All State Rehabilitation Agencies

602 South Lawrence Street
Montgomery, AL 36104
800-441-7607 (Toll free)
334-293-7500
334-293-7383 (Fax)
www.rehab.state.al.us [3] [link opens in new window]

Blind Services [4] include:

• Vocational guidance and counseling
• Vocational evaluation to determine skills, abilities and potential to work
• Vocational training
• Transition services
• Adaptive equipment
• Rehabilitation teaching
• Orientation and mobility
• Job placement assistance
• Rehabilitation technology services

801 West 10th Street, Suite A
Juneau, AK 99801-1894
800-478-2815 (Toll free)
907-465-2814
907-465-2856 (Fax)
www.labor.state.ak.us/dvr/home.htm [8][link opens in new window]

Blindness and Visual Impairment Services
www.labor.state.ak.us/dvr/blsvs.htm [9]

• Guidance and counseling
• Information and referral
• Physical Restoration Assistance (Eye Surgery, Prosthetics, Eyeglasses)
• Personal Adjustment Training in Alternative Techniques of Blindness (Braille, Mobility Using Long White Cane, Home Management Skills). Available Through Residential Programs and/or Itinerant Service Providers
• Academic, Vocational and On-the-Job Training 
• Work Adjustment Training/Job Coaching
• Selective Placement 
• Assistive Technology [10] (Low Vision Aids, CCTVs, Text Scanners and Speech Output for Computer, Screen Enlargement Software, Digital Voice Notetakers, Braille Printers)
• Transportation Assistance
• Training and Assistance in the Business Enterprise Program

1789 West Jefferson 2, NW
Phoenix, AZ 85007
800-563-1221 (Toll free)
602-542-3332
602-542-3778 (Fax)
www.azdes.gov [14]

Programs and services for individuals who are blind or visually impaired:
www.azdes.gov/rsa/blind.asp [15]

Programs and services include:

• Arizona Industries for the Blind
• Vocational Rehabilitation
• Rehabilitation Instructional Services
• Independent Living
• The Business Enterprise Program

Department of Health and Human Services
Division of Services for the Blind
700 Main Street
P.O. Box 3237
Little Rock, AR 72203-3237
800-960-9270 (Toll free)
501-682-5463
501-682-0093 (TDD)
501-682-0366 (Fax)
www.arkansas.gov/dhhs/dsb [19]
Office locations [20] 

Programs and services include:

• Vocational Rehabilitation
• Rehabilitation Teaching
• Vending Facility Program
• Arkansas Information Reading Network

1616 Brookwood Drive
Little Rock, AR 72202
800-330-0632 (Voice and TTY) (Toll free)
501-296-1600 (Voice and TTY)
501-296-1655 (Fax)
www.arsinfo.org [24]
Contact: www.arsinfo.org/contact.aspx [25]

A division of the Department of Workforce Education, Arkansas Rehabilitation Services provides programs and comprehensive services that enable individuals with disabilities to prepare for and enter the workforce.

Department of Rehabilitation
P.O. Box 944222
Sacramento, CA 94299
721 Capitol Mall
Sacramento, CA 95814
916-558-5815 (Voice)
916-558-5807 (TTY)
www.dor.ca.gov [28][link opens in new window]

Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired
www.dor.ca.gov/ssd/blindser.htm [29]
E-mail: blindinfo@dor.ca.gov [30] or ocbinfo@dor.ca.gov [31]

Vocational Rehabilitation services for blind and visually impaired consumers include:

• Adjustment to blindness
• Preparation for work
• Assistive technology
• Reader services
• Occupational training
• Job placement
• On-the-job followup

Assistance Dog Special Allowance Program
Office of Services to the Blind
744 P Street, MS 8-16-94
Sacramento, CA 95814
916-657-2628
916-651-6248 (TTY)
Web site [32]
E-mail: ADSAUser@dss.ca.gov [33]

2211 West Evans, Building B
Denver, CO 80223
303-866-4150 (Voice & TDD)
303-866-4905 (Fax)
www.cdhs.state.co.us/dvr [37]

Training Program for the Blind and Visually Impaired [38]

Services include:

• Adaptive communications
• Adaptive technology
• College Bound Instruction
• Daily Living Skills
• Low Vision
• Orientation and Mobility

Department of Social Services
25 Sigourney Street, 11th Floor
Hartford, CT 06106
800-842-1508
800-842-4542 (TDD/TTY)
www.dss.state.ct.us/divs/brs.htm [42]
Programs for People with Disabilities [43]

184 Windsor Avenue
Windsor, CT 06095
800-842-4510 (Toll free)
860-602-4000
860-602-4221 (TDD)
860-602-4020 (Fax)
www.besb.state.ct.us [47]
E-mail: BESB@PO.STATE.CT.US [48]

The mission of the Board of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB) is to provide quality educational and rehabilitative services to all people who are legally blind or deaf-blind and children who are visually impaired at no cost to our clients or their families.

BESB is responsible for the confidential registry of people who are blind in Connecticut and provides, within available resources, comprehensive low vision services, specialized education services, life skills training, case management, and vocational services to individuals of all ages who are legally blind and to children who are visually impaired.

The agency assists them in acquiring the skills and support services necessary to be independent.

4425 North Market Street
PO Box 9969
Wilmington, DE 19809-0969
302-761-8275 (Voice/TTY)
302-761-6611 (Fax)
Internet Address: http://www.delawareworks.com/dvr/welcome.shtml [51] [link opens in new window]

Division for the Visually Impaired (DVI)
1901 N. DuPont Highway, Biggs Bldg.
New Castle, DE 19720
302-255-9800 (Voice)
302-255-9854 (TDD)
302-255-4441 (Fax)
www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dvi/dvihome.htm [54][link opens in new window]

The Division for the Visually Impaired is organized into three primary service programs:

• Education Services
• Vocational Rehabilitation
• Independent Living

Additionally, there are two direct employment units:

• Delaware Industries for the Blind
• Business Enterprise Program

DVI offers the following support services:

• Materials Center 
• Volunteer Services 
• Orientation and Mobility
• Low Vision Services
• Training Center Services
• Information Systems Support

Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living
Weeks Building
103 South Main Street
Waterbury, VT 05671-2304
802-241-2210
802-241-3359 (Fax)
www.dad.state.vt.us/dbvi [58] [link opens in new window]
E-mail and office contacts: www.dad.state.vt.us/dbvi/Locations.htm [59]

The Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI) has been offering services to individuals who are blind or visually impaired since 1927. Located within the Agency of Human Services and the Department of Aging and Disabilities, DBVI is the designated state unit to provide vocational rehabilitation services.

DBVI's Mission is to support the efforts of Vermonters who are blind and visually impaired to achieve or sustain their economic independence, self reliance, and social integration to a level consistent with their interests, abilities and informed choices.

1320 Executive Center Drive, Suite 201
Tallahassee, FL 32399
850-245-0384
850-245-0386 (Fax)
http://dbs.myflorida.com [63]

The Division of Blind Services is Florida's state agency responsible for ensuring that people of all ages in the state who are blind or visually impaired can live independently and achieve their goals. The Bureau of Braille and Talking Book Library administers a free library program of braille and recorded materials for eligible readers.

Services include:

• Blind Babies Program
• Children's Program
• School-to-Work or Transition Program
• Independent Living Services
• Vocational Rehabilitation Services
• Employer Services
• Business Enterprise Services
• Braille and Talking Book Library Services

2002-A Old Saint Augustine Road
Tallahassee, FL 32301-4862
850-245-3399 (Voice/TDD)
http://rehabworks.org [67][link opens in new window]

The mission of the Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation is to enable individuals with disabilities to obtain and keep employment.

Rehabilitation Services
148 Andrew Young International Blvd.
Suite 510, Sussex Place
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-657-3000
404-657-3086 (Fax)
www.vocrehabga.org [70]
Office contacts: www.vocrehabga.org/contact1.html [71]
E-mail: rehab@dol.state.ga.us [72]

Georgia Industries for the Blind
www.vocrehabga.org/gibfacts.html [73]
229-248-2666
E-mail: gib@dol.state.ga.us [74]

The State Kakuhihewa Building
601 Kamokila Boulevard, Room 515
Kapolei, HI 96707
808-692-7715 (Voice and TDD)
808-692-7727 (Fax)
http://hawaiivr.org [78][link opens in new window]
E-mail: info@hawaiivr.org [79]

Services for Persons who are Blind and Visually Impaired
www.rrhi.com/hooponoblindservices [80]

Ho'opono, from "ho'oponopono" meaning to make things right, is a branch of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitaion, Department of Human Services, State of Hawaii. Ho'opono assists blind and Visually impaired persons regardless of financial status, ethnic or national origin, religion, gender or disability. There is no fee for services, although there may be some incidental costs if you need to purchase adaptive aids and devices.

You do not have to be totally blind to use Ho'opono's services. Blindness can vary from total blindness with no light perception to being able to read large print at a comfortable distance. If you are having difficulty doing tasks either at work or home because of poor vision, Ho'opono may be able to help you in a number of ways.

341 West Washington Street
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83702
800-542-8688 (Toll free)
208-334-3220
208-334-2963
www.icbvi.state.id.us [84]  
E-mail and office contacts: www.icbvi.state.id.us/OFFICES.HTM [85]

The Idaho Commission For the Blind And Visually Impaired (ICBVI) has six regional offices located in:

• Coeur D'Alene (Region 1)
• Lewiston (Region 2)
• Boise (Region 3)
• Twin Falls (Region 4)
• Pocatello (Region 5)
• Idaho Falls (Region 6)

The Mission of the Idaho Commission for the Blind is to empower persons who are blind or visually impaired by providing vocational rehabilitation training, skills training, and educational opportunities to achieve self-fulfillment through quality employment and independent living; to serve as a resource to families and employers; and to expand public awareness regarding the potential of all persons who are blind or visually impaired.

Agency of the State Board of Education
650 West State Street, Room 150
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0096
208-334-3390
208-334-5305 (Fax)
www.state.id.us/idvr [90][link opens in new window]

Division of Rehabilitation Service
400 West Lawrence Avenue
P.O. Box 19429
Springfield, IL 62794-9429
800-843-6154 (Customers)
800-447-6404 (TTY)
800-804-3833 (Providers)
www.dhs.state.il.us/ors [93]

Services for People Who are Blind or Visually Impaired [94]

Programs and services include:

• Vocational Rehabilitation Program
• Community-Based Instructional Program
• Older Blind Program
• Illinois Center for Rehabilitation and Education-Wood
• Business Enterprise Program for the Blind

Des Moines Office
Iowa Department for the Blind
524 Fourth Street
Des Moines, IA 50309-2364
800-362-2587 (Toll free)
515-281-1333
515-281-1355 (TTY)
515-281-1263 (Fax)
www.blind.state.ia.us [98]
E-mail: information@blind.state.ia.us [99]

Waterloo District Office
Iowa Department for the Blind - Waterloo
3420 University Avenue, Suite A
Waterloo, IA 50701
888-378-4397 (Toll free)
319-226-3352
319-226-3354 (Fax)
E-mail: information@blind.state.ia.us [99]

Cedar Rapids District Office
Iowa Department for the Blind - Cedar Rapids
411 3rd Street SE
Suite 745
Cedar Rapids, IA 52401-1811
888-346-9557 (Toll free)
319-365-9111
319-298-9369 (Fax)
E-mail: information@blind.state.ia.us [99]

Programs and services include:

• Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
• Vocational Rehabilitation Services
• Independent Living Rehabilitation Services
• Adult Orientation and Adjustment Center
• Business Enterprises Program
• Aids and Devices Store
• Public Education and In-Service Training.

510 East 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
800-532-1486 (Voice/TTY)
515-281-4211 (Voice/TTY)
515-281-4703 (Fax)
www.ivrs.iowa.gov [103][link opens in new window]

915 S.W. Harrison Street
Topeka, KS 66612
785-296-3959
785-296-1491 (TTY)
785-296-2173 (Fax)
www.srskansas.org [106][link opens in new window]

275 East Main Street
Mail Stop 2-EJ
Frankfort, KY 40621
800-321-6668 or 877-592-5463 (Toll free)
502-564-4754
502-564-2929 (TDD)
502-564-2951 (Fax)
http://blind.ky.gov [110]

The Kentucky Office for the Blind is a state government rehabilitation agency that offers assistance to persons who are blind or visually impaired. They also provide services for employers interested in hiring or accommodating workers who have a vision loss.

The mission of the Kentucky Office for the Blind is to provide opportunities for employment and independence to individuals with visual disabilities. They offer services that help individuals become more independent and productive in the workplace, community, school, and home.

Offices are located in Ashland, Bowling Green, Elizabethtown, Florence, Frankfort, Lexington, Louisville, Owensboro, Paducah, Prestonsburg, and Somerset.

209 St. Clair Street
Frankfort, KY 40601
800-372-7172 (Toll free Voice/TTY)
502-564-4440 (Voice/TTY)
http://ovr.ky.gov [114]
Contact information: http://ovr.ky.gov/contact_us.htm [115]  

The Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation assists Kentuckians with disabilities to achieve suitable employment and independence.

627 North Four Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
800-737-2958 (Toll free)
504-219-2225
504-219-2942 (Fax)
www.dss.state.la.us [118]

Blind and Visually Impaired Services [119]
Programs and services include:

• [link opens in a new window]Blind Services: Provides services to eligible individuals who are blind or visually impaired. The Randolph-Sheppard Business Enterprise Program and the Older Blind/Visually Impaired Program are parts of Blind Services.
• Independent Living Program: Provides services to enable individuals with significant disabilities to function independently in the family or community.
• Louisiana Commission for the Deaf: Organized in 1980 to insure that Louisiana's public and private services are accessible to deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing, and speech impaired citizens.
• Traumatic Head and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund: Provides services in a flexible, individualized manner to Louisiana citizens who survive traumatic head or traumatic spinal cord injuries. The TH/SCI program enables individuals to return to a reasonable level of functioning and independent living in their communities.
• Vocational Rehabilitation Program: Provides a one-stop career development program to individuals with disabilities.

Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
150 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0150
800-698-4440 (Toll free)
888-755-0023 (Toll Free TTY)
207-287-5292 (Fax)
www.maine.gov/rehab/index.shtml [123][link opens in new window]

Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired
www.maine.gov/rehab/dbvi [124]
Office locations and contacts: www.maine.gov/rehab/offices.shtml [125]

Comprehensive services for visually impaired and blind persons of all ages include: 

• Vocational Rehabilitation Services
• Business Enterprise Program
• Independent Living Services
• Education Services for Children
• Financial Services
• Real Estate Tax Exemption
• I.D. Cards for Individuals who are Visually Impaired and Blind
• Library Services
• State Rehabilitation Council

Division of Rehabilitation Services
2301 Argonne Drive
Baltimore, MD 21218-1696
866-614-4780 (Toll free)
410-554-9277
410-554-9195 (TTY/TDD)
410-554-9197 (Fax)
www.dors.state.md.us/dors [129]
E-mail: bspath@dors.state.md.us [130]

Office for Blindness and Vision Services www.dors.state.md.us/DORS/ProgramServices/Business3 [131]

The Office for Blindness and Vision Services (OBVS) oversees programs and services for individuals whose primary disability is vision loss.

OBVS includes rehabilitation counselors, rehabilitation technologists, case managers and rehabilitation teachers with specialized training in issues of importance to people who are blind, visually impaired or deaf-blind. They assist people in designing and carrying out plans for employment or independent living.

OBVS also administers the Maryland Business Enterprise Program for the Blind, which prepares individuals to operate successful vending and food service operations in public facilities.

48 Boylston Street
Boston, MA 02116-4718
800-392-6450 (Voice toll free MA only)
617-727-5550
800-392-6556 (TDD toll free MA only)
617-626-7685 (Fax)
www.mass.gov/mcb [135]
E-mail contacts [136]

Programs and services include:

• Vocational Rehabilitation
• Independent Living Social Services
• Assistive Technology for the Blind Program
• Specialized Services for Specific Populations
• Rehabilitation Teaching
• Orientation and Mobility
• Medical Assistance 
• Vending Facility Program
• Ferguson Industries for the Blind
• Consumer Assistance and Program Support (CAPS)

Healthy Aging, Health and Disability Unit
250 Washington Street
Boston, MA 02108
617-624-5070
617-624-5992 (TTY)
617-624-5075 (Fax)
E-mail: anita.albright@state.ma.us [140]

The Office of Healthy Aging [141] of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health fosters healthy aging for the Commonwealth's population by planning, advocating, coordinating and administering programs and policies that assure access to quality health care and enhance opportunities for older people to learn about and take responsibility for their own health.

Administrative Offices
27 Wormwood Street
Boston, MA 02210-1616
800-245-6543 (Voice/TDD)
617-204-3600
617-727-1354 (Fax)
www.mass.gov/mrc [144]
Contact information [145]

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission is responsible for Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Community Services, and eligibility determination for the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) federal benefits programs.

Career Education & Workforce Programs
201 North Washington Square, 4th Floor
P.O. Box 30010
Lansing, MI 48909
800-605-6722 (Toll free)
517-373-4026
888-605-6722 (TTY)
517-335-7277 (Fax)
www.michigan.gov/mdcd [148]

Department of Employment and Economic Development
2200 University Avenue, Suite 240
St. Paul, MN 55114-1840
800-652-9000 (Toll free)
651-642-0500
800-665-3276 (Toll Free TTY)
651-642-0506 (TTY)
www.mnssb.org [152]
List of statewide offices: www.mnssb.org/about/offices.html [153]

State Services for the Blind (SSB) is a branch within the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. It is funded by Federal, State and private dollars.

SSB believes that blindness should never stop people from obtaining jobs, participating in training, or in any activities which reflect their potential and interests.

Anyone of any age in Minnesota who has a vision loss that creates a barrier to their vocational or personal independence can use SSB.

P.O. Box 1698
Jackson, MS 39215-1698
800-443-1000 (Toll free)
601-853-5100
601-853-5310 (Fax)
www.mdrs.state.ms.us [157][link opens in new window]

Independent Living Services and Vocational Rehabilitation Services for the Blind
www.mdrs.state.ms.us/client/ind_blind.asp [158]
Contact information: www.mdrs.state.ms.us/offices/vrb_office.asp [159]

The Independent Living Services Program provides services to assist legally blind individuals adjust to their blindness by becoming more able to care for their specific needs.

The eligibility criterion for the Older Blind Program is age 55+ and legal blindness. The Part B eligibility requirements are legal blindness, significant secondary disability, and any age. For both programs, gainful employment may not be feasible but independent living goals are feasible.

Services include:

• Recommendation and/or provision of appropriate and necessary aids and appliances, such as, talking clocks, writing guides, and low vision aids
• Referral to other agencies and services, such as Library Services, Radio Reading Services, and Bible on Tape
• Functional low vision assessments
• Independent living skills training
• Peer support groups
• Center-based training (Addie McBryde or REACH)
• Other appropriate services designed to assist with daily living activities
• Orientation and mobility training

3024 Dupont Circle
Jefferson City, MO 65109
877-222-8963 (Toll free)
573-751-3251
573-751-0881 (TDD)
http://vr.dese.mo.gov [163]

111 Sanders, Suite 307
P.O. Box 4210
Helena, MT 59604-4210
877-296-1197 (Toll free)
406-444-2590 (Voice/TDD)
406-444-3632 (Fax)
www.dphhs.mt.gov/dsd/mvr.shtml [167][link opens in new window]

Blind and Low Vision Services
www.dphhs.mt.gov/dsd/blvs/index.shtml [168]

Programs and services include:

• Vocational Rehabilitation Program
• Visual Medical Program
• Older Blind Program

4600 Valley Road, Suite 100
Lincoln, NE 68510-4844
877-809-2419 (Toll free)
402-471-2891
402-471-3009 (Fax)
www.ncbvi.ne.gov [172]
E-mail: pearl.vanzandt@nebraska.gov [173]  

Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (NCBVI), the state vocational rehabilitation agency for the blind, is committed to helping blind and visually impaired Nebraskans achieve fuller and more rewarding lives through services promoting a positive understanding of blindness and the potential abilities of blind people.

Vocational Rehabilitation
P.O. Box 94987
301 Centennial Mall South
Lincoln, NE 68509-4987
800-742-7594 (Toll free)
402-471-3644
402-471-0788 (Fax)
www.vocrehab.state.ne.us [177][link opens in new window]

1370 South Curry Street
Carson City, NV 89703
775-684-4070 (Voice/TDD)
775-684-4186 (Fax)
www.nvdetr.org [180][link opens in new window]

Services to the Blind and Visually Impaired
http://detr.state.nv.us/rehab/reh_bvi.htm [181]

Services include:

• Adaptive Training
• Business Enterprise Program
• Independent Living/Daily Living
• Low Vision Exams and Aids
• Mobility Training
• Vocational Rehabilitation

Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired [185]
Department of Education
21 South Fruit Street, Suite 20
Concord, NH 03301
800-581-6881 (Toll free)
603-271-3537
603-271-3471 (Voice/TTY)
603-271-3816 (Fax)

Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides those services necessary to help people with visual loss to enter, re-enter, or maintain employment. Most services are provided without charge to the referred individual as the Services for Blind and Visually Impaired Program is supported by State and Federal tax dollars.

Rehabilitation services include:

• Job Placement 
• Skills Training 
• Low Vision
• Technology and Rehabilitation Engineering 
• Orientation and Mobility
• Personal and Household Management
• Counseling and Guidance
• Employer Services
• Consultative Services on ADA, job and task analysis, and reasonable job accommodation 

Sight Services for Independent Living [186]

Independent Living Services are available for individuals who are legally blind or visually impaired and who are 55 years of age or older including:

• Peer Counseling
• Rehabilitation Teaching
• Low Vision Services
• Orientation and Mobility

Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
153 Halsey Street, 6th Floor
P.O. Box 47017
Newark, NJ 07101
973-648-3333
973-648-7364 (Fax)
www.state.nj.us/humanservices/cbvi [190]
Office and e-mail contacts: www.state.nj.us/humanservices/cbvi/facilities [191]

The mission of the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired is to promote and provide services in the areas of education, employment, independence and eye health through informed choice and partnership with persons who are blind or visually impaired, their families and the community. 

135 East State Street
P.O. Box 398
Trenton, NJ 08625-0398
609-292-5987
609-292-8347
609-292-2919 (TDD)
http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/labor/dvrs/DVRIndex.html [195][link opens in new window]

The New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) provides services that enable individuals with disabilities to find jobs or keep their existing jobs.

2905 Rodeo Park Drive East
Building 4, Suite 100
Santa Fe, NM 87505
888-513-7968 (Toll free)
505-476-4479
www.state.nm.us/cftb [198]
Office contacts and locations: www.cfb.state.nm.us/OfficeLocations.html [199]

The mission of the New Mexico Commission for the Blind is to enable persons who are blind to achieve vocational, economic and social equality by providing career preparation, training in the skills of blindness and above all, promoting and conveying the belief that blindness is not a barrier to successful employment, or to living an independent and meaningful life.

Programs and services include:

• Adult Orientation Center
• Assistive Technology
• Business Enterprise Program
• Deaf-Blind Program
• Emergency Eye Care
• Employment Development Center
• Independent Living/Older Blind Services
• NEWSLINE for the Blind
• Students in Transition To Employment Program
• Vocational Rehabilitation Services

435 St. Michael's Drive
Building D
Santa Fe, NM 87505
800-224-7005 (Toll free)
505-954-8500
505-954-8562 (Fax)
www.dvrgetsjobs.com [203]

The purpose of the New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation is to help people with disabilities achieve suitable employment outcomes.

New York State Office of Children and Family Services
Capital View Office Park
52 Washington Street
Rensselaer, NY 12144-2796
518-473-7793
518-486-7550 (Fax)
www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/cbvh [206]
Contact information: www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/contact/contact.asp [207]
District office locations: http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/cbvh/distoffices.asp [208]

The mission of the New York State Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped (CBVH) is to enhance employability, to maximize independence, and to assist in the development of the capacities and strengths of people who are legally blind.
CBVH provides vocational rehabilitation and other direct services to legally blind New York State residents, including children, adults, and elderly persons.

One of CBVH's primary objectives is to assist consumers in achieving economic self-sufficiency and full integration into society. CBVH offers these services from seven district offices across the state. CBVH works closely with not-for-profit agencies for the blind throughout New York State to provide technical, educational and resource assistance to our consumers.

Programs and services include:

• Vocational Rehabilitation Program
• Business Enterprise Program
• Children's Program
• Transition Program
• Summer Recreation Program
• Equipment Loan Fund
• Independent Living Program

1 Commerce Plaza, Room 1609
Albany, NY 12234
800-222-JOBS (Toll free)
518-486-4154 (Fax)
www.vesid.nysed.gov [212]
E-mail: vesidadm@mail.nysed.gov [213]

2601 Mail Services Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-2601
866-222-1546 (Toll free)
919-733-9822
919-733-9769 (Fax)
www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dsb [216]
Contact information: www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dsb/contact.htm [217] 

Since 1935, the mission of the North Carolina Division of Services for the Blind has been to enable people who are blind or visually impaired to reach their goals of independence and employment.

Services include:

• Career Counseling
• Vocational Evaluation
• On-The-Job Training
• Vocational Training
• Supported Employment/Job Coaching
• Small Business Projects
• Job Placement
• Independent Living Skills
• Safe Travel Skills
• Adjustment To Vision Loss Training
• Technology Training
• Job Site Evaluation
• Low Vision Aids
• Eye-Related Surgery/Treatment

2801 Mail Services Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-2801
919-855-3500
919-855-3579 (TTY)
919-733-7968 (Fax)
dvr.dhhs.state.nc.us [221]

Vocational Rehabilitation
Prairie Hills Plaza
1237 West Divide Avenue, Suite 1B
Bismark, ND 58501-1208
800-755-2745 (Toll free)
701-328-8950
701-328-8968 (TDD)
701-328-8969 (Fax)
www.nd.gov/dhs [224][link opens in new window]

Vision Services

www.nd.gov/dhs/services/disabilities/vs.html [225]
Office and contact information: www.nd.gov/dhs/services/disabilities/vr/contact.html [226] 

Services North Dakotans age 55 and older who have vision impairments. Provides training, accommodation, and support in daily living activities to individuals with visual impairments so they can maintain independence in their home environment. Offices are located in the following regions: Bismark, Devil's Lake, Dickinson, Fargo, Grand Forks, Jamestown, Minot, and Williston.

Services for the visually impaired include:

• Orientation and mobility training
• Communication skills training
• Activities of daily living training
• Low vision screening/services
• Assistive technology devices
• Counseling, support groups, and referral
• Community integration
• Help with management of secondary disabilities
• Transportation
• Readers and guides

400 East Campus View Boulevard
Columbus, OH 43235-4604
800-282-4536 (Ohio only)
614-438-1200 (Voice/TYY)
614-438-1257 (Fax)
www.rsc.ohio.gov [230] [link opens in new window]

Vocational Rehabilitation Services for the Visually Impaired

www.rsc.state.oh.us/bvrbvsi [231]

Independent Living/Older Blind Program

www.rsc.state.oh.us/bvrbvsi/ilolderblind [232]

The Independent Living Older Blind program is for individuals who are 55 years old or older, not able to work competitively, and who have a visual impairment that results in substantial functional limitations in one or more daily living activities such as reading, cooking, cleaning, dialing the phone, or setting dials.

3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 500
Oklahoma City, OK 73112-4815
800-845-8476 (Toll free)
405-951-3400
405-951-3529 (Fax)
www.okrehab.org [236][link opens in new window]

Visual Services Rehabilitation
www.okrehab.org/services_vsservices.html [237]
Contact information: www.okrehab.org/contactus.html [238]

Programs and services include:

• Business Enterprise Program (Vending Facilities)
• Career Planning Centers
• Assistive Technology Lab (Visual Services Center)
• Supported Employment
• Ticket to Work Transition from School to Work

1170 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14209
716-882-1025
www.olmstedcenter.org [242]

The Olmsted Center helps individuals of all ages with visual impairments and other physical challenges achieve their highest level of independence.

The Paul T. Bulger Vision Clinic

is the newest subsidiary of Olmsted Center. It provides the services of a physiatrist and occupational therapist, in addition to the optometric, rehabilitation teaching, social work, and orientation and mobility instruction previously offered at this site. Treatment will address not only vision loss, but other physical, cognitive, and emotional issues which may relate to visual impairment.

National Statler Center for Careers in Hospitality Service

1160 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14209
716-882-5690
www.statlercenter.org [243]

The National Statler Center is a subsidiary of the Olmsted Center and is devoted to hospitality employment training. One of the first projects of its kind, Statler Center provides physically disabled, blind, or visually impaired individuals with the right tools for successful careers in this rapidly growing industry.

The National Statler Center has teamed with the Lighthouse of Central Florida [244] to train and employ blind and disabled workers for the hospitality industry. The program is designed to prepare visually impaired individuals for careers in the hospitality/tourism and customer service industries.

Administration Office
500 Summer Street, NE
Salem, OR 97301-1018
503-945-5880
503-945-5894 (TTY)
503-945-8991 (Fax)
www.oregon.gov/DHS/vr [247][link opens in new window]

Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services
Forum Place
555 Walnut Street, 8th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
800-442-6352 (Toll free)
717-787-7834
877-497-6545 (Toll free TTY)
717-787-4013 (TTY)
Web site [257]

The mission of the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services (BBVS) is to assist Pennsylvanians who are blind or visually impaired gain the skills necessary to live and work independently in their communities. BBVS services are provided throughout the Commonwealth by professional staff in District Offices located in the following cities: Philadelphia, Wilkes-Barre, Harrisburg, Altoona, Pittsburgh, and Erie.

Programs and services include:

• Vocational Rehabilitation Program
• Rehabilitation Teaching
• Orientation and Mobility Instruction
• Randolph-Sheppard Business Enterprise Program
• Independent Living for the Older Blind Program
• Specialized Children's Program
• Specialized Services for Adults
• Prevention of Blindness Services

U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202
800-USA-LEARN (800-872-5327)
800-437-0833 (TTY)
www.ed.gov [261]

The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) is established by Congress as the principal federal agency authorized to carry out Titles I, III, VI and VII, as well as specified portions of Title V of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. RSA provides national leadership for, and administration of

• Basic state and formula grant programs
• Independent living centers
• Service projects
• Rehabilitation training discretionary grant programs
• Randolph-Sheppard vending facilities
• Helen Keller National Center programs

These programs develop and implement comprehensive and coordinated programs of vocational rehabilitation, supported employment and independent living for individuals with disabilities, through services, training and economic opportunities, in order to maximize their employability, independence and integration into the workplace and the community.

RSA is responsible for the formulation, development and implementation of regulations, policies, and guidelines. RSA serves as a resource and clearinghouse of information for service providers at national, state and local levels in the development of national programs to reduce or eliminate social and environmental barriers experienced by persons with disabilities.

40 Fountain Street
Providence, RI 02093-1898
401-421-7005
401-421-7016 (TDD)
401-272-8090 (Spanish)
401-222-3574 (Fax)
www.ors.state.ri.us/copied/SBVI.htm [265]

The purpose of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired is to provide eligible individuals with visual impairments the opportunities and support that will enable them to become independent, active, self-sustaining members of their communities.

Services may include:

• Assessment, counseling, and guidance
• Training in mobility, daily living skills, and communication (including braille)
• Vocational training
• Adaptive equipment
• Job development and placement

Assistance is offered for:

• Financial and medical benefits
• Housing
• Property and income tax exemptions
• Information and referral

Most services are at no cost.

1410 Boston Avenue
P.O. Box 15
West Columbia, SC 29171-0015
800-832-7526 (Toll free)
803-896-6500
803-896-6553 (TTY)
www.scvrd.net [269]
E-mail: Contact South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department [270]

912 East Sioux Avenue
c/o 500 East Capitol
Pierre, SD 57501-5070
877-873-8500 (Toll free)
605-773-3318 (Phone and TTY)
605-773-5390 (Fax)
http://dhs.sd.gov/sbvi [274]
Offices and contacts: http://dhs.sd.gov/sbvi/address.aspx [275]
E-mail: Bridget.stoeser@state.sd.us [276]

The mission of the Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired (SBVI) is to provide individualized rehabilitation services that result in optimal employment and independent living outcomes for citizens who are blind or visually impaired.

SBVI has offices in Aberdeen, Pierre, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls, where the South Dakota Rehabilitation Center for the Blind is also located.

Read our interview [277] with Dawn Backer, Rehabilitation Manager at the South Dakota Rehabilitation Center for the Blind in Sioux Falls, South Dakota Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Blind and Visually Impaired Services
Division of Rehabilitation Services
Citizens Plaza Building, Room 1100
400 Deaderick Street
Nashville, TN 37248-6100
800-628-7818 (Toll free In-State Only)
615-313-4914
615-313-6601 (TTY Local)
800-270-1349 (TTY Long Distance)
615-313-6617 (Fax)
http://tennessee.gov/humanserv/rehab/bvis.html [281]
Contact information: http://tennessee.gov/humanserv/contact.html [282]

The Division of Rehabilitation Services offers several programs to assist individuals who are blind or visually impaired. These services include:

• Vocational Rehabilitation
• Independent Living Services
• Deaf-Blind Services
• Newsline for the Blind and Visually Impaired
• Register for the Blind
• Tennessee Business Enterprises

Division for Rehabilitation Services
4800 North Lamar Blvd.
Austin, TX 78751
800-628-5115 (Toll free)
866-581-9328 (TTY)
www.dars.state.tx.us/drs [286]
E-mail: DARS.Inquiries@dars.state.tx.us [287]

Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired

4800 North Lamar Blvd., Suite 340
Austin, TX 78756-3178
800-628-5115 (Toll free)
www.dars.state.tx.us/dbs/index.shtml [288]
E-mail: DBSinfo@dars.state.tx.us [289]
Find an office in your area: www.dars.state.tx.us/dbs/DBSoffices.asp [290]

The Division for Blind Services (DBS) assists blind or visually impaired individuals and their families. Depending upon their goals and needs, DBS offers services to help regain independence or find a job.

DBS staff work in partnership with Texans who are blind or visually impaired to get high quality jobs, live independently, or help a child receive the training needed to be successful in school and beyond.

Division of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Administration Office
250 North 1950 West, Suite B
Salt Lake City, UT 84116-7902
800-284-1823 (Toll free)
801-323-4343
801-323-4395 (TTY)
801-233-4396 (Fax)
www.usor.utah.gov/division-of-services-for-the-blind-and-visually-impaired [294]

The Division of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DSBVI) has developed programs to help meet the needs of Utah citizens who are blind or have significant visual impairments.

In addition to providing vocational rehabilitation services, DSBVI offers a multitude of training and adjustment services, which include:

• Computer evaluation and training
• Orientation and mobility services
• Daily living skills
• Home repair courses
• Low vision screening, magnification and other assistive aids
• A variety of adjustment-to-blindness classes and services.

These services are provided to individuals at the Center for the Blind and in the community statewide.

397 Azalea Avenue
Richmond, VA 23227-3697
800-622-2155 (Voice/TTY)
804-371-3140 (Voice/TTY)
804-371-3351 (Fax)
www.vdbvi.org [298]

Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired (VRCBVI)
401 Azalea Avenue
Richmond, VA 23227
804-371-3151
www.vrcbvi.org [299]

VRCBVI is operated by the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI). It was established in 1970 to provide comprehensive adjustment services to severely visually impaired Virginians.

Virginia Industries for the Blind (VIB)
www.vdbvi.org/vib [300]
Office locations and contact information [301]

VIB is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for persons who are blind by providing opportunities for career development. It is a self-funded division of the Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI). VIB includes two manufacturing plants, nine stores, and four service locations.

P.O. Box 40933
Olympia, WA 98504-0933
800-552-7103 (Toll free)
206-721-4056 (TTY)
www.dsb.wa.gov [305]
E-mail: information@dsb.wa.gov [306]

The Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) has offices in Olympia, Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, and Yakima.
Contact the DSB office nearest you [307]. 

DSB is a state rehabilitation agency that offers assistance to persons who are blind or visually impaired.

DSB also provides a range of services for employers interested in accommodating or hiring workers with vision loss.

P.O. Box 50890, State Capitol
Charleston, WV 25305-0890
800-642-8207 (Toll free)
304-766-4600
304-766-4690 (Fax)
www.wvdrs.org [311]

Services for People Who are Blind and Visually Impaired
[312]800-642-8207 (Toll free)
Office contacts: www.wvdrs.org/WVDRS_Offices.cfm [313]

Programs and services include:

• Field Services: Individuals who want to work in an integrated job setting will meet with a rehabilitation counselor who has been specifically trained to provide services to meet their needs.
• Life Skills: The Life Skills Unit for the Blind provides individualized training in a variety of pre-vocational and vocational areas. Training includes orientation and mobility, adaptive communication, domestic arts, adaptive activities of daily living, computer training with access technology, and braille.
• Independent Living Services for Older Individuals: VISIONS (Visually Impaired Seniors In-home, Outreach, and Networking Services) provides comprehensive in-home independent living services to individuals age 55 and older who have significant vision loss.

Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
201 East Washington Street
Madison, WI 53707-7852
800-442-3477 (Toll free)
608-261-0050
608-266-0283 (TDD/TTY)
http://dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr [317]
E-mail: dwddvr@dwd.state.wi.us [318]

1 West Wilson Street, Room 451
Madison, WI 53702
888-879-0017 (Toll free)
608-266-3109
608-266-3256 (Fax)
www.dhfs.wi.gov/blind [322]
E-mail: webmaildltc@dhfs.state.wi.us [323]

The Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services, Office for the Blind and Visually Impaired, is the government agency designated to provide assessment, training, and information to adults with vision loss, their families, and interested professionals. These services exist to enhance independent living skills and quality of life for persons with vision loss.

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services
1100 Herschler Building
1st Floor, East Wing
Cheyenne, WY 82002
307-777-7389
307-777-5939 (Fax)
www.wyomingworkforce.org [326]

Wyoming Independent Living Rehabilitation, Inc
305 West 1st Street
Casper, WY 82601
800-735-8322 (Toll free)
307-266-6956
www.wilr.org [327]
Contact information: www.wilr.org/contactus.html [328]

Wyoming Independent Living Rehabilitation (WILR) educates and empowers Wyoming citizens with disabilities by providing the necessary tools to live with independence and dignity.

Programs and services include:

• Independent Living
• Visually Impaired Services for the Older Blind
• Consumer Directed Care
• Nursing Home Transition
• Transportation Check Program