf, hard of hearing, or Deaf-Blind. The DCMP is an idea that works thanks to funding by the U.S. Department of Education and administration by the National Association of the Deaf.
Narrative Television Network
5840 South Memorial Drive, Suite 312, Tulsa, OK 74145
Phone: (800) 801-8184
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Through the Narrative Television Network Web site, individuals who are blind or visually impaired may watch a variety of descriptive films. The web site also lists a TV guide of narrated network programing. Local networks may also contain a list of narrated programing.
Large Print Guidelines
If a thorough search of all sources has been made and the needed large print transcription has not been located, then a request can be made to have the material put into large print by a volunteer transcribing organization. The procedure to do that follows.
1. Locate a volunteer transcribing organization.
2. Provide the transcriber with a print copy (some groups may request two if the enlargement is needed quickly).
3. Discuss business arrangements, such as cost to you (normally cost is just the cost of paper and duplication supplies), when you need the material, arrangements for delivery (in sections or complete), type of duplication, etc.
4. When the material arrives, let the transcribers know and thank them for help.
There are two methods for enlarging printed material. Copy machines with enlarging capability can enlarge print sheets. Material stored on computer disk can usually be printed in a wide variety of print fonts and sizes.
Though individual large print readers have unique preferences with respect to size, font style, spacing and contrast, the standard size for large print is 18 point type with the highest contrast possible on paper which is dull to minimize glare. Paper must be sufficiently thick or opaque to prevent visual “bleed-through.” A guide indicating 18 point should be available from any print shop. If copy machines are available and the person doing the copying has time and patience, almost any print material can be enlarged. Enlarging projects range from simple one-step procedures to complex tasks. The simplest enlarging to do is to enlarge print material from 8.5 x 11 inch paper that is in 12 point type. Enlarging the material 150% onto 11 by 17 inch paper results in the entire page being copied in 18 point print. For books with large pages or newspapers, copies of pages may need to be made and then cut in sections and copied again. The goal is to make the print 18 point.
A large print copy will often have more pages than the original copy and each page may be significantly larger. This larger size can make the finished book difficult to handle. It is often easier for the user if the material is bound in sections, or volumes. When 11 x 17 inch paper is used, sections of approximately 50 pages are manageable. Every attempt should be made to keep chapters or units of academic material together in one volume.
Many copy shops provide enlarging services. Do not hesitate to ask for advice if you have a document that is difficult to enlarge.
A few companies will enlarge books on a fee per page basis. Books produced in this way are often very costly. However they have a professional look. Volumes are bound with labeled covers. These companies maintain catalogs of books that they have already enlarged and which are available for purchase.
Material available in an electronic file can often be printed out in any point font. Select a font that is easily read by the consumer. The advantage of this method is that the material is printed on 8.5 x 11 inch paper. It is the fastest method for producing large print. Again the final document will include more pages than the original. Material should be bound in sections which are easy for the consumer to handle, and chapters or units should be kept together.
Guidelines for Large Print Materials
California Department of Education
Web site:
APH Guidelines for Print Document design
American Printing House for the Blind
Web site:
Large Print Contractors
Library Reproduction Services (LRS)
1916 Van Ness Avenue, Torrance, CA90501
Phone: (800) 255-5002
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Library Reproduction Services provides large-print materials as made-to-order by request. Materials include dictionaries, k-12 instructional books, juvenile and children’s fiction books. They serve the low-vision community and have local websites that can be accessed through the main website. Other large print dictionaries may be found through local bookstores.
Retailers of Large Print Books
Doubleday Large Print Home Library
Member Services, 1225 South Market St.
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Doubleday Large Print has the big-name authors and the most popular books.
Huge Print Press
1700 Commerce, Suite 1140, Dallas, TX 75201
Phone: (866) 484-3774
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Huge print press provides accessible large print.
Random House
400 Hahn Road, PO Box 100, Westminster, MD 21157
Phone: (800) 733-3000
Web site: largeprint
Agency/business Profile: Random House, part of Penguin Random House
books, explores the topics and categories on this page to learn more about how
Random House partners with authors to bring you over 70,000 digital and 15,000
print books.
Reader’s Digest Large Print for Easier Reading
PO Box 8177, Red Oak, IA 51591-1177
Phone: (800) 807-2780
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Reader’s Digest; Large print edition is the easier-to-read of the monthly lifestyle magazine.
Ulverscroft Large Print Books
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
Phone: (800) 955 9659, (716) 674-4270, Fax (716) 674-4195
E-mail: sales@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Ulverscroft provides publications in large print and braille.
Low Vision Aids
Low vision aids help people who are partially sighted make the most of the usable vision. If a person is unable to see clearly with standard eyeglasses correction, low vision aids may help by:
Enlarging (magnifying) the image of objects or print
Improving the contrast of objects or print (increasing the difference between the lightest and darkest part of what is being viewed)
Reducing glare
Types
Magnifiers: Hand-held magnifiers, magnifying eyeglasses, magnifiers that clip on eyeglasses, magnifiers on stands, pocket-size magnifiers, lighted magnifiers and magnifying mirrors
Telescopic Devices: These can be hand-held or mounted on eyeglasses, and used with one eye (monocular) or two (binocular). They usually are used to see objects over four feet away, but some also focus on closer objects.
Lighting: It is important to choose a light that comfortably illuminates what you are trying to see, but keeps glare (light that shines directly in the eyes) to a minimum.
Filters: These are designed to improve contrast and reduce glare. They can be worn as eyeglasses, behind or in front of clear eyeglasses, or can take the form of a thin, plastic sheet which can be placed on a printed page. Some eyeglass filters have special features, such as coatings which protect the eyes from ultraviolet light, or are polarized to reduce glare reflected from horizontal surfaces.
Sunglasses are available to protect the eye from ultraviolet and infrared rays. They come in available on various styles. Wraparounds keep light from entering through the sides the sides. Fitovers keep light from entering on the sides and from above and are designed to be worn over regular prescription glasses. Different tints and amounts of tint and are recommended for different eye conditions. A low vision professional can help you choose the most effective filter for vision and the environment.
Reading Stands and Clipboards: These reduce neck and back strain by placing reading or writing material at a more comfortable viewing position.
Typoscope: A typoscope is a viewing window cut out of paper or cardboard. It is placed on a sheet of print to block out everything except the phrase or line on which the eyes need to focus. It reduces glare and helps the eyes track the line.
Writing Guides: These help when printed lines are difficult to see. A variety of guides is available including guides for writing checks, signatures, letters, and addresses on envelopes.
Bold Line Pens: Pens producing a black, thick line may make easy-to-see writing. Many felt tip markers bleed through to the next page. 20/20 markers do not.
Where to find low vision aids
Simple low vision aids such as bold line pens, low power hand magnifiers, and some filters can be found at local drug, stationery or specialty stores. Agencies serving visually impaired people, low vision clinics, and many companies which sell products through catalogs offer both simple, low cost aids and high power or high tech aids which are much more expensive. Whenever possible, it is best to go to a low vision clinic for advice.
Be sure to try any aid before purchasing it. A device which helps one person may not help you at all. Conversely, you may be helped by an aid that someone else finds useless. At most low vision clinics you can try out a number of different low vision aids. Several organizations have annual conferences which feature large displays of equipment. Some of these include: the National Federation of the Blind of California, The California Council of the Blind, and the California Transcribers and Educators of the Blind and Visually Impaired.
Funding
Some types of health insurance cover some kinds of low vision aids. The Department of Rehabilitation will fund low vision aids for its clients under some circumstances. Local service organizations will sometimes pay for, or help pay for, necessary low vision aids.
Low Vision Aids Selection
When choosing a low-vision aid:
1. The level of vision (visual acuity) and type of visual impairment
2. The visual task or tasks you want to do
3. The lifestyle and personal preferences
To obtain the aid which is best for the vision and visual needs, you should carefully test and compare different aids. If you are someone whose visual goals include reading, writing, independent travel, handcrafts, shopping, computer use, or viewing TV, sports or theater events, you may need several different types and powers of aids to help you accomplish many different tasks. Professionals who are familiar with low-vision aids can guide you in the selection process. They can also demonstrate techniques and practice exercises that will help you to use an aid correctly and comfortably. If you have special tasks to accomplish (e.g., foreign language materials, needlepoint, forms or computer printouts from a job, etc.), bring a sample of the materials to your visual aids appointment. Most agencies or private practice eye doctors will want to schedule at least an hour to help select and learn to use low-vision aids.
Agencies or private practice eye doctors specializing in the selection of low-vision aids can be located through:
1. A local service agency for the visually impaired
2. The AFB Directory of Agencies Serving the Visually Impaired in the United
States (Most service organizations for the visually impaired have a copy of this book. Refer to its section titled California, Low Vision Centers.)
3. A referral from a personal ophthalmologist or optometrist.
Things to consider when selecting a low vision service:
1. Cost; Are there service fees? Are fees covered by insurance or Medi-Cal? Can the price of the aid be reduced in cases of financial hardship?
2. Aid Return Policy; Can the aid be exchanged or its cost refunded if it is not useful in actual practice? Are loaner aids available to try before an aid is purchased?
3. Is a letter of referral from an eye doctor required?
4. Are custom-designed as well as ready-made aids available? (Some visual aids services have only ready-made aids which are lower in cost. Other services can prescribe aids that incorporate eyeglasses prescription and frame preference. These are more expensive than ready-made aids, but can be more appropriate for certain tasks.)
5. How many office visits does the agency require?
6. Is transportation to the appointment available if needed?
You may wish to use mail order sources to purchase non-optical aids such as reading stands or writing guides. Many companies offer free catalogs by phone request. If you are considering purchasing optical aids by mail order, please be aware that:
1. So many different types and powers of aids are available that it is virtually impossible to select the appropriate aid without careful testing and comparison in the presence of trained visual aids personnel.
2. Regular visits to an eye doctor are vital to the health of the eyes.
Low Vision Retail
American Printing House for the Blind Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: APH serves individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. The products include tactile graphics/maps, accessible math supplies, braille, and large-print materials. APH sells hard and soft binders and dividers.
Eschenbach Optik of America
Allen Highway, Ridgefield, CT 06877
Phone: (800) 487-5389, Fax (203) 438-7471
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Since 1903, Eschenbach GmbH has been introducing novel and award-winning magnification solutions and since 1983, Eschenbach Optik of America, Inc. has been distributing those products in North and South America.
Independent Living Aids, LLC
137 Rano Street, Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 537-2118
Web site:
Contact:
Product information: Category and key-word option provide navigation for products on this site at .
Lighthouse International
111 E. 59th Street, New York, NY 10022
Phone: (800) 284-4422
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Since 1905, Lighthouse International has led the charge in the fight against vision loss through prevention, treatment and empowerment. The founders, Winifred and Edith Holt, blazed a trail of firsts and opened up new doors of opportunity for people without sight.
LS&S, LLC
145 River Rock Drive, Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 468-4789, TTY (866) 317-8533
Web site:
E-mail form: contact
Agency/business Profile: The LS &S, LLC agency carries low vision aids, hard
of hearing products and assistive technology. They serve the low vision/blind
community as well as the hard of hearing/deaf communities.
MaxiAids
42 Executive Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735
Phone: (800) 522-6294, TTY (800) 281-3555
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Maxi Aids carries independent living products for those who are blind, low vision, hard of hearing and who have other physical/mobility disabilities.
National Association for the Visually Handicapped: See Lighthouse at
NoIR Medical Technologies
Phone: (800) 521-9746, (734) 769-5565, Fax (734) 769-1708
Web site: noir-
Agency/business Profile: The NoIR filter systems offer ultraviolet, visible and infrared protection, managing the light that reaches the eyes to maximize functional vision.
Talking Navigation
RL and Associates, Inc., P.O. Box 14633, San Francisco, CA 94114
Phone: (866) 339-1180
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Since 1985, RL & Associates, Inc. has been committed to designing, innovating and building leading-edge technology systems and software which allow blind and low-vision professionals and students who might otherwise be excluded to work, play, study and compete using cost-effective, superior custom computer hardware and software solutions.
Closed Circuit Television Systems (CCTV) Guidelines
For persons with low vision, television technology has been adapted to provide a system that views the printed page with a camera and transmits the image, enlarged up to forty or more times, onto a television monitor. Some use a dedicated monitor (one that is part of the CCTV system). Others can be used with a regular television monitor. Another option is a CCTV that works in conjunction with a personal computer. There are two basic types of CCTV’s. With one system the user places the book on a floating platform under a fixed camera and the image of the book is projected onto the screen. These come in one or two-piece units. The other type requires that the user hold a small scanner, which is usually about two inches by four inches. The scanner is moved across the page line by line. The image is projected on a regular television screen or on a small screen attached to the scanner, or onto a screen mounted in a visor worn like glasses. Use of the hand scanner requires good manual dexterity. Each system has its advantages and disadvantages.
Screen sizes and other features vary widely. Some systems offer just black and white images. Some offer full color viewing. Almost all systems allow the user to reverse the foreground and background colors, making either a positive or negative image. Most also allow the user to isolate a line of print material. Many can be adjusted to read paper in the typewriter. Some can be connected to a computer to enlarge the computer screen on the CCTV monitor.
There are several sources for CCTV's. Many companies provide video tapes of the product line. The prospective user will want to review as many models as possible before making a decision. Listed below are just a few vendors of CCTV's located in California. A listing of international sources is available from the American Foundation for the Blind.
Closed Circuit Television Systems (CCTV) Retail
Abledata
103 W. Broad Street, Suite 400, Falls Church, VA 22046.
Phone: (800) 227-0216
Web site:
Website:
Email: abledata@
Agency/business Profile: Welcome to AbleData, the premier database for unbiased, comprehensive information on products, solutions and resources to improve productivity and ease life’s tasks.
Access Ingenuity
3635 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, CA 95405
Phone: (877) 579-4380, (707) 579-4380
Email: customerservice@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Access Ingenuity was founded in January 2002, to provide assistive technology and accessibility services and solutions for people with disabilities and organizations working with people with disabilities throughout California. Assistive technology solutions include low vision magnification systems for the visually impaired, Braille displays, screen reading and screen magnification software, scan and read solutions, as well as voice recognition and learning disability software.
American Foundation for the Blind
2 Penn Plaza, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10121
Phone: (212) 502-7600
E-mail:
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The American Foundation for the Blind removes barriers, creates solutions, and expands possibilities so people with vision loss can achieve full potential.
Enhanced Vision
5882 Machine Drive, Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Phone: (714) 374-1829, Fax (714) 374-1821
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Enhanced Vision is a leading developer of assistive technology for the visually impaired including Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Cataracts, Retinitis Pigmentosa and Diabetic Retinopathy. Low vision assistive technology enables people to read, write and fully participate in life.
Humanware
1 UPS Way PO Box 800, Champlain, NY 12919
Phone: (800) 722-3393
E-mail: @
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Humanware provides products so that you can enjoy a
riveting read, preparing a new recipe, or relaxing with a hobby.
Optelec U.S. Inc.
3030 Enterprise Court, Suite C Vista, CA 92081-8358
Phone: (800) 826-4200
Fax: (800) 368-4111
Web:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Optelec provides life-changing assistive technology for the
blind and visually impaired by reaching out with simple and effective low vision
solutions. Optelec offers a range from desktop and portable electronic video
magnification, text-to-speech and OCR reading devices.
Read Again
16243 Sonora Road, Knights Ferry, CA 95361
Phone: (888) 322-5949, Fax (209) 881-0180
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Read Again recommends you have a consultation before purchasing any of the electronic low vision devices. They offer in-home/work site product demonstrations with no obligation to buy, hands-on training, as well as workshops, technical support and are known for the outstanding continued customer service.
Braille Devices
Braillewriter Information
The Perkins Brailler is a precision-made, durable, all-purpose Braillewriter. The over-all size is 15 1/2 inches by 9 inches by 5 3/4 inches. It weighs 10 pounds. Its case is made of enamelized aluminum. The keys, knobs, and carriage are made of durable plastic. The carriage will accommodate a maximum paper width of 11 1/2 inches and a length of 14 inches. Easily portable, it is equipped with a dust cover which has a slot, so that the brailler's fold-down handle can be accessed.
Perkins Braillewriters that have been modified to produce "Jumbo Braille" can be purchased. Jumbo Braille is made with slightly larger than normal braille dots in a slightly larger braille cell. This type of braille can be easier to read for people who have diminished tactual perception. Perkins also makes electric braillewriters.
The Perkins Brailler can be purchased new from Howe Press or American Printing House for the Blind. The local agency serving visually impaired people or a local transcribing guild may know of used Perkins Braillewriters for sale.
Braillewriters other than Perkins braillers are available from Maxi Aids, and from Japanese and European sources. Information about foreign sources can be obtained from the American Foundation for the Blind.
Electronic Braillewriters, such as the Mountbatten, are also available. These can provide braille and can be used with a printer to make print copy. Notetakers and computers with refreshable braille display are also available. They can be connected to braille embossers and printers to provide braille and print copies.
Braillewriter Retail
American Printing House for the Blind Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: APH serves individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. The products include tactile graphics/maps, accessible math supplies, braille, and large-print materials. APH sells hard and soft binders and dividers.
Howe Press of Perkins School for the Blind
175 North Beacon St., Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: (617) 924-3434
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Perkins International builds capacity at local, regional and national levels in more than 60 countries, developing independent, sustainable education services and empowering children with disabilities and families.
Humanware
1 UPS Way P.O. Box 800, Champlain, NY 12919
Phone: (800) 722-3393
E-mail: @
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Humanware provides products so that you can enjoy a
riveting read, preparing a new recipe, or relaxing with a hobby.
MaxiAids
42 Executive Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735
Phone: (800) 522-6294, TTY (800) 281-3555
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: MaxiAids carries independent living products for those who are blind, low vision, hard of hearing and who have other physical/mobility disabilities.
Braillewriter Repair Information
Braillewriters may be shipped to Howe Press for cleaning and/or repair or they may be taken or sent to a person who has been trained by Howe Press to do Perkins braillewriter repair. Braillewriters may be sent through the mail at no cost as “free matter for the blind.” Vacaville prison has a braillewriter repair service. An agency serving people with visual impairment may know of a local person who does Braillewriter repair.
Some improvements are available for older braillers. There is a larger knob for rolling in the paper. Also, a modification is available which reduces slipping when narrow paper is used. The keyboard of any brailler can be modified for one-handed use. Key extenders can be added to decrease the pressure needed for pressing keys.
When the brailler needs repair, first call or write to the person or agency to whom you wish to send it. Find out what the basic cost will be and let the person or agency know that the brailler will be coming. When you send the brailler, include a note giving a name, address and phone number, and a description of the problem you are having with the brailler. It is also a good idea to include the serial number of the brailler and keep a copy of this note. When the brailler is returned to you, you can expect a bill.
Braillewriter Repair Retail
Howe Press of Perkins School for the Blind
175 North Beacon St., Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: (617) 924-3434
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Perkins International builds capacity at local, regional and national levels in more than 60 countries, developing independent, sustainable education services and empowering children with disabilities and families.
Volunteers of Vacaville / Blind Project
P.O. Box 670, Vacaville, CA 95696
Phone: (707) 448-6841 ext. 2044
Web site:
Blindproject-program-briefing-vacaville
Contact information, Sherry Dovichi, Program Director sherry.dovichi@cdcr. Agency/business Profile: The Volunteers of Vacaville Blind Project in meeting the growing demands for transcription of printed materials onto audio tape for the visually and physically impaired community.
Teacher Considerations for Blind or Visually Impaired Students
A challenge facing blind or visually impaired students at universities is the overwhelming mass of printed material with which they are confronted syllabi, course packs, books, time schedules, bibliographies, campus newspapers, posters, tests, etc. The increasing use of films, videotapes, overhead projectors, on-line material and closed-circuit television adds to the volume of visual material they must access in an alternative way. Therefore, students with visual impairments must plan schedules well in advance of each semester to assure that support services are in place when classes begin. Such service includes texts converted to alternate formats.
Reading Methods: By the time blind/visually impaired students reach college (unless newly blinded), they have probably developed various methods of managing the volume of visual materials. Most blind/visually impaired students use a combination of methods including readers, texts in alternate format, braille books, and recorded lectures. If the student uses readers, hiring and scheduling arrangements must be made. Many blind and visually impaired students will be registered with the Office of Disability Services (ODS) and work with the office to make the necessary arrangements. Other students with similar circumstances may work independently.
Textbooks and Course packs: So that blind or visually impaired student have time to make the necessary arrangement please choose books and collate course packs early, and make this information readily available to campus bookstores and copy centers. To have a text converted to other formats may take 30 business days or longer.
Syllabi and Handouts: It is essential to provide syllabi and handouts so that they can be made readable by the time the rest of the class receives them. In many cases this entails creating and supplying these to the student in advance, either in printed copy, on computer flash-drive, or by E-mail. Before the class meeting, the student may then use an adapted computer to read or print the material or, if appropriate, arrange for a reader to tape record it.
Describing Visual Cues in the Classroom: When you have a blind/visually impaired student in the classroom, you should remember that "this and that" phrases are basically meaningless to the student: for example, "the sum of this plus that equals this" or "the lungs are located here and the diaphragm here." In the first example, the instructor may be writing on the chalkboard and can just as easily say, "The sum of 4 plus 7 equals 11." The blind student in this case is getting the same information as the sighted student. In the second example, the instructor can "personalize" the locations of the lungs and diaphragm by asking class members to locate them by touch. Examples of this type will not always be possible. However, if avoid using strictly visual examples, the blind student will benefit.
Class Notes: Many visually impaired students tape record lectures for reviewing later, even though listening to lectures over again takes valuable time. Other students are provided notes using a carbonless notebook, by another student assigned as a notetaker by the ODS. These notes can then be converted to large print for reading. If the professor’s notes are appropriate for student use, these can be photocopied as an alternative. Occasionally students prefer to recruit a note taker from outside of class. A small number of students use a laptop computer or braille device to take notes during class. Whatever method the student uses for notes, he/she is responsible for the material covered in class. (See also "Note Taking" in the Services portion of this section.)
Information provided by Rutgers University at .
Specialized Assessment of Students with Visual Impairments
Guidelines for the Specialized Assessment of Students with Visual Impairments1
Review types of assessments and provide sample assessment forms for an initial evaluation or three-year reevaluation to support the eligibility determination of special education services for students with visual impairments. See the Evaluation Consent Form (N1A)
Help ensure a common understanding of the purpose and complexity of conducting specialized assessments of students with visual impairments.
Assist Teams in designing instruction and supports for students with visual impairments to ensure access to the general curriculum and life of the school.
Provide resources to help general and special educators and related service providers meet the unique needs of students with visual impairments and prepare them for further education, employment, and independent living.
Communication and learning styles are significantly affected by vision loss, whether these losses or impairments are lifelong, intermittent, or increase over time. Since most assessments are developed for students who see, it is critical that professionals trained in the education of students with visual impairments select and administer specialized assessments for these students that determine:
The strategies and modalities for learning and communication;
The appropriate media for literacy development and access to the general education curriculum, which may include print, braille, tactile communication systems, and/or picture systems; and
The areas of need relative to orientation and mobility, social skills, daily living skills, career education, visual efficiency, assistive technology, and compensatory skills as appropriate.
The guidelines are available on the University of Massachusetts
Web site:
Gifts and Products Embossed with Braille Information
Many agencies that serve the blind and visually impaired often sell gift items, for example, American Printing House for the Blind sells key chains and greeting cards, and Guide Dogs for the Blind has a small gift shop. Other agencies that have stores for equipment and materials for the blind (such as The Lighthouse for the Blind in California and New York) also have online stores. Check local agencies. Another good source for gifts is catalogs. Listed here are some businesses that have braille gifts. Some of them donate a portion of the profits to agencies serving the blind.
Braille Gifts Retail
Braille Gifts
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Braille Gifts provides a service for those hard to find items that are user-friendly for the blind including games, gifts and specialty music boxes. You will notice that many of these items were originally made for sighted individuals, but they have found them to also be successful for the blind, some with minor modifications or more detailed instructions. Some items are already Brailled and some may require you to Braille them. Braille Gifts also specializes in custom Braille embroidery on blind user-friendly backpacks, tote bags, etc. Other items are Braille labelers & label tape, beepers, and other items helpful to the blind population.
Braille Novel T’s
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Braille Novel T’s has a selection of whimsical shirts,
lapel pins, tote bags, and greeting cards featuring cartoon Three Blind Mice with
an abacus, brailler, white cane, and slate and stylus. One fun shirt says: “Braille
is like Chocolate…” on the front and “Good to the last dot!” written in chocolate
chip braille on the back.
Braille Superstore
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Braille Superstore sells braille books for all ages, they carry a variety of braille gifts including a braille chocolate mold for making braille greeting candy bars.
Braillestone by Christiansen Designs (formerly Braille Sterling)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Kim Christiansen makes silver and gold tone jewelry and key chains with braille messages. Some items can be personalized.
Leslie Ligon
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Leslie Ligon makes necklaces and bracelets with braille words, metal and beads. Her braille alphabet bracelets are particularly popular.
Lucky Touch Fortune Cookie Company
California School for the Blind
500 Walnut Av., Fremont, CA 94536
Phone: (510) 794-3800 x 300
Web site: csb-cde.luckytouch.htm
Agency/business Profile: Lucky Touch Fortune Company is a student-run business on the campus of the California School for the Blind.
Not Vanilla
Web site: notvanilla.us/braillet-shirts.html
Agency/business Profile: Not Vanilla makes braille tee shirts with different
sayings. When someone wants to know what it says, flip the shirt up to reveal the
print translation on the inside along the hem.
Seedling Braille Books For Children
P.O. Box 51924, Livonia, MI 48151-5924
Phone: (734) 427-8552, (800) 777-8552
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Seedlings Braille Books for Children is a 501(c)3 non
profit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to increasing the opportunity for literacy
by providing high quality, low cost braille books for children.
DEAF-BLIND
ORGANIZATIONS
Deaf-Blindness is a complex disability and people who are Deaf-Blind have unique, specialized needs. It is often said that Deaf-Blindness is more than a combination of hearing and vision loss—the combination of the two can have a profound impact on how people communicate, learn, interact with the environment, and make sense of the world.
Many students who are Deaf-Blind graduate from high school and transition into:
Post-secondary educational programs such as college or vocational schools
Employment (e.g., competitive or supported)
Volunteer opportunities
Independent living
Community recreation
Active, engaged lives
The following resources are available to support the transition of young adults who are Deaf-Blind. Many of these resources are offered at no cost or supported through the California Department of Rehabilitation. While the transition from the special education system to the world of post-secondary school and work can be scary, there are many agencies and organizations designed to assist with the process.
American Association of the Deaf Blind
PO Box 8064, Silver Spring, MD 20907-8064
Phone: (301) 563-9064 (Video Phone)
Web site:
Contact: ranpope@
Agency/business Profile: AADB is a national consumer organization of, by, and for deaf-blind Americans and supporters. “Deaf-blind” includes all types and degrees of dual vision and hearing loss. Membership consists of deaf-blind people from diverse backgrounds, as well as family members, professionals, interpreters, and other interested supporters.
Deafblind Citizens in Action
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Deafblind Citizens in Action (DBCA) is a federally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with combined vision and hearing loss (“deafblind”). The DBCA does this by providing leadership to the deafblind community; educating fellow citizens about rights and responsibilities; and staying informed about current events and news on educational, technological, and national and state legislative developments that affect the deafblind community. DBCA believes the full and equal participation of all persons with disabilities in civic life, education and employment not only greatly benefits such individuals with disabilities, like deafblind people, but also the society in which they live in particular and the global human community in general.
Helen Keller National Center for Youths and Adults Who Are Deaf-Blind (HKNC),
141 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY 11050
Phone: (516) 944-8900, (516) 570-3624, (866) 948-0473
E-mail: hkncinfo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults is to enable each person who is deaf-blind to live and work in his or her community of choice.
National Coalition on Deaf-Blindness
Phone: (617) 972-7768
E-mail: national-db-owner@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Coalition on Deafblindness was formed in 1987 in response to a need to provide feedback to legislators and policy makers regarding the ongoing needs of children who are deafblind and the reauthorization of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
National Family Association for Deaf-Blind
141 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY 11050
Phone: (800) 255-0411
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Family Association of Deaf-Blindness exists to empower the voices of families of individuals who are deaf-blind and to advocate for the unique needs.
National Information Clearinghouse on Children who are Deaf-Blind
1444 I Street, NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (800) 438-9376, TTY (800) 854-7013, FAX (503) 838-8150
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Information Clearinghouse on Children who are Deaf-Blind mission is to help Deaf-Blind persons to achieve maximum potential through increased independence, productivity, and integration into the community. NCADB is a member organization of the American Association of the Deaf-Blind (AADB).
Northern California Association of the Deaf-Blind
1550 San Leandro Blvd., San Leandro, CA 94577
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Northern California Association of the Deaf-Blind mission is to help Deaf-Blind persons to achieve maximum potential through increased independence, productivity, and integration into the community.
Southern California Association of the Deaf-Blind
2222 Laverna Street, Los Angeles, CA 90041
Web site:
SERVICES
Braille Institute (see Blind / Visually Impaired)
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Service Center Inc. (see Deaf Hard-of-Hearing)
DHHSC Deaf-Blind Services
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: DHHSC Deaf-Blind Services provides the Deaf-Blind Community an opportunity to interact with peers, develop a support system, and share resources in a communication-accessible environment leading to personal empowerment and independent living.
Deaf Counseling, Advocacy and Referral Agency (DCARA) (see Deaf Hard-of-Hearing)
Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD) (see Deaf Hard-of-Hearing)
The Hatlen Center for the Blind (see Blind / Visually Impaired)
Helen Keller National Center
141 Middle Neck Rd., Sands Point, NY 11050
Phone: (516) 944-8900
Region 9, Southwestern Region (includes all of California)
Cathy Kirscher, Regional Rep
9939 Hibert St. #108, San Diego CA 92131
V/TTY: (858) 578-3800, VP: (858) 397-5522
Web site:
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Helen Keller National Center (HKNC) offers individualized evaluation and training which will assist consumers in achieving success. The trans-disciplinary team works in partnership with each consumer to design a program to meet his/her needs, desires, preferences and abilities. The emphasis for the consumers in the program is to participate in learning opportunities which will lead to successful employment and a full, enriched and independent life in the community. The philosophy of the Center is one of self-determination for all consumers.
Consumers may receive individualized services in a number of ways:
Participate in a full or partial day vocational training program at headquarters
in New York;
2) Receive short term training in the home community
3) Participate in a 2-week summer seminar for high school students who have
combined vision and hearing loss
4) Attend an 8-week summer evaluation before completing high school.
Applications to the HKNC program go through the HKNC regional representative.
Most students are sponsored by the state vocational rehabilitation program.
Junior Blind (see Blind / Visually Impaired)
Lions Center for the Blind (see Blind / Visually Impaired)
Sacramento Society for the Blind (see Blind / Visually Impaired)
Government Funded Resources
California Deaf-Blind Services
San Francisco State University
1600 Holloway Ave., San Francisco CA 94132-4158
Phone: (415) 405-7560, Fax (415) 338-2845
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Mission: California Deaf-Blind Services promotes positive quality of life for individuals from birth through age 21 who have both hearing and vision problems. The goal of the project is to facilitate maximum participation in preferred life activities. California Deaf-Blind Services collaborates with individuals who are Deaf-Blind to celebrate strengths, recognize unique needs, and develop personalized supports and services.
Federally funded statewide technical assistance and training project for individuals up to age 21 (with current IEPs) who are Deaf-Blind, the families and educational teams. Home and school-based technical assistance (i.e., consultations) and training for youth with Deaf-Blindness. To request assistance, go to: Web site:
National Center on Deaf-Blindness
345 N. Monmouth Ave., Monmouth, OR 97361
Phone: (503) 838-8754, Fax (503) 838-8150
Web site: library/list/55
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: The National Center on Deaf-Blindness provides
Orientation and Mobility instruction teaches individuals who are blind or visually impaired how to travel safely and independently. More comprehensive information on Orientation and Mobility can be found in the resources from the recommended readings section.
National Center on Deaf-Blindness Transition Toolkit
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Center on Deaf-Blindness Transition
Toolkit contains all of the resources needed for planning and hosting a Transition
Institute that will create a memorable, high quality learning experience for
Deaf-Blind teens. The Toolkit is a repository of information, tools and resources
that serve as a model for hosting a workshop for Deaf-Blind teens ages 14-22
and families.
Pepnet 2
California State University Northridge
18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330-8267
Phone: (414) 892-7044, (618) 453-4608
E-mail: help@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Pepnet 2 (pn2) is a federally funded project whose mission is to increase the education, career, and lifetime choices available to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Pepnet 2 Pn2 is a national collaboration of professionals with expertise in a broad array of content areas and a variety of environments, including research, technology, personnel development, media production, and technical assistance.
For information specific to Deaf-Blindness, go to:
Web site:
PRODUCTS
I Can Connect
Phone: (800) 825-4595, TTY (888) 320-2656
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: iCanConnect, the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP), provides free access to distance communication technologies to people with significant combined hearing and vision loss who meet federal income guidelines. iCanConnect provides distance communication technology, including smartphones, computers, software and braille readers, as well as training and support. In California, the coordinating agency is the San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired:
Web site:
Freedom Scientific
11800 31st Court North, St. Petersburg, FL 33716-1805
Phone: (800) 444-4443, (727) 803-8000
Web:
Agency/business Profile: Freedom Scientific is an assistive technology manufacturer. They carry products that assist individuals of all ages who have a learning disability or who are blind/low vision. They carry magnifiers, braille displays and the JAWS screen reader.
HIMS Inc.
4616 W. Howard Lane, Suite 960, Austin, TX 78728
Phone: (888) 520-4467, Fax (512) 837-2011
E-mail: sales@hims-
Web:
Agency/business Profile: HIMS has been a global leader in the development and manufacturing of assistive technology for the blind and visually impaired since 1999. Deaf-Blind communicators: Web site: //products/deaf-blind-communicators/
Humanware
1 UPS Way PO Box 800, Champlain, NY 12919
Phone: (800) 722-3393
E-mail: @
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Humanware provides products so that you can enjoy a
riveting read, prepare a new recipe, relaxing with a hobby, or verify financial
statements.
Learning Sight and Sound (LS&S)
145 River Rock Drive, Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 468-4789, TTY (866) 317-8533
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Agency carries low vision aids, hard of hearing products and assistive technology. They serve the low vision/blind community as well as the hard of hearing/deaf communities. Products at:
Silent Call Communications Corporation
5095 Williams Lake Road, Waterford MI 48329
Phone: (800) 572-5227 Voice or TTY, (248) 673-7353, Fax (248) 673-7360
E-mail: CustomerService@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Silent Call seeks to empower people who are deaf, Deaf-Blind and hard of hearing with personal communication and life-enhancing systems for the home that deliver the utmost in performance, reliability and value.
DEAF & HARD-OF-HEARING
ORGANIZATIONS
Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
3417 Volta Place, NW, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: (202) 337-5220
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AG Bell advocates for the needs of children who are deaf and hard of hearing and use listening and spoken language.
American Society for Deaf Children
800 Florida Avenue, NE #2047, Washington, DC 20002-3695
Phone: (800) 942-2732
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ASDC is the premier source of information for people who must make decisions about deaf children: providers, educators, legislators, and advocates. These principles apply regardless of whether the family chooses a cochlear implant for child, hearing aids, other hearing technology, or no hearing technology at all.
Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program
1300 Ethan Way, Suite 105, Sacramento, CA 95825
E-mail: customercare@
Web site:
Phone English: (800) 806-1191
Phone Spanish: (800) 949-5650
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the program is to provide access to
basic telephone service for Californians who have difficulty using the telephone. Welcome to the Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program which includes California Telephone Access Program (CTAP) and California Relay Service (CRS). CRS provides a relay service where Communication Assistants will relay messages between a person using a TTY and a person who does not use a TTY. Under CTAP, each consumer certified in the Program can receive an amplified telephone, TTY, or other specialized telephone equipment for use at home.
Gallaudet University
800 Florida Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002-3695
Phone: (202) 651-5000
Email: public.relations@gallaudet.edu
Web site: gallaudet.edu
Agency/business Profile: Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, multicultural institution of higher education that ensures the intellectual and professional advancement of deaf and hard of hearing individuals through American Sign Language and English.
Helen Keller National Center for Youths and Adults Who Are Deaf-Blind (HKNC),
141 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY 11050
Phone: (516) 944-8900, (516) 570-3624, (866) 948-0473
E-mail: hkncinfo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults is to enable each person who is deaf-blind to live and work in his or her community of choice.
National Consortium on Deaf-Blindness NCDB),
Web site:
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
31 Center Drive, MSC 2320, Bethesda, MD USA 20892-2320
E-mail: nidcdinfo@nidcd.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), conducts and supports research in the normal and disordered processes of hearing, balance, taste, smell, voice, speech, and language.
Council on Education of the Deaf
P.O. Box 2074, 800 Florida Avenue, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20002
Email: cedoffice@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Council on Education of the Deaf (CED) is an organization sponsored by five major national organizations dedicated to quality education for all deaf and hard of hearing students
Hands & Voices Headquarters
PO Box 3093, Boulder CO 80307
Phone: (303) 492-6283, (866) 422-0422
E-mail: Parentadvocate@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Hands & Voices is a non-profit, parent-driven organization dedicated to supporting families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing.
National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 820, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: TTY (301) 587-1789, Fax (301) 587-1791
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) is the nation's premier civil rights organization of, by and for deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America.
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Service Center Inc.
Fresno Main Office
5340 N. Fresno Street
Fresno, CA 93710
VP: (559) 408-5249
Phone: (559) 225-3323
Fax: (559) 225-0116
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Central Coast Outreach Office
1188 Padre Drive, Suite 115
Salinas, CA 93901
Phone: (831) 753-6540
TTY: (831) 753-6541
Fax: (831) 753-6542
E-mail: ccinfo@
Merced Outreach Office
626 W. 18th St.
Merced, CA 95340
P/VP: (209) 230-9910
TTY: (209) 726-7786
Fax: (209) 726-7717
E-mail: minfo@
South Valley Outreach Office
2333 W. Whitendale Ave.
Visalia, CA 93277
Phone: (559) 225-3323
TTY: (559) 334-0137
Fax: (559) 334-0138
E-mail: svinfo@
DHH SERVICES
Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART), also called open captioning or real-time stenography, or simply real-time captioning, is the general name of the system that court reporters, closed captioner and voice writers, and others use to convert speech to text. A trained operator uses keyboard or stenography methods to transcribe spoken speech into written text. Speech to text software is used when voice writers provide CART.
While real time speech to text serves many with hearing loss and deafness, it is also useful for people whose first language is different from the language being used, to understand speakers with different voices and accents in many group situations (at work, in education, community events), to have a "transcript', and for learning languages. CART professionals have qualifications for added expertise (speed and accuracy) as compared to court reporters and other stenographers.
Note: Remote CART is done with the trained operator at a remote location. A voice connection such as a telephone, cellphone, or computer microphone is used to send the voice to the operator, and the real-time text is transmitted back over a modem, Internet, or other data connection.
Captioning: The text of the audio portion of a video or film is the caption. This may include not only the words, but the sounds that are important to understand and the source of the sound. Open captions cannot be turned off; closed captions are not visible unless they are decoded and turned on for display.
ADA Title II: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates the provision of reasonable accommodations for employees and “auxiliary aids and services” to ensure effective communication with people who are deaf or hard of hearing. The U.S. Department of Justice regulations for ADA Title II (state and local governments) and ADA Title III (public accommodations) define the term “auxiliary aids and services” comprehensively: 28 C.F.R. § 35.104 and 28 C.F.R. § 36.303(b)(1) Qualified interpreters, notetakers, computer-aided transcription services, written materials, telephone handset amplifiers, assistive listening devices, assistive listening systems, telephones compatible with hearing aids, closed caption decoders, open and closed captioning, telecommunication devices for deaf persons, videotext displays, or other effective methods of making aurally delivered materials available to individuals with hearing impairments.
TranscribeMe!
2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 250
Berkeley, CA 94704
Phone: (800) 275-5513
Email: support@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Transcribe me provides voice-to-text services including
medical transcription and legal work. TranscribeMe also provides translation,
closed captions and subtitles for academic, corporate, media and education
venues.
Federal Communication Commission: For more information requirements:
For television captioning visit, Web site: cgb/dro/caption.html
For Internet captioning visit, Web site: cgb/dro/cvaa.html
Deaf Counseling, Advocacy and Referral Agency (DCARA)
14895 E. 14th St. #200, San Leandro, CA 94578
Phone: (510) 343-6670
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Promotes and advocates for the rights of full access to American Sign Language and English, education, employment, and cultural identity of, by, for, and with Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Late-Deafened, and Deaf-Blind people. In addition, DCARA provides the hearing community with information about the Deaf community and working and living with persons who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, Deafened and hard of hearing, as well as collaborating with other agencies to ensure that services are more accessible to population that DCARA serves. Services provided in the following counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Del Norte, Humboldt, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano and Sonoma.
|San Jose Advocacy Services |
|650 North Winchester Blvd., Suite 3 |
|San Jose, CA 95128 |
|Phone: (408) 899-5088, VP/Voice |
|Fremont Advocacy Services |
|Fremont Family Resource Center (FRC) |
|39155 Liberty Street, Suite D420 |
|Fremont, CA 94539 |
|Phone: (510) 371-0042, VP/Voice |
Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD)
2222 Laverna Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90041
Phone: (323) 478-8000 Voice/TTY, (323) 550-4226 TTY, (323) 892-2225 VP
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD) is to ensure equal access of the deaf and hard of hearing community to the same opportunities afforded the hearing counterparts. GLAD’s specific and primary purpose is to act as a coordinating agency that addresses the broad social service needs of deaf and hard of hearing people through direct service provision, advocacy, research information regarding deafness to parents, professionals, and consumers.
Antelope Valley GLAD
South Valley Work Source Center
38510 Sierra Highway at E. Avenue Q-6
Palmdale, CA 93550
Web site:
Center on Deafness, Inland Empire (CODIE)
3576 Arlington Avenue, Suite 211
Riverside, CA 92506
Phone: (951) 801-5674
Phone: (951) 275-0640 TTY
Web site:
Phone: (951) 275-5000 Voice
E-mail: info@
Bakersfield GLAD (B-GLAD)
4949 Buckley Way, Suite 203
Orange County Deaf Equal Access Foundation (OC DEAF)
6022 Cerritos Avenue
Cypress, CA 90630
Phone: (714) 503-0669 Videophone
Phone: (714) 826-9793 TTY/Voice
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Tri-County GLAD (TCGLAD)
702 County Square Drive, Suite 101
Ventura, CA 93003
Phone: (805) 256-1053 Videophone
Phone: (805) 644-6322 Voice
Web site:
Phone: (661) 369-8858 Videophone
Phone: (661) 831-2884 TTY
E-mail: info@
DHH PRODUCTS
Telecommunications for the Deaf: TDD (Wikipedia)
Miniprint 425 TDD. The acoustic coupler on the top is for use with telephone handsets. The printer records the conversation. The specific GA and SK keys allow for speedier use of common abbreviations.
A Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) is a teleprinter, an electronic device for text communication over a telephone line, that is designed for use by persons with hearing or speech difficulties. Other names for the device include teletypewriter (or TTYs). The typical TDD is a device about the size of a typewriter or laptop computer with a QWERTY keyboard and small screen that uses an LED, LCD, or VFD screen to display typed text electronically.
Krown Sign Language Translator
Phone: (682) 200-1331, (800) 366-9950, (817) 738-2485
E-mail: info@
Web site: .
Agency/business Profile: The Krown Sign Language Translator is an ideal teaching tool for those desiring or interested in learning Sign Language. Enter a word using the touch screen keyboard and watch a video clip signed by a live individual.
iCommunicator
Phone: (718) 663-6750
E-mail: icomm-info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: iCommunicator is a software designed for people with hearing impairments which promotes independent communication. The program translates English in real-time/ instantly: Speech to text, Speech/Text to Video Sign-Language, and Speech/Text to Computer Generated Voice.
Pocketalker
10300 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: (952) 943-2252, (800) 328-6190, Fax (952) 943-2174
Web site:
Product information: Hearing loss can make communicating and understanding a frustrating experience for both the speaker and the listener. The Pocketalker personal amplifier helps you or someone you love hear well. This listening system amplifies the sounds closest to you while reducing background noise.
Motiva Personal FM
10300 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: (952) 943-2252, (800) 328-6190, Fax (952) 943-2174
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Motiva Personal FM broadcasts a speaker's voice directly to the ears of individual listeners up to 150 feet away, making it an ideal amplification system for small groups, classrooms, employee training and consultation. The speaker wears a compact battery operated transmitter with a small lapel microphone that sends the voice to the listener who uses a compact battery operated receiver to hear the presentation loudly and clearly, even from the back of the room. The receiver also has adjustable tone and volume settings for listening customization.
CapTel
450 Science Drive, Madison, WI 53711
Phone: (888) 269-7477, En Español (866) 670-9134
Email: CapTel@
Web site:
Product information: The Captioned Telephone, or CapTel, works like any other telephone with one important addition: It displays every word the caller says throughout the conversation.
Wireless CapTel The application can be downloaded on iOS devices from the Apple App Store or iTunes for free with an Everything Data plan. Sprint currently provides Wireless CapTel on select Android devices.
CapTel 840i Designed for people who have high-speed Internet access. It uses a telephone service and an Internet connection, including WiFi, to provide voice and captions during a call.
Intele Modem
97 Harewood Drive, Royton, Oldham, Lancashire, OL2 5TB
Web site:
Product information: This device turns a computer into a TTY. It works with standard communication software on the computer. It automatically distinguishes between ASCII and Baudot calls. Ultratec, Inc.
MOBILITY IMPAIRMENTS
MOBILITY ORGANIZATIONS
Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
636 Morris Turnpike, Suite 3A, Short Hills, NJ 07078
Phone: (800) 539-7309
E-mail: TeamReeve@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Reeve Foundation is dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research, and improving the quality of life for people living with paralysis through grants, information and advocacy.
United Cerebral Palsy
1825 K Street NW Suite 600
Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (800) 872-5827, (202) 776-0406
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities.
Easter Seals Disability Services
233 South Wacker Drive, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (800) 221-6827
Web site: easter-
Agency/business Profile: Easter Seals has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and families, live better lives for nearly 100 years. From child development centers to physical rehabilitation and job training for people with disabilities, Easter Seals offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life's challenges and achieve personal goals.
Muscular Dystrophy of America (MDA)
222 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 1500, Chicago, Illinois 60606
Phone: (800) 572-1717
Email: mda@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: MDA is the world’s leading nonprofit health organization sponsoring research seeking the causes of and effective treatments for neuromuscular diseases.
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America
375 Kings Highway North, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Phone: (856) 488-4500, (800) 532-7667
E-mail: msaa@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is a leading resource for the entire MS community, improving lives today through vital services and support.
Spina Bifida Association
1600 Wilson Blvd., Suite 800, Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (202) 944-3285, Fax (202) 944-3295
Email: sbaa@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Spina Bifida Association is to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and enhance the lives of all affected.
U.S. Paralympics
One Olympic Plaza, Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Phone: (888) 222-2313
Email: customerservice@
Web site: US-Paralympics.aspx
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the US Paralympics is to support U.S. Olympic and Paralympic athletes in achieving sustained competitive excellence while demonstrating the values of the Olympic Movement, thereby inspiring all Americans.
Reaching for the Stars (RFTS)
3000 Old Alabama Road, Suite 119–300, Alpharetta, Ga. 30022
Phone: (855) 240-RFTS
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The RFTS mission is centered on the belief that leading-edge pediatric research, increased awareness and education will lead to new treatments of Cerebral Palsy, improving the lives of impacted children and families.
MOBILITY SERVICES
Mobility Evaluation Program (MEP) The Mobility Evaluation Program (MEP) is a section of the Department of Rehabilitation that provides driving evaluations for qualified individuals to help determine the transportation needs. MEP also provides passenger and wheelchair evaluations at
Seating and Mobility Evaluations for Persons (pamphlet)
Web site:
MOBILITY PRODUCTS
Eyegaze Edge Tablet
Web site:
Email:
Product information: The Eyegaze Edge Tablet is a one-piece eye-operated unit that combines processor and display in a small 5-pound package with an adjustable arm with camera bracket, high-speed infrared sensitive camera and lens, keyboard. Programs include: eyegaze communication software, email, internet, Kindle, SMS, music player, computer control for PC or Mac and programs for children.
Beamz and Accessibility with Tobii EyeGaze (2:00)
Web site:
Product information: Overview of the Tobi EyeGaze.
Inclusive EyeGaze Attention & Looking (5:33)
Web site:
Product information: 18 carefully graded activities designed to assess and teach attention and looking skills, simple access skills and understanding of eye gaze.
Sophie Patmore Tobii Eye Gaze (2:46)
Web site:
Product information: Sophie doing her school homework on her eye gaze.
FRS Custom Solutions Headpointer
Web site:
Product information: The FRS Custom Solutions Headpointer is a head wand designed for use by individuals with spinal cord injury or upper extremity disabilities or severe physical disabilities. The Headpointer can assist users with a wide range of daily tasks including communication device access, computer access, elevator operation, and light and appliance control.
Joystick Light
Web site: //
Product information: Joystick Light is designed to provide computer cursor control for individuals with upper extremity disabilities to turn off lights.
Mini Beamer Transmitter
Web site:
Product information: Mini Beamer Transmitter comes with a modern look, small form factor, rechargeable battery, proximity sensor activation surface, and external switch jack. Proximity sensor will activate when an individual is within 10-millimeters of the activation surface.
Wobble Switch.
Web site:
Product information: A touch switch designed to be activated by any body part for individuals who have physical disabilities
Switch Mounting Plates
Web site:
Product information: QAR. 80; Switch Mounting Plates are mounting hardware for control switches to be placed in virtually any position for individuals with physical disabilities
LEARNING DISABILITIES
LD ORGANIZATIONS
Attention Deficit Disorder Association
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Attention Deficit Disorder Association provides information, resources and networking opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives.
Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST)
40 Harvard Mills Square, Suite 3, Wakefield, MA 01880
Phone: (781) 245-2212
E-mail: cast@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CAST pledges to work tirelessly to understand the full extent of human learner variability and to find transformative approaches that make education more effective for all.
Council for Learning Disabilities (CLD)
11184 Antioch Road, Box 405, Overland Park, KS 66210
Phone: (913) 491-1011 Fax (913) 491-1011
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Council for Learning Disabilities (CLD) is an international organization composed of professionals who represent diverse disciplines, is committed to enhancing the education and quality of life for individuals with learning disabilities across the life span.
Council for Exceptional Children
2900 Crystal Drive, Suite 1000, Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: (888) 232-7733
E-mail: service@cec.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Council for Exceptional Children is a professional association of educators dedicated to advancing the success of children with exceptionalities.
Decoding Dyslexia – California
Email form:
Staff biographies:
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Decoding Dyslexia California is a grassroots
movement driven by CA families that strives to raise dyslexia
awareness, empower families to support their children, and improve
resources for students with dyslexia.
Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, Inc. (DREDF)
3075 Adeline Street, Suite 210, Berkeley, CA 94703
Phone: (510 644-2555, (510) 841-8645 Fax/TTY
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF), founded in 1979, is a leading national civil rights law and policy center directed by individuals with disabilities and parents who have children with disabilities.
LD Online
WETA Public Television, 2775 S. Quincy St., Arlington, VA 22206
Life Success for Students with Learning Disabilities: A Parent's Guide Web site
Web:
Agency/business Profile: Parents and teachers of learning disabled children will
find authoritative guidance and resources on attention deficit disorder, ADD / ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, dysnomia, reading difficulties, speech and related disorders.
Learning Disabilities Association of America
4156 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15234-1349
Phone (412) 341-1515, (412) 341-1515, Fax (412) 344-0224
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: LDA’s mission is to create opportunities for success for all individuals affected by learning disabilities and to reduce the incidence of learning disabilities in future generations.
Multi-Tiered System of Supports
California Department of Education
Phone: (916) 323-6269
E-mail: Allison Zaria AAllisonZarea@cde.
Web:
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Education’s Web site with
information and resources to support all students’ abilities to attain academic and
social success through Multi-Tiered System of Supports and Response to
Intervention (RTI), including students with learning disabilities.
National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
32 Laight Street, Second Floor, New York, NY 10013
Web site:
Email options:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of NCLD is to improve the lives of the one in five children and adults nationwide with learning and attention issues—by empowering parents and young adults, transforming schools and advocating for equal rights and opportunities. Additional information is available at Understood at .
Northern California Branch of the International Dyslexia Association
PO Box 5010, San Mateo, CA 94402-0010
Phone: (650) 328-7667
E-mail: office@dyslexia-
Web:
Agency/business Profile: As the oldest branch of IDA, its mission continues to be increasing awareness of dyslexia, disseminating information about dyslexia, and encouraging the use of research-based programs for teaching students with dyslexia. They offer workshops for parents and teachers, a hands-on simulation called Experience Dyslexia®, teacher training scholarships and resources to increase awareness and support for those affected by this learning difference.
RTI Action Network
National Center for Learning Disabilities
32 Laight Street, Second Floor
New York, NY 10013
Note: There is no phone, to access e-mail go to the web site.
Web:
Agency/business Profile: As a program of the National Center for Learning Disabilities, this Web site provides information and resources about RTI, which holds the promise of ensuring that all children have access to high quality instruction, and that struggling learners – including those with learning disabilities – are identified, supported, and served early and effectively.
Understood: For Learning and Attention Issues
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The goal of Understood is to help the millions of parents whose children, ages 3–20, are struggling with learning and attention issues.
The University of California San Francisco Dyslexia Center
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The UCSF Dyslexia Center will focus on evaluating and improving each individual's difficulties in written language by designing personalized, brain-based strategies rooted in their strengths.
LD SERVICES
Alliance for Technology Access (ATA)
1119 Old Humboldt Road, Jackson, TN 38305
Phone: (800) 914-3017, (731) 554-5282, Fax 731-554-5283, TTY 731-554-5284
Email: atainfo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the ATA is to increase the use of technology by children and adults with disabilities and functional limitations.
Assistive Technology for Kids with LD: An Overview (article)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: An article focused specifically on AT for individuals with learning disabilities.
Consumer Tips for Evaluating Assistive Technology Products (article)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Information about selecting the most effective assistive technology tools for the child's specific needs.
Community Technology Center’s Network (CTCNet) (manual)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: A group of independent, not-for-profit community-based technology centers providing free or low-cost access to computers and related technology.
How Should Students With Disabilities Find the Right College? (article)
Web site:
experts/2012/02/08/how-should-students-with-disabilities-find-the-right-college
Agency/business Profile: Experts suggest more research and campus visits to help students with special needs pick the schools.
The IRIS Center
Box 275, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: (615) 343-6006, (800) 831-6134, Fax (615) 343-5611
Email: n.tyler@vanderbilt.edu; iris@vanderbilt.edu
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: A national center dedicated to improving education outcomes for all children, including a large section on students with learning disabilities, through the use of effective evidence-based practices and interventions.
Students with LD
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Students with LD provides articles on best practices.
Colleges with Programs for Students with Learning Disabilities
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Colleges and universities provide some level of services and/or accommodations for learning disabled students, as mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The colleges and universities offering programs designed to support students with learning disabilities.
Tech Finder
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Tech Finder is a Web site offering searchable, reviewed collections for students with disabilities, such as free assistive technology on the Web, free or low-cost audiobooks, and indoor learning activities for hyperactive kids.
LD PRODUCTS
AAC & Communication
Web site:
Product information: AAC & Communication has a complete line of user-friendly Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools and systems for children and adults who are unable or reluctant to use voices.
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
1291 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20542
Phone: (202) 707-5100, TDD (202) 707-0744
Web site: nls
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NLS offers books and magazines to serve people with vision impairments and physical disabilities.
Factsheet:
Victor Reader
Web site:
Product information: Victor Reader has built-in tools for reading, writing, study skills and test taking deliver a multisensory approach to learning, helping students who struggle, such as those with dyslexia and English Language Learners.
WYNN™Literacy Software
Web site:
Product information: Wynn is a literacy software tool designed to enhance success for individuals with reading challenges and writing difficulties. WYNN was developed with the help of special educators and individuals with learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dysgraphia and aphasia. It uses a bi-modal approach, simultaneous highlighting of the text as it is spoken.
Bookshare
480 South California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: (650) 644-3400
Website:
Agency/Business Profile: On-line digital library of accessible images for students with print disabilities such as visual impairments, physical disabilities and learning disabilities. At the time of production the Bookshare collection houses over 370,000 educational materials. Bookshare is free to all US students and schools thanks to a grant from the Department of Education. K-12 and Post-secondary
Books are available in audio, braille ready formats and large print. Bookshare books can be accessed on a variety devices such as refreshable braille machines, personal computers, tablets and phones.
COMMUNICATION DISORDERS
COMMUNICATION ORGANIZATIONS
A communication disorder is any disorder that affects somebody's ability to communicate. The delays and disorders can range from simple sound substitution to the inability to understand or use one's native language. Gleanson (2001) defines a communication disorder as a speech and language disorder which refers to problems in communication and in related areas such as oral motor function. In general, communications disorders commonly refer to problems in speech (comprehension and/or expression) that significantly interfere with an individual’s achievement and/or quality of life. Knowing the operational definition of the agency performing an assessment or giving a diagnosis may help. Web site: //en.wiki/Communication_disorder
Communication Disorders in Children and Adolescents
Child Development Insititute
500 State College, Suite 1100, Orange, CA 92868
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of Child Development Institute is to become the “go to” site for parents for information, products and services related to child development, psychology, health, parenting, learning, media, entertainment, family activities as well as to connect with other parents, professional experts organizations and other useful websites.
Definitions of Communication Disorders and Variations (glossary)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Definitions of Communication Disorders and Variations is a composite glossary of terms commonly used in speech pathology.
Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The new diagnosis of social (pragmatic) communication disorder (SCD) in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) will more accurately recognize individuals who have significant problems using verbal and nonverbal communication for social purposes, leading to impairments in the ability to effectively communicate, participate socially, maintain social relationships, or otherwise perform academically or occupationally.
COMMUNICATION SERVICES
Center for Communication Disorders
The California State University, Chico
400 W. 1st St. Aymer J. Hamilton 100, Chico, CA 95929-0350
Phone: (530) 898-5871
Web site:
E-mail: mjmcmillan@csuchico.edu
Agency/business Profile: The Center for Communication Disorders would like to inform its surrounding county residents of the services provided through the CSU, Chico Center for Communication Disorders.
The CSUN Language, Speech and Hearing Center (LSHC)
18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330
Phone: (818) 677-1200
E-mail: carla.romero@csun.edu
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Language, Speech, and Hearing Center offers five diagnostic/evaluation clinics and 12 speech therapy clinics throughout the semester calendar at CSUN. The Language, Speech and Hearing Center provides comprehensive evaluations of speech/language or hearing related problems along with a wide array of treatment programs which are performed in the individual therapy or group setting.
COMMUNICATION PRODUCTS
Speaking Language Master
Web site:
Product information: The Speaking Language Master miniature talking dictionary is based on one made for the general public. It is a small battery-powered unit. Speech is fully integrated, speaking every entered letter and word, definition, synonym, or game. Franklin Electronic Publishers.
Dynamic Display
Web site:
Product information: Dynamic Boards that can be customized to the user for voice output; words and phrases.
Talking Toolbox
Web site:
Product information: The Talking Toolbox, self-voicing program, is designed for the beginning computer user or someone who does not desire a lot of features. Using a combination of pre-recorded messages and synthesized speech, this program offers a word processor, a calculator, e-mail, a calendar, an address list, and built-in help.
Widgit Communicate
Web site:
Product information: Widget Communicate can help to organize thoughts using symbols. Combining visual mind mapping tools with the support of the Widgit Symbol Set, Communicate: Ideas is perfect for people who struggle to formulate thoughts verbally or in writing.
TextSpeak TS04-2K Mini/Palm Speech Generating Keyboards
Web site:
Product information: TextSpeak offers the solution for augmentative communication when you are looking for a simple yet powerful speech generation device. Perfect for speech impaired individuals, post-operative patients, or as a solution for anyone who needs an affordable device that generates synthesized speech.
AUTISM SPECTRUM
AUTISM ORGANIZATIONS
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
PO Box 66122
Washington, DC 20035
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Autistic Self Advocacy Network seeks to advance the principles of the disability rights movement with regard to autism. ASAN believes that the goal of autism advocacy should be a world in which Autistic people enjoy the same access, rights, and opportunities as all other citizens. We work to empower Autistic people across the world to take control of our own lives and the future of our common community, and seek to organize the Autistic community to ensure our voices are heard in the national conversation about us. Nothing About Us, Without Us!
US Autism and Asperger Association (USAAA)
P.O. Box 532, Draper, UT 84020-0532
Phone: (888) 9AUTISM
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: US Autism & Asperger Association is a 501(C)(3) non- profit organization which boasts a proud network of world-renowned professionals with expertise in Autism, Asperger Syndrome, and other related disorders. US Autism & Asperger Association hosts a compendious world conference in the United States each year, establishes standards for Autism and Asperger Syndrome training, and aligns with local community resources to offer support for the entire Autism and Asperger communities.
Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD),
Phone: (855) 345-CARD (2273)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CARD is committed to remaining at the forefront of research on ABA-based methods of autism assessment and treatment.
National Autism Association
One Park Avenue, Suite 1, Portsmouth, RI 02871
Phone: (877) 622.2884, Fax (401) 293.5342
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the National Autism Association is to respond to the most urgent needs of the autism community, providing real help and hope so that all affected can reach full potential.
Autism Society of America
4340 East-West Hwy, Suite 350, Bethesda, Maryland 20814
Phone: (800) 328-8476
Web site: autism- or
Agency/business Profile: The Autism Society provides information and referral services to those who may not know where to begin or where to turn when faced with the challenges of an autism spectrum disorder. The Autism Society provides trained staff to help negotiate this maze and connect people to resources in their communities for immediate and future needs. In addition, also offers a free comprehensive online referral database called Autism Source at .
Autism Research Institute (ARI)
4182 Adams Avenue, San Diego, CA 92116
E-mail: cme@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The ARI is dedicated to improving the quality of lives for families and individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
Autism NOW
1825 K Street NW, Suite 1200 Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (202) 600-3489, (855) 828.8476
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Autism NOW, the National Autism Resource and Information Center is a dynamic and interactive, highly visible and effective central point of quality resources and information for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, families, and other targeted key stakeholders.
Organization for Autism Research (OAR)
2000 North 14th Street, Suite 240, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (703) 243-9710
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Organization for Autism Research is to fund applied (i.e., intervention) research, the purpose of which is improve the quality of life of learners with Autism Spectrum
The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder (NPDC) was funded by the Office of Special Education Programs in the US Department of Education from 2007-2014.
US Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (USSAAC)
Phone: (800) 232-5108, Fax (866) 733-0971
Email: membership@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: USSAAC is the United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, the national chapter of ISAAC, the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication.
International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC)
312 Dolomite Drive, Suite 216, Toronto, ON M3J 2N2, Canada
Phone: (905) 850-6848, Fax (905) 850-6852
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ISAAC, the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, is a membership organization working to improve the lives of children and adults with complex communication needs.
Decoding Dyslexia – California
Note: Web presence only no physical address. Messages can be sent at Web address.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Decoding Dyslexia California is a grassroots movement driven by CA families concerned with the limited access to educational interventions for dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities within the public schools.
The National Autism Center
41 Pacella Park Drive, Randolph, MA 02368
Phone: (877) 313-3833
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Autism Center’s mission is to provide leadership and comprehensive evidence-based resources to families, practitioners, and policymakers, to programs and organizations, and to the national community by adhering to commitments.
Asperger Syndrome Education Network (ASPEN),
9 Aspen Circle, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (732) 321-0880
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ASPEN provides families and individuals whose lives are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities with: Education about the issues surrounding the disorders, support in knowing that they are not alone, and advocacy in areas of appropriate educational programs, medical research funding, adult issues and increased public awareness and understanding. ASPEN is a national volunteer 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
Autism Internet Modules
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AIM is designed to provide high-quality information and professional development for anyone who supports, instructs, works with, or lives with someone with autism.
Autism Speaks
1 East 33rd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016
Phone: (888) 288-4762, En Español (888) 772-9050
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: At Autism Speaks, the goal is to change the future for all who struggle with an autism spectrum disorder.
The Autism Speaks Transition Tool Kit was created to serve as a guide to assist families on the journey from adolescence to adulthood.
California Department of Developmental Services
1600 9th Street; Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 654-1690, TTY (916) 654-2054
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Developmental Services provides services for people who have Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social relating, language, and by the presence of repetitive and stereotyped behaviors.
MAAP Services for Autism and Asperger Syndrome
P.O. Box 524, Crown Point, IN 46308
Tel: (219) 662-1311, Fax (219) 662-1315
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: MAAP provides information, advice, and networking to families of more advanced individuals affected by the autism spectrum, including autism, Asperger syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder. Publishes a quarterly newsletter.
National Autistic Society
One Park Avenue, Suite 1, Portsmouth, RI 02871
Phone: (877) 622-2884, Fax (401) 293.5342
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the National Autism Association is to respond to the most urgent needs of the autism community, providing real help and hope so that all affected can reach full potential.
Sacramento Asperger Syndrome Information & Support
UC Davis MIND Institute, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento CA 95817
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Sacramento Asperger Syndrome Information & Support, founded in 1995, maintains a focus of sharing information and giving support.
The American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA)
4720 Montgomery Ln Suite 200 Bethesda, MD 20814-3449
Phone: (800) SAY-AOTA (729-2682) Non-members (301) 652-6611
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The American Occupational Therapy Association’s Media Relations Office focuses on promoting and protecting the professional interests of more than 140,000 occupational therapy practitioners nationwide.
The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder (NPDC) was funded by the Office of Special Education Programs in the US Department of Education from 2007-2014.
MIND Institute
2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817
Phone: (916) 703-0280
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The UC Davis MIND Institute (Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) is a collaborative international research center, committed to the awareness, understanding, prevention, care, and cures of neurodevelopmental disorders.
AUTISM SERVICES
California Department of Developmental Services
1600 9th Street, P. O. Box 944202, Sacramento, CA 94244-2020
Phone: (916) 654-1690, TTY (916) 654-2054
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Developmental Services is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.
California Autism Foundation; Advocacy/Education & Legal Resources
4075 Lakeside Drive, Richmond, CA 94806
Phone: (510) 758-0433, (510) 758-1040 Fax
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: California Autism Foundation (CAF) is a 501(c)3 located in Richmond, California. CAF is a leading provider of full life services to all people with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Autism Speaks
1 East 33rd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016
Phone: (888) 288-4762, En Español (888) 772-9050
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: At Autism Speaks, the goal is to change the future for all who struggle with an autism spectrum disorder.
Housing/Residential
Autism Speaks Catalog of Residential Services
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Listing of locations and services.
California State Independent Living Council Website
1600 K Street, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-0142, (866) 866-7452, TTY (866) 745-2889
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: California State Independent Living Council Website creates policy and systems change for independent living.
California Foundation for Independent Living Centers
1000 G Street, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 325-1690 Voice, (916) 325-1695 TTY
E-mail: info@
Web site: ,
Agency/business Profile: California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC) is California’s trade organization of Independent Living Centers. It also houses the following programs that serve Californians with disabilities: Ability Tools, YO! Disabled and Proud, Disability Organizing Network and the Digital Access Project.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: is here to help you decide what type of wheelchair ramp is right for a specific situation.
Sacramento Housing & Redevelopment Agency,
630 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 440-1390, Fax (916) 449-1285
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency brings together funding resources and staff expertise to develop and implement creative strategies for affordable housing and community revitalization.
Transition to College
A College Professor’s Guide: How to Best Support Students with Asperger Syndrome (pamphlet)
2000 North 14th Street, Suite 240, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (703) 243-9710
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: A College Professor’s Guide provides information on Asperger Syndrome.
Association on Higher Education of Disability
107 Commerce Centre Drive, Suite 204, Huntersville, NC 28078 USA
Phone: (704) 947-7779, Fax (704) 948-7779
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AHEAD is the premiere professional association committed to full participation of persons with disabilities in postsecondary education.
HEATH Resource Center at George Washington University
2134 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20052-0001
Phone: (202) 994-1000
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Since 2000, the HEATH Resource Center has served as a national clearinghouse on postsecondary education for individuals with disabilities, managed by The George Washington University Graduate School of Education and Human Development.
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition
University of Minnesota, Pattee Hall
150 Pillsbury Drive SE, Minneapolis MN 55455
Phone: (612) 624-2097, Fax (612) 624-9344
E-mail: ncset@umn.edu
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Center on Secondary Education and Transition (NCSET) coordinates national resources, offers technical assistance, and disseminates information related to secondary education and transition for youth with disabilities in order to create opportunities for youth to achieve successful futures.
550 Quail Ridge Drive, Westmont, IL 60559
Phone: (877) 317-2733
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: provides services for youth with intellectual disabilities have not had many chances to go to college. This is changing as individuals across the country begin to create opportunities for these youth to reap the benefits of postsecondary education. This website provides information and links to anyone interested in finding out more about the possibilities.
Transition Matters
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Transition Matters provides resources for qualified students in transition to college and career.
Success Defined (article; April 2012 Minds Behind the MIND)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Success Defined provides informational regarding autism spectrum disorder.
ASD TRANSITION RESOURCES:
Pathfinders for Autism
303 International Circle, Suite 110, Hunt Valley, MD 21030
Phone: (443) 330-5341, (866) 806-8400
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Pathfinders for Autism has grown into the State's largest autism organization dedicated to helping individuals, parents and professionals find resources, supports and training while working to increase the awareness of autism spectrum disorders and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and families.
Health Care Guide for Youth and Families (PDF)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Pamphlet on health issues regarding youth with disabilities.
Transition, Transition Services, Transition Planning
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Health Care Guide for Youth and Families is a pamphlet providing information on transition regarding youth in transition.
Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence Disabilities (OCALI)
ASD In-Action Online Training Program provides training modules on transition related topics .
AUTISM PRODUCTS
Pawsitivity Service Dogs
197 Griggs St. N., St. Paul, MN 55104.
Phone: (651) 321-3647
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Pawsitivity Service Dogs is an award-winning non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization located in St. Paul, MN and serving children with autism and other disabilities associated with the spectrum.
Autism Service Dogs of America
20340 SW Boones Ferry Road, Tualatin, OR 97062
Phone: (971) 285-4547
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission at Autism Service Dogs of America (ASDA) is to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals living with autism, and families, by providing exceptionally well trained service dogs.
DynaVox Mayer-Johnson: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Web site:
Product Information: DynaVox offers complete solutions for individuals with speech and learning challenges. Speech generative devices, often funded by Medicare, Medicaid or insurance, help those with conditions such as autism make meaningful connections with the world around them.
Enabling Devices
Web site:
Product Information: Enabling Devices is a company dedicated to developing affordable learning and assistive devices to help people of all ages with disabling conditions.
LAMP: Language Acquisition through Motor Planning
Web site: lamp
Agency/business Profile: LAMP is a therapeutic approach based on neurological and motor learning principles. The goal is to give individuals who are nonverbal or have limited verbal abilities a method of independently and spontaneously expressing themselves in any setting.
MyVoice
Web site:
Product Information: MyVoice is an alternative and augmentative communications aide (AAC) designed to help non-verbal, low cognitive people communicate needs and desires. It's the digital big brother of a “picture board”, a communication method that has been shown to work extremely well many non-verbal children.
Proloquo2Go: AAC in Your Pocket
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Proloquo2Go is a new product from Assistive Ware that provides a full-featured communication solution for people who have difficulty speaking. It brings natural sounding text-to-speech voices, up-to-date symbols, powerful automatic conjugations, a default vocabulary of over 7000 items, full expandability and extreme ease of use to the iPhone and iPod touch.
COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
COGNITIVE ORGANIZATIONS
The ARC
1825 K Street NW, Suite 1200, Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (202) 534-3700 (800) 433-5255
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The ARC promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports full inclusion and participation in the community throughout the lifetimes.
Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD)
One Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 401-4634
E-mail: aclinfo@acl.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ACL brings together the efforts and achievements of the Administration on Aging, the Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, and the HHS Office on Disability to serve as the Federal agency responsible for increasing access to community supports, while focusing attention and resources on the unique needs of older Americans and people with disabilities across the lifespan.
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
501 3rd Street, NW Suite 200, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 387-1968 voice, (202) 387-2193 fax
E-mail: books@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AAIDD promotes progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and universal human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD)
1100 Wayne Avenue, Suite 1000, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: (301) 588-8252
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AUCD envisions a future in which all people, including those living with developmental and other disabilities are fully included, participating members of communities.
National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
1825 K Street NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (202) 506-5813
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NACDD is the national association for the 56 State and Territorial Councils on Developmental Disabilities (DD Councils) which receive federal funding to support programs that promote self-determination, integration, and inclusion for all Americans with developmental disabilities.
Cognition
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Cognition is an international journal that publishes theoretical and experimental papers on the study of the mind.
Developmental Delay Resources (DDR)
5801 Beacon Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Phone: (800) 497-0944| F: 412.422.1374
Web site:
E-mail: developmentaldelay@
Agency/business Profile: DDR is an international non-profit organization established in 1994 as the Developmental Delay Registry. In 1998, the Board of Directors changed the name to Developmental Delay Resources to reflect the mission: Disseminating information, connecting families, prevent developmental delays through education.
Kennedy Krieger Institute
707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205
Phone: (443) 923-9200 or (800) 873-3377
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Kennedy Krieger Institute is an internationally recognized institution dedicated to improving the lives of children and young adults with pediatric developmental disabilities and disorders of the brain, spinal cord and musculoskeletal system, through patient care, special education, research, and professional training.
My Child without Limits
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: My child without limits is a resource for parents. As a child grows and develops, he learns different skills, such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, or waving goodbye. These skills are known as developmental milestones.
COGNITIVE SERVICES
COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Web site:
Information pamphlet: Cognitive impairment, also referred to as intellectual disability, describes the condition of a child whose intellectual functioning level and adaptive skills are significantly below the average for a child of his chronological age. It is the most common developmental disorder, occurring in approximately 12 of every 1000 children. Varying levels of developmental delays may be identified in a child’s social skills, emotional development, communication capabilities, physical function, and academic skill sets.
Cognitive Disabilities, Autism, and Traumatic Brain Injuries
Web site:
Information pamphlet: According to the American Association for Mental Retardation, a person is considered to have a cognitive disability based on three criteria. One is intellectual functioning (IQ). Other factors include significant limitations in two or more areas such as daily living skills, communication, self-care, social skills, academic skills, or work skills; and the condition must be present from childhood.
Recognizing Developmental Delays in Children
Web site:
Information site: As you watch a child grow, remember that each child develops at his or her own pace and the range of normal is quite wide. However, it is helpful to be aware of red flags for potential developmental delays in children. These delays are significant lags in one or more areas of emotional, mental, or physical growth. If the child experiences a delay, early treatment is the best way to help him or her make progress or even to catch up.
Cognitive Disability: Information on Intellectual Disabilities
Web site:
Information site: Intellectual disabilities, also known as developmental delay or mental retardation, are a group of disorders defined by diminished cognitive and adaptive development. Affecting more males than females, they are diagnosed in between one and three percent of the population.
COGNITIVE PRODUCTS
Assistive Technology for Cognitive Problems: 10 Gadgets and Strategies
Web site:
Product information: 10 Gadgets and Strategies provides information regarding assistive technology, from alarms to smart phones to voice recognition software: Assistive devices, Emergency alert devices, ID Jewelry, Radio tracking devices, Alarms, Devices to assist in communication, Sensors, Locating devices, and Electronic pillboxes.
Livescribe Echo Smartpen Set
Web site:
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Product information: The Livescribe Echo Smartpen Set records notes two ways: it creates digital copies of everything written by hand while recording audio at the same time. It also goes one step further and links the two together, so you can quickly access audio by tapping parts of the notes.
iPod Touch
Web site:
Product information: The iPod Touch is a customizable portable media player, personal digital assistant, and Wi-Fi capable mobile platform. With a touch-screen display and standard applications that enable the end-user to take notes on the go or enter appointments into the calendar.
Read and Write Gold
Web site:
Product information: Read and Write Gold is a literacy or learning software that assists individuals with reading and learning difficulties.
MEDICALLY FRAGILE
FRAGILE MED ORGANIZATIONS
Fragile Kids Foundation
3350 Riverwood Parkway, Suite 1400, Atlanta, Georgia 30339
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Fragile Kids Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 that provides durable medical equipment not covered by private or government insurance to children, ages birth to 22 years, who are residents of the state of Georgia. Our mission is to serve children with neuro-muscular challenges including cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, traumatic injuries and genetic disorders to help improve quality of life. Examples of durable medical equipment include van lifts, ceiling lifts, stair lifts, ramps, positioning seats, adaptive bikes and much more. Applications can be found online at Fragile Kids Foundation | Hope and Help Here and Now for Georgia's Medically Fragile Children
Champions for Children
50 Hurt Plaza, Suite 449, Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 688-5525, Fax (404) 688-3060
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta strengthens the region by providing quality services to donors and innovative leadership on community issues.
Center for Medically Fragile Children
47th Ave., Portland, OR 97213
Phone: (503) 215-2400
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Center for Medically Fragile Children is the only pediatric skilled nursing facility in the Pacific Northwest, providing 24-hour long-term, short-term, respite and end-of-life care to medically fragile children and young people ranging in age from infancy to 21 years.
FRAGILE MED SERVICES
Helen Bernardy Center for Medically Fragile Children Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Helen Bernardy Center for Medically Fragile Children is a skilled nursing and sub-acute facility for children and adolescents with multiple medical, physical and developmental delays.
Medically Fragile: State Policies and Procedures
8001 Frost Street, San Diego, CA 92123
Phone: (858) 966-5833, (858) 966-8558
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The purpose of this document, Medically Fragile: State Policies and Procedures is to provide information on how states handle issues related to children who are medically fragile.
Me Too! Inclusion, Assistive Technology, and Medically Fragile Students Web site:
Information: The purpose of this material from Me Too! Inclusion is to provide school officials with a deeper understanding of the laws, regulations, and cases pertaining to inclusion, with a focus on the role of assistive technology and inclusion of medically fragile children with educational disabilities.
FRAGILE MED PRODUCTS
Note: Products associated with children that are medically fragile need to be tailored to the specific needs of the child. There is no set of tools designed for this population.
Medically fragile classroom ideas
Web site:
Product information: Medically fragile classroom ideas can be found on Pinterest ideas for decorating a room for children who are medically fragile.
MULTIPLY DISABLED
MULTIPLE DISABLED ORGANIZATIONS
Multiple Disabilities (Wiki)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Multiple disabilities is a term for a person with several disabilities, such as a sensory disability associated with a motor disability. Depending on the definition, a severe intellectual disability may be included in the term "multiple disabilities". Individual usually has more than one significant disability, such as movement difficulties, sensory loss, and/or a behavior or emotional disorder.
Multiple Disabilities 34 CFR Section 300.8(c)(7): Multiple disabilities means concomitant impairments (such as intellectual disability & blindness or intellectual disability & orthopedic impairment), the combination of which causes such severe educational needs that they cannot be accommodated in special education programs solely for one of the impairments. Multiple disabilities does NOT include Deaf-Blindness.
Web site:
Multiple Disabilities According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act’s (IDEA), multiple disabilities refers to “concomitant [simultaneous] impairments (such as intellectual disability-blindness, intellectual disability-orthopedic impairment, etc.), the combination of which causes such severe educational needs that they cannot be accommodated in a special education program solely for one of the impairments. The term does not include Deaf-Blind.” Web site:
Multiple Disabilities, Project IDEAL
Web site:
Information: The Project IDEAL Website is part of a teacher preparation program intended to better prepare teachers to work with students with disabilities. Project IDEAL (Informing and Designing Education for All Learners) was made possible by the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). Project IDEAL invites you to explore the site.
Multiple Disabilities: Center for Parent Information
35 Halsey St., Fourth Floor, Newark, NJ 07102
Contact: Myriam Alizo malizo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Center for Parent Information and Resources is charged with providing universal technical assistance to the 96 USDE-funded Parent Centers serving families with children with disabilities. All of the materials on are developed through federal funds and therefore in the public domain. The web address for attributing our material would be .
Resources for Children with Multiple Disabilities
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Resources for Children with Multiple Disabilities
Provides information and resources available to children with disabilities.
MULTIPLE DISABLED SERVICES
GROSS MOTOR DEVELOPMENT IN INFANTS WITH MULTIPLE IMPAIRMENTS
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: When an infant is developmentally delayed or neurologically impaired, these motor skills are often delayed, and do not develop easily. Gross motor skills occur in a typical sequence. However, these skills can only occur as the infant develops the balance, coordination and postural control needed to move his body about in space (Shumway-Cook & Woollacott, 1985).
MULTIPLE DISABLED PRODUCTS
Technology for Students with Multiple Disabilities Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Technology continues to offer new access to information for everyone, and the options change so quickly that it can be overwhelming to try to keep up with what is available. As with any tool, the first question must be how it will support existing goals for an individual student, rather than letting it become an end in itself. In other words, the use of a switch to activate a computer may reinforce the concept of cause and effect and, as such, it can be a tool to help a student to develop important cognitive skills.
Adaptive Equipment to Promote Literacy
Web site:
Information: Adaptive equipment allows students with multiple disabilities to participate in literacy activities, both reading and writing.
Clicker 6 The definitive primary word processor
Web site:
Email: info@
Product information: Clicker 6 is the child-friendly writing tool that enables
pupils of all abilities to significantly develop literacy skills.
Assistive Technology in Education/Physically Handicapped
Wiki Web site:
APPENDIX
PRODUCT CATEGORIES
Portable Talking Dictionaries
Franklin Children’s Talking Dictionary
Features include: Keys speak when pressed, has 44,000 definitions, corrects a
phonetically entered word automatically, keys are color coded, it’s small, measuring less than 7 inches in length, and it works off 4 - AAA batteries.
Franklin “Language Master Speaking Dictionary” model LM-6000se, of all the portable talking dictionaries the most accessible. Features Include: letters are spoken as they are entered and the word is pronounced, approximately 30,000 definitions, thesaurus, several verbal games that are completely accessible, and the screen has four LCD lines. Web site:
Large Print Dictionaries
The “Webster Elementary Dictionary” and an Intermediate level dictionary are available through Library Reproduction Services. They also sell elementary and intermediate level thesauruses. The “Large Print Merriam Webster Collegiate Dictionary” is available through catalogs and Borders bookstores and other local bookstores by special order.
“Easy Learning Dictionaries” Bilingual Large Type Dictionaries in French, Spanish, and German are available through Royal National Institute for the Blind in England.
Atlases
Tactile and braille atlases are available through American Printing House for the Blind. Princeton Braillists sells tactile maps.
A Large Print atlas is available through G.K. Hall. There is an atlas that is not made for visually impaired but has beautiful large print maps with large labels. It is called “National Geographic World Atlas for Young Explorers” (don’t let the title discourage older users from checking this one out). It can be found in or ordered from large bookstores.
Web site: a visually impaired person can E-mail a librarian and ask reference questions on any topic and do research. Dictionaries and Encyclopedias are available through software and online.
A telephone source for information on weather, sports, driving directions, and news is (800) 555-8355, (800) 555-TELL.
Retailers
American Printing House for the Blind Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: APH serves individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. The products include tactile graphics/maps, accessible math supplies, braille, and large-print materials. APH sells hard and soft binders and dividers.
Enable Mart
865 Muirfield Drive, Hanover Park, IL 60133
Phone: (888) 640-1999
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Enable Mart is an assistive technology agency. They serve individuals with several disabilities and carry products such as communication software, type-to-talk devices, picture communicators and amplifiers.
National Geographic Society School Publishing
Phone: (800) 368-2728
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: National Geographic Society provides books in accessible formats regarding world geography.
Catalogs
Catalogs are a valuable means by which to learn what is specifically available for visually-impaired consumers. They contain descriptions of items designed or adapted for use by persons with visual impairments. These catalogs can help parents and friends select gifts that meet a particular need of a person with a visual impairment. Some catalogs are specific in nature, for example those containing only computer software; others are more general, covering a wide range of products. Check specific topics in this book for more information. Most catalogs are free and are sent eagerly by the company.
Publications provide general service information for consumers with visual impairments and for educators and families.
Retailors
American Printing House for the Blind, Web site:
Exceptional Teaching Inc. Web site:
Howe Press, Web site:
catalog
Independent Living Aids, Inc (ILA) Web site:
LS&S Group, Inc. Web site:
Lighthouse NY, Web site:
Maxiaids, Web site:
Speak to Me, Web site:
Graph Paper
Raised line or dark line graph paper with tactile markers and dark pens may be used for graphing purposes. The graph paper comes in various grid sizes from APH (Web site: ). A special board, placed behind graph paper, will hold pushpins to graph on the embossed paper. High Dots or Wikki-Stix can provide graph markers without the board. Tactile dots (felt, foam, etc., often used to protect furniture) are also available in local hardware stores. Graphic tape for connecting dots is available in varied widths from stationery stores. Hot glue guns are also good for drawing axis on graphs.
Retailors
American Printing House for the Blind, Web site:
Exceptional Teaching Aids, Web site:
Paper
Special paper made for writing braille and bold line paper for large print users are available from agencies and companies that provide materials and services for people who are visually impaired. These companies are listed below. Paper can be ordered in a variety of sizes and weights, punched and un-punched. Paper made for use with the brailler, slate and stylus, and various types of bold line paper are available. Fan-fold paper for use with computer-driven braille embossers are available. Most companies selling computer-driven braille embossers also sell fan-fold braille paper.
Braille can also be written on plastic sheets called Braillon. This plastic product is used with a thermoform machine to make copies of ordinary braille masters. Some people like to use these plastic sheets with the slate and stylus because writing on plastic is quieter than writing on paper. Clear plastic sheets which are heavy enough to hold braille dots can be purchased at stationery stores. Such sheets are useful when braille is to be added over print material. Clear plastic self-adhesive sheets can be found in a wide variety of sizes. These are particularly useful for making labels.
Since both braille and large print can be written on almost any kind of paper, local paper suppliers may be able to provide paper which is appropriate to braille or for large print. The following facts may be helpful.
Paper for writing braille needs to have a smooth, hard surface. Index cards and most kinds of typing and computer paper have good surfaces for braille.
Paper used for braille books is usually at least 100 weight. This weight will hold a braille dot for a long time over many readings.
Braille paper designed for notes or other non-permanent uses is usually 70 or 80 weight. It is easier to write with a slate and stylus on this lighter weight paper and lighter weight paper tends to be less expensive. Very light weight paper will hold dots better if it is doubled.
Large print readers often prefer paper with a soft, non-glare surface. A local paper supplier or copy shop may be able to make up paper with the preferred spacing, color, and thickness of writing lines.
Students or others who need help in copying material which is displayed at a distance on chalkboard, overhead projector or the like may find it helpful to keep a supply of NCR paper or a piece of carbon paper handy. The NCR paper or sheet of carbon paper can be given to someone who needs to do the same copying task so that this person can make a carbon or NCR duplicate while copying for him/herself.
Retailors
American Printing House for the Blind, Web site:
American Thermoform Corporation Braillon and fan-fold paper
Web site:
LS&S Group, Web site:
Independent Living Aids/Ann Morris, Web site:
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Maxi Aids, Web site:
Pens and Pencil
Though most stores which sell stationery, school, or printing supplies have a good selection of pens and pencils, it can be hard to find pens and pencils which will make a very sharp dark line, and which do not smear easily. Some may find it worth the trouble to obtain pens and pencils from a company or agency specializing in meeting the needs of visually impaired people.
People who write without the aid of vision will need to find pens having inks that dry very quickly so that the ink does not smear as the fingers move over completed words. Pens with hard tips, like ball point pens, may work better than pens with a softer tip, like felt tip pens, as they conduct more information about the writing surface to the hand holding the pen.
Retailors
Independent Living Aids/Ann Morris, Web site:
Exceptional Teaching Inc. Web site:
Slates and Styluses
A variety of types and sizes of slates and styluses for writing braille is available. Slates vary in the number of lines of cells from 1 to 6 lines. The lines vary in length from a line that is short enough to fit a 3 inch by 5 inch note card and lines that are long enough to fit an 11 1/2 inch wide piece of paper. Slates usually have a hinge at one side which connects the top section and the bottom section. They may have small pins at the corners of either the top or the bottom section which hold the paper, or they may fit on a board which has a clip to hold the paper. On these “board slates,” the slate can be moved very quickly and easily up and down the paper. There is a special slate designed for brailling playing cards, another for making labels for tape cassettes, and another designed specifically for index cards. None of these special slates is hinged. Instead, the top and bottom are connected at three edges. One edge is open so that a card or label can be slipped between the top and the bottom of the slate.
Slates are also available from LS&S Group for writing jumbo braille. This braille may be easier to read for people who have diminished tactual perception.
Retailors
American Printing House for the Blind, Web site:
Ann Morris Enterprises, Cassette label slate and other slates
Web site:
LS&S Group, Jumbo braille slates, Web site:
Writing Aids
Writing guides help a blind person locate the correct area in which to write, to write straight across a line, and space lines evenly. A variety of writing aids can be purchased. Some can be easily made at home. Also, aids which help blind people to learn letter shapes and how to make them are available.
Signature guides are frames, made of light cardboard or plastic. A sighted person places the guide on the sheet of paper so that the cut-out area frames the place where the signature should be written. A visually impaired person can carry such a guide in purse or wallet to have it handy.
A sheet of molded cardboard can be purchased which has ridges spaced like lines on paper. Writing paper is placed on top of the cardboard. The ridges can be felt through the paper, making a line that can be followed tactually. Alternatively, bold line and raised line writing paper is available. Lines made on a braille writer can serve either as raised line paper for writing or as a guide to be used under any kind of writing paper.
To help blind people learn how to form print letters, boards are available, from the American Printing House for the Blind, which have indented letters. Toy stores carry magnetized, plastic letters and letter puzzles which can be used by visually impaired people to learn letter shape
Resources
American Printing House for the Blind, Web site:
LS&S Group, Web site:
Maxi Aids, Web site:
TRANSITION TOOL KIT 2015
A resource guide for California’s blind and low vision teens and young adults in or approaching high-school and the college years
This guide focuses on programs, services and information and resources readily available for adolescents, teens and young adults. What follows is a listing of known transition resources, programs, services including mentions of scholarship and career exploration web listings.
Every attempt has been made to provide the most up to date and accurate information and resources. It is the authors’ intend to provide the most relevant information in order to be of significant value to blind and low vision high-school and college students. In mid-2015, ACCESS, a transition guide formerly housed by CTEBVI will resurface with comprehensive transition resources for students with several disabilities beyond blindness and low vision.
The following listings and notices in some cases may be sponsored by the Department of Rehabilitation (Web site: dor.). DOR provides services and advocacy resulting in employment, independent living and equality for individuals with disabilities.
Whether you are a student, Rehabilitation Counselor, Teacher of the Visually Impaired, parent and/or an advocate, this resource is intended for review, sharing and dissemination to others that could benefit from listed resources. Feedback on additional services and resource listings that are not listed may be submitted for consideration in the next revise.
What follows are but a few of numerous existing programs and services for persons who are blind and disabled. These resources are available at low or no cost in California and nationwide. This resource has a great emphasis focusing on independent living, career exploration information, college and scholarships.
Thank you for the review of the 2015 Transition Tool Kit.
To provide feedback and/or suggest additional information, please E-mail us at: richr_@.
This document exists as a starting point when working and evaluating the needs of blind and low vision teens and young adults.
Some listing announcements may have been edited for space. Contact information for each program generally is listed at the end of each summarized announcement and may include a combination of; contact names, addresses, phone numbers, E-mail and/or web addresses.
For ease of reference, this guide has been divided into the following three sections with subject matter.
SECTION 1:
Assessments & Evaluations: Vision and Technology
After school and seasonal internships and job possibilities
SECTION 2:
Recreation and Wellness Services (California)
Time specific Transition Programs
Year-round Transition Programs
Residential Programs (California only)
SECTION 3:
Vocational Counseling / Mentoring
Student and Parent Advocacy
Social Media Resources
Transition Web Resources
SECTION 1: Assessments & Evaluations: Vision and Technology
By working with Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVIs) in one’s locally assigned school district where an IEP exists, K12 blind and low vision students may be able to receive an assessment for a low vision examination where the TVI can refer the student to the California School for the Blind's assessment center in Fremont.
There are additional centers and college labs across the state that may perform similar evaluations for high school students and Department of Rehabilitation consumers. Please check with Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVI’s), Department of Rehabilitation Counselor’s as well as other Special Education professionals for further details.
Assistive/Adaptive Technology evaluations may also be available through the California School for the Blind on site or in one’s local hometown/school district. Additionally through the Department of Rehabilitation (DoR), comprehensive technology assessments on low vision aids, braille, Closed Circuit TV’s and computer screen and magnification software may be provided by the managing DoR counselor.
It is important to take into consideration that an evaluation for
Rehabilitation technology for a transition age student be considered early in the vocational rehabilitation process so that (when appropriate) necessary technology can be procured early in the student's senior or final year of high school so that familiarization and training on the equipment and software is performed and successfully retained. In most all cases the student's high school district requires that any and all equipment and software loaned to the student during his/her post-secondary education be returned upon or just before graduation/exiting the school system. Thus, the sooner DoR can procure and train the student on this same/similar equipment and software, the better prepared the student will be for entering college and the workforce.
After school and seasonal internships and job possibilities:
I: Paid and unpaid internships, traineeships and volunteering:
Cities and counties across the state often have summer job programs for youth of all abilities through what are often referred to as “summer employment programs for youth". Offered by local city, library, parks and recreation, community centers and county governments, such jobs are seasonal to the summer and often have leadership programs built into them. Check with the city and or county government offices for details. Throughout the summer agencies including the Lighthouse for the Blind in San Francisco, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Enchanted Hills Camp (Lighthouse), Junior Blind, Camp Bloomfield, and the Braille Institute may offer a handful of paid and unpaid counselor in training, internships and volunteer jobs. These are good summer gigs for youth looking for that first ever work experience in often a safe and familiar setting. This is also good exposure for them to know what it takes to be in a working environment not to mention that this promotes healthy work habits, networking and builds confidence.
Additionally, summer job listings may be researched through both local high school and community college or University online newspapers and bulletin boards. Many internet search engines including Google, Bing, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo and others will procure narrowed job listings with accurate search strings. The best time to research summer jobs and internships is February through April. Seeking summer work in May or later may be less successful.
II: Transition Partnership Programs (TPP’s)
Transition Partnership Programs (TPP's) are offered through many high-school districts across California. Often known and referred to as WorkAbility 1 programs, part-time work experience and after school jobs and career preparedness seminars are offered including resume writing, interviewing, disability disclosure along with several other services. Not all school districts offer TPP/WorkAbility 1 programs. Please check with Rehabilitation Specialist and local district TPP representative for appropriate referral information. To download the DOR TPP fact sheet, visit:
Web site:
Additionally, agencies including the Society for the Blind in Sacramento, Junior Blind, the Lighthouse for the Blind in San Francisco, the southern California based Braille Institutes, Palo Alto's Vista Center for the Blind, Lions Center for the Blind in Oakland and the Blind Center in San Diego offer a variety of career readiness activities, workshops, seminars and informational events for youth and young adults. For more information, consult a Department of Rehabilitation blindness specific counselor.
Also be in touch regularly with respective youth/transition program contacts at these agencies to learn of activities available to youth clients. Often these programs can be considered "comparable benefits" and or a "cost savings" as there are little to no cost to have students participate. These agencies in most all cases have newsletters to subscribe to in order to receive new program announcements.
SECTION 2: Recreation and Wellness Services (California:
Across California, there are a number of organizations that provide free to low cost day, weekend and weeklong recreational opportunities for blind and low vision youth and teens.
The Bay Area Outreach & Recreation Program (BORP) offers outdoor activities for youth and adults. BORP is based in Berkeley and hosts outings to Ano Nuevo, provides group hikes, tandem cycling, Santa Cruz boardwalk and attends audio narrated plays and musicals. Visit Web site: for details.
Braille Institute has several offices in southern California from Santa Barbara to San Diego. For specific details, visit Web site:
Junior Blind of America (Web site: ) has Los Angeles campus based activities and special events specifically for youth and teens including seasonal themed Carnivals and the annual Blind Olympics. Junior Blind’s VISIONS Adventures In Learning program offers youth exceptional enrichment activities including High Ropes Course outings, downhill skiing, White Water Rafting and more. Finally, Camp Bloomfield is a residential summer camp in Malibu offering youth and family week long camps all summer long. For more details please call 888.400.4522.
The Lighthouse for the Blind & Visually Impaired in San Francisco offers recreation activities for youth and teens. Visit Web site: lighthouse- for details or phone 415.431.1481. The Lighthouse also has Enchanted Hills Camp, a residential summer camp for blind youth and families from June through August.
In Palo Alto, the Vista Center for the Blind (Web site: ) offers a variety of outings for youth including ice skating, a Teens Together peer group and similar enrichment opportunities. Please call (650) 858-0202 for more information.
Transition Programs (Spring/Summer – use contact information)
Parent Workshop on Transition age youth with multiple disabilities,
Contact Sarah Lopez Phone: (323) 295-4555, ext. 247, slopez@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Transition aged youth information is presented by: AFB, NAPVI & Junior Blind. Join the American Foundation for the Blind, NAPVI and Junior Blind at the Junior Blind’s Los Angeles campus for a day of networking and learning.
Transition Summit at Enchanted Hills Camp
Join the LightHouse for the Blind & Visually Impaired for a weekend of learning and gaining skills in preparation for life after high school. For more details, please call (415) 431-1481.
Transition Services Open House
Junior Blind is pleased to be hosting the annual Transition Services Open House on the Los Angeles campus to students and families from throughout southern California to learn about the variety of pre-employment and independent living programs offered. Junior Blind’s Student Transition & Enrichment Program (STEP), Davidson Program for Independence (DPI), Transition & Rehabilitation program and The Hatlen Center will be featured. Lunch will be served by STEP program students. Please RSVP by calling (323) 295-4555 x 527.
Transition Resource Faire!
The Department of Rehabilitation, Junior Blind, Society for the Blind and other agencies will collaborate to provide this event.
Location: Department of Rehabilitation, 721 Capital Mall. Sacramento CA
A great opportunity for Blind and Low Vision Youth ages 14-24 in the process of Transition towards a new stage of higher education and/or employment. TVI’s, O&M’s, and other related service providers are also welcome. Listen to guest speakers talk about what it takes to be successful in life as well as to service providers from the Department of Rehabilitation and agency representatives talking about available transition and career readiness programs.
To RSVP E-mail Rob Schulenburg: rschulenburg@ or telephone (888) 400-4522 x 459.
2015 California Chemistry Camp:
Would you like to learn how blind people tackle the very visual subject of organic chemistry successfully? Do you have a general love for science? Are you a blind or low vision teenager considering a career in chemistry? Then the 2015 California Chemistry Camp is for you! For an application or questions for this free camp, contact Angela Fowler, Director of Planning, Accessible Science at fowlers@, or (530) 902-0987.
2015 Skills & Training for Real Education and Employment Transition: (STREET Week)
With a significant focus on Independent Living Skills development, Self Determination, and taking initiative, participants will take part in enriching leadership development seminars and hands on learning activities including museum visits, college tours, and urban exploration excursions. Late afternoon and early evenings, students will engage in group dynamics and leadership exercises that will stress critical thinking and application of travel and independent living skills. Lodging will be near public transportation with access to a variety of famous and unique landmarks. This nine day long outing will have a heavy focus on leadership development, cultivation of Daily Living Skills, Self Determination and immersion in travel training competencies.
Applicants shall be consumers of the Department of Rehabilitation. Spaces available for 15 persons ages 16 to 22. For more details, please contact Robert Schulenburg, Junior Blind at (888) 400-4522 x 459,
E-mail rschulenburg@.
The Summer Transition Education Program (STEP) Fremont
A cooperative venture between the State Department of Rehabilitation and the California School for the Blind. Participants in this program are public high school students or graduates from public school, ages 16 - 21. Students must be clients of the Department of Rehabilitation. Referral form and Authorizations are needed. Interested persons should contact Ann Linville, Director of Transition Services at CSB for more information at (510) 794-3800 x 262 or by E-mail at: alinville@csb-cde.. Apply at: Web site:.csb-cde..
2015 Student Transition & Enrichment Program (STEP), Los Angeles
The Junior Blind and the Dept. of Rehabilitation are sponsoring and leading three residential, 3-week career readiness workshops during the summer months of June through August. Each session is referred to as the, “Summer Transition Enrichment Program,” (STEP). There are two sessions for first time participants. These programs are for high school student's ages 16 to 22. To be eligible for this program, students MUST be a consumer of the Department of Rehabilitation, and a referral form and Authorizations are needed. Interested persons should contact Ethan Meigs, Transition Services Coordinator at (323) 295-4555 x 464 or by E-mail at: emeigs@.
Youth Leadership Forum
The Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is a five-day leadership program for junior and senior high school students. The forum provides information on technology, resource agencies, education, and employment. During the forum, delegates participate in intensive workgroups that focus on advocacy and personal leadership plans. Delegates meet other peers with disabilities from throughout California. They interact with mentors in the community and learn about the legislation process. This five-day event has lasting life-changing effects on the delegates attending. For complete details and to apply for YLF, visit:
Web site: , Call: (855) 894-3436,
E-mail: YLF@dor..
Deaf-Blind Summer Seminar at Helen Keller- National Center:
Share two weeks of the summer with peers! Explore vocational goals! Learn strategies for college planning! If Deaf-Blind, and a junior or senior in high school, the Helen Keller National Center is offering a 2-week program this July and August. For assistance with the SUMMER SEMINAR, contact: The HKNC Regional Representative or Admissions Coordinator by phone at (516) 944-8900 x 258. Also visit: Web site: for additional details.
College Preparatory Program at World Services for the Blind
Little Rock, Arkansas
World Services for the Blind is offering a College Preparatory Program for blind or visually impaired high school students who are rising juniors and seniors, as well as older students who wish to return to college. The program is designed to evaluate the student’s basic skills and to provide the training needed for a successful college career. For more information, please visit: Web site:
Louisiana Center for the Blind STEP Program
The Summer Training and Employment Project (STEP) Program is designed to introduce blind teenagers to positive blind role models and to provide participants with summer work experience. Students learn alternative techniques in blindness and then work fifteen to twenty hours a week at a local business earning minimum wage. This unforgettable eight-week summer program is open to high school students who are seeking to learn valuable skills and build resume through work experience. For more information, please visit: Web site: or call: (800) 234-4166.
Summer for Success – College Prep at the Colorado Center for the Blind
Summer for Success College Prep Program
Ages: High school graduates and older
8-week residential program, Web site: , (303) 778-1130.
Blind Inc. – Summer PREP program (Minneapolis MN):
PREP (formerly Life 101) The Post-secondary Readiness & Empowerment Program (PREP) allows teenagers to learn the skills they need to keep up with peers and prepares them to attend college or join the workforce. For more information, or to have an application for Prep mailed or e-mailed to you, telephone (800) 597-9558.
PAID INTERNSHIPS and MENTORING for students with disabilities pursuing computing!
The Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Washington and DO-IT (Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and
Technology) sponsor the Access Computing Alliance for the purpose of increasing the participation of people with disabilities in computing careers. College students with disabilities who are pursuing Computer Science and other computing majors are encouraged to join the Access Computing Team. Team members are eligible for help with paid computing internships and mentoring. The application is at:
Web site: .
This project is funded by the National Science Foundation. For more information, or help with the application, contact DO-IT at (888) 972-3648 or for more information, contact AccessComputing Coordinator/Counselor Brianna Blaser at (206) 685-3648 (V/TTY) or blaser@uw.edu. Web site:
Year-round Transition Programs
New Foundations
Lions Center for the Blind (Oakland CA)
Designed to address a systemic absence of employment education available for the visually impaired job-seeker, New Foundations tackles the unspoken and inherent requirements for any person in the professional world: problem solving, motivation, advocacy, organization, analytical thinking, and awareness of ones’ abilities and potential. Built into a group setting, individuals take ownership over professional development and alter outcomes for themselves and peers through a rigorous, supportive, and engaging curriculum. Beyond the employment portfolio, participating students will engage with the real-world barriers they face through the job hunt, and learn to overcome them. For more information contact the Employment Services Department at (510) 450-1580 x 258.
Student Transition & Enrichment Program (STEP) Mobile workshops
Junior Blind hosts year round Saturday and often weekend long STEP career workshops that serves as an introduction and or a follow up to the existing summer STEP program. Throughout the year, one day and weekend long career workshops are held with different career and college preparation themes. To be eligible for this program, students MUST be a consumer of the Department of Rehabilitation. A referral form and Authorizations are needed. For mobile workshop information, please contact Ethan Meigs, Transition Services Coordinator at (323) 295-4555 x 464.
Transition and Youth Services at Braille Institute
In southern California, there are five regional centers from San Diego to Santa Barbara. The Braille Institute offers a variety of youth and Transition services to blind and low vision youth, teens and young adults. Programs include the Braille Challenge, Cane Quest, Independence University, Stepping Stones to Success and other career exploration offerings. For more details on each location, please visit: Web site: .
Residential Programs (in California)
Blind and low vision adults ages 18 and older exiting high school may be eligible for entering into one of California’s three residential independent living programs. The focus of these programs prepare transition age young adults and older adults with recent vision loss the opportunity to tackle the critical skills of learning to live independently through comprehensive offerings of learning advanced Orientation and Mobility, braille, additional safety and travel training, cooking, advocacy, assistive technology as well as engaging in prevocational career exploration. Lodging and duration of program often ranges from six-months to one-year. Each program has a unique design and specific service of delivery style.
The California programs include:
Davidson Program for Independence (DPI), Junior Blind, Los Angeles CA
Web site:
The Hatlen Center for the Blind,
San Pablo CA, Web site:
State of California’s Orientation Center for the Blind.
San Pablo CA, Web site:
SECTION 3: Vocational Counseling / Mentoring
Department of Rehabilitation (DoR) is a State of California government service providing vocational counseling on employment resources, job accommodations and advocacy for eligible blind and disabled citizens. For application and office location information, visit Web site: dor..
Realizing Education and Career Hopes (REACH) is Junior Blind’s early outreach program for middle and high school students who are blind or low vision, and interested in pursuing careers and/or higher education. REACH helps youth, ages 12-20, who are blind or low vision and interested in pursuing careers and/or higher education. Participants must reside in California and possess the academic potential to achieve a high school diploma or equivalent. Beginning with an assessment followed by goal setting activities and linking students and families to critical resources and linking mentors, REACH strives to assure that students achieve college and career readiness success. Call REACH at (888) 400-4522, ext. 460 and speak with one of Junior Blind’s experts in transition services.
Career Connect:
CareerConnect is a web based resource from the American Foundation for the Blind. CareerConnect presents employment information, career exploration tools, and extensive job seeking guidance for students and adults with vision loss and the professionals who work with them. At Web site: students can explore careers and make connections with existing blind professionals.
Student and Parent Advocacy:
I: Student
In California there are two well-known student organizations that advocate on behalf of blind students, as well as host social and recreational events and seminars year round. These groups possess a wealth of student related resources for persons in high-school and in college. To learn more about The California Blind Students, please call (800) 221-6359 or visit the parent Web page (California Council of the Blind) at Web site: .
To learn more about The California Association of Blind Students, please call (877) 558-6524 or visit the parent web-page (National Federation of the Blind of California) at Web site: .
II: Parent
CAPVI (the California Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments) is the California affiliate of NAPVI, the National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments. CAPVI provides a variety of resources and information for parents and children throughout California. CAVPI hosts annual meetings and workshops at the annual CTEBVI conference each spring. Visit Web site: for additional information.
Social Media Resources
Social media is one of several ways to stay current on trends as well as to learn about resources. A new Twitter feed, Transition to Thrive has been established for blind and low vision teens and young adults in California. This Twitter feed will supply followers with daily and weekly tips and resources on college readiness articles, scholarship notices as well as trends for higher education and career exploration. Visit: transition411.
There are many benefits to having a Twitter account. It’s easy to set up and also is very accessible on the Apple IOS (iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad) and Android platforms.
Transition Web Resources:
The internet provides ample resources. Following are but a few links that have been referenced and used for various Transition planning needs and assessments.
AHEAD
107 Commerce Centre Drive, Suite 204, Huntersville, NC 28078 USA
Phone: (704) 947-7779, Fax (704) 948-7779
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AHEAD produces a wide variety of publications that address disability challenges and solutions in higher education and beyond.
Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
(800)526-7234 (voice)
(877)781-9403 (TTY)
Email: jan@
Website:
The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is the leading source of free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. Working toward practical solutions that benefit both employer and employee, JAN helps people with disabilities enhance their employability, and shows employers how to capitalize on the value and talent that people with disabilities add to the workplace. JAN’s trusted consultants offer one-on-one guidance on workplace accommodations, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related legislation, and self-employment and entrepreneurship options for people with disabilities. Assistance is available both over the phone and online. JAN is a service of the Office of Disability Employment Policy within U.S. Department of Labor.
California Career Center (CalCRN)
Web site:
E-mail: calcrn@cde.
Agency/business Profile: The California CareerZone system is a career exploration website that allows students and job seekers like you to learn more about the world of work and how you can be successful in it. The California Career Center (CalCC) Web portal is a comprehensive “virtual counselor” with career and college resources and tools to help students begin their career journey.
California Department of Rehabilitation
P.O. Box 944222, Sacramento, CA 94244-2220
Phone: (916) 324-1313, (916) 558-5480
Web site: rehab.
E-mail: blindinfo@dor.
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) administering the largest vocational rehabilitation program in the country. DOR offers a broad range of career opportunities for advancement and training, along with State government service benefits. If you are ready to make a difference, the California Department of Rehabilitation invites you to join the DOR!
California Department of Social Services
744 P Street, M.S. 8-16-94, Sacramento, California 95814
Phone: (916) 657-3327 Voice, (916) 653-4001 Fax
E-mail us at: BlindAccess@dss.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: California Department of Social Services
Handbook of Resources and Services has been prepared to provide an overview of services available to a person with vision loss and is not intended to replace in-depth information about any particular service or program.
Career One Stop
Phone: (877) US2-JOBS, (877) 872-5627, or TTY (877) 872-5627
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CareerOneStop is a source for employment information and inspiration, the place to manage a career, the pathway to career success, and tools to help job seekers, students, businesses and career professionals.
College Curriculum
The Hatlen Center for the Blind has assembled an impressive College Curriculum guide complete with easy to follow individual sections:
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: This project was developed by Denise Vancil’s (former
student at The Hatlen Center and Hatlen Center instructor).
College Guide
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: College Guide for youth with disabilities looking at the
possibility of college.
Find Youth Info, Web site:
Agency/business Profile: is the U.S. government website that helps
create, maintain, and strengthen effective youth programs.
Going to College
Box 842011, Richmond, Virginia 23284-2011
Phone: (804) 828-1851, Fax (804) 828-2193, TTY (804) 828-2494
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Going to College Web site were developed under a grant from the Office of Special Education Programs, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), U.S. Department of Education (# H324M030099A).
National Transition Alliance for Youth with Disabilities (NTA)
University of Minnesota
6 Pattee Hall
150 Pillsbury Drive SE
Minneapolis MN 55455
E-mail: ncset@umn.edu
Web site:
Phone: (612) 624-2097
Fax: (612) 624-9344
Agency/business Profile: The National Transition Alliance for Youth with Disabilities (NTA) was jointly funded from 1995-2001 by the U.S. Departments of Education and Labor to promote the transition of youth with disabilities. Online versions of NTA products not found elsewhere on the Internet can be found here.
CA Transition Alliance
Web site:
The Transition Alliance is established as a 501(c ) (3) non profit corporation. It has evolved to broaden its focus from WorkAbility I to advocacy for secondary transition for youth with disabilities. It continues to focus on programs that support and sustain transition efforts in California. It is currently represented on the California Community of Practice in Transition State Leadership Team.
Youth Move
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Youth Move website is designed to provide information, strategies, and resources to transition navigators to teachers, counselors, family members, and community providers to guide youth on the move.
GUIDANCE AND CAREER TOOL KIT
This Toolkit is intended to help guidance and career counselors to better assist high school students with disabilities in accomplishing transitions into postsecondary education and employment. Professionals working in the area of transition can inspire and encourage students with disabilities to strive for high standards of living, learning, and working; goals that are applicable for ALL students. As professionals working with students with disabilities, everyone must work to reduce the persistent gap in opportunities that separates these students from peers without disabilities.
HEATH Resource Center at George Washington University
2134 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20052-0001
Phone: (202) 994-1000
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Since 2000, the HEATH Resource Center has served as a national clearinghouse on postsecondary education for individuals with disabilities, managed by the George Washington University Graduate School of Education and Human Development.
Special Education: Basics and Beyond (power point)
An overview of the laws and protections of children with disabilities, designed for parents, covering school-age children. This power point is provided by the Disability Rights and Defense Fund and can be found at Web site: DREDF-BASICS-and-BEYOND.ppt.
Guidance and Career Counselor’s Toolkit:
Advising High School Students with Disabilities on Postsecondary Options
This Toolkit is the result of careful collaboration over many months by staff, faculty, professionals, and consumers. Staff of the GW HEATH Resource Center gratefully acknowledges the following individuals for contributing so generously of time, expertise, and insight. Each, in his or her own way, ensured a final product the Staff of the GW HEATH Resource Center is proud and eager to share not only with counselors who are guiding students toward options after high school, but to anyone interested in the prospects of students with disabilities to lead productive, self-determined, and independent lives.
This document can be found on the George Washington University, National Clearinghouse on Postsecondary Education for Individuals with Disabilities Health Resource Center Web site at .
“Some thoughts about using ACCESS” by Liz Cooper
I found ACCESS when I began student teaching in the 1980’s. My master teacher knew what a valuable tool it was and instructed me to introduce it to a high school senior who I was working with in Orientation and Mobility for a few minutes of each of the sessions together. At first, I thought this was going to be a boring task, one that would both come to dread at the end of each of the times together. After the first time that we started to explore ACCESS together, we both found that it was a very valuable resource; one that helped me as a new teacher and my senior student to learn about all of the resources that were available upon graduation from high school. For several weeks, for ten to fifteen minutes of each session, we read together and discussed the articles that were pertinent and of interest to my student. Once we completed our exploration of ACCESS we were both well informed about how he was going to order materials when he needed them, and access other resources such as recreational opportunities and organizations for the visually impaired.
Transitioning from high school to further education, vocational training, employment and/or homemaking is an amazing leap for students. Knowing how to access the resources and materials that have always been provided and supported in elementary through high school can be daunting. ACCESS is a tool that can help with that process. It was designed as a compilation of articles written by transcribers, teachers of the visually impaired and mobility specialists about the resources, materials, and opportunities that are available for adults who are visually impaired.
ACCESS can be introduced by teachers to the graduating students in a variety of ways. It can be shared in short sessions as I did as a young teacher, or students can be given assignments to explore the web links and discuss or write about what was found. The key is to share ACCESS with young people who are visually impaired in a deliberate way, rather than simply providing them with a braille or large print copy.
Throughout the years that I taught high school students I continued to help them order and become familiar with ACCESS, and I always felt that I was sending them off with a valuable transition tool. We hope that the new and updated version ACCESS will continue to provide important informational support to young adults who are visually impaired as they learn to independently and successfully grow into the future.
MENTORS AND PATHWAY LEADERS
The World's Most Famous Disabled People
E-mail: admin@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Famous People with Various Disabilities and conditions
including actors, politicians and writers who contributed to society.
Famous People with Disabilities
Phone: (450) 844-0576
E-mail admin@disabled-
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Famous People with Disabilities provides a list of some famous and well known people with various disabilities and conditions including actors, politicians and writers who contributed to society.
Famous People with Disabilities
Agency/business Profile: Famous People with Disabilities provides a list of famous people with disabilities.
Celebrities with Learning and Attention Issues
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The goal Celebrities with Learning and Attention Issues
is to help the millions of parents whose children, ages 3–20, are struggling with learning and attention issues. Providing names of celebrities that struggle with challenges helps normalize youth with similar disabilities.
Famous people with illnesses or disabilities
200 Independence Avenue SW, Room 712E, Washington, DC 20201
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of , developed by the Office on Women’s Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is to promote healthy, positive behaviors in girls between the ages of 10 and 16 by providing examples of Famous people with illnesses or disabilities profiles.
Famous scientists and inventors with disabilities
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Famous scientists and inventors with disabilities provides a list of successful people with disabilities.
Famous Deaf People in Education, Arts, Writers
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Famous Deaf People in Education, Arts, Writers is a
collection of famous deaf individuals.
Famous Deaf People
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Famous Deaf People is a list of people who are examples of accomplished individuals who happen to be deaf.
Deaf People in History
1095 Meigs Street, Rochester, NY 14620-2405
E-mail: editor@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Deaf People in History Web site commemorates deaf
people whose accomplishments are part of history.
Famous Blind People
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The list from Wikipedia provides names of famous people who are blind or visually impaired.
Famous Blind People
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Hosted by New Health Guide this site, Famous Blind People,
provide biographies of famous people who are blind.
Famous People with Learning Disabilities
Agency/business Profile: The Famous People with Learning Disabilities Web site provides information on the lives of people who have learning disabilities.
Disabled Sports USA
451 Hungerford Drive, Suite 100, Rockville, Maryland 20850
Phone: (301) 217-0960
E-mail: Email Info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Disabled Sports USA’s mission is to provide national leadership and opportunities for individuals with disabilities to develop independence, confidence, and fitness through participation in community sports, recreation and educational programs.
ORGANIZATION CONTACT INFORMATION
Alphabetical listing of organizations and vendors found in the ACCESS transition guide.
AAC & Communication
Web site:
Product information: A complete line of user-friendly Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools and systems for children and adults who are unable or reluctant to use voices.
Ability Jobs and Job Access
Web site: //
Agency/business Profile: The Goal of JobAccess and ABILITYJobs is to enable people
with disabilities to enhance professional lives by providing a dedicated system for
finding employment. ABILITY Magazine at //. An award-
winning publication, distributed by Time-Warner. For over 25 years, its mission has
been to provide new insights into our individual levels of ability.
Able National Resource Center (ANRC)
1667 K Street, NW - Suite 640
Washington, DC 20006
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: A collaborative that brings together the investment, support
and resources of the country’s largest and most influential national disability organizations in an effort to accelerate the design and availability of ABLE accounts to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities and their families.
Abledata
103 W. Broad Street, Suite 400, Falls Church, VA 22046.
Phone: (800) 227-0216
Web site:
Email: abledata@
Agency/business Profile: Welcome to AbleData, the premier database for unbiased, comprehensive information on products, solutions and resources to improve productivity and ease life’s tasks.
The ACB
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ACB Radio, a project of the American Council of the Blind, streams via the internet, up-to-date and relevant information worldwide for persons who are blind or who have low vision, provides programming produced by blind programmers, and a platform on which blind musicians and artists express talents.
Access Abilities
PO Box 458, Mill Valley, CA 94942.
Phone: (415) 388-3250
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AccessAbility, Inc. provides an array of programs and services to meet the changing life needs of adults with a variety of barriers to employment and community inclusion including individuals with disabilities and economic disadvantages. The goal for most individuals is placement in a community job.
Access Ingenuity
3635 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, CA 95405
Phone: (877) 579-4380, (707) 579-4380
Email: customerservice@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Access Ingenuity was founded in January 2002, to provide assistive technology and accessibility services and solutions for people with disabilities and organizations working with people with disabilities throughout California. Assistive technology solutions include low vision magnification systems for the visually impaired, Braille displays, screen reading and screen magnification software, scan and read solutions, as well as voice recognition and learning disability software.
Access to Medical Care for Individuals with Mobility Disabilities
Phone: (800) 514-0301 (voice), (800) 514-0383 (TTY)
Pamphlet site:
Access USA
P.O. Drawer160, 242 James Street, Clayton, NY 13624
Phone: (800) 263-2750
E-mail: info@access-
Web site: access-
Agency/business Profile: Access-USA, using the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act, is opening doors in the business world. Employers have found that employees with disabilities have proven to be hard working and reliable, while accommodations are often less complicated or expensive than anticipated. Good employees make good consumers and these consumers have desires, disposable incomes and disabilities.
Accessible GPS
Web site:
Product information: Mike May and Charles LaPierre began working on the first accessible GPS prototype at Arkenstone in 1994. In addition to the Sendero based GPS products there is one stand-alone Trekker product from HumanWare and a GPS app for Android devices from APH called Nearby Explorer. The great thing for blind people is that there are options to fit a variety of needs and way-finding situations.
Accessible Magazines from the APH
American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, P.O. Box 6085, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: APH is proud to offer accessible editions of Reader’s Digest ®, Newsweek®, and Scholastic News® (formerly Weekly Reader®) to eligible readers who are blind and visually impaired. Subscriptions to Reader’s Digest® and Newsweek® are FREE to eligible U.S. citizens, although donations are appreciated to help defray costs.
Accessible Media Inc. (AMI)
1090 Don Mills Road, Suite 200, Toronto, ON M3C 3R6
Phone: (617) 300-3400, Voice (617) 300-2489 TTY
Contact: Robert Pearson, Accessibility Officer robert.pearson@ami.ca
Web site: ami.ca
Agency/business Profile: Described Video Best practices at
is a
PDF document on the Web created for the producers of descriptive programming in
Canada in efforts to provide guidance.
Accessible Sewing equipment and accessories
Web site: //.uk/leisure/sewing-equipment-and-accessories-1634-p/
Agency/business Profile: Product available online
Adaptive Equipment to Promote Literacy
Web site:
Information: Adaptive equipment allows students with multiple disabilities to participate in literacy activities, both reading and writing.
Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD)
One Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 401-4634
E-mail: aclinfo@acl.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ACL brings together the efforts and achievements of the Administration on Aging, the Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, and the HHS Office on Disability to serve as the Federal agency responsible for increasing access to community supports, while focusing attention and resources on the unique needs of older Americans and people with disabilities across the lifespan.
AHEAD
107 Commerce Centre Drive, Suite 204, Huntersville, NC 28078 USA
Phone: (704) 947-7779, Fax (704) 948-7779
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AHEAD produces a wide variety of publications that address disability challenges and solutions in higher education and beyond.
Ai Squared
130 Taconic Business Park Road
Manchester Center, VT 05255
Phone: (802) 362-3612
Web site:
Email: sales@
Agency/business Profile: Ai Squared serves individuals of all ages that utilize screen
reading and magnification software.
Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
3417 Volta Place, NW, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: (202) 337-5220
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AG Bell advocates for the needs of children who are deaf and hard of hearing and use listening and spoken language.
Alheimer Tracking Devices
Secure Care Products, LLC., 39 Chenell Drive, Concord, NH 03301
Phone: (800) 451-7917
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: Alheimer Tracking Devices provides information on the use
of electronic monitoring devices in an attempt to protect these vulnerable individuals,
while still being mindful of the need for independence and dignity.
Alliance for Technology Access (ATA)
1119 Old Humboldt Road, Jackson, TN 38305
Phone: (800) 914-3017, (731) 554-5282, Fax 731-554-5283, TTY 731-554-5284
Email: atainfo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the ATA is to increase the use of technology by children and adults with disabilities and functional limitations.
Alternative Text Production Center (ATPC)
1175 Calle Suerte, Camarillo, California 93012
Phone: TTY (805) 383-0187, Fax (805) 383-9202
Web site:
Email: braille@
Agency/business Profile: ATPC is the post-secondary services program for students attending junior college in Southern California needing braille, large print, and accessible digital files for college coursework.
Ambutech
34 DeBaets St., Winnipeg, Canada R2J 3S9
Phone: (800) 561-3340
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AmbuTech is a leading manufacturer and marketer of mobility
canes and mobility aids for the blind and visually impaired. Since its inception in 1985,
the company has grown to be the dominant supplier of these products in Europe and
North America. AmbuTech distributes mobility products to over 50 countries around the
world.
American Academy of Ophthalmology
P.O. Box 7424, San Francisco, CA 94120-7424
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) is a professional medical association of ophthalmologists. The AAO's stated mission is "to advance the lifelong learning and professional interests of ophthalmologists ... to ensure that the public can obtain the best possible eye care".
American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults
1800 Johnson Street, Baltimore, MD21230
Phone: (410) 659-9315, Fax: (410) 659-5129
Web site:
E-mail: actionfund@
Agency/business Profile: The American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults is an organization devoted to assisting blind youth, elderly blind and, deaf blind individuals when they are not able to find the assistance they need from governmental agencies or other entities. The American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults' name used to be just American Action Fund, but was changed to better identify the groups of individuals for which they provided services.
American Association of the Deaf Blind
PO Box 8064, Silver Spring, MD 20907-8064
Phone: (301) 563-9064 (Video Phone)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AADB is a national consumer organization of, by, and for deaf-blind Americans and supporters. “Deaf-blind” includes all types and degrees of dual vision and hearing loss. Membership consists of deaf-blind people from diverse backgrounds, as well as family members, professionals, interpreters, and other interested supporters.
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
501 3rd Street, NW Suite 200, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 387-1968 voice, (202) 387-2193 fax
E-mail: books@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AAIDD promotes progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and universal human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
American Blind Bowling Association
320 South Gramercy Pl., Suite 205
Los Angeles, CA 90020
Phone: (710) 745-5986
E-mail:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the American Blind Bowling Association is to promote interest in bowling activities among legally blind men and women in North America, to assist and supervise all member leagues and individual bowlers, to provide awards for outstanding achievement in sanctioned competition, and to promote, conduct and manage an annual championship blind bowling tournament.
American Council of the Blind
2200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 650, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (800) 424-8666, (202) 467-5081, Fax: (703) 465-5085
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The American Council of the Blind serves individuals of all ages who are blind or low vision. They house a list of agencies and groups that transcribe books and other resources are listed as well. Information may be accessed through the website or by phone. Offers college scholarships for students who are legally blind in both eyes. Applications are available on the website around December 1, and are due back March 1. Holds an annual conference with a large trade show featuring the latest high- and low-tech items designed for blind and visually impaired people. Publishes a magazine, “The ACB Braille Forum,” every other month in braille, large print, on four-track cassette and IBM-compatible CD; also available on the website (readable and downloadable files), podcast and via e-mail. Holds annual legislative seminar featuring a day on Capitol Hill.
American Council on Education
1 Dupont Circle, Suite 250, Washington, D.C. 20036
Phone: (202) 939-9490
Web site: acenet.edu
E-mail comments@ace.nche.edu
Agency/business Profile: ACE is consistently at the center of federal policy debates in areas critical to higher education. Because of the role as a convener of higher education associations and agencies, the higher education community is able to speak with one clear voice on vital issues affecting institutions and students.
American Diabetes Association
1701 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone: (800)-DIABETES, (800) 342-2383
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: American Diabetes Association led the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fight for those affected by diabetes.
American Foundation for the Blind
2 Penn Plaza, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10121
Phone: (212) 502-7600
E-mail:
Web site: Contact information: Mark Richert, Director of Public PolicyE-mail: mrichert@, Phone: (202) 469-6833
Agency/business Profile: The American Foundation for the Blind removes barriers, creates solutions, and expands possibilities so people with vision loss can achieve full potential.
American Foundation for the Blind, San Francisco
44 Montgomery Street, Suite 1305
San Francisco, CA 94104
Phone: (415) 392-4845
E-mail: sanfran@
The American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA)
4720 Montgomery Ln Suite 200 Bethesda, MD 20814-3449
Phone: (800) SAY-AOTA (729-2682), Non-members (301) 652-6611
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The American Occupational Therapy Association’s Media Relations Office focuses on promoting and protecting the professional interests of more than 140,000 occupational therapy practitioners nationwide.
American Printing House for the Blind Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Article: Considerations for Blind Travelers using GPS
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: APH serves individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. The products include tactile graphics/maps, accessible math supplies, braille, and large-print materials. APH sells hard and soft binders and dividers.
American Psychiatric Association
Web site:
Email: apa@
Article: Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder at
Agency/business Profile: The new diagnosis of social (pragmatic) communication disorder (SCD) in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) will more accurately recognize individuals who have significant problems using verbal and nonverbal communication for social purposes, leading to impairments in the ability to effectively communicate, participate socially, maintain social relationships, or otherwise perform academically or occupationally.
American Society for Deaf Children
800 Florida Avenue, NE #2047, Washington, DC 20002-3695
Phone: (800) 942-2732
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ASDC is the premier source of information for people who must make decisions about deaf children: providers, educators, legislators, and advocates. These principles apply regardless of whether the family chooses a cochlear implant for the child, hearing aids, other hearing technology, or no hearing technology at all.
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Definitions of Communication Disorders and Variations (glossary)
Web site:
Email:
Agency/business Profile: Definitions of Communication Disorders and Variations is a glossary for communication disorder is an impairment in the ability to receive, send, process, and comprehend concepts or verbal, nonverbal and graphic symbol systems.
American Thermoform Corporation
1758 Brackett Street, La Verne, CA 91750
Phone: (800) 331-3676, (909) 593-6711
Web site:
E-mail: service@
Agency/business Profile: American Thermoform Corporation (ATC) was founded in 1962 with the introduction of a revolutionary product – the Thermoform 55 Brailon Duplicator. The Brailon Duplicator and its specially formulated plastic-like sheeting material allowed users to create multiple copies of Braille in a remarkably quick manner.
AppleVIS: iOS Apps Developed Specifically for the Blind or People with Low Vision
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AppleVIS provides information regarding iOS apps that have been developed specifically for the blind or people with low vision. Utilizing the potential of Apple's iDevices, these apps are intended to assist with everyday tasks, increase independence and generally make things easier.
AppyAutism A web catalog to help find the most suitable apps for every person with autism!
Web site:
Product Information: AppyAutism provides informational on apps appropriate for people who have autism.
The ARC
1825 K Street NW, Suite 1200, Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (202) 534-3700 (800) 433-5255
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports full inclusion and participation in the community throughout lifetimes.
Ask JAN
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Ask JAN is found on the Department of Labor regarding job
information for people with disabilities.
Asperger Syndrome Education Network (ASPEN),
9 Aspen Circle, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (732) 321-0880
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ASPEN provides families and individuals whose lives are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities with: Education about the issues surrounding the disorders, support in knowing that they are not alone, and advocacy in areas of appropriate educational programs, medical research funding, adult issues and increased public awareness and understanding. ASPEN is a national volunteer 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
Assistance Dog Special Allowance
Office of Services to the Blind
744 P Street, MS 8-16-94
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 657-2628 (Voice)
(916) 653-7651 (TTY)
Email: ADSAUser@dss.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ADSA Program provides monthly payment of $50 to guide dog users, or service dog to help w/ needs related to disabilities. The allowance helps pay the costs of food, grooming, & health care for the dogs.
Assistive Technology, Adapted Products & Apps
7500 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD 21244-1850
Phone: (800) MEDICARE, (800) 633-4227)
Web site: durable medical equipment (DME)
Agency/business Profile: Assistive Technology provides a means to learn about how the health care law (Affordable Care Act or ACA) affects people with Medicare.
Assistive Technology for Cognitive Problems: 10 Gadgets and Strategies
Web site:
Product information: Here’s the rundown on assistive technology, from alarms to smart phones to voice recognition software: Assistive devices, Emergency alert devices, ID Jewelry, Radio tracking devices, Alarms, Devices to assist in communication, Sensors, Locating devices, and Electronic pillboxes.
Assistive Technology for Kids with LD: An Overview
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Assistive Technology for Kids with LD is an article focused specifically on AT for individuals with learning disabilities.
Assistive Technology in Education/Physically Handicapped Wiki Web site: Agency/business Profile: Assistive Technology in Education/Physically Handicapped Web site provides adaptive curriculum and materials for students with disabilities.
AssistiveWare
1016 PL Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Fax: +31-20-6128266
email: info@
Website:
Email:support@
Agency/business Profile: AssistiveWare develops assistive technology software for iOS and Mac OS X. This includes well known products such as Proloquo2Go and Proloquo4Text that provide a voice for people with speech impairments, as well as apps and applications supporting people with physical, vision, writing and reading challenges.
Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind & Visually Impaired
1703 N. Beauregard Street, Suite 440, Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone: (877) 492-2708, (703) 671-4500
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of AER is to support professionals who provide education and rehabilitation services to people with visual impairments.
The vision of AER is to be recognized as the leading authority in providing the necessary services and tools to help educators and rehabilitation personnel in serving the blind and visually impaired.
Association of Blind Citizens
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The purpose of the Association of Blind Citizens (ABC) is to advance relevant causes, increase opportunities in education, employment, cultural, recreational and other life activities, as well as enhance the social, political, and economic well-being for all persons who are blind or visually impaired.
Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD)
1100 Wayne Avenue, Suite 1000, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: (301) 588-8252
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AUCD envisions a future in which all people, including those living with developmental and other disabilities are fully included, participating members of the communities.
Association of University Centers on Disabilities Transition Resources
1100 Wayne Avenue, Suite 1000, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: (301) 588-8252
Email: aucdinfo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AUCD envisions a future in which all people, including those living with developmental and other disabilities are fully included, participating members of the communities. AUCD sees equitable access to supports and services that reflect the preferences and values of diverse communities and that lead to self-determination, independence, productivity, and a healthy and satisfying quality of life.
Association on Higher Education of Disability
107 Commerce Centre Drive, Suite 204, Huntersville, NC 28078 USA
Phone: (704) 947-7779, Fax (704) 948-7779
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AHEAD is the premiere professional association committed to full participation of persons with disabilities in postsecondary education.
Attention Deficit Disorder Association
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Attention Deficit Disorder Association provides information, resources and networking opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives.
Audio Description Project
American Council of the Blind
Web site: adp/movies.html
Contact information: Joel Snyder, PhD. Director.
E-mail: jsnyder@
Phone: (202) 467-5083
Agency/business Profile: The Audio Description Project is a subdivision of the ACB’s services. The site contains information regarding descriptive video products and services that are useful to those who are blind or visually impaired. Information regarding close captioning and descriptive video can be obtained through local television providers as well.
Audio Editions, Placerville
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Audio Editions provides product information for people who
are hard of hearing.
Audiovision
1503 Alta Glen Drive, San Jose, CA 95125-4405
Phone: (408) 265-2203
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AudioVision, in the Bay Area, California, is a non-profit organization that advocates for and provides description services for movies, videos, and television; live theater, education, media, exhibits, public meetings, cruises, park tours and other venues, in order to make these events more accessible to people who are blind or visually impaired.
Autism Internet Modules
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: AIM is designed to provide high-quality information and professional development for anyone who supports, instructs, works with, or lives with someone with autism.
Autism NOW
1825 K Street NW, Suite 1200 Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (202) 600-3480, (855) 828-8476
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Autism NOW: The National Autism Resource and Information Center is a dynamic and interactive, highly visible and effective central point of quality resources and information for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, the families, and other targeted key stakeholders.
Autism Research Institute (ARI)
4182 Adams Avenue, San Diego, CA 92116
E-mail: cme@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The ARI is dedicated to improving the quality of lives for families and individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
PO Box 66122, Washington, DC 20035DC 20035
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) is a non-profit organization run by and for autistic people. ASAN provides support and services to individuals on the autism spectrum while working to change public perception and combat misinformation, including a pamphlet like this; Health Care Guide for Youth and Families at .
Autism Service Dogs of America
20340 SW Boones Ferry Road, Tualatin OR 97062
Phone: (971) 285-4547
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission at Autism Service Dogs of America (ASDA) is to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals living with autism, and families, by providing exceptionally well trained service dogs.
Autism Society of America
4340 East-West Hwy, Suite 350, Bethesda, Maryland 20814
Phone: (800) 328-8476
Web site: autism- or
Agency/business Profile: The Autism Society provides information and referral services to those who may not know where to begin or where to turn when faced with the challenges of an autism spectrum disorder. The Autism Society provides trained staff to help negotiate this maze and connect people to resources in their communities for immediate and future needs. In addition, also offers a free comprehensive online referral database called Autism Source at .
Autism Speaks
1 East 33rd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016
Phone: (888) 288-4762, En Español (888) 772-9050
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: At Autism Speaks, the goal is to change the future for all who struggle with an autism spectrum disorder.
Article: Autism Speaks Catalog of Residential Services at
Autism Tracking Devices
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Autism Tracking Devices is a made possible after the federal
government announced it will pay for tracking devices for kids with autism, officials are
offering more details about how families can access the technology. Police departments
nationwide will be able to make the tracking devices available to children in the
communities who are at risk of wandering using the Justice Department’s Byrne grant
program.
Bank of America
Web site:
Email form: customer@
Agency/business Profile: The Bank of America provides sign language interpreters in
banking centers and home loans offices free of charge. If wishing to utilize a sign
language interpreter, please contact the banking center or home loans office so that an
appointment with an interpreter may be scheduled.
Barclays provides online interpretation for Deaf customers
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Barclays gives customers instant access to a sign language interpretation service (SignVideo) so they can communicate with us directly.
Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program (BORP)
600 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, CA 94710
Phone: (510) 849-4663
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Bay Area Outreach & Recreation Program (BORP) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization working to improve the health, independence and social integration of people with physical disabilities through sports, fitness and recreation programs. BORP believes that sports and recreation provide a path to greater achievement to which all people should have access.
Be My Eyes
Hans Jørgen Wiberg (app inventor):
Phone: (45) 60 85 86 87
Web site:
Skypename: hans.jorgen.wiberg
Product: An iPhone app that lets blind people contact a network of sighted volunteers for help with live video chat.
"Because" Outreach Toolkit
Web site: blog/index.php/because-toolkit/
Agency/business Profile: “Because” is an inspirational PSA that features seven people, not actors, with disabilities who are pursuing and realizing goals and passions as a result of the support and encouragement they received from everyday people.
Benetech
480 S. California Ave., Suite 201, Palo Alto, CA 94306-1609
Phone: (650) 644-3400, Fax: (650) 475-1066
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: DIAGRAM efforts on education technology for students with
disabilities, including accessible digital images, 3D printing, and accessible math. New
technology applications, launch products with the largest impact and reach, and ignite
cross-sector collaboration with the nonprofit, technology, and stakeholder communities.
We now have ten projects that we’re exploring in the Labs, including:
Poet: Makes it easier, cheaper, and faster to create accessible digital images by adding text descriptions to them, so that individuals with visual impairments can experience reading truly accessible ebooks.
MathML Cloud: Automatically generates mathematical expressions in formats that can be spoken aloud or put into braille, so that students with disabilities can learn more advanced math and science.
secureApp Generator: Enables nonprofit organizations to create their own custom mobile and desktop applications for secure data collection, using strong, open encryption based on our Martus technology, for advancing social justice and impact.
3D Printing for Education: Provides access to 3D educational models for all students, including those with visual disabilities, for improved learning of science, math, and art concepts.
Bookshare
Website:
Agency/Business Profile: On-line digital library of accessible images for students with print disabilities such as visual impairments, physical disabilities and learning disabilities. At the time of production the Bookshare collection houses over 370,000 educational materials. Bookshare is free to all US students and schools thanks to a grant from the Department of Education. K-12 and Post-secondary
Books are available in audio, braille ready formats and large print. Bookshare books can be accessed on a variety devices such as refreshable braille machines, personal computers, tablets and phones.
Berkeley: University Of California, School of Optometry
School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-2020
Web site: optometry.berkeley.edu/
Agency/business Profile: The Berkeley School of Optometry offers comprehensive
clinical training, and research in vision science.
Blind and Visually Impaired Center of Monterey County, Inc.
225 Laurel Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
Phone (831) 649-3505, Fax (831) 649-4057
Email vision@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Blind and Visually Impaired Center is to
encourage and inspire the people who are blind or visually impaired to transcend the
loss of sight as independent contributing members of society.
Blind and Visually Impaired of Marin, Inc.
1137 Fourth Street, San Rafael, CA 94901
Phone: (415) 459-5066, (415) 455-9869
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Blind and Vision Impaired of Marin hosts six support
groups throughout the County; even one for Spanish speaking members.
Blind Babies Foundation, San Francisco
1814 Franklin Street, Suite 300, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 446-2229 Fax (510) 446-2262
E-mail: bbfinfo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: When an infant or preschooler is identified as blind or
visually impaired, Blind Babies Foundation provides family-centered services to
support the child's optimal development and access to the world.
Blind Bargains
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The latest deals, news, and reviews for the blind and visually
impaired. Featuring the latest news from technology and beyond, deals on useful products, provocative audio content, and an array of useful resources.
Blind Children's Resource Center
4120 Marathon St., Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: (800) 222-3566, (973) 377-0976
Web site:
E-mail: blindchildren@
Agency/business Profile: The goal of the Blind Children's Resource Center is to help blind/visually impaired children grow up to be productive, fully functioning, independent members of society and to help blind/VI children with additional disabilities reach their full potential.
Blind Golfers Association
E-Mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The United States Blind Golf Association (USBGA) was
established in 1953 for the purpose of encouraging and enhancing opportunities for
blind and visually impaired golfers to compete in the game of golf. Blind and visually
impaired golf is played with the assistance of a sighted coach. As a team golfers and coaches are expected to follow the established rules of golf with the exception of being able to ground a club in a hazard and have the coach stand behind the golfer when lining up a put.
Blind How
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: A website with countless articles about living as a blind
person, how-to features, including many ideas about daily living independently,
technology
entertainment, cooking, and advocacy.
Blind Net
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Blind Net a website that provides useful & factual information
about blindness; general information as well as links to organizations of and for the love blind, and the companies that provide some of the products used by blind and visual impaired.
Blind Outdoor Leisure Development (BOLD)
Box 5266, Snowmass Village, Co 81615
Phone: (970) 923-3811
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: BOLD is open to all legally blind people. Event participation is free. BOLD’s purpose is to allow the blind and visually impaired to experience outdoor sports and leisure activities while developing social and athletic skills.
Blind Students of California
California Council of the Blind
1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814-2900
Contact: Angela Fowler at (530) 902-0987, or fowlers@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The California Association of Blind Students, is a branch of the National Federation of the Blind of California.
Blind Travelers using GPS
American Printing House for the Blind, Inc
1839 Frankfort Avenue, P.O. Box 6085, Louisville, KY 40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
Web site:
Contact information: Larry Skutchan lskutchan@
Product information: Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are so common now that most people either use one in the car or employ a hand-held unit on a daily basis. These devices pinpoint the position on earth by triangulating signals from three or more satellites.
Blind World Access
2 Penn Plaza, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10121
Phone: (800) 232-5463
George Cassell, Editor
E-mail: BlindWorld@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Blind World Access provides objective information you can
trust, smart and informed commentary, and cutting-edge news and trends concerning
information technology and visual impairment are published monthly in AccessWorld®:
Technology and People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.
Blindness Support Services, Inc.
3696 Beatty Drive, Suite A, Riverside, CA 92506
Phone : (951) 341-9244
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: BSS was incorporated in May 1992, to provide innovative approaches to achieving independence and self-reliance for blind and visually impaired residents of Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, San Diego and Los Angeles Counties in Southern California.
Books Aloud
150 E. San Fernando Street, San Jose, CA 95112
Phone: (408) 808-2613
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: Books Aloud is a non-profit agency that offer service to
individuals of all ages who are blind/visually impaired; have physical disabilities or any
print disability. The books are in audio format and range from educational to leisure.
Books on Tape
Random House Publishing Group
1745, Broadway, 15-3, New York, NY 10019
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Books on Tape is page is chock full of useful materials for
educators and librarians looking to expand knowledge and collections. There
is a wide selection of articles ranging from grant writing, to using audiobooks with
English Language Learners, to increasing teen listening. Plus, the toolbox provides
practical tips for using audiobooks in the classroom and marketing them in libraries.
Bookshare
480 S. California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: 650.352.0198 Fax: 650.475.1066
Contact form:
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Bookshare® is the world’s largest accessible online library for
people with print disabilities. More than 360,000 people in nearly 50 countries have
access to Bookshare's collection of over 350,000 titles. More than 500 U.S. and
international publishers contribute to our social mission by donating their digital files,
making it possible for Bookshare to serve users around the world and ensuring that
content is available to people with print disabilities at the same time as their peers.
Braille and Talking Book Library
California State Library
900 N Street, Suite 110, Sacramento, CA 94237-0001
Phone: (916) 651-0812, (800) 952-5666, Fax (916) 654-1119
Email: btbl@library. or mike.marlin@library.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Braille and Talking Book Library, the Northern California Regional Library for the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) is a free library service for people with temporary or permanent print disabilities, including low vision, blindness, or physical disabilities that prevent them from reading conventional print, such as dyslexia or the inability to hold a book. BTBL offers popular fiction and nonfiction books, playback equipment, and descriptive videos mailed for free, and instantly downloadable audio and electronic braille books (via your computer or free iOS and Android apps).
Braille Authority of North America (BANA)
Jennifer Dunnam, Chair
200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place, Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (612) 767-5658
Web site:
E-mail: chair@
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Braille Authority of North America is to assure literacy for tactile readers through the standardization of braille and/or tactile graphics. The purpose of BANA is to promote and to facilitate the uses, teaching, and production of braille. Pursuant to this purpose, BANA will promulgate rules, make interpretations, and render opinions pertaining to braille codes and guidelines for the provisions of literary and technical materials and related forms and formats of embossed materials now in existence or to be developed in the future for the use of blind persons in North America.
Braille Bookstore
33222 Lynn Avenue, Abbotsford, BC V2S 1C9 Canada
Phone: (800) 987-1231, (800)-987-DOTS
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Braille Bookstore provides braille transcription services, and
has braille books for sale. A variety of adapted products including talking clocks and
watches, Braille card games, and kitchen accessories are available. Braille Bookstore
serves individuals of all ages who are blind or low vision.
Braille Gifts
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Braille Gifts provides a service for those hard to find items that are user-friendly for the blind including games, gifts and specialty music boxes. You will notice that many of these items were originally made for sighted individuals, but they have found them to also be successful for the blind, some with minor modifications or more detailed instructions. Some items are already Brailled and some may require you to Braille them. Braille Gifts also specializes in custom Braille embroidery on blind user-friendly backpacks, tote bags, etc. Other items are Braille labelers & label tape, beepers, and other items helpful to the blind population.
Braille Institute
741 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: (800) 272-4553
Web site: or
Agency/business Profile: The Braille Institute serves individuals who are blind from
birth to seniors. They provide classes that pertain to blindness. They have a lending
library and they offer services to the Spanish speaking community.
Braille Institute of America
Santa Barbara
2031 De La Vina Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: (805) 682-6222
Web site:
E-mail: sb@
Braille Institute of America
Palm Springs
70-251 Ramon Road
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 321-1111
Web site:
E-mail: dc@
Braille Institute of America
Orange County
527 North Dale Avenue
Anaheim, Ca 92801
Phone: (714) 821-5000
Web site:
E-mail: oc@
Braille Institute of America
San Diego
4555 Executive Drive
San Diego, Ca 92121
Phone: (858) 452-1111
Web site:
E-mail: sd@
Braille Novel-T’s
1311 Warwick, Caspar, WY 82609
Phone: (307) 472-2993
Web site:
E-mail braille_novelts@
Agency/business Profile: Braille Novel-T’s creates items usually contained a product
name, company logo, or the ABC's in Braille.
Braille Superstore
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: In addition to selling braille books for all ages, the
Braille Superstore carries a variety of braille gifts including a braille chocolate mold for making braille greeting candy bars.
Braille Transcription Project of Santa Clara County
101 N. Bascom Ave., San Jose, CA 95128
Phone: (408) 298-4468
Web site:
E-mail: brlsanjose@
Agency/business Profile: Braille Transcription Project of Santa Clara County offers
already transcribed braille books for individuals of all ages who are blind. The books are
primarily novels, fiction and children’s titles and they also offer brailler repair.
Braillestone by Christiansen Designs (formerly Braille Sterling)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Kim Christiansen makes silver and gold tone jewelry and key chains with braille messages. Some items can be personalized.
BRL, Inc.
110 Commerce Drive, Suite 210, Fayetteville, GA 30214-1369
Phone: (770) 716-9222
Web site:
E-mail: comments@
Agency/business Profile: BRL, Inc. provides accessible computer products and Windows tutorials to people who are blind or visually impaired.
California Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons
1201 J Street, Suite 200, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (415) 777-3937
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The California Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (CAEPS) is the only statewide organization representing California ophthalmologists and patients. CAEPS' activities include legislative advocacy, interaction with third party payers about reimbursement and coverage issues, public education about important eye health care concerns, and continuing medical education for ophthalmologists and the staffs.
California Assistive Technology Enterprise (CATE)
P.O. Box 6422, Folsom, CA 95763-6422
Phone: (916) 351-3032
Contact: Michael Chan michaelchan@pia.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Folsom State Prison Digital Services Enterprise is also known as the California Assistive Technology Enterprise (CATE). The services include creation of Braille books through the translation of literary books, and textbooks.
California Association of Orientation and Mobility Specialists (CAOMS)
Web site:
E-mail: contactcaoms@
Agency/business Profile: CAOMS is a non-profit statewide organization whose mission is to facilitate professional growth and to support the role of Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Specialists in the habilitation and education of individuals who have visual impairments. Founded in 1966, CAOMS hosts an annual statewide conference. Membership consists primarily of credentialed O&M Specialists. Student and associate memberships also make up the ranks of its membership.
California Association of Parents of the Visually Impaired (CAPVI)
414 West Mill Street, Ukiah, CA 95482
Phone: (209) 586-2652
E-mail: pierce1004@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CAPVI (the California Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments) is the California affiliate of NAPVI, the National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments. CAPVI exists to promote and provide information to parents of children with visual impairments, provide opportunities to network, increase public awareness about children with visual impairments, foster communication and coordination of services between state and local agencies and advocate for educational needs and welfare of children who are blind or visually impaired.
California Autism Foundation; Advocacy/Education & Legal Resources
4075 Lakeside Drive, Richmond, CA 94806
Phone: (510) 758-0433, (510) 758-1040 Fax
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: California Autism Foundation (CAF) is a 501(c)3 located in Richmond, California. CAF is a leading provider of full life services to all people with autism and other developmental disabilities.
California Career Center (CalCRN)
Web site:
E-mail: calcrn@cde.
Agency/business Profile: The California CareerZone system is a career exploration website that allows students and job seekers like you to learn more about the world of work and how you can be successful in it. The California Career Center (CalCC) Web portal is a comprehensive “virtual counselor” with career and college resources and tools to help students begin their career journey.
California Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities
Website: dor.boards-and-committees/CCEPD
Email: EPD@dor..
Agency/business Profile: Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities (GCEPD) will further advance employment opportunities for people with disabilities in California.
California Council of the Blind (CCB)
1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814-2900
Phone: (916) 441-2100, (800) 221-6359
E-mail: ccotb@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CCB's mission is to increase the independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for all Californians who are blind and visually impaired. Through CCB's offices in the Bay Area, Sacramento and Los Angeles, and its 40 local chapters and statewide special interest associations, the Council provides information and referral, technical assistance, advocacy, leadership development, publications, emergency funds, accessible technology loans, and scholarships.
California Deaf-Blind Services
San Francisco State University
1600 Holloway Ave., San Francisco CA 94132-4158
Phone: (415) 405-7560, Fax (415) 338-2845
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Mission: California Deaf-Blind Services promotes positive quality of life for individuals from birth through age 21 who have both hearing and vision problems. The goal of the project is to facilitate maximum participation in preferred life activities. California Deaf-Blind Services collaborates with individuals who are Deaf-Blind to celebrate strengths, recognize unique needs, and develop personalized supports and services.
Federally funded statewide technical assistance and training project for individuals up to age 21 (with current IEPs) who are Deaf-Blind, the families and educational teams. Home and school-based technical assistance (i.e., consultations) and training for youth with Deaf-Blindness. To request assistance, go to: Web site:
California Department of Developmental Services
1600 9th Street, P. O. Box 944202, Sacramento, CA 94244-2020
Phone: (916) 654-1690, TTY (916) 654-2054
Web site:
Email: ddscls@dds.
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Developmental Services is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.
California Department of Education: Special Education
1430 N Street, Suite 2401, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-4613
Web site: cde.
Email:
Agency/business Profile: California Department of Education: Special Education provides a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The Department of Education serves the state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners. Together, as a team, they prepare students to live, work, and thrive in a highly connected world.
California Department of Fish and Game
License Section
1740 N. Market Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95834
Phone: (916) 928-5805
Web site:
Email: LRB@wildlife.
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Fish and Game provides free
sport fishing licenses through an application process (REV. 12/02/14) Any person, with
central vision acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with the aid of the best possible
correcting glasses, or central vision acuity better than 20/200 if the widest diameter of
the remaining visual field is no greater than 20 degrees. Certification of blindness by an
optometrist or ophthalmologist is required. Any person who is a resident of the State
and who is so severely physically disabled as to be permanently unable to move from
place to place without the aid of a wheelchair, walker, forearm crutches or a comparable
mobility-related device.
California Department of Rehabilitation
P.O. Box 944222, Sacramento, CA 94244-2220
Phone: (916) 324-1313, (916) 558-5480
Web site: rehab.
E-mail: blindinfo@dor.
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) administering the largest vocational rehabilitation program in the country. DOR offers a broad range of career opportunities for advancement and training, along with State government service benefits. If you are ready to make a difference, they invite you to join the DOR!
California Department of Social Services
744 P Street, M.S. 8-16-94, Sacramento, California 95814
Phone: (916) 657-3327 Voice, (916) 653-4001 Fax
E-mail us at: BlindAccess@dss.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: California Department of Social Services
Handbook of Resources and Services has been prepared to provide an overview of services available to a person with vision loss and is not intended to replace in-depth information about any particular service or program.
California Employment Consortium for Youth
11000 Kinross Avenue, Suite 211, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1406
Phone: (310) 794-1141
Web site:
Email: Bstoffmacher@mednet.ucla.edu
Agency/business Profile: The main activities for CECY are to: 1) develop a shared vision and skills for collaborative partnerships at the state and local level; 2) identify models for transition to employment through eight Local Employment Collaborative teams and in postsecondary education through the College to Career Program; 3) enhance knowledge, skills, and attitudes through local training, webinars, state and national conference; and 4) disseminate information.
California Foundation for Independent Living Centers
1000 G Street, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 325-1690 Voice, (916) 325-1695 TTY
E-mail: info@
Web site: ,
Agency/business Profile: California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC) is California’s trade organization of Independent Living Centers. It also houses the following programs that serve Californians with disabilities: Ability Tools, YO! Disabled and Proud, Disability Organizing Network and the Digital Access Project.
California Lions Camp
P.O. Box 577663, Modesto, CA 95357
Phone: (209) 523-9403
Web site:
E-mail: californialionscamp@
Agency/business Profile: California Lions Camp sessions are held at Camp
Pacifica located in the foothills of the Sierra, about one hour away from Yosemite. The
camp consists of 52 acres in the lower edges of the mountain forest of oak and pine
woods. It is located on Highway 49, 18 miles south of Mariposa and 9 miles north of
Oakhurst, and 56 miles from Fresno.
The Frank Stein and Paul S. May Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation at California Pacific Medical Center
2333 Buchanan Street, San Francisco, CA 94115
Phone: (415) 600-6000
Web site: services/eye/LVRprogram.html
Email: cpmcadmin@
Agency/business Profile: California Pacific Medical Center is one of the largest private, not-for-profit, academic medical centers in California and is a Sutter Health affiliate.
California School for the Blind
500 Walnut Ave, Fremont, CA 94536
Phone: (510) 794-3800
Web site: csb-cde.
Email: ssacks@csb-cde.
Agency/business Profile: The California School for the Blind provides intensive,
disability-specific educational services to students who have primary learning needs
related to the visual impairment. The school serves as a statewide resource to
provide expertise to Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) and families in evidenced
based assessment, specialized curriculum, cutting-edge research and technology,
and innovative models of instruction that prepare students for adult life.
California State Independent Living Council
1600 K Street, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-0142, (866) 866-7452, TTY (866) 745-2889
Web site:
Email: (Director) liz@
Agency/business Profile: The California State Independent Living Council creates policy and systems change for independent living.
California State University, Northridge
Web site:
Email:
Article: Gross Motor Development in Infants with Multiple Impairments
Agency/business Profile: Gross Motor Development in Infants with Multiple Impairments
provides information to parents when an infant is developmentally delayed or neurologically impaired, these motor skills are often delayed, and do not develop easily. Gross motor skills occur in a typical sequence. However, these skills can only occur as the infant develops the balance, coordination and postural control needed to move his body about in space (Shumway-Cook & Woollacott, 1985).
California Telephone Access Program
DDTP Consumer Affairs
P.O. Box 30310, Stockton, CA 95213
Phone: (877) 546-7414, TTY (800) 867-4323
Web site:
Email: customercare@
Agency/business Profile: The California Telephone Access Program provides
accessible communication products for individuals who are blind/low vision, deaf/hard of
hearing or those with speech impairments. They have offices throughout California and
those agencies may be accessed through the main website. They also provide service
and talking products in a variety of languages. Local phone service providers may also
provide specialized services for those with disabilities.
California Transcribers and Educators for the Blind and Visually Impaired
(CTEBVI)
8182 Fillmore Dr., Anaheim, CA 92804
Email: ctebvi@
Web link:
Agency/business Profile: CTEBVI is an organization whose mission is to provide accessible materials for students who are blind or visually impaired. The CTEBVI Journal is produced three times a year with articles from the specialists regarding braille, written for transcribers, educators, and students.
Specialist contact information:
Music: Richard Taesch richardtaesch@
Literary Braille: Jana Hertz janabrailles@
Mathematics: John Romeo fullcellbraille@
O & M: Ralph Cioffo rcioffi48@
Foreign Language: Melissa Pavo-Zehr melissa@
Pre-School: Sue Strafaci sstrafaci@
Infant-Pre-school: Beth Moore moorebeth@svusd.k12.ca.us
K-8: Yue-Ting Siu yueting.siu@
CA Transition Alliance
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Transition Alliance is established as a 501(c ) (3) non
profit corporation. It has evolved to broaden its focus from WorkAbility I to advocacy for
secondary transition for youth with disabilities. It continues to focus on programs that
support and sustain transition efforts in California. It is currently represented on the
California Community of Practice in Transition State Leadership Team.
Call 2-1-1 Sacramento
Phone: (800) 500-4931
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The 2-1-1 Sacramento staff is a dedicated group of trained call specialists who provide a confidential information and referral service that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Assistance is available in multiple languages, and services are accessible to people with disabilities.
Camp Bloomfield
Joshua Lucas, Recreation Programs Manager
Phone: (323) 295-4555, ext. 272
Web site:
Email: jlucas@
Agency/business Profile: Junior Blind's Camp Bloomfield provides children and youth who are blind, visually impaired or multi-disabled with a natural and safe environment to develop self-esteem, build independence and fully experience the joys of the great outdoors. Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains in Malibu, this 45-acre campground offers various week-long camp sessions for children of all ages and disabilities. The largest of its kind in the Western United States, Camp Bloomfield serves hundreds of campers free of charge each summer and is accredited by the American Camping Association (ACA).
Canine Companions for Independence
P.O. Box 446, Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446
Phone: (800) 572-BARK (2275), (866) CCI-DOGS (224-3647)
Web site:
Email form: info@
Agency/business Profile: Founded in 1975, Canine Companions for Independence is a
non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing
highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.
CapTel
450 Science Drive, Madison, WI 53711
Phone: (888) 269-7477, En Español (866) 670-9134
Email: CapTel@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Captioned Telephone, or CapTel, works like any other telephone with one important addition: It displays every word the caller says throughout the conversation.
Career Connect
American Foundation for the Blind
2 Penn Plaza, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10121
Phone: (800) 232-5463
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: CareerConnect is an employment information resource developed by the American Foundation for the Blind for job seekers who are blind or visually impaired. CareerConnect presents employment information, career exploration tools, and extensive job seeking guidance for students and adults with vision loss and the professionals who work with them.
Career One Stop
Phone: (877) US2-JOBS, (877) 872-5627, or TTY (877) 872-5627
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CareerOneStop is a source for employment information and inspiration, the place to manage career, pathway to career success, and tools to help job seekers, students, businesses and career professionals.
Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
Library for the Blind & Physically Handicapped
4724 Baum Blvd., Pittsburg, PA 15213
Phone: (800) 242-0586
Web site:
E-mail: lbph@
Agency/business Profile: Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, Library for the Blind &
physically Handicapped has an audio book, Braille book, and large print book collection
with thousands of fiction and nonfiction titles on a variety of genres and topics. Once
registered, patrons receive materials through the mail free of charge. Playback
equipment and digital download services are also available.
Carol Center for the Blind
770 Centre Street, Newton, MA 02458
Phone: (617) 969-Toll-Free, (800) 852-3131
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The Carroll Center Established in 1936, The Carroll Center has pioneered many innovative services for the blind and visually impaired. The Center develops many methods for people with low vision to learn the skills to be independent in homes, in class settings, and in work places.
Celebrities with Learning and Attention Issues
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Celebrities with Learning and Attention Issues
goal is to help the millions of parents whose children, ages 3–20, are struggling with learning and attention issues. Providing names of celebrities that struggle with challenges helps normalize youth with similar disabilities.
Center for Accessible Technology
2547 8th St., Suite 12-A, Berkeley, CA 94710
Phone: (510) 841-3224
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: CforAT's focus is on access to computers and technology for people with disabilities. CforAT does this so children with disabilities can succeed in school, adults with disabilities can find (and keep) jobs and all people with disabilities can use the internet, email and benefit from the digital revolution.
Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST)
40 Harvard Mills Square, Suite 3, Wakefield, MA 01880
Phone: (781) 245-2212
E-mail: cast@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: CAST pledges to work tirelessly to understand the full extent of human learner variability and to find transformative approaches that make education more effective for all.
The Center for Assistive Technology
3075 Adeline, Suite 220, Berkeley, CA 94703
Phone: (510) 841-3224, Fax (510) 841-7956
E-mail: info@
Website:
Agency/business Profile: The Center for Assistive Technology provides children with disabilities opportunities so that they can succeed in school, adults with disabilities can find (and keep) jobs and all people with disabilities can use the internet, email and benefit from the digital revolution.
Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD),
Phone: (855) 345-CARD (2273)
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: CARD is committed to remaining at the forefront of research on ABA-based methods of autism assessment and treatment.
Center for Communication Disorders
The California State University, Chico
400 W. 1st St. Aymer J. Hamilton 100, Chico, CA 95929-0350
Phone: (530) 898-5871
Web site:
E-mail: mjmcmillan@csuchico.edu
Agency/business Profile: The Center for Communication Disorders would like to inform its surrounding county residents of the services provided through the CSU, Chico Center for Communication Disorders.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Road Atlanta, GA 30329-4027 USA
Phone: (800) CDC-INFO, (800) 232-4636), TTY (888) 232-6348
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: CDC works to protect America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S. Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are chronic or acute, curable or preventable, human error or deliberate attack, CDC fights disease and supports communities and citizens to do the same.
Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (CEDD):
2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817
Phone: (916) 703-0336
Web site:
Pamphlet at:
rochure_2014.pdf
Contact: Steve Rudder at sruder@ucdavis.edu
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities is to collaborate with individuals with developmental disabilities and families to improve quality of life and community inclusion.
Center for Living Independence for Multi-handicapped Blind (CLIMB)
161 West Sierra Madre Boulevard, Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Phone: (626) 355-1447, Fax (626) 289-5378
E-mail: climbwac@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of CLIMB is to design and deliver vocational, residential and community integration services to developmentally disabled individuals that will result in the fullest participation in all aspects of community living and the work force.
Center for Medically Fragile Children
47th Ave., Portland, OR 97213
Phone: (503) 215-2400
Web site:
Email:
Agency/business Profile: Center for Medically Fragile Children is the only pediatric skilled nursing facility in the Pacific Northwest, providing 24-hour long-term, short-term, respite and end-of-life care to medically fragile children and young people ranging in age from infancy to 21 years.
Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired, Bakersfield
1721 Westwind Dr. Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone: (661) 322-5234, Fax (661) 324-1176
E-mail:inquiries@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) was
founded in 1950 as a volunteer-run organization for Braille education and
recreational activities. Today, CBVI's mission is to provide rehabilitation programs for
greater independence to adults who are blind or visually impaired.
Center for the Partially Sighted
12301 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Phone: (310) 458-3501
Web site: low-
E-mail:
Agency/business Profile: The Center for the Partially Sighted mission is to provide the
tools and techniques that maximize the ability of partially sighted children and adults to
live successful and independent lives.
Champions for Children
50 Hurt Plaza, Suite 449, Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 688-5525, Fax (404) 688-3060
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta strengthens the region by providing quality services to donors and innovative leadership on community issues.
Child Development Institute
500 State College, Suite 1100, Orange, CA 92868
Web site:
Email:
Article: Communication Disorders in Children and Adolescents at
Agency/business Profile: The mission of Child Development Institute is to become the “go to” site for parents for information, products and services related to child development, psychology, health, parenting, learning, media, entertainment, family activities as well as to connect with other parents, professional experts organizations and other useful websites.
Children's Disability List of Support Groups and Listservs
Web site:
The Children's Disability List of Support Groups and Listservs is an annotated directory
of internet support groups for families of children with disabilities and special needs.
Each disability mailing list has been validated for usefulness and family orientation.
Children's disability discussion forums, support groups, and listservs for parents of
special needs children are grouped by general content in this directory.
Choice Magazine Listening
85 Channel Drive
Port Washington, NY 11050
Phone: (516) 883-8280
Toll Free: (888) 724-6423
Web site:
Agency/Business Profile: Choice Magazine Listening is a nonprofit organization that provides audio recordings of memorable articles, stories, interviews, essays and poems, completely free of charge, to blind, visually impaired, physically disabled or dyslexic adults
Christian Record Braille Foundation Scholarships
Applicant must be legally blind
Phone: (402) 488-0981
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Christian Record Services for the Blind improves the quality of life for children, teens, and adults with visual impairments by providing them with free programs and services focused on the needs.
Christiansen Designs (formerly Braille Sterling)
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Kim Christiansen makes silver and gold tone jewelry and key chains with braille messages. Some items can be personalized.
Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
636 Morris Turnpike, Suite 3A, Short Hills, NJ 07078
Phone: (800) 539-7309
E-mail: TeamReeve@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Reeve Foundation is dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research, and improving the quality of life for people living with paralysis through grants, information and advocacy.
Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Translations (CSMT)
1430 N Street, Suite 3207, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-5103
E-mail: csmt@cde.
Web site: Contacts: cde.re/pn/sm/csmtcontacts.asp, Resources: , Ordering: .
Contact information, Laurie Garcia, Manager lgarcia@cde.
Agency/business Profile: The CSMT provides braille, large print, audio, and accessible digital files of adopted K-8 instructional materials for qualified students with print disabilities.
Clear Captions
Phone: 916-259-6385
Web site:
Developed by Purple Communications™, a leading video and text relay services provider, ClearCaptions provides an innovative suite of communication services for people with hearing loss. Making communication easier has been our passion from the beginning. Live captioners transcribe conversations for both parties which can be saved and printed if needed.
Clicker 6 The definitive primary word processor
Web site:
Email: info@
Product information: Clicker 6 is the child-friendly writing tool that enables
pupils of all abilities to significantly develop literacy skills.
Cognition
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Cognition is an international journal that publishes theoretical and experimental papers on the study of the mind.
Cognitive Disabilities, Autism, and Traumatic Brain Injuries
Web site for document:
Information pamphlet: According to the American Association for Mental Retardation, a person is considered to have a cognitive disability based on three criteria. One is intellectual functioning (IQ). Other factors include significant limitations in two or more areas such as daily living skills, communication, self-care, social skills, academic skills, or work skills; and the condition must be present from childhood.
Cognitive Disability: Information on Intellectual Disabilities
Web site:
Information site: Intellectual disabilities, also known as developmental delay or mental retardation, are a group of disorders defined by diminished cognitive and adaptive development. Affecting more males than females, they are diagnosed in between one and three percent of the population.
College Curriculum at the Hatlen Center for the Blind
2430 Road 20, #B112
San Pablo, CA 94806-5006
Phone: (510) 234-4984
Web site:
Email: asyed@
Curriculum:
Agency/business Profile: The Hatlen Center for the Blind has assembled an impressive College Curriculum guide complete with easy to follow individual sections. This project was developed by Denise Vancil’s (former student at The Hatlen Center and Hatlen Center instructor).
College Guide
5500 Military Trail
Suite 22-264
Jupiter, FL 33458
Phone: 877.304.2402
Web site:
Email: mg@
Agency/business Profile: College Guide for youth with disabilities looking at the possibility of college.
Colleges with Programs for Students with Learning Disabilities
Web site:
Email:
Agency/business Profile: Almost all colleges and universities provide some level of services and/or accommodations for learning disabled students, as mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The colleges and universities listed below go a step further...they offer programs, some quite comprehensive, designed to support students with learning disabilities.
Community Center for the Blind, Stockton
130 West Flora Street, Stockton, CA 95202-1636
Phone: (209) 466-3836
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Community Center for the Blind, Stockton provides the means by which people who are visually impaired can improve and sustain capabilities and potentials to re-establish purpose and self-esteem in society.
Community Technology Center’s Network (CTCNet)
972 Mission Street, 5th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: 415-683-0120
Web site:
Email form: Article: Center Start-up Manual
Agency/business Profile: Community Technology Center’s Network is a group of independent, not-for-profit community-based technology centers providing free or low-cost access to computers and related technology.
Computer Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP)
1700 N. Moore Street, Suite 1000Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (703) 614-8416 (Voice), (571) 384-5629 (Videophone)
Email: cap@mail.mil
Website:
Agency/business Profile: A centrally funded program that provides assistive technology (AT) and reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities and wounded Service members. CAP’s mission is to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to the information environment and opportunities throughout the Federal government.
Cool Blind Tech
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Cool Blind Tech strives universal design of products, environments, programs and services to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, w Cool Blind Tech endeavors in maximizing the independence, productivity and participation of the blind and low vision community, to empower the blindness community through the acquisition and enhancement of skills in using adaptive technologies. A great resource for free tech tools.
Computers for the Blind
3101 High Plateau
Garland, Texas 75044
Phone: 214-340-6328
Email: Info@
Web site:
David Jeppson, Executive Director
E-mail: djeppson@
Phone: 214-293-8819
Agency/business Profile: Computers for the Blind (CFTB) is a volunteer organization devoted to providing computers to persons who are blind or visually impaired. It is our hope that each person who is visually impaired may experience the information age in a positive and productive manner. We believe technology opens new worlds and creates opportunity for greater personal freedom.
Council of Citizens with Low Vision International
1703 N Beauregard St., Ste 420
Alexandria VA 22311-1746
Phone: (800)-773-2258
Email: president@
Website:
Agency/business Profile: CCLVI is an advocacy membership organization the purposes of which are to establish the right of persons with low vision to make full use of their vision through all available aids, services and technology.
Council for Exceptional Children
2900 Crystal Drive, Suite 1000, Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: (888) 232-7733
E-mail: service@cec.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Council for Exceptional Children is a professional association of educators dedicated to advancing the success of children with exceptionalities.
Council for Learning Disabilities (CLD)
11184 Antioch Road, Box 405, Overland Park, KS 66210
Phone: (913) 491-1011, Fax (913) 491-1011
Web site:
Email:
Agency/business Profile: The Council for Learning Disabilities (CLD) is an international organization composed of professionals who represent diverse disciplines, is committed to enhancing the education and quality of life for individuals with learning disabilities across the life span.
Council on Education of the Deaf
P.O. Box 2074, 800 Florida Avenue, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20002
Email: cedoffice@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Council on Education of the Deaf (CED) is an organization sponsored by five major national organizations dedicated to quality education for all deaf and hard of hearing students
CSUN: Language, Speech and Hearing Center (LSHC)
18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330
Phone: (818) 677-1200
E-mail: lshc@csun.edu
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Language, Speech, and Hearing Center offers 5 diagnostic/evaluation clinics and 12 speech therapy clinics throughout the semester calendar at CSUN. The Language, Speech and Hearing Center provides comprehensive evaluations of speech/language or hearing related problems along with a wide array of treatment programs which are performed in the individual therapy or group setting.
Davidson Program for Independence
5300 Angeles Vista Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90043
Phone: (800) 352-2290, (323) 295-4555
Web site:
Email: aburdett@
News:
and-adult-services/davidson-program-for-independence.
Agency/business Profile: The Davidson Program for Independence provides a comprehensive residential program designed to help adults who are blind or visually impaired. Through training in four core areas: Braille, Assistive Technology Skills, Orientation and Mobility and Independent Living Skills, such as cooking, cleaning and money management, graduates of the program attain the skills to find employment and enjoy productive and fulfilling lives in homes, communities and places of work.
Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program
1300 Ethan Way, Suite 105, Sacramento, CA 95825
E-mail: customercare@
Web site:
Phone English: (800) 806-1191
Phone Spanish: (800) 949-5650
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the program is to provide access to basic telephone service for Californians who have difficulty using the telephone. Welcome to the Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program which includes California Telephone Access Program (CTAP) and California Relay Service (CRS). CRS provides a relay service where Communication Assistants will relay messages between a person using a TTY and a person who does not use a TTY. Under CTAP, each consumer certified in the Program can receive an amplified telephone, TTY, or other specialized telephone equipment for use at home.
Deaf Counseling, Advocacy and Referral Agency (DCARA)
14895 E. 14th St. #200, San Leandro CA 94578
Phone: (510) 343-6670
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Deaf Counseling, Advocacy and Referral Agency promotes and advocates for the rights of full access to American Sign Language and English, education, employment, and cultural identity of, by, for, and with Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Late-Deafened, and Deaf-Blind people. In addition, DCARA provides the hearing community with information about the Deaf community and working and living with persons who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, Deafened and hard of hearing, as well as collaborating with other agencies to ensure that services are more accessible to population that DCARA serves. Services provided in the following counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Del Norte, Humboldt, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano and Sonoma.
Deaf People in History
1095 Meigs Street, Rochester, NY 14620-2405
E-mail: editor@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Deaf People in History Web site commemorates deaf
people whose accomplishments are part of history.
Decoding Dyslexia; California
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Decoding Dyslexia California is a grassroots movement driven by CA families concerned with the limited access to educational interventions for dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities within public schools.
Deque University Scholarships for People with Disabilities
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: No cost access to Deque’s in-depth web accessibility curriculum for a full year at no cost.
Described and Captioned Media Program
1447 E. Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29307
Phone: (800) 237-6213, TTY (800) 237-6819
Web site:
Email:
Agency/business Profile: Described and Captioned Media Program Web site provides
information on to learn how to live the mission to promote and provide equal
access to communication and learning for students who are blind, visually impaired,
deaf, hard of hearing, or Deaf-Blind. The DCMP is an idea that works thanks to funding
by the U.S. Department of Education and administration by the National Association of
the Deaf.
Descriptive Video Service (DVS)
Media Access Group at WGBH
One Guest Street, Boston, MA 02135
Phone: (617) 300-3600 (voice/TTY), Fax (617) 300-1020
Web site: access. or
or
Agency/business Profile: Founded in 1990, DVS® pioneered access to television for viewers who are blind or visually impaired. The service provides descriptive narration of key visual elements, which is then inserted within the natural pauses in dialogue to help low-vision viewers to better understand the story. Key visual elements are those which viewers with vision loss would ordinarily miss and include actions, costumes, gestures, facial expressions, scene changes, and onscreen text.
Desert Blind Association
36399 Cathedral Canyon Dr. Unit 7
Cathedral City, CA 92234
Phone: (760) 770-1700
Web site: or
Agency/business Profile: Help people remain independent for as long as practical by providing the free transportation they need.
Developmental Delay Resources (DDR)
5801 Beacon Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Phone: 412-450-0370 F: 412.422.1374
Web site:
Email: developdelay@
Agency/business Profile: DDR is an international non-profit organization established in 1994 as the Developmental Delay Registry. In 1998, the Board of Directors changed the name to Developmental Delay Resources to reflect the mission: Disseminating information, connecting families, prevent developmental delays through education.
DHHSC Deaf-Blind Services
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The DHHSC Deaf-Blind Services provide the Deaf-Blind Community an opportunity to interact with peers, develop a support system, and share resources in a communication-accessible environment leading to personal empowerment and independent living.
The Disability Resource Center: Purdue University
509 Harrison St., West Lafayette, IN 47907-2025
Phone: (765) 494-4600
Web site:
Email: welcomecenter@purdue.edu
Agency/business Profile: Disability Resource Center (DRC) supports students with
disabilities by coordinating reasonable and appropriate accommodations, educating the
University community about disability issues and rights,and promoting an informed and
inclusive campus environment that actively addresses institutional barriers.
Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, Inc. (DREDF)
3075 Adeline Street, Suite 210, Berkeley, CA 94703
Phone: (510 644-2555, (510) 841-8645 Fax/TTY
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF), founded in 1979, is a leading national civil rights law and policy center directed by individuals with disabilities and parents who have children with disabilities.
Disabled Person Parking Placard or Plates
Department of Motor Vehicles
PO Box 942869
Sacramento, CA 94269-0001
Phone: (800) 777-0133
TTY: (800) 368-4327
Web site:
Parking form:
dd74120044fc/reg195.pdf?MOD=AJPERES
Agency/business Profile: You may qualify for a DP placard or DP license plates if you
have impaired mobility. You may also qualify if you have specific, documented visual
problems, including lower vision or partial-sightedness.
Disabledperson
PO Box 230636
Encinitas, Ca. 92023-0636
Phone: (760) 420-1269
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Job Board for People with Disabilities. With hundreds of new
jobs posted every day, posted by companies who are looking to hire people with disabilities. Works closely with Disability Organizations and State Vocational Rehabilitation Departments.
Disabled Social Network
Web site:
Email: admin@
Agency/business Profile: Disabled Social Network Community helps you connect and share with the people.
Disabled Sports USA, Far West
Address: PO Box 8339, Truckee, CA 96162
Phone Number: (530) 581-4161
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Operation Challenge mission is to provide affordable inclusive
physical and recreational activities that build health and confidence.
Disabled Sports USA - Sierra Division
P.O. Box 7275, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
Phone: (760) 934-0791, Fax (760) 934-0712
Web site: index.html
Email:
Agency/business Profile: Disabled Sports USA’s mission is to provide national leadership and opportunities for individuals with disabilities to develop independence, confidence, and fitness through participation in community sports, recreation and educational programs.
Disabled Sports USA
451 Hungerford Drive, Suite 100, Rockville, Maryland 20850
Phone: (301) 217-0960
E-mail: Info@
Web site:
Disabled World
Web site:
Email: admin@disabled-
Article: Cooking Tips and Hints Preparing Great Food Safely
Article: Electric Mobility Scooters Guide
Agency/business Profile: The mission of Disabled World is to report daily health and disability news and inform the public.
Discovery Blind Sports International
P.O. Box 248, Kirkwood, CA 95646
Phone: (209) 258-2233
Web site:
E-mail: discoveryblindsports@
Agency/business Profile: Discovery Blinds Sports has had a presence at Kirkwood Mountain Resort since 1979, known as KIBS. They have since become Discovery Blind Sports and the goal is to teach challenging sports to people with little or no vision. They achieve this through innovative methods developed by skiers, guides, racers, coaches, and ski instructors.
Dogs for Diabetics
1400 Willow Pass Court, Concord, CA 94520
Phone: (925) 246-5785
Web site: //standards/medical-alert-dog-standards/
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Dogs for Diabetics (D4D) is the seminal organization to research, train and place Medical Assistance Diabetic Alert Dogs with insulin-dependent diabetics to assist them in managing the insulin therapy.
Dogs for the Deaf
10175 Wheeler Road, Central Point, Oregon 97502
Phone: (541) 826-9220, (800) 990-3647
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Dogs for the Deaf, Inc.'s mission is to rescue and professionally train dogs to help people and enhance lives, maintaining a lifelong commitment to all dogs rescued and all people served.
Dogs for the Deaf and Disabled Americans
P.O. Box 1100, Princeton, MA 01541
Phone: (978) 422-9064 Voice or TDD, Fax (978) 422-3255
E-mail:info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NEADS (National Education for Assistance Dog Services, also known as Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans), is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was established in 1976 and is based in Princeton, Massachusetts. Assistance Dogs become an extension of the handlers and bring freedom, physical autonomy and relief from social isolation to the human partners who are deaf or have a disability.
Dominican College
School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
50 Acacia Avenue - Angelico Hall, San Rafael, CA 94901
Web site:
Email: ahss@dominican.edu
Agency/business Profile: Dominican University of California is committed to providing effective, reasonable accommodations to qualified students with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act, Department of Music, applicant accepted at Dominican College must be legally blind and be a music major.
Doubleday
Member Services, 1225 South Market St., Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Doubleday Large Print has the big-name authors and the most popular books. If you're looking for a more comfortable reading experience, join the club and Doubleday thinks you'll see a big difference.
Duxbury Systems, Inc.
270 Littleton Rd., Unit 6, Westford, MA 01886
Phone: (978) 692-3000
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: Duxbury Systems leads the world in software for braille. The Duxbury Braille Translator (DBT) and MegaDots, are used by virtually all of the world's leading braille publishers. Software can produce contracted and uncontracted braille, mathematics, and technical braille.
Dynamic Display
Web site:
Email:
Product information: Dynamic Display boards that can be customized to the user for voice output; words and phrases.
DynaVox Mayer-Johnson: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices and Services
Web site:
Email: MJQ@
Product Information: DynaVox offers complete solutions for individuals with speech and learning challenges. Speech generative devices, often funded by Medicare, Medicaid or insurance, help those with conditions such as autism make meaningful connections with the world around them.
Earle Baum Center
4539 Occidental Rd., Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Phone: (707) 523-3222
Web site:
E-mail: ebc@
Agency/business Profile: Earle Baum Center mission is to provide opportunities for
people who are blind or visually impaired to improve and enrich personal, social and
economic lives.
Easter Seals Disability Services
233 South Wacker Drive, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (800) 221-6827
Web site: easter-
Email:
Agency/business Profile: Easter Seals has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and families, live better lives for nearly 100 years. From child development centers to physical rehabilitation and job training for people with disabilities, Easter Seals offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life's challenges and achieve personal goals.
EBSCO GPS Talking
Phone: (800) 653-2726
Web site:
Email: information@
Product information: EBSCO GPS Talking device based on GPS (Global Positioning System), the raw data for location coordinate where the blind people stands is detect by GPS receiver, processing these data by PIC microcontroller to calculate real coordinate related with current position, then translate it to specific voice message which are presorted in voice recorder, the blind person hears voice message through the headset.
Educational Testing Service
Rosedale Road, Princeton, NJ 08541
Phone: (609) 921-9000
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: ETS is committed to providing reasonable testing accommodations for candidates with documented disabilities or health-related needs, as recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA). The information on this website is intended to help test takers, evaluators and disability service providers complete the process that enables candidates to request accommodations.
Emfinders Emseeq (Disabled World)
Phone: (450) 844-0576
E-mail: admin@disabled-
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: EmFinders EmSeeQ is an emergency response solution designed to work in conjunction with law enforcement officials and the 9-1-1 community to help immediately locate adults with cognitive and developmental disabilities and children who wander, including those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and autism. The solution utilizes a watch-like wearable device and cellular network-based U-TDOA technology to provide unparalleled tracking information in emergency situations.
Enable Mart
865 Muirfield Drive, Hanover Park, IL 60133
Phone: (888) 640-1999
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Enable Mart is an assistive technology agency. They serve individuals with several disabilities and carry products such as communication software, type-to-talk devices, picture communicators and amplifiers.
Enabling Devices
Web site:
Email form:
Product Information: Enabling Devices is a company dedicated to developing affordable
learning and assistive devices to help people of all ages with disabling conditions.
Enabling Technologies
1601 N.E. Braille Place, Jensen Beach, FL 34957
Phone: (800) 777-3687
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Enabling Technologies is proud to offer a new line of embossers. Trident, Cyclone and Phoenix are light-weight and come with a free version of the Firebird Suite Software.
Enchanted Hills Camp
3410 Mt. Veeder Rd., Napa, CA 94558
Phone: (707) 251-1548
Web site:
Email: afletcher@lighthouse-
Agency/business Profile: LightHouse for the Blind’s mission is to promote the equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or visually impaired through rehabilitation training, employment placement, Enchanted Hills Camp and other relevant services.
Enhanced Vision
5882 Machine Drive, Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Phone: (714) 374-1829, Fax (714) 374-1821
Web site:
Email: info@evoptron.de
Agency/business Profile: Enhanced Vision is a leading developer of assistive technology for the visually impaired including Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Cataracts, Retinitis Pigmentosa and Diabetic Retinopathy. Low vision assistive technology enables people to read, write and fully participate in life.
Environmental Traveling Companions (ETC)
Fort Mason Center, Bldg C, San Francisco, CA 94123
Phone: (415) 474-7662
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: Environmental Traveling Companions (ETC)
opens the beauty and challenge of the great outdoors to people with disabilities and disadvantaged youth. Every year, more than 2,100 people join ETC to raft whitewater rivers, ski alpine meadows, kayak the waters of the Golden Gate and Tomales Bay, and build leadership skills.
Eschenbach Optik of America
Allen Highway, Ridgefield, CT 06877
Phone: (800) 487-5389, Fax (203) 438-7471
Web site:
Email form:
Product information: Since 1903, Eschenbach GmbH has been introducing novel and award-winning magnification solutions and since 1983, Eschenbach Optik of America, Inc. has been distributing those products in North and South America.
Exceptional Teaching, Inc.
3994 Oleander Way, Castro Valley, CA 94546
Phone: (800) 549-6999, (510) 889-7282, Fax (510) 889-7382
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: The Exceptional Teaching mission is to help individuals with special needs acquire the skills and attitudes required to function effectively as contributing members of society. The corporation accomplishes its mission by providing affordable and innovative products for individuals of all ages having special needs as well as all those who serve this population.
655 K Street, NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 289-7201
Web site:
Email: feedback@
Article: Explore Health Careers: Orientation and Mobility at
Agency/business Profile: – it is a website that includes 118 career descriptions about health careers including orientation and mobility specialists. The resource is designed for high school and college students who are interested in exploring career options in the health care field.
Eye Dogs Foundation, Bakersfield
PO Box 519, Claremont, CA 91711
Phone: (800) 393-3641
Web site:
Emailform:
Agency/business Profile: Eye Dog Foundation was organized as a non-profit
corporation in 1952. Ever since that time, it has been dedicated to giving guide dogs
to the blind and the visually impaired at absolutely no cost to them.
Eyegaze Edge Tablet
Web site:
Email:
Product information: The Eyegaze Edge Tablet is a one-piece eye-operated unit that combines processor and display in a small 5-pound package with an adjustable arm with camera bracket, high-speed infrared sensitive camera and lens, keyboard. Programs include: eyegaze communication software, email, internet, Kindle, SMS, music player, computer control for PC or Mac and programs for children.
Beamz and Accessibility with Tobii EyeGaze (2:00)
Web site:
Product information: Overview of the Tobi EyeGaze.
Inclusive EyeGaze Attention & Looking (5:33)
Web site:
Product information: 18 carefully graded activities designed to assess and teach attention and looking skills, simple access skills and understanding of eye gaze.
Sophie Patmore Tobii Eye Gaze (2:46)
Web site:
Product information: Sophie doing her school homework on her eye gaze.
Eyenote
Website:
Agency/business Profile: Eyenote is a free mobile device application to identify
denominations of Federal Reserve Notes (U.S. paper currency) as an aid for the blindor
visually impaired.
Family Resource & Information Guide
1 AAA Drive, Suite 203, Trenton, NJ 08691
Phone: (800) 376-2345, Fax: (609) 392-5621
Web site: 0UG8qE2bsyJvAZxgCifm6lpRoCmHPw_wcB
Email: lgundell@
Agency/business Profile: With more than 50 programs Family Resource & Information Guide provides services for New Jersey residents living with epilepsy, autism, developmental disabilities and chronic illness, The Family Resource Network (FRN) and its affiliates have been affecting lives of thousands of families across New Jersey for the past 41 years.
Famous Blind People
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Hosted by New Health Guide this site provides biographies of famous people who are blind.
Famous Deaf People
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Famous Deaf People is a list of people who are deaf and are famous.
Famous Deaf People in Education, Arts, Writers
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Famous Deaf People in Education, Arts, Writers is a collection of famous deaf individuals.
Famous People with Disabilities
Phone: (450) 844-0576
E-mail admin@disabled-
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Famous People with Disabilities provides a list of some famous and well known people with various disabilities and conditions including actors, politicians and writers who contributed to society.
Famous People with Disabilities
Agency/business Profile: Famous People with Disabilities provides a list of famous people with disabilities.
Famous People with Illnesses or Disabilities
200 Independence Avenue SW, Room 712E, Washington, DC 20201
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of , developed by the Office on Women’s Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is to promote healthy, positive behaviors in girls between the ages of 10 and 16 by providing examples of Famous People with Illnesses or Disabilities.
Famous People with Learning Disabilities
Agency/business Profile: The Famous People with Learning Disabilities Web site provides information on the lives of people who have learning disabilities.
Famous Scientists and Inventors with Disabilities
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Famous scientists and inventors with disabilities provides a list of successful people with disabilities
Federal Lifeline Cell Phone Service
Federal Communications Commission445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554
Phone: (888) 225-5322
TTY: (888) 835-5322
ASL Videophone: (844) 432-2275
E-Mail: webfeedback@
Web site: or
Agency/business Profile: Lifeline program provides a discount on phone service for
qualifying low-income consumers to ensure that all Americans have the opportunities
and security that phone service brings.
FinAid
Web site: otheraid/disabled.phtml
Email:
Agency/business Profile: FinAid was established in the fall of 1994 as a public service. This award-winning site has grown into the most comprehensive source of student financial aid information, advice and tools, on or off the web.
Find Youth Info
Web site:
Email: Sarah.Oberlander@
Agency/business Profile: Find Youth is the U.S. government website that helps to
create, maintain, and strengthen effective youth programs.
Fragile Kids Foundation
3350 Riverwood Parkway, Suite 1400, Atlanta, Georgia 30339
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Fragile Kids Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 that provides durable medical equipment not covered by private or government insurance to children, ages birth to 22 years, who are residents of the state of Georgia. Our mission is to serve children with neuro-muscular challenges including cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, traumatic injuries and genetic disorders to help improve quality of life. Examples of durable medical equipment include van lifts, ceiling lifts, stair lifts, ramps, positioning seats, adaptive bikes and much more. Applications can be found online at Fragile Kids Foundation | Hope and Help Here and Now for Georgia's Medically Fragile Children
Franklin Electronic Publishers
3 Terri Lane, Suite #6, Burlington, NJ 08016
Phone: (800) 266-5626
Web site:
Email:
Agency/business Profile: Franklin Electronic Publishers carry an array of portable talking educational materials. Monolingual and bilingual dictionaries, thesaurus, fully accessible word games and multi-language translators. They serve the low-vision/blind communities and feature materials for children and adults.
Fred’s Head
American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, P.O. Box 6085, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
Web site: fh/
Email: fredshead@
Agency/business Profile: Fred's Head, is a free service from APH that publishes tips, articles, and resources for blind or visually impaired people. The current Fred's Head Companion blog continues and is now called simply Fred's Head (Web site:.).
Free White Cane Program
200 East Wells Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
Web site:
Request form:
Email: pmaurer@
Agency/business Profile: The NFB provides the long white cane is a means to
independence. The white cane has proved a useful tool to millions of blind people in
navigating environments with confidence and safety. It is a tool which allows blind
people to travel where and when they want, and as such leads to self-sufficiency.
Freedom Scientific
11800 31st Court North, St. Petersburg, FL 33716-1805
Phone: (800) 444-4443, (727) 803-8000
Web site:
Email tech support:
Agency/business Profile: Freedom Scientific is an assistive technology manufacturer. They carry products that assist individuals of all ages who have a learning disability or who are blind/low vision. They carry magnifiers, braille displays and the JAWS screen reader.
Freedom Tech Loans
Phone: (916) 737-5358 / (916) 325-1695 TTY
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Product: A program providing Californians affordable financial loans to
purchase needed assistive technology, loans range from $500 to $15,000, to purchase a variety of assistive technology.
Fresno Talking Book Library
Fresno County Library, 770 N. San Pablo Avenue, Fresno, CA 9728
Phone: (800) 742-1011 ext. 3217
Contact information, Lisa Lindsay, Supervisor.
E-mail: tblb@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Fresno Library has over 700 talking books in circulation that are accessible for people with visual impairments.
Friendship Circle
6892 West Maple Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Phone: (248) 788-7878
Web site:
Email form:
Article: Tracking Devices to Find a Lost Child at
Product information: Tracking devices can be worn as wristwatches, anklets or clipped onto belt loops or shoelaces.
FRS Custom Solutions Headpointer
Web site: products/accessories
Email: sales@frs-
Product information: The FRS Custom Solutions Headpointer is a head wand designed for use by individuals with spinal cord injury or upper extremity disabilities or severe physical disabilities. The Headpointer can assist users with a wide range of daily tasks including communication device access, computer access, elevator operation, and light and appliance control.
Gallaudet University
800 Florida Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002-3695
Phone: (202) 651-5000
Email: public.relations@gallaudet.edu
Web site: gallaudet.edu
Agency/business Profile: Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, multicultural institution of higher education that ensures the intellectual and professional advancement of deaf and hard of hearing individuals through American Sign Language and English.
General Educational Developmental Test (GED)
Web site:
Email: help@
Agency/business Profile: GED Testing Service offers the only learner-centric program that is recognized and portable from state to state. The program is based on the expectations and standards for college- and career-readiness and will lead to better outcomes in education. The GED is available in braille, in large print, and audio. The Department of Rehabilitation will assist with preparation for this test. For further information, call the California State Department of Education at (916) 657-3346, or contact the American Council of Education at (202) 939-9490
Glaucoma Research Foundation
251 Post Street, Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: (415) 986-3162, Fax (415) 986-3763
Email: grf@
Web site:
Email: question@
Agency/business Profile: Glaucoma Research Foundation mission is to prevent vision
loss from glaucoma by investing in innovative research, education, and support with the
ultimate goal of finding a cure.
Going to College
Box 842011, Richmond, Virginia 23284-2011
Phone: (804) 828-1851, Fax (804) 828-2193, TTY (804) 828-2494
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Going to College Web site were developed under a grant from the Office of Special Education Programs, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), U.S. Department of Education (# H324M030099A).
Good Dog Autism Service Dogs
855 South Main Ave, Suite K-162, Fallbrook, CA 92028
Phone: (858) 245-0032
E-mail: gooddogautism@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Good Dog! Autism Companions is the natural result of a magical journey taken through autism.
GPS Technology for the Blind
200 East Wells Street, at Jernigan Place, Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9314, extension 5
Web site:
Email: pmaurer@
Article: GPS TECHNOLOGY for the Blind
Agency/business Profile: Global Positioning Systems are more and more common in a technology-laden world. It is a measure of the progress that the blind community has made that now has three accessible systems to choose among. In the following article the staff of the International Braille and Technology Center of the NFB Jernigan Institute (IBTC) briefly explain GPS technology and evaluate the three current systems.
Great
1999 Harrison Street, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA 94612
Web site:
Email:
Article: Consumer Tips for Evaluating Assistive Technology Products
Agency/business Profile: Consumer Tips for Evaluating Assistive Technology Products is an article giving information about selecting the most effective assistive technology tools for the child's specific needs.
Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired
16625 Grand River, Detroit, MI 48227
Phone: (313) 272-3900
Web site:
Email: information@
Agency/business Profile: The Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired (formerly Upshaw Institute for the Blind) was established in 1961 to develop and expand community resources minimizing the causes and impact of blindness and visual impairments.
Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD)
2222 Laverna Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90041
Phone: (323) 478-8000 Voice/TTY, (323) 550-4226 TTY, (323) 892-2225 (VP)
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD) is to ensure equal access of the deaf and hard of hearing community to the same opportunities afforded the hearing counterparts. GLAD’s specific and primary purpose is to act as a coordinating agency that addresses the broad social service needs of deaf and hard of hearing people through direct service provision, advocacy, research information regarding deafness to parents, professionals, and consumers.
Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc. National Office
PO Box 151200, San Rafael, CA 94915
Phone: (800) 295-4050
Web site:
Email: information@
Regional offices:
350 Los Ranchitos Road-California Campus
San Rafael, CA 94903
Phone: (415) 499-4000
32901 S.E. Kelso Road- Oregon Campus
Boring, OR 97009
Phone: (503) 668-2100
Agency/business Profile: GDB creates exceptional partnerships between highly trained guide dogs and people who are blind or visually impaired. GDB offers a lifetime of support and all services are provided free of charge.
Guide Dogs of America
13445 Glenoaks Blvd., Sylmar, CA 91342
Phone: (818) 362-5834
Web site:
E-mail: mail@
Agency/Business Profile: Guide Dogs of America is dedicated to its mission to provide guide dogs and instruction free of charge, to blind and visually impaired men and women from the United States and Canada so that they may continue to pursue the goals with increased mobility and independence.
Guide Dogs of the Desert
PO Box 1692, Palm Springs, CA 92263
Phone: (760) 329-6257
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Guide Dogs of the Desert provides custom trained guide dogs for the blind, and for those with special needs, for safe mobility, companionship, and independence.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind
611 Granite Springs Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
Phone: (800) 942-0149
Web site: guiding-
Email: webmaster@
Agency/business Profile: Guiding Eyes for the Blind is an internationally accredited nonprofit that provides guide dogs to people with vision loss, as well as service dogs to children with autism.
GW Micro
725 Airport North Office Park, Fort Wayne, IN 46865
Phone: (260) 489-3671
Web site:
E-mail: support@
Agency/business Profile: Since 1990, GW Micro has been a trusted pioneer in the adaptive technology industry, and continues to lead with innovative, customer driven solutions.
Hadley School for the Blind
700 Elm Street, Winnetka, IL 60093
Phone: (800) 323-4238, TTY (847) 441-8111, Fax (847) 446-0855
E-mail: info@hadley.edu
Web site: hadley.edu
Agency/business Profile: The mission of The Hadley School for the Blind is to promote independent living through lifelong, distance education programs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, families and blindness service providers. Hadley offers courses free of charge to blind and visually impaired students and families and affordable tuition to blindness professionals.
Hand Speak
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Free sign language resources and extracurricular ASL
(American Sign Language) materials to learn how to sign or study sign language and culture
Handicapped Scuba Association
1104 El Prado, San Clemente, CA 92672
Phone: (949) 498-4540
Web site:
Email:
Agency/business Profile: The Handicapped Scuba Association has dedicated itself to improving the physical and social well-being of people with disabilities through the sport of scuba diving.
Hands & Voices Headquarters
PO Box 3093, Boulder CO 80307
Phone: (303) 492-6283, (866) 422-0422
E-mail: Parentadvocate@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Hands & Voices is a non-profit, parent-driven organization
dedicated to supporting families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Harper Collins
10 East 53rd St., New York, NY 10022
Phone: (800) 242-7737, (212) 207-7000
Web site:
Email orders@
Agency/business Profile: HarperCollins, as part of its goal to encourage and promote literacy, is committed to facilitating access for persons with print disabilities. The publisher is also a signing member of the Accessible Books Consortium's Charter for Accessible Publishing, which promotes the production of books in accessible formats.
The Hatlen Center for the Blind, a program of Junior Blind
(formerly Living Skills)
2430 Rd. 20, B112, San Pablo CA 94806-5005
Phone: (510) 234-4984
Web site:
Email: Efoley@ (Erin Foley, Director)
Agency/business Profile: In 1972, The Hatlen Center became the first transition agency of its kind.
HEATH Resource Center at George Washington University
2134 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20052-0001
Phone: (202) 994-1000
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Since 2000, the HEATH Resource Center has served as a national clearinghouse on postsecondary education for individuals with disabilities, managed by The George Washington University Graduate School of Education and Human Development.
High Tech Center Training Unit
21050 McClellan Road, Suite A, Cupertino, CA 95014
Phone: (408) 996-4636, (800) 411-8954, TTY (408) 252-4938, FAX (408) 996-6042
E-mail: info@
Web site: htctu.fhda.edu
Agency/business Profile: The High Tech Center Training Unit of the California
Community Colleges is a state of the art training and support facility for community
college faculty and staff wishing to acquire or improve teaching skills, methodologies,
and pedagogy in Assistive Computer Technology, Alternate Media and Web
Accessibility. The HTCTU supports High Tech Center programs at one-hundred and
fourteen community colleges and satellite centers. More than ten thousand students
with disabilities are enrolled in High Tech Center programs state-wide.
HIMS Inc.
4616 W. Howard Lane, Suite 960, Austin, TX 78728
Phone: (888) 520-4467, Fax (512) 837-2011
E-mail: sales@hims-
Web:
Agency/business Profile: HIMS has been a global leader in the development and manufacturing of assistive technology for the blind and visually impaired since 1999. Deaf-Blind communicators: Web site: //products/deaf-blind-communicators/
Hip Housing
364 South Railroad Avenue,
San Mateo, CA 94401
Phone: (650) 348-6660
E-mail: mailbox@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Invests in human potential by improving the housing in
our community. HIP Housing enables people with special needs, either from low income or circumstances, to live independent, self-sufficient lives in decent, safe, low-cost homes. To achieve our mission, HIP Housing provides Home Sharing, Self-Sufficiency, and Property Development. (San Mateo County)
Hooleon Corporation
P.O. Box 589, 304 West Denby Ave., Melrose, NM 88124
Phone: (800) 937-1337
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Since 1982 Hooleon has provided computer keyboard solutions.
Howe Press of Perkins School for the Blind
175 North Beacon St., Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: (617) 924-3434
Web site:
Email: Info@
Agency/business Profile: Perkins International builds capacity at local, regional and national levels in more than 60 countries, developing independent, sustainable education services and empowering children with disabilities and the families.
Huge Print Press
1700 Commerce, Suite 1140, Dallas, TX 75201
Phone: (866) 484-3774
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Huge Print Press provides accessible large print.
Humanware
1 UPS Way PO Box 800, Champlain, NY 12919
Phone: (800) 722-3393
E-mail: @
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Humanware provides products so that you can enjoy a riveting
read, prepare a new recipe, relaxing with a hobby, or verify financial statements.
I Can Connect
Phone: (800) 825-4595, TTY (888) 320-2656
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: iCanConnect, the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP), provides free access to distance communication technologies to people with significant combined hearing and vision loss who meet federal income guidelines. iCanConnect provides distance communication technology, including smartphones, computers, software and braille readers, as well as training and support.
iCommunicator
Phone: (718) 663-6750
E-mail: icomm-info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: iCommunicator is a software designed for people with hearing impairments which promotes independent communication. The program translates English in real-time/ instantly: Speech to text, Speech/Text to Video Sign-Language, and Speech/Text to Computer Generated Voice.
IDEAL Currency Identifier for Androids
Web site:
Help Center:
Product information: IDEAL Currency Identifier provides an App for Android phone systems.
Independent Living Aids, LLC
137 Rano Street, Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 537-2118
Web site:
Contact:
Product information: Category and key-word option provide navigation for products on this site at .
INDEPENDENT LIVING CENTERS
Phone: (916) 558-5775 (Voice), or (916) 558-5778 (TTY)
E-mail: ILInfo@dor.
Web site:
List of California centers:
Agency/business Profile: The mission is to increase access and equal opportunity for
people with disabilities. Thebirth of the independent living movement has been attributed to a group of students at U.C. Berkeley with disabilities. In 1962, the first severely disabled student was admitted to U.C. Berkeley. By 1969, there were twelve severely disabled students. The medical surroundings were familiar to the new tenants, who had spent countless days and nights in custodial institutions.
Independent Living Research Utilization (ILRU)
TIRR Memorial Hermann Research Center, 1333 Moursund, Houston, TX 77030
Phone: (713) 520-0232, Fax (713) 520-5785
E-mail at: ilru@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: ILRU, founded in 1977, has a long history of providing research, education and consultation in the areas of independent living, home and community-based services, and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Inland Empire Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc.
359 East Parkcenter Circle South, San Bernardino, CA 92408
Phone: (909) 884-3121
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Lighthouse for the Blind teaches independent daily living skills
and provide social, recreational outlets. Individuals must be legally bind with a doctor's
statement and have the ability to participate in a classroom and over the age of 18.
Inspiring Connections Outdoors - Sierra Club
Phone: 415-977-5568
Web site: ico/
Email: ico@
Agency/business Profile: In 1976, the Sierra Club established a nationwide Inner City
Outings Program (ICO) to provide opportunities for people with limited access to the
outdoors - especially youth - to safely explore, enjoy and protect the natural
world. Volunteers work in cooperation with partner community agencies to create
outdoor programming. In 2014, the name changed to Inspiring Connections
Outdoors (ICO).
Independent Living Aids Inc. IRTI
13465 Colfax Highway, Grass Valley, CA 9594
Phone: (800) 322-4784
Web site:
Email: Info@
Agency/business Profile: Independent Living Aids in business since 1979, IRTI provides
high technology products and services for the Blind, Low Vision and individuals with
learning differences.
Intele Modem
97 Harewood Drive, Royton, Oldham, Lancashire, OL2 5TB
Web site:
Email form: Profile: The Intele Modem device turns a computer into a TTY. It works with standard communication software on a computer. It automatically distinguishes between ASCII and Baudot calls.
International Association of Accessibility Professionals
6300 Powers Ferry Road, Suite 600-300
Atlanta, Georgia 30339, U.S.A.
Phone: (727) 785-1390, toll-free (US and Canada): (855) 315-IAAP (4227)
Email: info@
Website:
Agency/business Profile: Accessibility professionals are subject matter experts who
understand the need for inclusion and address these needs through technology.
International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC)
312 Dolomite Drive, Suite 216, Toronto, ON M3J 2N2, Canada
Phone: (905) 850-6848, Fax (905) 850-6852
Web site:
Email: franklin@isaac-
Agency/business Profile: ISAAC – the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication – is a membership organization working to improve the lives of children and adults with complex communication needs.
iPod Touch
Web site:
D=63&SolutionType=Products
Email: cap.wsm@mail.mil
Product information: The iPod Touch is a customizable portable media player, personal
digital assistant, and Wi-Fi capable mobile platform. With a touch-screen display and
standard applications that enable the end-user to take notes on the go or enter
appointments into the calendar.
The IRIS Center
Box 275, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: (615) 343-6006, (800) 831-6134, Fax (615) 343-5611
Email: n.tyler@vanderbilt.edu; iris@vanderbilt.edu
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The IRIS Center is a national center dedicated to improving education outcomes for all children, including a large section on students with learning disabilities, through the use of effective evidence-based practices and interventions.
Jewish Braille Institute of America, Inc.
Phone: (212) 889-2525
Web site: nyu.edu/pages/gsas/files/jewishb
Email: gigsGSAS@nyu.edu
Agency/business Profile: JBI International is a non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the Jewish and general cultural needs of the visually impaired, blind, physically handicapped and reading disabled - of all ages and backgrounds – worldwide. Applicants must be working toward a career in Jewish education or theology.
Joystick Light
Web site: //
Email: customerservice@
Product information: Joystick Light is designed to provide computer cursor control for individuals with upper extremity disabilities to turn off lights and other appliances.
Junior Blind of America (formerly Junior Foundation for the Blind)
5300 Angeles Vista Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90043
Phone: (323) 295-4555, (800) 352-2290
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: In 2013-2014, Junior Blind’s programs served more than 14,000 students and the family members—all at no cost to them. Through programs that offer education, recreation and rehabilitation services, students are one step closer to reaching the goals and achieving the greatest levels of independence.
Kaplan Educational Center
50 First Street, Suite 250, San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone: (415) 905-9000
Web site:
Email: customer.care@
Agency/business Profile: Kaplan is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET), a U.S. Department of Education nationally recognized agency.
KCHO Radio Reading Service
Chico State University, Chico, CA 95929
Phone: (530) 898-6100
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: KCHO is under the umbrella of The American Foundation for the Blind removes barriers, creates solutions, and expands possibilities so people with vision loss can achieve full potential.
Kenneth Jernigan Library for the Blind
Children-Twin Vision Books
1800 Johnson Street, Baltimore, MD21230
Phone: (410) 659-9315
Web site:
E-mail: actionfund@
Agency/business Profile: The Kenneth Jernigan Library for Blind Children and Adults, a lending library, is a nonprofit charitable foundation dedicated to the reading pleasure and education of blind children and young adults. The books catalogued in the library are brailled by volunteers, who have contributed countless hours of time and effort to bring the total collection of the Library to more than 14,000 braille books.
Kitchen of Champions
2272 San Pablo Avenue
Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 877-9236
Web site:
ofchampions.html
Agency/business Profile: St. Vincent de Paul of Alameda County’s Kitchen of
Champions culinary training program is an intensive, comprehensive 12-week session for low-income and disenfranchised individuals, many of whom are formerly incarcerated. The program was created in 2007. Kitchen of Champions uses a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on kitchen food handling safety technique, along with case management, job placement assistance and follow-up services for graduates.
KPBS Radio Reading Service
5200 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182-5400
Phone: (619) 594-8170
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The KPBS Radio Reading Service broadcasts the readings of newspapers, books and magazines to those with low vision, blindness and other impairments. Airing 24 hours a day over a private audio channel, the Reading Service is accessible to qualified recipients in San Diego through a specialized radio, and online via audio Web stream. All local publication readings are produced by KPBS volunteers.
Kennedy Krieger Institute
707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205
Phone: (443) 923-9200 or (800) 873-3377
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Kennedy Krieger Institute is an internationally recognized institution dedicated to improving the lives of children and young adults with pediatric developmental disabilities and disorders of the brain, spinal cord and musculoskeletal system, through patient care, special education, research, and professional training.
Krown's Sign Language Translator
Phone: (682) 200-1331, (800) 366-9950, (817) 738-2485
E-mail: info@
Web site: .
Product information: Krown's Sign Language Translator is an ideal teaching tool for those desiring or interested in learning Sign Language. Enter a word using the touch screen keyboard and watch a video clip signed by a live individual.
Kurzweil Educational Systems, Inc.
100 Crosby Drive, Bedford, MA 01730-1402
Phone: (800) 547-6747, (303) 651-2829
Web site:
Email: customerservice@
Agency/business Profile: Kurzweil Education believes every learner deserves the opportunity to develop the literacy skills that lead to academic and personal success. Products offer learners new multisensory approaches to read, comprehend, synthesize, apply, and demonstrate knowledge. With support, they become independent, confident learners who can achieve rigorous academic goals.
Kurzweil 3000-firefly
Web site:
Product information: The Kurzweil 3000-firefly has built-in tools for reading, writing, study skills and test taking deliver a multisensory approach to learning, helping students who struggle, such as those with dyslexia and English Language Learners.
LAMP: Language Acquisition through Motor Planning
Web site: lamp
Email: lamp@
Product information: LAMP is a therapeutic approach based on neurological and
motor learning principles. The goal is to give individuals who are nonverbal or have
limited verbal abilities a method of independently and spontaneously expressing
themselves in any setting.
Large Print ; Claims to have the largest selection of Large Print Books available anywhere, Web site:
LD Online
WETA Public Television, 2775 S. Quincy St., Arlington, VA 22206
Life Success for Students with Learning Disabilities: A Parent's Guide Web site
Web:
Agency/business Profile: Parents and teachers of learning disabled children will
find authoritative guidance and resources on attention deficit disorder, ADD / ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, dysnomia, reading difficulties, speech and related disorders.
Leader Dogs for the Blind, Rochester, MI (888) 777
1039 S. Rochester Rd., Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Phone: (248) 651-9011, (888) 777-5332, TTY (248) 651-3713
Email: leaderdog@
Web site:
Agency/Business Profile: Leader Dogs for the Blind empowers people who are blind, visually impaired or Deaf-Blind with skills for a lifetime of independent travel, opening doors that may seem to have closed with the loss of sight.
Leadership through Personal Change: Think-Plan-Do
California Department of Developmental Services
1600 9th Street, Room 240, MS 2-15, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 654-1690, TTY (916) 654-2054
Web site:
Email: Ohras@dds.
Agency/business Profile: The Leadership through Personal Change guide was created to help people with developmental disabilities to have self-determined lives. To learn simple ways, using supports, everyone can participate in directing the futures.
Learn Alberta
Web site:
Article: Understanding Medical and Disability Information
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Understanding Medical and Disability Information provides
links for medical information.
Learning Ally (formerly Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic)
20 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: (800) 221-4792
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The Learning Ally lending library provides recorded materials for individuals of all ages who are blind or dyslexic. They house a collection of accessible college-level textbooks as well as textbook materials for K-12 students.
Learning Disabilities Association of America
4156 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15234-1349
Phone (412) 341-1515 (412) 341-1515, Fax (412) 344-0224
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: LDA’s mission is to create opportunities for success for all individuals affected by learning disabilities and to reduce the incidence of learning disabilities in future generations.
Library for the Blind and Print Disabled,
San Francisco Public Library
100 Larkin Street, San Francisco CA, 94102-4733
Phone: (415) 557-4400, TTY (415) 557-4433
Web site:
E-mail: lbpd@
Agency/business Profile: NLS Sub-regional library offers free services to San
Francisco residents of any age who are unable to read traditional print materials due
to a visual or physical disability. Provides popular fiction and non-fiction talking books
(over 100,000 titles), magazines, and the special playback equipment needed to
listen to them. Some audio described movies also available. Materials can be sent
free of charge by mail, checked out at LBPD, or downloaded from a website. Visitors
can use a range of Adaptive Technology, including computers with Internet access
and braille output. The LBPD works to make the whole public library accessible to
our patrons.
Library Reproduction Services
1916 Van Ness Avenue, Torrance, CA90501
Phone: (800) 255-5002
Web site:
Email: LargePrintSB@
Agency/business Profile: Library Reproduction Services agency provides large-print
materials as made-to-order by request. Materials include dictionaries, k-12 instructional
books, juvenile and children’s fiction books.
Librivox
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: LibriVox volunteers record chapters of books in the public
domain, and then we release the audio files back onto the net for free. All our audio is in the public domain, so you may use it for whatever purpose you wish. Free public domain audiobooks that are free for anyone to listen to, on their computers, iPods or other mobile device, or to burn onto a CD.
Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
214 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: (415) 431-1481
E-mail: info@lighthouse-
Web site: lighthouse-
Agency/business Profile: Lighthouse for the Blind and Physically Impaired provides
training on cutting-edge accessible technology; innovative green projects combining the
tranquility of gardening with the sophistication of fine art; maps that talk to you with the
touch of a pen; science and math camps for blind kids in the rolling hills of Napa. Each
year, we transport youth, adults and seniors thousands of miles by van, car and bus
throughout the Bay Area to access innovative programs.
Light House of Marin
851 Irwin Street, Suite 206
San Rafael, CA 94901
Phone: (415) 258-8496
Fax: (415) 258-8501
Administrative Office Hours
Monday – Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Light House of the East Bay
Ed Roberts Campus
3075 Adeline, Suite 110
Berkeley, CA 94703
TEL: (510) 845-8700
Fax: (510) 845-8705
VP: (510) 356-0018
TTY: (510) 845-8703
LightHouse North Coast
Humboldt Senior Resource Center
1910 California Street, Third Floor
Eureka, CA 95501
Phone: (707) 268-5646
Fax: (707) 268-5647
TTY: (707) 268-5655
Enchanted Hills Camp
3410 Mt. Veeder Road
Napa, CA 94558
Phone: (707) 224-4023
Fax: (707) 224-5435
LightHouse Industries
14690 Washington Avenue
San Leandro, CA. 94578
Phone: (510) 895-1724
(510) 895-9143 (line 2)
(510) 895-9510 (line 3)
Fax: (510) 895-9732
Lighthouse International
111 E. 59th Street, New York, NY 10022
Phone: (800) 284-4422
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Since 1905, Lighthouse International has led the charge in the fight against vision loss through prevention, treatment and empowerment. Founders, Winifred and Edith Holt, blazed a trail of firsts and opened up new doors of opportunity for people without sight.
Lighthouse of Marin
1137 Fourth St., San Rafael, CA 94901
Phone: (415) 258-8496,
TTY (415) 258-8499
Para Espanol (800) 592-9053
Web site:
Email: info@lighthouse-
Lighthouse of the North Coast
2830 G Street, Suite B-1
Eureka, CA 95501
Phone: (707) 268-5646
Para Espanol (800) 592-9053
Web site: lighthouse-
Lions Center for the Blind
1722 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 450-1580
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Lions Center for the Blind is an Oakland based training center in operation in the Bay Area since 1942. The organization provides core services of Orientation & Mobility Training, Independent Living Skills, Assistive Technology training, Braille, and Employment Services. The agency works in partnership with schools, community based organizations, businesses, and state & local governments to facilitate engagement and integration for visually impaired individuals.
Lions Center programs are conducted in both cohort learning models designed to foster social and interpersonal skill development, and individual one-on-one training for specific skill development. Students regularly experience cross-training between the various programs and instruction typically focuses on applicable uses for life after training.
Lions Center for the Visually Impaired (LCVI)
175 Alvarado Avenue
Pittsburg, CA 94565.
(800) 750-3937, (925) 432-3013
Web site:
Santa Clara Valley Blind Center
101 North Bascom Ave.
San Jose, CA 95128
Phone: (408) 295-4016
Web site:
Livescribe Echo Smartpen Set
Web site:
egoryID=63&SolutionType=Products
Email: cap.wsm@mail.mil
Product information: The Livescribe Echo Smartpen Set records notes two ways: it
creates digital copies of everything you write by hand while recording audio at the same
time. It also goes one step further and links the two together, so you can quickly access
audio by tapping parts of the notes.
LookTel Money Reader
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: LookTel is developing a suite of revolutionary assistive smartphone applications that bring the most powerful recognition technology of today to the aid of persons with low vision or blindness.
LS&S, LLC
145 River Rock Drive, Buffalo, NY 14207
Phone: (800) 468-4789, TTY (866) 317-8533
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Agency carries low vision aids, hard of hearing products and assistive technology. They serve the low vision/blind community as well as the hard of hearing/deaf communities.
MAAP Services for Autism and Asperger Syndrome
P.O. Box 524, Crown Point, IN 46308
Tel: (219) 662-1311, Fax (219) 662-1315
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: MAAP provides information, advice, and networking to families of more advanced individuals affected by the autism spectrum, including autism, Asperger syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder. Publishes a quarterly newsletter.
Macular Degeneration International
Prevention Sciences Research Center, Morgan State University
1700 East Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21251
Phone: (443) 885-4030
E-mail: fernando.wagner@morgan.edu
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the PSRC will be accomplished through coordinated inter-institutional efforts in research, training and community outreach. The Center has a national focus, but much of its work is conducted in the local Baltimore community.
MaxiAids
42 Executive Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735
Phone: (800) 522-6294, TTY (800) 281-3555
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Maxi Aids carries independent living products for those who are blind, low vision, hard of hearing and who have other physical/mobility disabilities.
Media Access Australia
Web:
Email form:
Article: Sociability: Social Media for People with a Disability at
Agency/business Profile: This Sociability Australian publication goes through social media and provides information on how to convert it to an accessible option to communicate. Australia’s only independent not-for-profit organisation devoted to increasing access to media for people with disabilities.
Media Access Group
One Guest Street
Boston, MA 02135
Phone: 617-300-3600
E-mail: access.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Dedicated to providing access to present and future media for
people with disabilities.
Medical Information Center
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Medical Information Center is the free online information
center you can turn to for reliable medical information.
Medical Mutts
Tel: (317) 258-9999, Fax (317) 802-1187
E-mail: medicalmutts@
Web site: //#!medical-alert-dogs/cktc
Agency/business Profile: Medical Mutts was created under the expert supervision of
Jennifer Cattet, Ph.D. with the goal to assist people and dogs in need of help. Jennifer
Cattet is an ethnologist, a psychologist, a dog behaviorist and a trainer and has worked
with dogs and people for over 30 years
M.C. Migel Library and Barr Library
American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.
1839 Frankfort Avenue, P.O. Box 6085, Louisville, KY40206
Phone: (800) 223-1839
E-mail library@
Web site:
Contact information: APH Libraries library@ Agency/business Profile:
The Migel Library collection contains items on aging, orientation and mobility, education,
employment, and rehabilitation. It also includes a collection of items relating to
Deaf-Blindness, fictional titles that feature blind or visually impaired characters, books
on Helen Keller, children's books that touch on blindness and visual impairment, and
many important AFB publications dating back to the 1920s. The Library contains
approximately 40,000 volumes in its holdings, including a number of current titles and
many out-of-print and historic titles.
MIND Institute
2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817
Phone: (916) 703-0280
Web site:
Email: blshelton@ucdavis.edu
Agency/business Profile: The UC Davis MIND Institute (Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) is a collaborative international research center, committed to the awareness, understanding, prevention, care, and cures of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Mini Beamer Transmitter
Web site:
Email: customerservice@
Product information: Mini Beamer Transmitter comes with a modern look, small form factor, rechargeable battery, proximity sensor activation surface, and external switch jack. Proximity sensor will activate when an individual is within 10-millimeters of the activation surface.
Mission Catarack USA
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Mission Catarack USA program provides free cataract surgery
to people of all ages who have no other means to pay.
Money management training: Wells Fargo Bank has developed a training program called Hands on Banking – Money Skills You Need for Life.
Phone: (866) 650-6228, (877) 644-7819
E-mailing WellsFargoADACoordinator@
Web site:
Pamphlet site: .
Motiva personal FM
10300 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: (952) 943-2252, (800) 328-6190, Fax (952) 943-2174
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The Motiva personal FM broadcasts a speaker's voice directly
to the ears of individual listeners up to 150 feet away, making it an ideal amplification system for small groups, classrooms, employee training and consultation. The speaker wears a compact battery operated transmitter with a small lapel microphone that sends the voice to the listener who uses a compact battery operated receiver to hear the presentation loudly and clearly, even from the back of the room. The receiver also has adjustable tone and volume settings for listening customiz Northern California Branch of the International Dyslexia Association
PO Box 5010, San Mateo, CA 94402-0010
Phone: (650) 328-7667
E-mail: office@dyslexia-
Web:
Agency/business Profile: As the oldest branch of IDA, its mission continues to be increasing awareness of dyslexia, disseminating information about dyslexia, and encouraging the use of research-based programs for teaching students with dyslexia. They offer workshops for parents and teachers, a hands-on simulation called Experience Dyslexia®, teacher training scholarships and resources to increase awareness and support for those affected by this learning difference.
ation.
Multi-Tiered System of Supports
California Department of Education
Phone: (916) 323-6269
E-mail: Allison Zaria AAllisonZarea@cde.
Web:
Agency/business Profile: The California Department of Education’s Web site with information and resources to support all students’ abilities to attain academic and social success through Multi-Tiered System of Supports and Response to Intervention (RTI), including students with learning disabilities.
Multiple Disabilities (Wiki) Multiple disabilities is a term for a person with several
disabilities, such as a sensory disability associated with a motor disability. Depending
on the definition, a severe intellectual disability may be included in the term "multiple
disabilities". Individual usually has more than one significant disability, such as
movement difficulties, sensory loss, and/or a behavior or emotional disorder.
Web site:
Multiple Disabilities 34 CFR Section 300.8(c)(7): Multiple disabilities means concomitant impairments (such as intellectual disability & blindness or intellectual disability & orthopedic impairment), the combination of which causes such severe educational needs that they cannot be accommodated in special education programs solely for one of the impairments. Multiple disabilities does NOT include Deaf-Blindness.
Web site:
Multiple Disabilities According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act’s (IDEA), multiple disabilities refers to “concomitant [simultaneous] impairments (such as intellectual disability-blindness, intellectual disability-orthopedic impairment, etc.), the combination of which causes such severe educational needs that they cannot be accommodated in a special education program solely for one of the impairments. The term does not include Deaf-Blind.” Web site:
Multiple Disabilities: Center for Parent Information
35 Halsey St., Fourth Floor, Newark, NJ 07102
Contact: Myriam Alizo malizo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Center for Parent Information and Resources is charged with providing universal technical assistance to the 96 USDE-funded Parent Centers serving families with children with disabilities. All of the materials on are developed through federal funds and therefore in the public domain. The web address for attributing our material would be .
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America
375 Kings Highway North, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Phone: (856) 488-4500, (800) 532-7667
E-mail: msaa@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is a leading resource for the entire MS community, improving lives today through vital services and support.
Muscular Dystrophy
222 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 1500, Chicago, Illinois 60606
Phone: (800) 572-1717
Email: mda@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: MDA is the world’s leading nonprofit health organization sponsoring research seeking the causes of and effective treatments for neuromuscular diseases.
My Child without Limits
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: My child without Limits is a resource for parents. As a child grows and develops, he learns different skills, such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, or waving goodbye. These skills are known as developmental milestones.
MyVoice
Web site:
Email: support@
Product Information: MyVoice is an alternative and augmentative communications aide
AAC) designed to help non-verbal, low cognitive people communicate needs and
desires. It's the digital big brother of a “picture board”, a communication method that has
been shown to work extremely well many non-verbal children.
Narrative Television Network
5840 South Memorial Drive, Suite 312, Tulsa, OK 74145
Phone: (800) 801-8184
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Narrative Television Network Web site provides individuals who are blind or visually impaired may watch a variety of descriptive films. The Web site also lists a TV guide of narrated network programing. Local networks may also contain a list of narrated programing.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
3803 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 100 Arlington, VA 22203
Phone: (703) 524-7600
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.
National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (NAPVI)
P.O. Box 317, Watertown, MA 02471
Phone: (800) 562-6265, (617) 972-7441
E-mail: napvi@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NAPVI helps parents to find information and locate resources for the children. It also advocates on a national level for the resources necessary to educate those children. An affiliate of Lighthouse Guild, NAPVI was founded by volunteers, principally parents of children who are visually impaired.
National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
1825 K Street NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (202) 506-5813
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NACDD is the national association for the 56 State and Territorial Councils on Developmental Disabilities (DD Councils) which receive federal funding to support programs that promote self-determination, integration, and inclusion for all Americans with developmental disabilities.
National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 820, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: TTY (301) 587-1789, Fax (301) 587-1791
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) is the nation's premier civil rights organization of, by and for deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America.
National Association of State Directors of Special Education
225 Reinekers Lane, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 519-3800
Web site:
Article: Medically Fragile: State Policies and Procedures
0527.pdf
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The Medically Fragile: State Policies and Procedures
provide information on how states handle issues related to children who are medically
fragile.
National Autism Association
One Park Avenue, Suite 1, Portsmouth, RI 02871
Phone: (877) 622.2884, Fax (401) 293.5342
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the National Autism Association is to respond to the most urgent needs of the autism community, providing real help and hope so that all affected can reach full potential.
The National Autism Center
41 Pacella Park Drive, Randolph, MA 02368
Phone: (877) 313-3833
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The National Autism Center’s mission is to provide leadership and comprehensive evidence-based resources to families, practitioners, and policymakers, to programs and organizations, and to the national community by adhering to commitments.
National Autistic Society
One Park Avenue, Suite 1, Portsmouth, RI 02871
Phone: (877) 622-2884, Fax (401) 293.5342
Web site:
Email: nas@.uk
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the National Autism Association is to
respond to the most urgent needs of the autism community, providing real help and hope so that all affected can reach full potential.
National Beep Baseball Association
Web site:
Email: secretary@
Agency/business Profile: The National Beep Baseball Association provides the adaptive version of America's favorite pastime for the blind, low-vision and legally blind since 1976.
National Braille Challenge
741 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: (323) 663-1111
Web site:
Email: la@
Agency/business Profile: The Braille Challenge® is an academic competition unlike any other. This two-stage contest is designed to motivate blind students to emphasize the study of braille, while rewarding success with fun-filled, but challenging, local and national events. Any visually impaired student who reads braille is eligible to participate in the preliminary Challenge contest events, which were held from January through the end of March throughout the U.S. and Canada.
National Braille Press
88 Saint Stephen Street, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: (888) 965-8965
Web site:
Email: contact@
Agency/business Profile: The guiding purposes of National Braille Press are to promote the literacy of blind children through braille and to provide access to information that empowers blind people to actively engage in work, family, and community affairs.
National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
32 Laight Street, Second Floor, New York, NY 10013
Web site:
Email options:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of NCLD is to improve the lives of the one in five children and adults nationwide with learning and attention issues—by empowering parents and young adults, transforming schools and advocating for equal rights and opportunities. Additional information is available at Understood at .
National Center on Deaf-Blindness
345 N. Monmouth Avenue, Monmouth OR 97361
Phone: (503) 838-8754, Fax (503) 838-8150
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Mission of the National Center on Deaf-Blindness
as a national technical assistance center funded by the federal Department of
Education, NCDB works to improve the quality of life for children who are Deaf-Blind
and families by:
Creating visibility and direction for identified priorities through a range of practices, activities, supports and partnerships.
Identifying and encouraging new innovations in local, state, and national practice and policy.
Promoting opportunity for reflection, debate, and constructive dialogue around ideas and developing practice.
Maintaining a rich repository of content, history, and knowledge, easily available and shared by all who are part of the community of Deaf-Blind.
For resources specific to transition, go to .
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition
University of Minnesota, Pattee Hall
150 Pillsbury Drive SE, Minneapolis MN 55455
Phone: (612) 624-2097 or Fax (612) 624-9344
E-mail: ncset@umn.edu
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Center on Secondary Education and Transition (NCSET) coordinates national resources, offers technical assistance, and disseminates information related to secondary education and transition for youth with disabilities in order to create opportunities for youth to achieve successful futures.
National Center on Workforce and Disability/Adult
100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125
Web site:
Email: contact@
Agency/business Profile: The National Center on Workforce and Disability/Adult (NCWD) provides training, technical assistance, policy analysis, and information to improve access for all in the workforce development system.
National Coalition on Deaf-Blindness
Phone: (617) 972-7768
Web site:
Email: national-db@
Agency/business Profile: The National Coalition on Deafblindness was formed in 1987 in response to a need to provide feedback to legislators and policy makers regarding the ongoing needs of children who are deafblind and the reauthorization of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth (NCWD/Youth)
4301 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 100, Washington, DC 20008-2304
Phone: (877) 871-0744 871-0665 (Toll Free)
Web site:
Email form:
Pamphlet at:
Agency/business Profile: NCWD/Youth works to ensure that transition age youth are provided full access to high quality services in integrated settings to gain education, employment and independent living.
The National Council on Disability (NCD)
1331 F Street, NW, Suite 850, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: (202) 272-2004 (Voice), (202) 272-2074 (TTY)
E-mail: ncd@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Council on Disability is an independent federal agency that makes recommendations to the President and Congress to improve the quality of life for Americans with disabilities and families. The NCD works to empower individuals with disabilities and to promote equal opportunity.
National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)
2013 H St. NW, 6th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20006
Phone: (202) 207-0334, (877) 525 -3400, TTY (202) 207-0340
E-mail: ncil@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: NCIL advances independent living and the rights of people with disabilities. NCIL envisions a world in which people with disabilities are valued equally and participate fully.
The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)
820 1st Street NE, Suite 740, Washington, DC 20002
Phone: (202) 408-9514, Fax (202) 408-9520, TTY (220) 408-9521
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NDRN believes that Congress and the White House must
address the significant and growing unmet needs of children and adults with disabilities
and families by increasing existing federal funding.
National Family Association for Deaf-Blind
141 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY 11050
Phone: (800) 255-0411
Web site:
Email: NFADinfo@
Agency/business Profile: The National Family Association of Deaf-Blindness exists to empower the voices of families of individuals who are deaf-blind and to advocate for the unique needs.
National Federation of the Blind
1800 Johnson St., Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9314, Fax: 410) 685-5653
Web site:
Email: pmaurer@
National Federation of the Blind of California
39481 Gallaudet Drive Apt. 127, Fremont, CA 94538
Phone: (510) 248-0100, (877) 558-6524
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines the future. Every day the NFB raises the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and dreams. Live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.
National Geographic School Publishing
PO Box 4002865, Des Moines, IA 50340
Phone: (888) 915-3276, Fax (800) 840-9807
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: National Geographic Learning, a part of Cengage Learning, is a leading educational publisher of school, higher education, English Language Teaching, library and reference materials. At National Geographic Learning, Cengage Learning believes that an engaged and motivated learner will be a successful one, and uses the design of the materials to motivate. Learning can be exciting, inspiring, and transformational.
National Information Clearinghouse on Children who are Deaf-Blind
1444 I Street, NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (800) 438-9376, TTY (800) 854-7013, FAX (503) 838-8150
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: National Information Clearinghouse on Children who are Deaf-Blind mission is to help Deaf-Blind persons to achieve the maximum potential through increased independence, productivity, and integration into the community. NCADB is a member organization of the American Association of the Deaf-Blind (AADB).
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Science Writing, Press, and Dissemination Branch
6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 6200, MSC 9663, Bethesda, MD 20892-9663
Phone: (866) 615-6464, or (301) 443-8431 (TTY)
Email Us: nimhinfo@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of NIMH is to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical research, paving the way for prevention, recovery, and cure. NIMH is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
31 Center Drive, MSC 2320, Bethesda, MD USA 20892-2320
E-mail: nidcdinfo@nidcd.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), conducts and supports research in the normal and disordered processes of hearing, balance, taste, smell, voice, speech, and language.
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
1291 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20542
Phone: (202) 707-5100, TDD (202) 707-0744
Web site: nls
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NLS offers books and magazines to serve people with vision impairments and physical disabilities.
Factsheet:
National Organization Albinism & Hypopigmentation
PO Box 959
East Hampstead, NH 03826-0959
Phone: (800) 473-2310 (US and Canada)
Phone: (603) 887-2310
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: We understand that many people will visit our site for a variety
of reasons. There will be people with albinism who come to gain knowledge, share knowledge and make connections. There will be parents of children with albinism who come for accurate information, advice and support. There will be students who are doing research. There will be people from the medical and education fields who want to provide better care by learning more than books can provide about this genetic condition. And there will be people who have heard the word “albino” and want to know more.
National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC)
Phone: (410) 659-9314
Web site:
E-mail: kim@
Agency/business Profile: Our mission is to create a climate of opportunity for blind
children in home, school, and society, provide information and support to parents of
blind children, facilitate the sharing of experience and concerns among parents of blind
children, develop and expand resources available to parents and their blind children,
help parents gain understanding and perspective through partnership and contact with
blind adults, and function as an integral part of the National Federation of the Blind in its
ongoing effort to eliminate discrimination and prejudice against the blind and to achieve
for the blind security, equality, and opportunity.
National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders
Web site:
Email: Ann.Cox@unc.edu
Agency/business Profile: The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder (NPDC) was funded by the Office of Special Education Programs in the US Department of Education from 2007-2014.
National Transition Alliance for Youth with Disabilities (NTA)
University of Minnesota
6 Pattee Hall
150 Pillsbury Drive SE
Minneapolis MN 55455
E-mail: ncset@umn.edu
Web site:
Phone: (612) 624-2097
Fax: (612) 624-9344
Agency/business Profile: The National Transition Alliance for Youth with Disabilities
(NTA) was jointly funded from 1995-2001 by the U.S. Departments of Education and
Labor to promote the transition of youth with disabilities. Online versions of NTA
products not found elsewhere on the Internet can be found here.
New Eyes for the Needy
Phone: 973-376-4903
E-mail: info@new-
Website:
Agency/business Profile: We purchase new prescription eyeglasses for U.S. residents
in financial need and distribute used glasses to the disadvantaged in developing countries. With 80 years of passion and experience, we purchase new prescription eyeglasses for U.S. residents and distribute used glasses to the disadvantaged in developing countries.
New York Times, Large Type Weekly Department
620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018
(212) 556-1234
Web site:
Email: edu@
Agency/business Profile: New York Times, Large Type Weekly Department created
specifically to help readers who have trouble reading small print, it offers articles from
the past week’s Times, in easy-to-read 16-point type.
NFB Newsline
National Federation of the Blind
200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place, Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: (866) 504-7300
Web site:
Email: pmaurer@
Agency/business Profile: NFB-NEWSLINE® enables those who cannot read conventional print to have access to all content offered on NFB-NEWSLINE®. Every day, a subscriber can choose that day's, the previous days, or the previous Sunday's issue of any newspaper in the service. On NFB-NEWSLINE®, the user can easily choose which newspaper, section, and article to read using a standard touch-tone telephone. The menu provided allows the user to change the speed and voice settings, spell out words, or search for a particular word or subject.
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
1291 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20542
Phone: (202) 707-5100, TDD (202) 707-0744
Web site: nls
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: NLS offers books and magazines to serve people with vision impairments and physical disabilities.
Factsheet:
NoIR Medical Technologies
Phone: (800) 521-9746, (734) 769-5565, Fax (734) 769-1708
Web site: noir-
Email: noirsales@
Agency/business Profile: The NoIR filter systems offer ultraviolet, visible and infrared protection, managing the light that reaches the eyes to maximize functional vision.
North American Riding for the Handicapped Association
PO Box 33150, Denver, CO 80233
Phone: (800) 369-RIDE (7433) Fax (303) 252-4610
Web site:
Email: pathintl@
Agency/business Profile: The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) promotes safety and optimal outcomes in equine-assisted activities and therapies for individuals with special needs.
Northern California Association of the Deaf-Blind
1550 San Leandro Blvd., San Leandro, CA 94577
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The Northern California Association of the Deaf-Blind
mission is to help Deaf-Blind persons to achieve maximum potential through increased independence, productivity, and integration into the community.
Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) provides training and information to parents of disabled children and to people who work with them.
Web site:
Email questions:
Agency/business Profile: OSERS is committed to the broad values of inclusion, equity and opportunity for infants, toddlers, children, youth and adults with disabilities to actively participate in all aspects of life. OSERS supports programs that help educate children and youth with disabilities, provides for the rehabilitation of youth and adults with disabilities and supports research to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. OSERS provides a wide array of supports to parents and individuals, school districts and states through two main programs: Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) and Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA).
Office of Services to the Blind
744 P Street,
Sacramento, California 95814
Phone: (916) 657-3327 (Voice), (916) 653-4001 (Fax)
Email: BlindAccess@dss.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Under the Office for Special Services, the Office of Services to the Blind (OSB) provides information and referral on services, programs, entitlements, and products of benefit to individuals who are blind or visually impaired and their families or service providers. OSB staff assists such individuals in understanding the availability of services, their eligibility for services, and the purpose and scope of the various service programs.
O&M for Deaf-Blind People Resources
Web site:
Email: Dona@
Agency/business Profile: O&M for Deaf-Blind People Resources provides articles and handouts from presentations are available.
O&M Multiple Disabilities
Web site:
Email: Dona@
Agency/business Profile: Providing orientation and mobility (O&M) services to visually impaired people with multiple disabilities presents an exciting challenge. It is especially rewarding when it enables students to achieve a meaningful life (personal, family, community and vocational), a life which they and families might not have thought possible.
Office of Disability Employment Policy
U.S. Department of Labor
200 Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20210
Web site:
Email: odep@
Agency/business Profile: The Office of Disability Employment Policy fosters, promotes, and develops the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers, and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights.
Optelec U.S. Inc.
3030 Enterprise Court, Suite C Vista, CA 92081-8358
Phone: (800) 826-4200
Fax: (800) 368-4111
Web:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Optelec provides life-changing assistive technology for the
blind and visually impaired by reaching out with simple and effective low vision
solutions. Optelec offers a range from desktop and portable electronic video
magnification, text-to-speech and OCR reading devices.
Organization for Autism Research (OAR)
2000 North 14th Street, Suite 240, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (703) 243-9710
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Organization for Autism Research is to fund applied (i.e., intervention) research, the purpose of which is improve the quality of life of learners with Autism Spectrum.
Organization for Autism Research
2000 North 14th Street, Suite 240, Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (703) 243-9710
Web site:
Email form:
Article: A College Professor’s Guide: How to Best Support Students with Asperger Syndrome at
Agency/business Profile: A College Professor’s Guide provides information on Asperger Syndrome.
Orientation Center for the Blind
400 Adams Street, Albany CA 94706
Phone: (510) 559-1208
Web site:
Email: ExternalAffairs@dor.
Agency/business Profile: The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) operates the Orientation Center for the Blind (OCB). Located in Albany, CA, the OCB fosters independent living for blind or visually impaired adults through an immersion program in a residential environment.
O & M Certification
San Francisco State University/Department of Special Education
1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132
Phone: (415) 338-1245
Web site: mobility.sfsu.edu
E-mail: mobility@sfsu.edu
Agency/business Profile: The Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Program at San Francisco State University is nationally approved by The Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER). The program curriculum prepares O&M specialists with the specific skills needed to work with people of any and all ages (infancy through adulthood) who have visual impairments, including those who have multiple disabilities and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. After graduation, specialists provide individualized training to students on skills that promote independent travel and productive lifestyles.
Orientation and Mobility
1606 Huntcliff Way, Gambrills, MD 21054
Phone: TTY: (301) 858-0138
Web site: dona/db.htm
Contact information, Dona Sauerburger, M.A. e-mail: dona@ Agency/business Profile: People with disabilities and advocates have sometimes requested that special warning signage be posted in areas to help make street crossings safer. Related research has found these signs ineffective but they continue to be installed. The current research examined whether or not posted signage indicating the presence of people who are Deaf-Blind would cause drivers to yield more frequently for pedestrians with a mobility cane. The results can inform O&M practices and professionals working on behalf of people with disabilities.
Orientation and Mobility
Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired
1100 West 45th Street, Austin, TX78756
Phone: (800) 872-5273
Web site: tsbvi.edu/orientation-a-mobility
Email: jimallan@tsbvi.edu
Agency/business Profile: Orientation and mobility (O&M) is an important and integral part of the curriculum in the comprehensive delivery of services to children with visual impairments in the public school settings. The O&M teacher serves as a member of the multidisciplinary team in developing and implementing individualized education programs for children with visual impairments.
Pacer Center (Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights)
8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, MN 55437
Phone: (888) 248-0822, (952) 838-9000
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of PACER Center is to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life of children and young adults with disabilities and families, based on the concept of parents helping parents.
Pathfinders for Autism
303 International Circle, Suite 110, Hunt Valley, MD 21030
Phone: (443) 330-5341, (866) 806-8400
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Pathfinders for Autism has grown into the State's largest autism organization dedicated to helping individuals, parents and professionals find resources, supports and training while working to increase the awareness of autism spectrum disorders and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and families.
Paths to Literacy
Web site:
E-mail: PathsTo.Literacy@
Agency/business Profile: Paths to Literacy is a collaboration between Perkins School for the Blind and Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. The Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) provides a framework for instruction in a specialized set of vision-related skills for students who are blind or visually impaired. While students who are blind or visually impaired are expected to follow the same core curriculum as the sighted peers, there are certain areas in which they need specific instruction because of the vision loss. Thus, while all students will be expected to participate in core academic subjects, such as English Language Arts, Math, Science, and History, students with visual impairments should also receive instruction in nine specific areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum.
PAWS with a Cause
4646 South Division, Wayland, MI 49348
Phone: (800) 253-7297, Fax (616) 877-0248
E-mail: paws@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Paws With A Cause® enhances the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities nationally through custom-trained Assistance Dogs. PAWS® increases awareness of the rights and roles of Assistance Dog Teams through education and advocacy.
Pawsitivity Service Dogs
197 Griggs St. N., St. Paul, MN 55104.
Phone: (651) 321-3647
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Pawsitivity Service Dogs is an award-winning non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organizationlocated in St. Paul, MN and serving children with autism and other disabilities associated with the spectrum.
Partnership on Employment & Accessibility Tech
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT) is a multi-faceted initiative to foster collaboration and action around accessible technology in the workplace. Guided by a consortium of policy and technology leaders, PEAT works to help employers, IT companies, and others to understand why it pays to build and buy accessible technology, and how to go about doing so. PEAT is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)(link is external) and is managed by the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA).
Pepnet 2
California State University Northridge
18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330-8267
Phone: (414) 892-7044, (618) 453-4608
E-mail: help@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Pepnet 2 (pn2) is a federally funded project whose mission is to increase the education, career, and lifetime choices available to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Pepnet 2 Pn2 is a national collaboration of professionals with expertise in a broad array of content areas and a variety of environments, including research, technology, personnel development, media production, and technical assistance. For information specific to Deaf-Blindness, go to:
Web site:
Perkins Products
175 North Beacon Street, Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: (617) 924-3434
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: Perkins Solutions believes strongly in the mission of increasing access to independence, literacy and employment for people with visual impairment and other disabilities through innovative technology and services.
Pocketalker
10300 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: (952) 943-2252, (800) 328-6190, Fax (952) 943-2174
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Hearing loss can make communicating and understanding a frustrating experience for both the speaker and the listener. The Pocketalker personal amplifier helps you or someone you love hear well. This personal listening system amplifies the sounds closest to you while reducing background noise.
Prevent Blindness Northern California
1388 Sutter St, Suite 408, San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: (800) 338-3041, (415) 567-7500
Web site:
Email: q@
Agency/business Profile: Prevent Blindness Northern California is devoted to the preservation of sight for the people of Northern California and accomplishes this through direct vision screening services, vision screening training programs, public education, and advocacy. Detection of vision disorders at a treatable stage and raising awareness of eye health and safety are essential to preventing vision loss and blindness.
Princeton Braillists
76 Leabrook Lane, Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: (609) 924-5207
Web site:
Contact information, Nancy Amick, Administration
E-mail: princetonbraillists@
Agency/business Profile: The Princeton Braillists produce tactile/braille maps and atlases for individuals of all ages who are blind. They produce physical and political maps. Maps include states in the U.S and countries from around the world.
Project Ideal (Associated with )
Web site:
Article: Multiple Disabilities, Project IDEAL
Information: The Project IDEAL Website is part of a teacher preparation program intended to better prepare teachers to work with students with disabilities. Project IDEAL (Informing and Designing Education for All Learners) was made possible by the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). Project IDEAL invites you to explore the Web site at .
Proloquo2Go: AAC In Your Pocket
Web site:
Email: support@
Agency/business Profile: Proloquo2Go is a new product from AssistiveWare that provides a full-featured communication solution for people who have difficulty speaking. It brings natural sounding text-to-speech voices, up-to-date symbols, powerful automatic conjugations, a default vocabulary of over 7000 items, full expandability and extreme ease of use to the iPhone and iPod touch.
QuickBooks: Banking software accessibility with VoiceOver at
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: This is a YouTube video tutorial.
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: is here to help you decide what type of wheelchair ramp is right for specific situation.
Random House
400 Hahn Road, PO Box 100, Westminster, MD 21157
Phone: (800) 733-3000
Web site: largeprint
Email: consumerservices@
Agency/business Profile: Random House books explores the topics and categories on this page to learn more about how Random House partners with authors to bring you over 70,000 digital and 15,000 print books each year.
Reaching for the Stars (RFTS)
3000 Old Alabama Road, Suite 119-300, Alpharetta, Ga. 30022
Phone: (855) 240-RFTS
Email: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The RFTS mission is centered on the belief that leading-edge pediatric research, increased awareness and education will lead to new treatments of Cerebral Palsy, improving the lives of impacted children and families.
Read Again
16243 Sonora Road, Knights Ferry, CA 95361
Phone: (888) 322-5949, Fax (209) 881-0180
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Read Again recommends you have a consultation before purchasing any of the electronic low vision devices. Read Again offer in-home/work site product demonstrations with no obligation to buy, hands-on training, as well as workshops, technical support and are known for outstanding continued customer service.
Read and Write Gold
Web site:
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Email: cap.wsm@mail.mil
Product information: Read and Write Gold is a literacy or learning software that assists
individuals with reading and learning difficulties.
Reader’s Digest Large Print for Easier Reading
PO Box 8177, Red Oak, IA 51591-1177
Phone: (800) 807-2780
Web site:
Email: letters@
Agency/business Profile: Reader’s Digest; Large print edition is the easier-to-read of the monthly lifestyle magazine.
Recares
2619 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 251-2273
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Volunteers gather donations of durable medical equipment
and supplies and redistribute the items people who need canes, wheelchairs, CPAP
machines, shower chairs, etc. (San Francisco Bay Area)
Recognizing Developmental Delays in Children
Web site:
Email form:
Information site: Recognizing Developmental Delays in Children provides information about normal child development and that as you watch a child grow, remember that each child develops at his or her own pace and the range of normal is quite wide. However, it is helpful to be aware of red flags for potential developmental delays in children. These delays are significant lags in one or more areas of emotional, mental, or physical growth. If the child experiences a delay, early treatment is the best way to help him or her make progress or even to catch up.
RL & Associates, Inc.
Assistive Technologies
2600 10th Street, Suite 415, Berkeley, CA 94710
Phone: (866) 339-1180, (415) 512-1180, (510) 868-2200
Fax: 415-512-1198
Web site:
E-mail: sales@
Agency/business Profile: Since 1985, RL & Associates, Inc. has been committed to designing, innovating and building leading-edge technology systems and software which allow blind and low-vision professionals and students, who might otherwise be excluded, to work, play, study and compete using cost-effective, superior custom computer hardware and software solutions.
Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)
105 Judd Street, London, WC1H 9NE
Phone: (+44 020) 7388 1266, Fax (+44 020) 7388 2034
Web site: .uk
Email: helpline@.uk
Agency/business Profile: The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) provides information for everyone affected by sight loss. Whether you’re losing sight or you’re blind or partially sighted, practical and emotional support can help face the future with confidence.
RTI Action Network
National Center for Learning Disabilities
32 Laight Street, Second Floor
New York, NY 10013
Note: There is no phone, to access e-mail go to the web site.
Web:
Agency/business Profile: As a program of the National Center for Learning Disabilities,
this Web site provides information and resources about RTI, which holds the promise of
ensuring that all children have access to high quality instruction, and that struggling learners – including those with learning disabilities – are identified, supported, and served early and effectively.
Sacramento Asperger Syndrome Information & Support
UC Davis MIND Institute, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento CA 95817
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Sacramento Asperger Syndrome Information & Support
Group, founded in 1995, maintains a focus of sharing information and giving support.
Sacramento Employment and Training Agency
925 Del Paso Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95815
Phone: (916) 263-3800
Web site:
Email: Terri@delpaso.
Agency/business Profile: The Sacramento Employment & Training Agency (SETA), a joint powers agency of the City and County of Sacramento, was formed in 1978. From its inception SETA has been an effective force in connecting people to jobs, business owners to quality employees, education and nutrition to children, assistance to refugees, and hope for many Sacramento area residents.
Sacramento Housing & Redevelopment Agency
630 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 440-1390, Fax (916) 449-1285
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency brings together funding resources and staff expertise to develop and implement creative strategies for affordable housing and community revitalization.
San Diego Service Center for the Blind
5922 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA 92115
Phone: (619) 583-1542, Fax (619) 583-2335
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: The San Diego Center for the Blind (SDCB) provides services to legally blind adults who are age 18 or older. This includes adults with no vision to those with changing vision. Programs are provided to clients regardless of the disability, race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, gender and/or socioeconomic status.
San Francisco Bay Area Association of Disabled Sailors
South Beach Harbor, Pier 40, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94107
Phone: (415) 281-0212
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: San Francisco Bay Area Association of Disabled Sailors
strives to make all aspects of sailing accessible.
San Francisco State University: O & M Certification
1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132
Phone: (415) 338-1245
Web site: mobility.sfsu.edu
E-mail: mobility@sfsu.edu
Agency/business Profile: The Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Program at San Francisco State University is nationally approved by The Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER). The program curriculum prepares O&M specialists with the specific skills needed to work with people of any and all ages (infancy through adulthood) who have visual impairments, including those who have multiple disabilities and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. After graduation, specialists provide individualized training to students on skills that promote independent travel and productive lifestyles.
San Simeon Foundation
30765 Pacific Coast Hwy., #113, Malibu, CA 90265
Phone: 310-457-5898 (voice/TTY), Fax (310) 457-9312
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Hearing Dogs are specially trained to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing to common household sounds such as door knocks, telephones, and smoke alarms.
Scientific Tactiles
Independence Science
3000 Kent Ave., West Lafayette, IN 47906
Phone: (866) 862-9665
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: Scientific Tactiles has a list of downloadable graphics on the
site and they create tactile graphic kits for purchase. Scientific tactile graphics are for
school age individuals and adults who are blind/visually impaired. Tools for creating
tactile graphics can also be purchase through local craft, sewing and hardware stores.
Secure Care
39 Chenell Drive, Concord, NH 03301
E-mail:
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Secure Care electronic monitoring devices can be used to protect these vulnerable individuals while still being mindful of the need for independence and dignity. Personal wander monitoring technology typically falls under two categories, radio frequency identification (RFID) and global positioning systems (GPS).
Seedling Braille Books For Children
P.O. Box 51924, Livonia, MI 48151-5924
Phone: (734) 427-8552, (800) 777-8552
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Seedlings Braille Books for Children is a
501(c)3 non-profit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to increasing
the opportunity for literacy by providing high quality, low cost braille
books for children.
The Seeing Eye
10 Washington Valley Rd., P.O. Box 375, Morristown, NJ 07963
Phone: (973) 539-4425
E-mail:info@
Web site:
Agency/Business Profile: The Seeing Eye is a philanthropic organization whose mission is to enhance the independence, dignity, and self-confidence of blind people through the use of Seeing Eye®dogs
Sendero Group
Davis, CA 95616
Phone: (888) 757-6810
E-mail: gps@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Sendero founders began developing accessible GPS in
1993. They released the first GPS version for a laptop in 2000. Sendero software is now
at the core of 5 accessible GPS products such as BrailleNote, Braille Sense, Mobile
Geo/Adventure, Sendero PC Maps and GPS, Sendero LookAround for iPhone. The
Seeing Eye GPS (U.S. and Canada), RNIB Navigator (U.K.), and Guide Dogs
NSW/ACT (Australia) are the only fully accessible turn-by-turn apps for the iDevices.
Service Companion Dogs of America (SCDOA)
Phone: (760) 295-2222
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: Service Companion Dogs of America (SCDOA) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization created to help individuals who could benefit from the assistance of a Service Dog. SCDOA provides highly trained dogs, free of charge, as well as guidance and education to the recipient in how to utilize and interact with the dog.
Service Dogs for America
920 Short Street, P.O. Box 513, Jud, North Dakota 58454
Phone: (701) 685-2242
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Service Dogs for America continues the rich tradition of encouraging and empowering those with special needs through custom trained service dogs. The goal and mission is to facilitate specialized training, education, and ensure the placement of service dogs to individuals with special needs, without causing financial burdens.
Service Dogs for Independence
Phone: (520) 909-0531
E-mail: info@sd4i.us
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Service Dogs for Independence mission Statement:
Not every person or disability is the same. Not every service dog should be trained in the same way. The educated, dedicated staff will take the time to listen to the needs of the disabled. This will determine how the dog should be custom trained.
SEVA Foundation
1786 Fifth Street Berkeley, CA 94710
Phone: (510) 845-7382 fax: (510) 845-7410
Website:
Agency/business Profile: Seva Foundation partners worldwide to create self-sustaining
programs that preserve and restore sight.
Shasta Mountain Guides
P.O. Box 1543, Mount Shasta, CA 96067
Phone: (530) 926-3117, Fax (530) 926-1374
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: Shasta Mountain Guides offers dozens of different classes,
trips, and seminars; sometimes you need something a little different to accommodate a
special need. Shasta Mountain Guides creates custom and private trips all the time.
Sighted Guide Technique
9709 Third Ave NE #100
Seattle, WA 98115–2027
Phone: 206–525–5556
V/tdd: 800–458–4888 toll free
E-mail: info@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Sighted guide is a guiding technique for people who are blind
or low vision.
Silent Call Communications Corporation
5095 Williams Lake Road, Waterford MI 48329
Phone: (800) 572-5227 (Voice or TTY), (248) 673-7353, Fax (248) 673-7360
E-mail: CustomerService@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Silent Call seeks to empower people who are deaf, Deaf-Blind and hard of hearing with personal communication and life-enhancing systems for the home that deliver the utmost in performance, reliability and value.
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
Phone: (212) 698-7000
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Simon & Schuster provides large print items.
Siskin Children’s Institute
1101 Carter Street
Chattanooga TN 37402
Phone (423) 648-1700
Web site:
Email us: siskin.mail@
Article:
Information pamphlet: Cognitive impairment, also referred to as intellectual disability, describes the condition of a child whose intellectual functioning level and adaptive skills are significantly below the average for a child of his chronological age. It is the most common developmental disorder, occurring in approximately 12 of every 1000 children. Varying levels of developmental delays may be identified in a child’s social skills, emotional development, communication capabilities, physical function, and academic skill sets.
Smith Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, San Francisco
2318 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA 94115-1813
Phone: (415) 345-2000, TTY (415) 345-2290, Fax (415) 345-8455
Web site:
Email: webhelp@
Agency/business Profile: The Smith Kettlewell Eye Research Institute mission is to create a unique environment for research on human vision-- basic scientific research to increase the understanding of normal vision in support of vision disorders, clinical research to develop new diagnostic procedures and treatments for visual and other sensory disorders, and engineering research to produce better techniques for aid and rehabilitation of the blind and partially sighted.
Society for the Blind
1238 S Street, Sacramento, CA 95811
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Society for the Blind offers O&M skills to help you move
around and expand the world. They teach alternative techniques and skills to travel
safely, efficiently, and independently, whether in the home or out and about.
Southern California Association of the Deaf-Blind
2222 Laverna Street, Los Angeles, CA 90041
Web site:
Email: Dorene - dsunsign3@
Southern California Conservatory of Music
8230 Fallbrook Ave., West Hills, CA 91304
Phone: (818) 704-3819
Web site:
E-mail: info@sccm.us
Agency/business Profile: From the exterior, the Southern California Conservatory of
Music in the Frances Blend School looks like many other elementary schools in the Los
Angeles Unified School District— a large one-story complex of midcentury vintage set in
a residential neighborhood near downtown Los Angeles. Inside, however, one can see
that the school is devoted to a special community: blind, visually impaired, and multi
disabled children.
Speaking Language Master
Web site:
Email form:
Product information: This miniature talking dictionary, Speaking Language Master,
is based on one made for the general public. It is a small battery-powered unit. Speech is fully integrated, speaking every entered letter and word, definition, synonym, or game. Franklin Electronic Publishers.
Exceptional Teaching, Inc.
PO Box 2330, Livermore, CA 94550
Phone: (800) 549-6999, (925) 961-9200, Fax (925) 961-9201
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: Providing educational products for individuals of all ages
having special needs as well as those who serve this population. Please contact me if
you have any questions.
Spina Bifida Association
1600 Wilson Blvd., Suite 800, Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (202) 944-3285, Fax (202) 944-3295
Email: sbaa@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the Spina Bifida Association is to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and enhance the lives of all affected.
Students with LD
Web site:
assistive-technology-for-kids-with-learning-disabilities-an-overview.gs
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Students with LD provides articles on autism.
Success Defined (April 2012 Minds Behind the MIND)
Web site:
Email: mark@
Agency/business Profile: Success Defined provides information regarding autism.
Switch Mounting Plates
Web site:
Email: customerservice@
Product information: QAR. 80; Switch Mounting Plates are mounting hardware for control switches to be placed in virtually any position for individuals with physical disabilities.
Tactile Maps and Atlases
Princeton Braillists
76 Leabrook Lane, Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: (609) 924-5207
E-mail: princetonbraillists@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Princeton Braillists produce tactile/braille maps and atlases for individuals of all ages who are blind. They produce physical and political maps. Maps include states in the U.S and countries from around the world.
Talking GPS - EBSCO
10 Estes Street, Ipswich, MA 01938
Phone: (800) 758-5995
Web site:
Email: information@
Agency/business Profile: The device based on GPS (Global Positioning System), the raw data for location coordinate where the blind people stands is detect by GPS receiver, processing these data by PIC microcontroller to calculate real coordinate related with current position, then translate it to specific voice message which are presorted in voice recorder.
Talking Toolbox
Web site:
Email form:
Product information: This self-voicing program is designed for the beginning computer user or someone who does not desire a lot of features. Using a combination of pre-recorded messages and synthesized speech, this program offers a word processor, a calculator, e-mail, a calendar, an address list, and built-in help.
Tech Finder
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: A Web site offering searchable, reviewed collections for students with disabilities, such as free assistive technology on the Web, free or low-cost audiobooks, and indoor learning activities for hyperactive kids.
Technology for Students with Multiple Disabilities Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: Technology continues to offer new access to information for everyone, and the options change so quickly that it can be overwhelming to try to keep up with what is available. As with any tool, the first question must be how it will support existing goals for an individual student, rather than letting it become an end in itself. In other words, the use of a switch to activate a computer may reinforce the concept of cause and effect and, as such, it can be a tool to help a student to develop important cognitive skills.
Texas School for the Blind Publications
1100 W. 45th St., Austin, Texas 78756
Phone: (512) 206-9183, Fax (512) 206-9452
Web site:
Email: mikewolszon@tsbvi.edu
Agency/business Profile: The Texas School for the Blind provides publications in large print and braille.
TextSpeak TS04-2K Mini/Palm Speech Generating Keyboards
Web site:
Email form:
Product information: TextSpeak offers the solution for augmentative communication when you are looking for a simple yet powerful speech generation device. Perfect for speech impaired individuals, post-operative patients, or as a solution for anyone who needs an affordable device that generates synthesized speech.
Therapeutic Living Center (TLC) for the Blind
7955 Lindley Ave., Reseda, CA 91335
Phone: (818) 708-1740, Fax (818) 708-7899
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Therapeutic Living Centers for the Blind (TLC) is a community of learners and teachers who have come together to create a supportive and encouraging environment for those with developmental disabilities and blindness. More than a facility, TLC represents a family working together to support each individual in order to develop his or her unique strengths.
550 Quail Ridge Drive, Westmont, IL 60559
Phone: (877) 317-2733
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile:
Youth with intellectual disabilities have not had many chances to go to college. This is changing as individuals across the country begin to create opportunities for these youth to reap the benefits of postsecondary education. This website provides information and links to anyone interested in finding out more about the possibilities.
Thorndike Press
A part of Gale / Cengage Learning
10 Water Street, Suite 310, Waterville, ME 04901
Phone: (800) 223-1244
Web site: thorndike
Orders: gale.printorders@
Editorial: jamie.knobloch@
Sales: sueflewelling@
Agency/business Profile: Thorndike Press publishes large print editions of bestsellers and other popular fiction and nonfiction titles.
Tracking Devices
5020 Amelia Earhart Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84116
Web site:
Article: Tracking Devices for Kids with Autism
Email: amemail@
Agency/business Profile: The federal government made the announcement at the end of January that $10 million will be allocated to the Justice Department for a grant program to provide these tracking devices for kids with autism.
TranscribeMe!
2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 250
Berkeley, CA 94704
Phone: (800) 275-5513
Email: support@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Transcribe me provides voice-to-text services including
medical transcription and legal work. TranscribeMe also provides translation, closed
captions and subtitles for academic, corporate, media and education venues.
Trekker GPS
NanoPac, Inc.
4823 South Sheridan Road, Suite 302, Tulsa, OK 74145
Phone: (800) 580-6086
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Trekker GPS is a revolutionary system that uses GPS and
digital maps to help blind persons find the way in urban and rural areas. Trekker users
can pinpoint exactly where they are, learn about area attractions, and find specific
destinations.
Ulverscroft Large Print Books
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
Phone: (800) 955 9659, (716) 674 4270, Fax (716) 674 4195
E-mail: sales@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Ulverscroft provides publications in large print and braille.
Understood: For Learning and Attention Issues
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The goal of Understood is to help the millions of parents whose children, ages 3–20, are struggling with learning and attention issues.
United Cerebral Palsy
1825 K Street NW Suite 600, Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (800) 872-5827, (202) 776-0406
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities.
United States Association of Blind Athletes
33 N. Institute St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Phone: (719) 630-0422
Web site:
Email: rhunter988@
Agency/business Profile: USABA is a Colorado-based 501(c) (3) organization that provides life-enriching sports opportunities provides athletic opportunities in various sports including, but not limited to track and field, Nordic and alpine skiing, biathlon, judo, wrestling, swimming, tandem cycling, powerlifting and Goalball.
The University of California San Francisco Dyslexia Center
Sandler Neurosciences Center
675 Nelson Rising Lane, Suite 190
San Francisco, California
(415) 476-1686
E-mail: dyslexia@ucsf.edu
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The UCSF Dyslexia Center will focus on evaluating and
improving each individual's difficulties in written language by designing personalized,
brain-based strategies rooted in their strengths.
University of Michigan Health System
Web site:
Article: Resources for Children with Multiple Disabilities
Email: patient-customer-service@umich.edu
Information site: Resources for Children with Multiple Disabilities information and resources available.
US Autism and Asperger Association (USAAA)
P.O. Box 532, Draper, UT 84020-0532
Phone: (888) 9AUTISM
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: US Autism & Asperger Association is a 501(C)(3) non- profit organization which boasts a proud network of world-renowned professionals with expertise in Autism, Asperger Syndrome, and other related disorders. US Autism & Asperger Association hosts a compendious world conference in the United States each year, establishes standards for Autism and Asperger Syndrome training, and aligns with local community resources to offer support for the entire Autism and Asperger communities.
US Bank accessibility
425 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: (800) US BANKS or (800) 872-2657
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: U.S. Bank is committed to providing ready access to products and services so all of customers, including people with disabilities, can succeed financially.
US Department of Justice: Civil Rights Division
Coordination and Review Section, Disability Rights Section - NYA
950 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20530
Phone: (202) 307-2222, Fax (202) 307-0595
Web site: crt/cor
Email: webmaster@
Agency/business Profile: The Federal Coordination and Compliance Section (FCS) ensures that all federal agencies consistently and effectively enforce civil rights statutes and Executive Orders that prohibit discrimination in federally conducted and assisted programs and activities.
US News and World Report
Web site:
Email form:
Article: How Should Students With Disabilities Find the Right College?
Agency/business Profile: How Should Students with Disabilities Find the Right College? Experts is an article that suggests more research and campus visits to help students with special needs pick schools.
US Paralympics
One Olympic Plaza, Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Phone: (888) 222-2313
Email: customerservice@
Web site: US-Paralympics.aspx
Agency/business Profile: The mission of the US Paralympics is to support U.S. Olympic and Paralympic athletes in achieving sustained competitive excellence while demonstrating the values of the Olympic Movement, thereby inspiring all Americans.
US Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (USSAAC)
Phone: (800) 232-5108, Fax (866) 733-0971
Email: membership@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: USSAAC is the United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, the national chapter of ISAAC, the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication.
Valley Center for the Blind
3417 W. Shaw Ave Suite 124, Fresno, CA 93711
Phone: (559) 222-4447
Web site:
Email: info@
Agency/business Profile: Valley Center for the Blind is a non-profit organization, (501(c) (3) that provides training and services for those with vision loss throughout much of the San Joaquin Valley including the counties of Fresno, Kings, Tulare, Madera, and parts of Kern, Merced and Mariposa. VCB has the privilege of reaching out to blind and visually impaired people to show and train them how life is far more than what is seen with our eyes. And with proper training and counseling as well as associating and fellowshipping with those dealing with like-kind struggles, those challenged with low-vision or blindness can still be a contributing citizen.
Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired
3200 Hillview Ave., Suite 120, Palo Alto, CA 94304
Phone: (650) 858-0202, Fax (650) 858-0214
Web site:
E-mail: info@
Agency/business Profile: The Vista Center empowers individuals who are blind or visually impaired to embrace life to the fullest by serving individuals of all ages, living in San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties, who are threatened by loss of independence due to moderate or severe vision impairment.
Volunteers of Vacaville / Blind Project
P.O. Box 670, Vacaville, CA 95696
Phone: (707) 448-6841 ext.2044
Web site:
project-program-briefing-vacaville
Contact information, Sherry Dovichi, Program Director sherry.dovichi@cdcr. Agency/business Profile: The Volunteers of Vacaville Blind Project in meeting the growing demands for transcription of printed materials onto audio tape for the visually and physically impaired community.
Wadleigh Law
Web site:
Email: info@
Article: Me Too! Inclusion, Assistive Technology, and Medically Fragile Students
Information: The Me Too! materials to provide school officials with a deeper understanding of the laws, regulations, and cases pertaining to inclusion, with a focus on the role of assistive technology and inclusion of medically fragile children with educational disabilities.
Warmline
2791 24th Street, Sacramento, CA 95818
Phone: (916) 455-9500, (800) 455-9517
E-mail: warmline@
Web site:
Pamphlet at:
Agency/business Profile: Warmline is an information and support center for parents and professionals involved with children with special health care and developmental needs.
Wells Fargo Bank Accessibility
800 Walnut Street, MAC N0003-053, Des Moines, IA 50309-3605Phone: (866) 650-6228, (877) 644-7819
E-mailing WellsFargoADACoordinator@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: In an ongoing commitment to provide outstanding customer service to help the diverse customer base succeed financially, Wells Fargo empowers customers, including people with disabilities, to access products and services and conduct financial transactions online, by phone, and in stores.
Widgit Communicate
Web site:
Product information: Organize thoughts using symbols. Combining visual mind mapping tools with the support of the Widgit Symbol Set, Communicate: Ideas is perfect for people who struggle to formulate thoughts verbally or in writing.
Wobble Switch
Web site:
Email form:
Product information: Wobble Switch is a touch switch designed to be activated by any body part for individuals who have physical disabilities at .
Wonder Babies
E-mail: help@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: , a project funded by Perkins School for the Blind, is dedicated to helping parents of young children with visual impairments as well as children with multiple disabilities.
The World's Most Famous Disabled People
E-mail: admin@
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: Famous people with various disabilities and conditions
including actors, politicians and writers who contributed to society.
Wright’s Law
Web site:
Article: Transition, Transition Services, Transition Planning at
Email: webmaster@
Agency/business Profile: The Transition, Transition Services, Transition Planning Web
site provides information on transition regarding youth in transition.
Writing guides
Web site:
Email form:
Product information: Writing guides information is available at the Web site.
WYNN™Literacy Software
Web site:
Email: WYNN at
Product information: The Wynn literacy software tool designed to enhance success for individuals with reading challenges and writing difficulties. WYNN was developed with the help of special educators and individuals with learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dysgraphia and aphasia. It uses a bi-modal approach - simultaneous highlighting of the text as it is spoken.
The Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity
Housed at Yale University, no e-mail or phone available.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: The Yale Center’s mission is to illuminate the strengths of
those with dyslexia, disseminate information, practical advice, and the latest innovations
from scientific research, and transform the lives of children and adults with dyslexia.
Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) for Students with Disabilities
California State Department of Rehabilitation
721 Capitol Mall, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (855) 894-3436
E-mail: YLF@dor.
Web site:
Agency/business Profile: YLF is an annual five day leadership program that provides information and resources about employment, education, independence and assistive technology. In addition, students have the opportunity to interact with students and staff with various disabilities to develop long lasting friendships.
Youth Move
Web site:
Email form:
Agency/business Profile: The Youth Move website is designed to provide information, strategies, and resources to transition navigators—teachers, counselors, family members, and community providers—to guide youth on the move.
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