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---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------MISSION STATEMENT The Lane Independent Living Alliance ("LILA") is a consumer-controlled organization serving persons with a range of disabilities in Lane County, Oregon. Our mission is to enhance options which maximize independent living.
LILA Bylaws
HISTORY
The Lane Independent Living Alliance (LILA) is a cross-disability, consumer-controlled
organization operating a center for independent living (CIL). A CIL, LILA's
Board hypothesizes, empowers people with disabilities, develops their leadership
skills and organizes them around a variety of issues crucial to their lives.
The Lane Independent Living Alliance (LILA) addresses the significant accessibility,
housing, employment, civil rights, voting rights, recreational and other issues
faced by community residents with disabilities. With support from OODH , a group
of more than fifteen leaders with disabilities secured grant funding from the
State Independent Living Council (SILC) for grassroots organizational efforts.
Thanks to grant funding, the grassroots group opened a CIL on the first floor
of the Atrium Building in downtown Eugene.LILA has secured grant funds from
the archdiocesan and national Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD)
to organize persons with disabilities in electoral and decision-making processes.
LILA has become a county and statewide leader in efforts to make the State’s
voting system more accessible. Since Oregon is the only state with a vote-by-mail
system, the state is in a unique position to ensure greater access to the electoral
system for citizens with disabilities. LILA is expanding its own base as a cross-disability,
multi-issue organization involving Lane County and the disability community.
Assuring that persons with disabilities direct the activities which affect them
is among LILA core values. More than 51% of members of the LILA Board will always
be persons with disabilities. Further, a majority of LILA Board and decision
makers will be low income.
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LILA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Eugene Organ--President, Gene is the former Executive Director of the Oregon
Disabilities Commission. He has chaired the National Association of Governors'
Committees for People with Disabilities. He also served on the President’s
Committee for the Employment of People with Disabilities. He is currently
on the board of the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County, Inc. (SVDP)
and the Eugene Sister City Foundation board of directors.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Bruce
Barney--Vice President, Bruce is a Registered Nurse who has worked in rehabilitative
medicine, geriatrics and mental health for 15 years. He has worked for the
Center for Independent Living in Berkeley, CA and the Multiple Sclerosis Society
of Northern California. He heads the Eugene Chapter of the Tetra Society of
North America.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Gweneth
van Frank Carlson--Secretary, Gweneth van Frank Carlson is an educator and
entertainer, using singing, dance and drama as organizing tools. She is currently
spearheading Save Oregon Services Alliance (SOSA), which is involved with
the statewide effort to restore funding for services for disabled Oregonians.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Anthony
Borelli--Treasurer, For the past 15 years Anthony has been a Personal Assistant
for the elderly and individuals with disabilities, and Personal Growth Coach.
He has worked as a Psychiatric Technician Assistant and A teachers assistant
at Camarillo State Hospital in Camarillo, CA. He was also a Co-founder of
a youth organization in Oxnard, CA.
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Programs
LILA is involved
in a wide variety of programs that further the independent living options
of people with disabilities throughout Lane County. If you are interested
in learning more about any of the following projects, or would like to know
how you might become involved with LILA, please click on the
‘Volunteer Opportunities’ button below.
Button
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Eugene
Sounds (ESR) is a radio
reading service for persons with disabilities, particularly those with limitations
reading print. ESR however, will be a computer-Internet stream of radio programming,
rather than just a frequency band radio.
ACCESSIBILITY
PROJECT
It's very helpful for anyone with a disability to know if a business
or service, housing or recreational activity is accessible to them before
they leave the comfort of their own home. Many cities in the U.S. have created
access guides for their communities, providing detailed information on popular
public venues such as restaurants, lodging, theaters, transportation and parks.
The last Eugene/Springfield Access Guide was published in 1995. LILA
is in the process of revising this guide and is primarily using volunteer
resources to accomplish this.
VOTER’S
ACCESS PROJECT
The Voter Access Project is aimed at increasing the participation of people
with disabilities in local, state, and federal decision-making processes.
Voter outreach and education are both large components of this project, as
are the research and effort to make voting more accessible. Events throughout
the year will be targeted at securing a role for LILA in the use of funds
for the Help America Vote Act. The Voter Access Project has a strong relationship
with local elections officials and appreciates their partnership.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The
LILA Peer Mentor Program provides mentors to consumers of Vocational
Rehabilitation Services. Mentors are people with disabilities who have specific
training and experience which enables them to assist consumers to overcome
disability related barriers to employment. http://www.lilaoregon.org/peermentoring/index.html.
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ARTS AND RECREATION PROGRAM
The Arts and Recreation Program has been established as a purely volunteer
program within LILA and it may become as active and far reaching as volunteers
wish to make it. Ideas for this continuing program have included recreational
outings to area sites and art venues, organizing art workshops or trips to
specific venues, and just about anything else that LILA volunteers may decide
upon.
SISTER CITY
PROGRAM
Eugene has a sister city relationship with a number of international cities
including but not limited to Japan, Russia and Eastern and Western countries.
LILA has connected with an organization of people with disabilities in Kathmandu,
Nepal, to establish a sister city relationship.
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INFORMATION &
REFERRAL
The four
core services provided by LILA are peer mentoring, information referral, advocacy
and independent living skills training. The following links to medical, housing,
job training, education and advocacy/service organizations are designed to
assist people with disabilities lead fuller and more independent lives throughout
Lane County. After exploring these links, if you have additional information
referral questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the LILA office at: (541)
607-7020.
MEDICAL
REFERRALS
Resources
available in Lane County
Whitebird Clinic: Office information: (541) 342-8255 Crisis: (541) 687-4000 | www.whitebirdclinic.org/
CAHOOTS - Crisis Assistance Helping Out On The Streets /www.whitebirdclinic.org/cahoots.html
Womenspace:
Crisis line: (541) 485-6513| Advocacy Center: (541) 484-6103 |
www.thelane.net/index.php?op=show&ID=946
Needy Meds (Sacred Heart): Information line: (215) 625-9609 | www.needymeds.com/
Sacred Heart
Hospital|Hospital information: (541) 686-7300 | Ask-A-Nurse: (541) 686-7000
or
(800) 365-7010 | www.peacehealth.org/Community/owv/
Willamette-McKenzie
Hospital | Hospital Information: (541) 726-4400 | www.mckweb.com/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Resources available in Oregon
Medicaid | http://cms.hhs.gov/medicaid/default.asp
Oregon Department
of Human Services | Oregon Health Plan |Office information: (503) 945-5772
|
(800) 527-5772 | TTY: (800) 375-2863 | www.dhs.state.or.us/healthplan/
The R.O.
Johnson Unit | Department of Mental Health Services | Office information:
(503) 686-7044
www.und.nodak.edu/dept/rls/intern/or-johnson.html
----------------------------------------------------------------------
HOUSING REFERRALS
Resources available in Lane County
Assisted Living Facilities in Eugene | http://thecityofeugene.com/assistedliving/
Mainstream Housing, Inc. | Office information: (541) 484-4868 | www.mainstreamhousing.org/
Laurel Hill Center | Office information: 541-485-6340 | www.laurel.org/index.html
Alvord-Taylor | Office information: (541) 736-3444 | www.alvordtaylor.org/
Oregon Supported Living | Office information: (541) 343-4196 | www.thelane.net
St. Vincent de Paul’s | Office information: 541-687-5820 | www.svdplanecounty.org
Pearl Buck Center | Office information: (541) 345-8506 | www.pearlbuckcenter.com
HUD in Oregon
| Office information: (202) 708-1112 | TTY: (202) 708-1455
www.hud.gov/local/index.cfm?state=or
| www.hud.gov/groups/disabilities.cfm
Oregon Housing and Community Services | www.hcs.state.or.us/
Oregon Rental Housing Information | http://rhol.org/rental/OR/Oregon.asp
JOB
TRAINING REFERRALS
Resources
available in Lane County
Developmental
Disability Services | Office Information: (541) 682-3695 | TTY: (541) 682-3892
www.co.lane.or.us/HHS_DevDis/
The ARC of Lane County | Office information: (541) 343-5256 | TTY: (541) 343-4387 | www.arclane.org/
Laurel Hill Center | Office information: 541-485-6340 | www.laurel.org/index.html
Goodwill Industries | www.goodwill.org/
Pearl Buck Center | Office information: (541) 345-8506 | www.pearlbuckcenter.com
Resources available in Oregon
Oregon Department
of Human Services | Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Services
Office information: (541) 686-7722 | TTY: (541) 687-7337 | www.dhs.state.or.us/vr/
EDUCATION
REFERRALS
Resources
available in Lane County
Developmental
Disability Services | Office Information: (541) 682-3695 | TTY: (541) 682-3892
www.co.lane.or.us/HHS_DevDis/
University of Oregon | General information: (541) 346-1000 | www.uoregon.edu
Lane Community College | General information: (541) 463-3000 | http://lanecc.edu/
Lane County 4-J School District | www.4j.lane.edu/
Bethel School District | www.bethel.k12.or.us/
Springfield School District | www.sps.lane.edu
Oasis | Office information: (541) 342-6611, x2601| www.oasisnet.org/eugene/
ADVOCACY AND SERVICES--Resources available in Lane County
Lane Independent Living Alliance | Office Information: (541) 607-7020 | www.lilaoregon.org
Developmental
Disability Services | Office Information: (541) 682-3695 | TTY: (541) 682-3892
www.co.lane.or.us/HHS_DevDis/
Senior & Disabled Services | Office Information: (541) 682-4038 | TTY: (541) 682-4567 | www.sdslane.org/
Emerald Council of the Blind | Office Information: (541) 342-6015
Direction Service | Office Information: (541) 686-5060 | www.directionservice.org/
Full Access Brokerage | Office Information: (541) 284-5070 | www.fullaccess.org/
Kind Tree Productions, Inc. | Office Information: (541) 688-8134 | www.kindtree.org
Mobility International, USA | Office Information: (541) 343-1284 | www.miusa.org/
City of Eugene
| Human Right’s Commission | Office Information: (541) 682-5177 | TTY: (541)
682-5045
www.ci.eugene.or.us/HRC-ERAC/hrcSITE/HOME.html
Resources available in Oregon
Community Health Charities of Oregon | www.oregonhealth.org
Oregon Brain Injury Resource Network | Office Information: (503) 413-7707 | www.tr.wou.edu/TBI/
Oregon Council Of The Blind (ACB-O) | Office Information: (541) 343-6015 | www.acboforegon.org
Lions Club, International | Oregon Main Office, Eugene: (541) 484-0452 | www.orlions.org
Northwest
ADA|IT Center | Portland Office of Disability Information | Business Technical
Assistance Center
Office Information: (503) 494-4001--Office Information: (800) 949-4232 | www.nwada.org
Muscular
Dystrophy Association | Columbia-Willamette Chapter | Office Information:
(503) 223-3177
www.mdausa.org
People First of Oregon | Office Information: (503) 362-0336 |www.people1.org
National Multiple Sclerosis Society | Oregon Chapter | Office Information: (503) 223-9511 | www.nmss.org
Easter Seals
| Office Information: (503) 228-5108 | Office Information: (800) 556-6020|
www.or.easter-seals.org
Oregon Disabilities Commission | Office Information: (800) 358-3117 | www.odc.state.or.us
Oregon Disability Sports | Office Information: (800) 869-8180 | www.aahd.us/oregon.html
American Diabetes Association | Oregon Affiliate | Office Information: (503) 736-2770 | www.diabetes.org
Oregon Advocacy Center | Office Information: (503) 243-2081 | TTY: (503) 323-9161 |www.oradvocacy.org/
Oregon Health Science University | Office Information: (503) 494-8311 |www.ohsu.edu/
Oregon Office on Disability and Health | Office Information: (503) 494-3331 | http://cdrc.ohsu.edu/oodh/
Central Oregon
Resources for Independent Living (CORIL), Bend, Oregon
Office Information: (541) 388-8103 | TTY: (541) 388-8103
HASL Independent
Abilities Center | Grants Pass, Oregon | Office Information: (541) 479-4275
TTY: (541) 479-1475
Spokes Unlimited | Klamath Falls, Oregon | Office Information: (541) 883-7547 | www.spokesunlimited.org/
Eastern Oregon
Center for Independent Living --Ontario, Oregon | Office Information: (541)
889-3119
TTY: (541) 889-3119 | www.eocil.org
Independent Living Resources, Inc.--Portland, Oregon | Office Information: (503) 232-7411 | www.ilr.org
Umpqua Valley
Disability Network--Roseburg, Oregon | Office Information: (541) 672-6336
|
TTY: (541) 440-2882
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.Resource List For The Blind & Visually Impaired
(Last updated, December 2004) CONTENT NOTE:This compilation
was produced free of charge and was meant to be distributed at no cost to
individuals in Oregon who are blind or visually impaired, or are experiencing
vision loss. The person, organization or agency distributing this Resource
List, has NOT produced it nor are they responsible for the contents. All of
the following headings, respective listings and information were compiled
by Rob Cook and edited by Cora Jones, both of whom are professionals in the
field of blindness and also happen to be vision impaired themselves. The headings
and subsequent listings are in alphabetical order and come from their own
personal database, experience and professional lives as Rehabilitation Teachers
of the Blind and visually impaired. As the authors, we hope that readers will
further investigate the listings that interest or concern them by contacting
the organization or agency of interest. Based on our experience, being proactive
by fully investigating one’s resources is the first step in finding
solutions to either problems or needs. We hope an awareness of viable resources
will allow you to lead an active, independent and successful life as a person
with a vision impairment. Major resource headings follow in a Table of Contents;
after locating a resource, the rest is up to you!
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1. Consumer Groups |2.
General Opportunities |3.
Independent Living Products And Services (a)
Adaptive Goods - Independent Living Aids Suppliers (b) Cane
Suppliers
(c) Computers |4. Information,
Support and Related Organizations |
5. Local, State and Federal Public Services | 6. Reading:
Books and Periodicals |
7. Recreational Opportunities a. Camps
for the Blind b. GeneralRecreation
c. Travel Opportunities
CONSUMER GROUPS: NATIONAL & STATEWIDE
American Council of the Blind (ACB)-1155
15th Street NW. Suite 720, Washington, DC 2005
(800) 424-8666 | (202) 467-5081 (Between 3 & 5 pm. EST) |www.acb.orgThe
ACB is a membership organization of individuals who are devoted to improving
the independence, quality of life, level of employment, economic well being
and accessibility for persons who are blind or visually impaired. The organization
is concerned with a huge variety of aspects related to blindness and visual
impairment, including National, State and local legislative issues. ACB has
affiliate Chapters in nearly every State in the Country, and there are also
over 60 Special Interest Chapters, such as blind students, lawyers, teachers,
guide dog users, government employees and many other concerns. The Braille
Forum is the National journal of the ACB and there are publications for most
ACB State and Special Interest Chapters. There is a week long National Convention
every Summer and the State Chapters also have annual Conventions that will
be highly informative for those new to vision impairment. ACB has National,
State and local Chapter memberships available, and you can find general or
Chapter information on the Web or by calling their Washington DC numbers.
It is usually very easy to become involved and find a niche in the ACB’s
multitude of special interest groups for any person who has an interest in
visual impairment. Membership in any particular ACB affiliate or Chapter may
be limited to that affiliate, or may include ACB National, State, local and
special affiliate membership. It is best to inquire with the contact affiliate,
as each ACB group is fairly autonomous and has it’s own guidelines.The
2004 Oregon affiliate President Bob Johnson is very friendly and would enjoy
answering any questions; call him at (503) 361-8693 or contact the ACB of
Oregon via the Web at www.acboforegon.org
Association of Blind Citizens (ABC), P.O. Box
246, Holbrook, MA 02343 | (781) 961-1023
www.assocofblindcitizens.org
The ABC was started in 2000 and is a new organization of the blind and
visually impaired. Their bent appears to be more recreational, more social
and slightly less political than either the ACB or NFB (below). The ABC has
a good Website and it appears that folks are learning about them through the
Internet and by direct E-list mailings. Membership on the Web is free. Check
out their Website offerings: scholarships, employment offerings, Beep Ball
tournaments, their newsletter, a chat room and a list of outings for the blind
and visually impaired (for those who live along the Eastern Seaboard). Most
of ABC’s recreational activities and outings appear to be East Coast
oriented. The organization started in Massachusetts, is young and is not geographically
representative as yet, so the ABC’s options should be investigated by
those who live outside of this area.
Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), 477 H Street
NW-Washington, DC 20001
Washington DC Office: (800) 669-7079 |vets.are.best@worldnet.att.net
or vivet@yahoo.com
The BVA is an organization of veterans who have had vision loss and ONLY
veterans of the U.S. military are eligible to join and utilize their services
and programs. There are BVA Chapters in each State and they also divide their
memberships into several regions that parallel the Veterans Administration’s
regional divisions.
The BVA has a National magazine, many regional publications and an active
presence on the Web. Check their Website or toll free phone number for more
detailed information and contact information on local chapters.
Council On Citizens With Low Vision International
(CCLVI) | www.cclvi.org
CCLVI is an independent organization within ACB and concentrates on issues
concerning low vision. They are a membership group that has a strong interest
in the varied forms of low vision disability and is open to any individual
and group that likewise has an interest in the broad spectrum of visual impairment
issues.
They have a quarterly journal, which has many announcements of both consumer
and professionally oriented meetings on low vision, along with countless informative
articles of interest. CCLVI has many State affiliates and meetings, scholarships
for vision impaired students, occasional National low-vision conferences and
they generally maintain a presence in legislative and other public domains
of interest. Their National Chairperson usually manages the toll free number,
which rotates from current Chair to Chairperson’s home each year. 800
calls may be referred to local CCLVI representatives.
National Federation Of The Blind (NFB),1800 Johnson
Street, Baltimore, MD 21230 |
National Office (410) 659-9314 | www.nfb.org
The NFB, like the ACB is a nationally known consumer group of persons who
have an interest in issues related to blind and visually impaired individuals.
NFB is generally quite political in their concentration and they are very structured
in their organizational fields of interest and conduct. Like other such consumer
groups, the NFB has a National organization with many affiliated State and local
Chapters. Joining NFB means that a National membership comes with your Local
and State NFB membership (dues for local and State membership covers all NFB
categories). NFB also has one week long annual National Convention and State
Chapters also have annual conventions. The NFB National Journal, The Braille
Monitor is published monthly and informative State publications also come out
frequently. The NFB also has “Newsline” to offer members, which
is a phone-in contact line to have newspapers read to listeners. For details
on “Newsline, check the NFB web-site or call the National office. Interested
persons can also call the National Office number above and be referred to related
NFB offices and State Chapters. The Oregon and local NFB Chapters may be contacted
through current State President Karla MacQuinlan at (541) 726-6924 orToll free
(800) 422-7093. page up
GENERAL OPPORTUNITIES
One thing quite often missed by those who are newly blind or visually impaired,
is the unusual number of OPPORTUNITIES AND ASSETS available to those who are
disabled citizens of our country. Other than public domain entitlements, there
are countless local, regional and National opportunities for persons with
disabilities, such as grants, travel discounts and programs, scholarships,
and reduced or discounted rates in a variety of activities and programs. Other
options such as private agency low in-come housing may also match the need
of a visually impaired citizen. Such things add up if utilized and are often
overlooked. The list below only scratches the surface of the huge number of
financial, material and public domain opportunities for persons who are vision
impaired. Think about your needs and research the opportunities available
to persons with disabilities; then go out and find some!
Blanche Fischer Foundation (BFF) | Portland,
John Dziennik, CEO| (503) 819-8205
www.bff.org or bff@bff.org
The Blanche Fischer Foundation is a great resource for individuals who
cannot find funding for specific needs, or when no one else will cover the
cost of a needed disability related item. BFF provides grants to disabled
individuals, though rarely do they fund organizations. BFF does not specialize
in any one purpose or type of item to be funded, nor does BFF have any specific
type of disability related to their grant eligibility. Rather BFF is mandated
by the terms of the money left to them by Ms. Fischer, to grant funding to
persons with disabilities who may “fall through the cracks.” So
if you can’t get the Commission or someone else to cover an item that
is needed for your well being, write, E-Mail or call John or Jean Shepard
at BFF.
Opportunities For The Blind- P O Box 510, Leonardtown,
MD 20650 | (800) 884-1990
www.opportunitiesfortheblind.org
or www.oppblind.com
Opportunities For The Blind is a non-profit organization that provides funding
in four areas: scholarships, job access, self-employment assistance &
equipment assistance. They emphasize the positive abilities of blind and visually
impaired individuals, who if given the opportunity will succeed in their academic,
vocational or entrepreneurial effort. Call or write for details. page
up
Oregon Council Of The Blind (ACB-O)
The Oregon Council of the Blind (see ACB above, State Chapter) has a Grant
Committee that meets during their quarterly Board meetings and this Committee
decides to either fund or reject grant applications. There are usually a variety
of grant requests and some are for very little money, some for thousands of
dollars; each gets equal review. If you are having a difficult time getting
something paid for or it is just beyond your ability to pay for it all, call
the current ACB-O President [2004 Oregon ACB President Bob Johnson at (503)
361-8693]or contact the ACB of Oregon via the Web at www.acboforegon.org
or your local Chapter leader and talk to them about the details of applying
to the ACB-O.
The Lighthouse For The Blind, Inc.-1 Edgewater
Plaza, Staten Island, NY 10305 |
(212) 821-9200 |(800) 334-5497
The Lighthouse and its many facilities have been around for years, though
their services change from time to time and within each facility. In many
communities, they have non-profit work centers (sheltered workshops) for both
blind or visually impaired workers and/or deaf-blind workers. In other locales,
they may have an adaptive goods store, educational programs, an Assistive
technology center or a variety of combined programs. Call to check on details
and the location of the closest Lighthouse outlet.
INDEPENDENT LIVING PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
This is not a complete list of adaptive goods vendors, cane or computer suppliers;
nor is this a sizeable list of service agents. This list is merely a personal
list of the authors and does not reflect on the value of any other agent of
such goods or services. As one lives the life of a person with a significant
disability such as vision loss, one’s personal knowledge or database
for accessing material goods and services will DEFINITELY grow, so be prepared
to choose your favorite agent or supplier through your own experience.
Adaptive Goods –Independent
Living Aids Suppliers
Independent Living AIDS, Inc.-27 East Mall, Plainsview, NY 11803 | (800) 537-2118
|
(800) 454-3175 | www.independentliving.com
As one of our two favorite suppliers, we have enjoyed dealing with this
firm based on their experience and cost savings. ILA has an extensive list
of products for a variety of disability needs. They back their products with
lenient policies on returns and warranties and will usually record your contact
information so as to assist you in any way at a later date. Recently (mid-2004,)
ILA absorbed the Ann Morris Company, and has honored her consumers by retaining
the former Ann Morris toll-free phone number (#2 above.)
Innovative Rehabilitation Technology, Inc. (IRTI)-134653
Colfax Highway, Grass Valley, CA 95945 | (800) 322-4784 | (530) 274-2090 |
www.irti.net or info@irti.net
IRTI is another good supplier, as they have quality goods and warrantees;
they even manufacture some adaptive goods that are sold by other such firms.
They use and test their products prior to sales. IRTI has free tape and print
catalogs to use and customers can also call or E-Mail them for information
on their countless adaptive items.
Lighthouse International | General sales: (212)
821-9384 | Toll-free Low Vision info:
(800) 829-0500
The Lighthouse has many services and products that they have been involved
in for years, though one should definitely call ahead to verify the availability
of any desired adaptive product. We include the Lighthouse as a source for
adaptive goods so that as many resource opportunities as possible are available
to the reader, due to the frequent shortage or discontinuance of some adaptive
products being commonplace.
LS&S Adaptive Goods-P.O. Box 673,Northbrook, IL 60065 | (800) 468-4789
www.lssgroup.com
LS&S is another favorite supplier of the author’s and the previous
positive notes above also sum up this company. LS&S also has many unique
recreational products, including Braille & large print playing cards,
adaptive board games, beeping sports balls, audible flying disks, talking
tape measures, a talking chess computer, talking and Braille dice and more.
Contact LS&S to find out more.
Low Vision Accessory Store (Vision Northwest)-9225
SW Hall Blvd., Suite G, Tigard, OR 97213 | (503) 684-8389
The Low Vision Accessory Store has hundreds of large and small items for visually
impaired consumers. Owned and operated by Vision Northwest (see below), the
Store has everything from table top magnifiers and CC TV’s, to small
hand-held items like monocular lenses and watches. Call or visit the Store
to check out their variety of useful items. The Low Vision Accessory Store
is near Portland, located at the Southwest corner of Hall Blvd. and Greenberg
Road, near Washington Square in Tigard.
Speak To Me Talking Products-330 SW 43rd Street, Suite 154 Renton, WA 98055-4976
| (800) 248-9965
www.speaktomecatalog.com
The Talking Products Company or the Speak To Me folks, sell audio products
that cater to the general population as well as to those consumers with vision
impairments. Their variety of items and gifts is large, so call or check their
Website for further information on what they have.
CANE SUPPLIERS
The use of and choice of a white cane is a personal decision and the authors
do not choose to list all cane companies or suppliers that they have come
in contact with over the years; there have been just too many in the past
and too many presently manufacturing to note or review here. Nearly all of
the above listed adaptive goods vendors sell canes upon order and if you are
familiar with a company or type, ask them and they will surely sell you your
chosen cane. The standard rigid, white long cane is slowly being nudged out
of popularity by newer and more utilitarian collapsible canes, which are usually
lighter and more convenient in situations where one must sit or put a cane
out of the way. There are many cane manufacturers and the authors list only
one below at present, though the WCBI is a very good folding cane. Ask an
Orientation and Mobility Instructor to show you a few canes, check out your
vision impaired peer’s canes, use one or two and then choose BEFORE
you contact an adaptive goods dealer to order one. The average cost of a collapsible
cane is $20 to $25.
California Canes-16263 Walnut Street Hesperia,
CA 92345 |(760) 956-5265 |
(866) 332-4883 |Fax (760) 956-7477 | www.californiacanes.com
Jeff and Tammy Carmer are the owners of California Canes and they have
exhibited at many conventions of blind consumers. Their several styles of
canes have been received very well, as they are very strong, lightweight,
and their canes hold a lifetime replacement warranty. Jeff is blind and the
product he has developed was one of the first carbon fiber, graphite canes,
which can be purchased in either collapsible or rigid form. Jeff’s collapsible
canes have very deep ferrules (the connector that slides between the joints)
and this factor makes them very sensitive, flexible and nearly indestructible,
while maintaining a lightweight for hand control and comfort. Call California
Canes and talk to Jeff personally about your particular cane concerns or a
price list. He will enjoy talking to you and happily make a customized cane
upon request.
COMPUTERS
In this new age of computerization, a computer at home or work should be considered
a most valuable independent living aid. Persons who are blind or visually
impaired have certainly not been excluded within the changing sphere of computerization;
rather we have nearly been overwhelmed with products and services that can
enhance access to mainstream computers and like electronic systems. A person
who is vision impaired can now go into any computer store, buy a system off
the shelf at a normal price, then go home and load the complementary adaptive
technology that will be appropriate for their individual needs. That is of
course if they have previous knowledge of computers, and can afford the appropriate
hard and software; that probably eliminates most of us. There are far too
many topics and resources related to Assistive technology (also commonly called
access or adaptive technology) and computers to cover in this listing. So,
let us quickly discuss only two areas specifically for those who may not know
much or anything at all about computers, and close the section with a great
Oregon direct resource for access technology. If you are new to computers
in general or have recently lost sight and need to learn about the adaptive
technology involved with accessing computer systems, here are two suggestions:
go contact your local Community College Disabled Student’s Office and
inquire about the availability of classes on computers; or it might be more
sensible to become a client of the Oregon Commission for the Blind (see Commission
description below) and get adaptive computer technology training through them.
Using computers, as a novice is not easy for anyone and it will take some
serious education to learn the proper techniques to negotiate the Internet,
word processing, data systems and other functions that computers are regularly
used for. Add vision loss, and handling computers may not be easy, though
with training it is possible and for some, even addictive. If you do have
a real desire to learn about computers and the access technology that could
put you in the game, get a head start and check out books from your local
Talking Book Library (see details below). They have many books on general
computer topics, and books on software systems for persons who are vision
impaired. If you decide to investigate the available opportunities at your
local College, remember that the Disabled Students Office will have adaptive
equipment available somewhere on campus, but that this equipment will be for
registered students only. Unfortunately not all community or even State colleges
or Universities offer classes in adaptive technology; so consider that when
taking a computer class, the curriculum will probably cover only general computer
hardware, application software and the skills involving standard computer
use. If you decide to look into the opportunities that becoming a client of
the Oregon Commission for the Blind might allow you, know in advance that
this bureaucracy cannot train you overnight; but the training you will get
totally addresses your individual situation as a person with a visual impairment.
Being a Commission client also means far less time or financial constraints.
In some cases and after training, the Commission can even provide clients
hard or software. Call your local Oregon Commission for the Blind office and
get the details from a lead counselor. (See below for more information on
the Commission.)page up
If you have some previous knowledge of computers and feel as though you can
learn about the adaptive technology that will assist you with reentry into
computerization, then there are some simple ways to catch up without training.
Joining a computer club or reading magazines and books related to the field
are good ways to catch up on current technology. Both the ACB and NFB have
very good resources listed within their journals each month that are related
to vision impaired users of computers. Also listed within this pamphlet (READING,
BOOKS & PERIODICALS) is a magazine called Vision Enhancement that though
usually for low vision users, has tons of reviews of adaptive computer technology.
Also look under this same heading for NLS Magazine Listings, to see what selections
they might have to offer in the way of computer technology. Check out the
college, Commission and literary options to see which might best suit your
needs. However as a person with vision impairment, do not venture into the
well populated field of commercial training or computer education companies.
Private “pay to learn” schools or companies are for the general
and fully sighted public; most of these for-profit schools do not even teach
their fully sighted consumers any comprehensive skills. Investigate, beware
the quick fix pitfalls and get into adaptive technology when your ready to
join the mainstream. One final resource in Oregon is a Federally funded, Statewide
Program often referred to as Talon or Technology Access for Life Needs. The
Talon or Access Technologies, Inc. contact information follows:
Access Technologies, Inc. (ATI)-3070 Lancaster
Drive NE, Salem, OR 97301|
Salem Administrative Office: (800) 677-7512 | (503) 361-1201 |
Portland Office: (503) 725-8395
ati@oregonvos.net | www.accesstechnologiesinc.org
ATI provides equipment or services that will make it easier for someone
with a disability to live more independently, work at a job, learn in an academic
environment or pursue recreational activities. ATI specializes in accommodations
related to personal independence or daily living, education or employment
accessibility, worksite accommodations or assessment, oral communications
accommodation, orthopedics technology and accommodation, and even recreational
accommodations for Oregonians with disabilities.
ATI should be viewed by persons with disabilities in Oregon, as an enabling
problem-solving agency, that can assist them in enhancing their life through
a variety of technological solutions. ATI does not only serve State or Federal
agency consumer-clients; they will provide information and/or services to
nearly anyone who calls with a valid need or request. ATI will work out of
their office areas and they have a sliding scale for the payment of services
or equipment. If you cannot figure out a solution to your individual disability
or technology related difficulty and are wondering if some form of adaptive
technology or training might not be the cure, then contact ATI for assistance.
INFORMATION, SUPPORT AND RELATED
ORGANIZATIONS
It is rather amazing, (and one of the two authors notes this after being blind
for nearly a quarter century) just how many local and regional information,
support and assistance entities there are in any community; if one only steps
out and looks for them! It is definitely not easy to initially locate information,
support or assistance groups, but they are there: in private and public agencies
or foundations, various church programs, local and regional service clubs
and often in the form of community volunteer programs. Sometimes assistance
comes in the form of a previously known entity, like your local phone company’s
411 operator or the many guide dog schools. Sometimes one can locate such
groups by networking with various individuals or community liaisons, or by
simply finding someone to look through the local phone book with you. (Look
under the listing below entitled Independent Living Centers or ILC’s
because these agencies are one of the best information and assistance services
available to persons with disabilities.) Remember that to find a needed service
or item, everyone in this world has to act in a proactive manner; EVERYONE
has to move forth and address their own individual needs in some way. The
real key to being vision impaired and doing more than just surviving, is being
proactive in your own behalf. Getting out and looking for resources in your
own community is assuredly, one of the best ways to find assistance, new friends
and a new world of positive contacts. Listed below are several opportune contacts
to help you get out and get going in a variety of ways; go for it.
American Diabetes Association-380 SE Spokane
Street, Portland Oregon | (888) 342-2383
www.diabetes.org
As diabetes is the second most prevalent cause of blindness and visual
impairment in America (Age Related Macular Degeneration is number one) the
American Diabetes Association or ADA has been included in this list. When
you call the ADA’s toll free number you can dial 0 and be connected
to a live receptionist who will explain the various opportunities that the
ADA can provide. They have information on statewide resources, medical and
educational referrals and how you can find or receive informational publications
on diabetes. The ADA may also assist through advocacy and they fund a variety
of diabetes related research. They also have many local fundraising activities
that you might want to participate in or contribute to.
Audio Yellow Pages | Provided by Voice Access
Communications, Inc. | (888) 654-1236
Dialing this toll-free number at any time, will allow persons with disabilities
(not just the blind or vision impaired) to find contact information on over
10 million businesses located anywhere in the nation. Previous to this service,
it was nearly impossible for those without access to print to locate a number
for a business, especially if the exact spelling of the business name was
not known. (See next listing for general information or 411 accessibility.)
Using the Audio Yellow Pages is so simple, it's wonderful! Any caller can
use the voice-activated system or use the corresponding numbers to negotiate
the system. There are several options available at the onset of a call, such
as a demonstration of the system, establishing your password, or looking up
a specific business contact by stating the area and type of business desired.
First time callers need to establish a password; from then on, simply start
out by saying "look up" and you can locate your desired business's
address, phone number and other minor details. Give it a try; and have no
fear! Audio Yellow Pages is absolutely free!
Dial O and 411 Waiver For The Blind
In all 50 States and U.S. territories, telecommunications companies and in
particular, local telephone companies are required by Federal Communications
Code (FCC - statute #225) to provide equal access to the general information
systems that they own, operate or utilize. Vision impaired or print limited
individuals using their own phone (or cell phone) should be allowed equal
access to the 411 General Information system, which that company maintains
or provides. Though unfortunately free 411 and Operator assistance is NOT
MANDATED, these services are USUALLY GIVEN at no cost by most FCC regulated
entities, as FCC statute state that their must be some form of equal access
to the information and related services provided by telecommunications companies.
Additionally, the use of operator assistance by such print disabled users
is also often provided in conjunction with free 411 and at no charge, as many
newly blind or elderly phone users may have great difficulty in negotiating
the use of their phone’s number pads.Put simply then, phone subscribers
who are documented as legally blind, vision impaired or print limited, should
definitely check with their phone company to investigate if they do the “simple
thing” and charge nothing for information and operator assisted calls.
Check to see and do not act as though these services are mandated as free.
Note also that nearly all phone companies require some sort of documentation
by the vision impaired or print limited phone subscriber before they are allowed
these free services. Generally, a separate section or division of the telecommunications
company, such as a Special Needs or Disability Services Department, manages
each company’s 411 and Dial O Waiver Program. To find out about your
phone companies policies on such waivers and what is necessary to register,
ask your local phone provider’s Customer Service Representative or 411
operator to give you the Special Needs or related Department within your local
company. Of very special and often confusing interest, 411 and Dial O discounts
may also need to be negotiated separately with your long distance provider,
as due to the deregulation of our telecommunications industry the two services
or telecommunications companies on your own phone may not act in a similar
fashion and give you free 411 and Dial O services. It pays to investigate
however, so call the following FCC authorized Long Distance User verification
number to check on who your long distance company actually is! At no cost,
call (700) 555-4141 and an electronic voice will let you know who is operating
your long distance usage. Remember that now a days, you always have the choice
of who your long distance company is, and often who your local telecommunications
company might be. Every telecommunications company is a little different,
so make sure your proactive in your own behalf and INVESTIGATE which company
of your choice will actually provide you the free informational services!
page up
Federal Fair Housing Act Information | Richard
Guske, Information Coordinator |
Fair Housing Hotline: (541) 342-7264 | www.efn.org/fairhouse
Richard Guske is a valuable resource for those who rent or deal with housing
issues; as for over 20 years he has operated Fair Housing information sites.
Richard can answer questions related to the Fair Housing Act involving tenant-
landlord relations, rental policy, housing discrimination and a variety of
other housing issues that may affect people with disabilities. He is a wonderful,
though often busy and brusque advocate for persons who are disabled, as he
is disabled himself. Richard is bilingual (Spanish) and is a very experienced
wealth of information on Fair Housing.If you call or write via the Web, be
sure that you have accurate information related to your situation at your
disposal, lest Richard sends you back to find what he needs to help solve
your problems!
Guide Dog Schools- partial list of schools |
www.guidedogs.org
There are at least a dozen dog-guide (or guide dog) schools in the Nation
and each may be a little different in the types of dog bred, raised or trained,
how they instruct their dog-guide users, how graduates interact with their
school and how each school deals with issues concerning dog ownership. Each
of the schools are separate unaffiliated agencies and some may have more than
one campus or training area. Most schools do not charge fees for their dogs
or training, or if they do the cost is usually low to accommodate their students.
Guide Dog Users of America or GDUA is a consumer group affiliated with the
American Council of the Blind (ACB) and is composed of dog-guide users who
advocate the use of dog-guides in their individual areas. Calling them may
give some personal hints as to the nature of the various dog-guide schools
and their resulting teams. Local Chapters of GDUA may be reached by calling
the ACB National Office in Washington DC at (202) 467-5081. With the establishment
of the ADA and the rising use of “service animals” it is important
to understand what using a dog guide in your community will mean. Asking dog-guide
users is one way to look into potential schools, though users are VERY loyal
to their respective schools, so it is important to really check out a potential
school. There is also an informational tape produced by the U.S. Council of
Dog Guide Schools, which may be obtained by contacting the Website noted above,
though the tape only describes Council member schools. (An asterisk before
the name of a school on the below list denotes Council affiliation.) In the
event that the reader of this List desires one more resource related to Guide
Dogs, the authors have produced a pamphlet concerning the “how to and
where to’s” of finding a guide dog school. The Handbook on Guide
Dogs, or Dog-Guide Schools, is also free and can be obtained by calling the
authors at (541) 741-4367 or by email at robcook@pacinfo.com…
and you can further investigate the schools on this list. As the relationship
between a dog-guide and its handler is very special and will probably last
for years, try to be conscientious in your research and final selection. It
is probably best to contact each school if possible and an abbreviated list
of schools in the U.S. and Canada follows.
Abbreviated Dog Guide Schools List:
Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind, Canine Vision Canada
Eye Dog Foundation of Arizona,
* Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation – Bloomfield, Connecticut, Freedom Guide
Dogs for the Blind
* Guide Dogs of the Desert – Palm Springs, California,
* Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind – Smithtown, New York
* Guide Dogs for the Blind – San Rafeal , California & Boring, Oregon
* Guide Dogs of America – Silamar, California
* Guiding Eyes for the Blind – Yorktown Heights, New York
Kansas Specialty Dog Service
* Leader Dogs for the Blind – Rochester, Michigan
* Pilot Dogs – Columbus, Ohio
* Southeastern Guide Dogs – Palmetto, Florida
* The Seeing Eye – Morristown, New York
Lions Club, International-Oregon Main Office,
Eugene | (541) 484-0452 |www.oregonmd36.com
Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation | www.orlions.org
Each local and State Lions Club has the same mandate and purpose as does the
overall International organization. Simply stated, in honor and memory of
Helen Keller, the entire Lions Club organization “shall be the knights
of the blind.” Accordingly, the general mandate for each community’s
Club, is to assist local (as well as through National programs) persons with
blindness or visual impairments with their unmet needs, whenever possible.
Occasionally, local Lions Club members need to be reminded of their mandated
obligation, as they may not actually be familiar with their local blind community
or the related issues. As persons who are vision impaired do not compose a
large percentage of the local population or business community, occasional
Lack of awareness on the part of some Lions Clubs may be expected; there are
also few blind members in local mainstream Lions Clubs. Often local Clubs
are made up of business folks and prominent local citizens, meaning that they
are probably not aware of the varied issues within the visual disability arena.
The frequent result may be that local Clubs miss their community’s vision
impaired population and concentrate on the annual “Sight Saving”
and “White Cane Week” fundraising programs, which send funds and
eyeglasses to the main headquarters in Little Rock, Arkansas for disbursal.
These are worthy programs but rarely help local blind and visually impaired
persons. Realizing this, it may be up to individual proactive blind or visually
impaired persons to approach their local Lions Club or Chairperson, and inquire
about their assistance, grant or programs criteria. Upon inquiry, you just
may find a slightly more informed group than described above, or you may have
a great opportunity to inform your local Lions members about vision impairment,
and how they might assist you and your peers. Every community’s Club
is different and is composed of different members, who probably have the best
of intentions; maybe if you contact them directly their funds will follow
their intentions, and fulfill your needs. Check your local phone book under
Lions Club, International or call your Chamber of Commerce for contact information.
page up
Northwest ADA|IT Center (Portland) | Disability
Information & Business Technical Assistance Center
(503) 494-4001| (800) 949-4232 |www.nwada.org
The NW ADA/IT Center is a clearinghouse for issues that involve access
as it relates to the Americans with Disabilities Act or the ADA. This law
and it’s associated set of statutes is often misinterpreted and misunderstood
by individuals with disabilities as well as by the general public and business
community. NW ADA/IT handles many incoming calls, and also quite frequently
holds local ADA training sessions for the public and business community. Having
the phone and E-Mail contact information for the NW ADA/IT Center is important,
because if you feel discriminated against based on your disability and need
to find a local ADA specialist, they may be the best advocates. In the event
that you feel discriminated against or have been disallowed access to a public
place, call the NW ADA/IT Center for assistance.
Recordings For The Blind And Dyslexic (RFB&D),
20 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ 08540 | (800) 221-4792 |www.rfbd.org
One of the most difficult aspects for a visually impaired post-secondary
student to negotiate is getting their required textbooks. (If you enjoy reading
and are blind, visually impaired or print impaired, go to the heading in this
listing called State & federal Public Services and see the Oregon State
Braille & Talking Book Library.) With more than 90,000 selections, nearly
all common undergraduate college textbooks used in the Country are available
through RFB&D. Their list of technical vocational and graduate level textbooks
is also extensive; RFB&D is a must for vision impaired post-secondary
students. RFB&D tapes are in National Library Services NLS) format and
the players sent out by the State Libraries (see State Library section below)
are compatible and extremely useful to students, because of the variable speed
selector switch, which will allow students to speed-read their textbooks.
RFB&D also has many E-Texts on computer disc and these are often for sale
for permanent use. Generally your Disabled Student Services Office on campus
can assist you in registering with RFB&D, but one does not necessarily
need to do things in this manner. If you have a certifiable disability, merely
call the RFB&D number from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Eastern Standard Time on
weekdays. There is a one time registration and administration fee of $75 and
this allows you to order books, utilize their bibliography services, have
texts taped for future classes and access other benefits like their Scholarship
Program.
Vision Northwest, Inc.| (800) 488-2232 | Vision
Voice (800) 422-7787
Vision Northwest is a Peer Support organization with over 40 chapters in Oregon,
and was started in 1986 by Dr. Robin Devore, a newly blind Oregonian. Local
groups are primarily open to persons of any age who are losing their eyesight,
and desire peer contact, mutual support, information on blindness and vision
impairment and/or resources concerning blindness or vision loss. Local groups
meet monthly and usually have a presentation or speaker while maintaining
a fairly social atmosphere. Local meetings usually have a group Leader who
is familiar with the community and who facilitates and arranges the meetings
and presentations according to group interests. Vision Northwest has a quarterly
newsletter, a Low Vision Store and operates “vision voice” which
is a touch tone, menu driven 24 hour information line, which allows callers
to access printed TV listings, grocery ads, community events (mostly in the
Portland and Salem area) and has announcements on a variety of topics. This
toll free phone line is wonderful and is absolutely free; it’s a great
introduction to the world of access for persons with visual impairments. Call
their information center and learn what they are all about.
LOCAL, STATE & FEDERAL PUBLIC SERVICES
The agencies listed below are administered under Federal or State guidelines
and are likewise funded through Federal or State sources. A few agencies may
obtain a portion of their funding through outside sources and have some latitude
in their organizational structure, but all are agencies with purposes and
mandates related to some aspect of public benefit. Each heading has a short
description of the agency and it may be good to read the listings that interest
you, as the authors both have quite a bit of inside experience with nearly
all agencies within this public domain list.
Independent Living Centers
Independent Living Centers (ILC’s) or Centers for Independent Living
(CIL’s) are (generally) Federal, State and donor funded non-profit agencies
that are run by and for persons with disabilities. (Nearly all CIL-ILC’s
get State funds, though only Centers established and operating under Federal
guidelines for more than two years are eligible for Federal funds.) CIL-ILC’s
are mandated under Federal regulations and through a State Independent Living
Council (SILC) to provide specific services that may not be covered by other
local or regional public agencies. CIL-ILC’s are cross-disability oriented
and usually provide services related to four specific areas: (1.) disability
information, resources and referrals, (2.) consumer and|or system advocacy,
(3.) peer mentoring or support, and (4.) independent living skills training.
Other disability related programs not previously addressed under the four
above areas, and not otherwise addressed within a region or community may
also be provided for within a local CIL-ILC; so it is always important to
verify what services may be obtain through any local Center. Whenever you
have an unanswered question concerning a disability issue, contact your closest
CIL-ILC. If you need more information call the Oregon SILC Office at (503)
945-6204. A list of Oregon ILC’s follows:
CORIL – Central Oregon Resources for Independent Living- 20436 Clay Pigeon Court Bend OR 97702 | (541) 388-8103 | www.coril.org
DASIL – Disability Advocacy for Social Independent Living-29 North Ivy Street, Medford, OR 97501 | (541) 608-6746 | katebaxted@aol.com
EOCIL - Eastern Oregon Center for Independent Living-1021 SW 5th Ontario, OR 97914 | (541) 889-3119 | www.eiocil.org
HASL Indendent Disability center-1252 Redwood Avenue Grants Pass OR 97527 | (541) 479-4275 | hasl1@qwest.net
ILR – Independent Living Resources- 2410
SE 11th Avenue Portland OR 97214 |
(503) 232-7411 | www.ilr.org
LILA – Lane Independent Living Alliance (Eugene)-99 W. 10th Avenue, Suite 117 (Atrium Building) Eugene, OR 97401 | (541) 607-7020 | www.lilaoregon.org
Progressive Options, Inc. (Newport)-657 SW Coast
Highway, Newport, OR 97365
(541) 574-0384 | fax: (541) 574-1927 |progop541@yahoo.com
|
www.progressive-options.org
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South Coast Independent Living Services (Brookings)-16399 Lower Harbor Road,Brookings,
OR 97415 | (800) 481-5777, ext. 303 | (541) 469-5306 ext. 303 | Fax: (541)
469-2928 |Lizzietiz@usa.net
SPOKES, Unlimited (Klamath, Falls)-415 Main Street, Klamath Falls, OR 97601
(541) 883-7547 | www.spokesunlimited.org
Umqua Valley Disability Network (Roseburg)-419
NE Winchester Street Roseburg, OR 97470 | (541) 672-6336 | www.uvdn.org
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OREGON STATE AGENCIES
Oregon Commission For The Blind (OCB) |Portland Main Office: (888) 202-5463
or (503) 731-3221|Salem: (503) 378-8479 | Eugene: (541) 686-7990(We list this
agency first, as it pertains directly to the needs of Oregonians withvision
loss and related issues.) Luckily in our State, we have a separate agency
for blind and visually impaired adults who want training, retraining or program
benefits that will get them into the mainstream and general workforce. The
primary goal of the OCB, as is the goal of other Rehabilitation Services Administration
(RSA) agencies, like the Oregon Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
(OVRS, below) is to get people working, rather than have them rely on Social
Security or other benefits programs that rely on taxpayer dollars. If one
keeps this rule in mind, you may be able to handle the limitations of the
OCB system approach; as with most large government bureaucracies, it is not
quick or easy, but it eventually works with patience. OCB local Offices are
definitely assets to those who are experiencing vision loss or are familiar
with vision impairment. Individual services very greatly depending on what
a person’s current vision is assessed to be, what goals are expressed
and what a person’s current and past abilities are as related to their
stated goals. First though, one must be sure that upon application, legal
blindness is evident. For federal and state programs, legal blindness is regarded
as 20/200 non-correctable vision in each eye and/or less than 20 degrees of
non-correctable vision in each eye. Such an assessment by an ophthalmologist
(if needed, can be arranged by OCB and OCB can pay for a visit for eligibility
purposes) will allow initial eligibility. Even if you have already been told
that you are going blind or that your vision is equal to legal blindness,
the OCB will probably refer you to their own ophthalmologist upon your initial
visit and intake application. After the initial client intake and eligibility
approval, and an OCB Counselor will usually offer vocational guidance or sometimes
personal counseling, independent living skills training (ILS or ADL) pre-vocational
training or school (often college), job placement assistance and a host of
related pre-vocational and vocational services that may extend several months
into initial employment. Independent Living Skills training or more commonly
called Adaptive Daily Living (ADL) is a basic foundation for independence
for persons dealing with vision loss, and usually consists of classes and
sessions that will enhance an independent lifestyle for blind and visually
impaired persons. Often blind or vision impaired professionals will teach
ADL and other classes, and these mentors can actually relate to over coming
the myriad problems involving vision loss. Depending on individual need, classes
may include Orientation and Mobility training (O&M skills basically equal
adequate use of the white cane for independent travel), adaptive kitchen and
household skills, Braille – communications skills, keyboarding and computer
skills. Many Centers as in Oregon’s Portland Orientation Center offer
other outlets for students to learn positive adaptive vision skills, such
as adaptive shop, remedial educational skills or recreational outings involving
activities that most sighted persons would envy. Many newcomers to the world
of blindness or visual impairment often resist some of these learning experiences,
feeling that they will be stigmatized by taking things like Braille, cane
and mobility training or other “blind skills.” Try to think with
an open mind, for most training in blind skills are at the least, positive
choices to learn about and possibly use throughout your entire life. All classes
and activities are directed towards independence prior to school, further
vocational training and/or workforce re-entry. Restarting or beginning a new
life with independence as a blind or visually impaired person is not swift
and rarely easy; but it definitely can be done with rewarding results. It
is best to make an appointment with a counselor or teacher at your nearest
OCB Office and consult them. Then talk to someone who is familiar with the
RSA guidelines for direct services (like someone recommended as a peer counselor)
just to be sure you understand the entire process. Remember to be patient,
because where there is a will to succeed there is a way; vision impaired or
not.
Oregon Client Assistance Program (CAP) | Oregon
Advocacy Center-620 SW 5th Avenue, 5th Floor: Portland, OR 97204-1428 | (800)
452-1694 | (503) 243-2081 welcome@oradvocacy.org
| www.oradvocacy.org
CAP is funded by the federal government to assist people in understanding
their rightsand responsibilities in obtaining Vocational Rehabilitation Services
through State agencies. State offices such as the Oregon Office of Vocational
Rehabilitation Services, the Commission for the Blind or one of the various
State Independent Living Centers all fall under such CAP influences. When
and if a client or applicant for Federally funded Rehabilitation Services
has a problem that needs resolution, then that person should contact their
State CAP office; in Oregon, that is the Oregon Advocacy Center’s CAP
office. Also, agency personnel should include an introductory discussion on
CAP, and when and if a applicant/client might utilize CAP during any initial
meeting. The CAP program in Oregon is run out of the Oregon Advocacy center,
as it deals with many advocacy issues related to disability, however CAP is
actually administered by the Oregon Disabilities Commission (see listing below.)
Such an arrangement is because CAP is mandated to be administered and housed
in a separate agency NOT related to any other federally funded rehabilitation
agency that receives Rehabilitation Services Administration funding. This
insures that each State CAP agency is objective in their arbitration and advocacy
duties in behalf of clients and applicants who are having rehabilitation service
problems. If you are involved with any agency that receives Federal or State
rehabilitation funds and you feel discriminated against or sense unethical
or illicit treatment, contact CAP through the Oregon Advocacy Center.
Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC) | (800)
358-3117 | www.odc.state.or.us
Oregon is a State that has it’s own agency devoted to the rights
and services that involve persons with disabilities, and again, we are very
lucky to have such a separate Commission. By calling the ODC, one can locate
State services related to disability and find the majority of public services,
programs and agencies that are located in your area. Aside from providing
general and specific information about disability, the ODC advises, monitors
and often regulates certain agencies and commissions related to disability
within Oregon. The ODC provides the Governor and legislature with information
regarding disabilities within and without the State and monitors National
and other State’s laws and issues related to disability. The ODC also
oversees a select group of Commission Boards and Committees that deal with
specific concerns regarding Oregon’s citizens with disabilities, such
as the Client Assistance Program (CAP,) the State Access Committee and the
Committee on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services.If you have a concern or need
to find a particular service or person involved with a certain service agency
related to disability, go to their Website or call the toll free ODC number.
Oregon Office Of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
(OVRS)--Salem main: (877) 277-0513
www.dhs.state.or.us\vr\index.html
The programs and services provided through the Oregon Office of Vocational
Rehabilitation Services (OVRS) are usually limited to those clients who have
disabilities OTHER THAN vision loss. OVRS’s primary concerns are associated
with persons with primary disabilities other than blindness or visual impairment.
In many cases however, a person who has not yet become legally blind as defined
above (Commission for the Blind, OCB) may still be eligible for OVRS services.
Under Federal Rehabilitation Services (RSA) guidelines, a person who has a
disability that is a significant barrier to employment, may be eligible for
VR services. As in most cases, the OVRS will make sure the applicant is eligible
(disabled) and if the applicant appears eligible, OVRS will pay for the medical
assessment to verify the claimed disability. For those who are not yet legally
blind, OVRS may be a life saving agent if the need for services and/or training
exists. If you have gone to an OCB office and find yourself NOT ELIGIBLE for
OCB services, then immediately go to an OVRS orientation, which is provided
through your local OVRS office. OVRS orientations will assist you in understanding
what OVRS is and does, and how they might help you. It should be noted that
the Oregon OVRS is housed within the Department of Human Services and is not
an independent agency unto itself. Call or contact OVRS through the information
noted above to locate your local OVRS office.
Oregon State Library – Braille And Talking
Book Program-250 Winter Street NE, Salem, OR 97310-0645 | (800) 452-0292
The Oregon State Braille & Talking Book Library is a National Library
Services (NLS) regional outlet, which is administered by the U.S. Library
of Congress. The program is specifically for persons who are blind or do not
have access to print due to a significant disability that limits their ability
to read print. NLS Talking Books are 4-track tape version copies of countless
books and are provided with tape players free of charge to registered users.
Each tape within each book set, when played on a special NLS player, will
play for close to six hours. (tells tapes run at 15/16 inches per second,
rather than at standard 1 7/8 IPS.) The NLS tape player and the associated
accessible format books are all sent “Free Matter for the Blind”
which is a U.S. Postal Service category, specifically for accessible format
materials (see details under U.S. Postal Service below). Generally, blind
or visually impaired users obtain registration forms through the Commission
for the Blind, though anyone who can be verified as print disabled can register
by calling the number above to request an application. This service is probably
one of the most frequently used Federal programs for the blind and visually
impaired and is simply awesome in it’s capacity to allow personal freedom
and enjoyment through literature. page up
Public Transportation Services
In nearly every large community in Oregon, the local (publicly funded) bus
or transit system can provide transportation to most areas one needs to visit.
It is a Federal mandate that persons with disabilities are to be accessed
at reduced rates and provided equal transportation service within their community.
Most people who live in any urban area spend their time driving to and fro
rather than utilize their community transit system. However, most cities’
transit systems have a large percentage of their rider ship come from the
disabled community. In other words, buses and mass transit lines in every
community are very familiar with persons with disabilities, especially persons
who are blind or visually impaired; so take advantage of the public transportation
opportunities that are readily available to you. If a person with a disability
cannot negotiate their environment due to their disability limiting their
independence and hence their mobility, then there is the community Para-transit
Service. Persons with a disability who cannot negotiate the fixed route bus
system and can verify their limitations, have the option to use the local
Para-Transit System. This may be an early option for those who have recently
become blind or visually impaired. The vehicles used for Para-transit differ
greatly from fixed route busses. They are very obvious and familiar to most
persons with disabilities; they are usually large lift equipped accessible
vans that provide curbside-to-curbside service and usually work similar to
a reserved taxi service. Each community Para-transit service operates differently
however, so checking all the criteria of your local Para-transit Service is
very important if disability is new to you. It is important to note that Para-transit
should not be used if blindness or visual impairment is your only disability.
Other people with more severe disabling conditions (wheelchairs, developmental
disability) need this service, and Para-transit Services in every community
are usually very busy. In fact, most community Para-transit agencies discourage
persons who are blind or visually impaired from using their service, preferring
to prioritized use by disability based need. Para-transit is not usually timely,
is often inconvenient and riders usually pay a small fee per ride. Call your
local transit or bus system to locate Para-transit Services, then check on
their eligibility criteria before you have them send you an application. Remember
that in most agencies involving the disabled, blindness or severe visual impairment
are NOT considered mobility impairments; hence they will expect you to primarily
utilize the local fixed route bus system.
Seniors and People With Disabilities Services
(SPD) | (800) 232-3020
SPD offices are generally not an information or support center for local or
statewide consumers. Rather, SPD provides Services, administration and information
on related services in your local County that are available to persons who
are elderly or disabled. One service that SPD provides (administers) is the
In-Home Care Program, which could be an important help to persons who are
newly blind or visually impaired. Basically, the Program contracts with and
pays for Home Care Providers who do home visits (at a SPD approved rate) to
assist with home-making chores and other duties within a client’s home.
If the applying individual does not have the ability to manage their own activities
of daily living, then they may be eligible for the In-Home Care Program. One
other function of SPD is to administer and monitor Oregon Health Plan medical
cards for persons who are disabled or elderly, who cannot maintain the responsibilities
involved with managing their own card. This SPD function is important for
persons who might be unable to read or handle the responsibilities involved
with their medical card (as a newly disabled or blind person might).
SPD has lots of contact with persons who are disabled in each area and is
usually overseen and advised locally by a Disabled and Seniors Advisory Committee
(DSAC), which is composed of local elders, persons with disabilities and SPD
related staff. If you are newly disabled, elderly and/or very limited in your
ability to do household duties, it might be a good idea to call SPD to inquire
about what services you might be eligible for.
Social Security Administration (SSA) | (800)
772-1213 | www.ssa.gov
Most people in our Country have heard of SSA, but many do not realize that
they administer two separate benefits Programs that are concerned with persons
with disabilities. If you believe that you are permanently and severely disabled,
cannot presently work to support yourself or your dependents, then you may
be eligible for SSA benefits through either the Supplemental Support income
(SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits programs. U.S.
Citizens eighteen to sixty-five years of age and certified as permanently
disabled may be eligible. However, all benefits applications and subsequent
decisions take time and are related directly to the applicant’s work
history (quarters paid through paycheck withholding into the SSA Disability
Insurance Fund) and the severity of the individual’s disability as related
to their work capacity. It is a long and tedious process, so if you think
you are eligible based on a disability like vision impairment or loss, get
on it immediately! The SSI program is generally for those who have little
or no employment history or have not gained enough quarterly credits to qualify
for the SSDI program. Persons who are very young and fully disabled and/or
those who did not have their taxes adequately deducted for SSA (SDI portion
on your pay stubs) will not qualify for SSDI and therefore end up on the SSI
benefits program. Often no one knows which program they will end up on until
a full review and several SSA office visits. Call or write the contact information
or number above and investigate the options available to you, and then definitely
ask for the address and phone number for your local office for a personal
visit with a SSA Eligibility Worker. Walking into a SSA local office works,
but calling the 800 number in advance will help you with your application
significantly. page up
U.S. Postal Service: Free Matter For The Blind
| Answer line: (888) 275-8777 |
Postal Service General Information: (800) 275-8777
Put simply for those who are not familiar with the Postal Service “Free
Matter For The Blind” privilege, persons who are legally blind may mail
certain materials free of charge via the U.S. Postal Service, BUT ONLY UNDER
SPECIFIC POSTAL SERVICE GUIDELINES. Congress established the “Free Matter
for the Blind” postal statute (Domestic Mail Manual Code E 040) in 1904.
This DMM Code was meant to provide reading materials for the blind when sent
by public institutions (libraries) when those materials were loaned, and when
said materials were returned by the blind readers to those institutions or
libraries. This privilege was sponsored by the Library of Congress (LOC) to
provide blind citizens in all areas of the Country (including our Territories
and the District of Columbia) an affordable way to receive and return reading
materials produced by the LOC and related government institutions. At that
time, Braille was the predominant medium for blind readers and for those who
were considered blind and could read Braille. When the DMM E 040 law was established,
the Free Matter privilege was utilized mainly by the LOC within their National
Library Service (NLS) Program, because sending and receiving Braille materials
at the Postal rates of the day created even then an undue burden on the blind
recipients of the LOC-NLS materials. Basically, bulky and heavy Braille books
sent through the mail might be afforded by the LOC, but no blind person in
those days, nor few even today, could afford the cost of returning heavy and
large Braille books in a timely manner. Hence, the burden of cost for the
readers returning books was the origin of Free Matter For The Blind or DMM
E 040. In 1966, Congress expanded the Free Matter law in several ways: the
LOC Books for the Blind program would include other persons with physical
handicaps which limit their ability to read print; large print materials (14
point or larger) were allowed ; non-print materials other than Braille were
allowed, such as the NLS four-track taped books and their respective NLS players;
and items specifically related to blindness were also allowed, i.e. Braille
slates and typewriters. Presently all of the above information is correct,
though various changes have been consistently proposed by both the blind community
and the Postal Service. As of 2002 though, certification of the inability
to read or utilize standard printed material is TECHNICALLY required. However,
it is extremely rare for anyone to be requested too prove their vision impairment
upon a mailing; blindness related organizations are more often the target
of Postal Service inquiry. Remember then, that persons with visual disabilities
may send or receive certain printed materials at no cost, such as Braille
documents, periodicals, books, or materials in large print, which must be
14 point print or larger. Additionally, certain items that are considered
specifically for use by the blind, such as Braille printers, slate and stylus,
and pre-recorded tapes specifically related to blindness, are also allowed
to go Free Matter. For those who are new to vision impairment or blindness,
it is a good idea to visit your local Post Office or call to have a Postal
Service worker read the DMM E 040 statute, and avoid having any difficulty
in mailing items covered under this beneficial law.
READING:
BOOKS & PERIODICALS
Though the RFB&D and NLS Talking Books listings are powerful assets for
those who love to read, there are many other reading sources for those who
are blind or visually impaired. Like those who do not utilize alternative
format literature, persons who are vision impaired have tremendous access
to books, periodicals, newspapers and journals, or to whatever type of reading
materials that they choose to investigate. The key is looking and now with
library assistance in the form of computer databases, we advise you to go
into any library (including the State Library for the Blind in Salem)and search
out whatever might interest you. The following list comes from the authors
database and reflects the variety of types of reading materials available
to us. After reviewing the following headings, go find more reading opportunities
for yourself!
American Foundation For The Blind (AFB) | AFB
Main Office-15 W. 16th Street New York, NY 10011| General Information (800)
232-5463 | AFB Press: (212) 877-2693 | www.afb.org
The AFB is a very large and multifaceted organization devoted to positive
access. research and publications for persons with vision impairments. AFB
produces many texts related to blindness, more generic books and a few differing
periodicals, all of which are fantastic in their content and quality. AFB
publishes the “Directory of Agencies Serving the Visually Handicapped
in the US” and a catalog of “Products for People with Vision Problems”
that lists items which help facilitate and improve daily living for people
who are blind or partially sighted. Describing AFB publications however, is
nearly impossible as their range of topics and styles are ever changing. Try
calling the AFB Press number above and check their listings, or go to their
Website to review their literary resources, products and publications. AFB
often assists in the development and funding of research projects, works in
tandem with academicians and institutions of higher learning, advises National
and State Legislators and does many other things related to improving the
lot of persons with vision impairments. AFB has many regional offices and
may be a good source of information on their related local areas. (Offices
located in New York, Washington DC, Atlanta, San Francisco and elsewhere.)
AFB also has a few unique services that many people do not hear about, such
as their employment survey line (Web based) and options that are both permanent
and transitory in nature. AFB has a strong National political presence and
works in many areas of vision impairment, and investigating their efforts
is always interesting.
American Printing House For The Blind (APH)-P.O.
Box 6085 Louisville, KY 40206 | (800) 223-1839 | www.aph.org
APH is the Federally funded non-profit organization that has the mandate to
provide accessible textbooks for K-12 students who are legally blind who attend
our public schools. APH provides materials in Braille, Large Print and audio
formats and they also provide for sale, many other items for blind persons
rather than just textbooks.In the past, APH has produced some of the best
tape players for NLS books and other products related to reading and education
for persons who are blind or visually impaired. It is best to call them though,
as their library materials and products change rather frequently.
Blind Skills, Inc. (Dialog Magazine)-P.O. Box
5181 Salem, OR 97304 | (503) 581-4224 | (800) 860-4224| www.blindskills.com
Dialog Magazine is specifically written by and published
for blind and vision impaired readers. Over the years, the Blind Skills periodicals
have developed a large number of both young and older subscribers, though
presently only Dialog is available to subscribers. The magazine is extremely
diverse and has very interesting articles and regular features. Dialog is
published quarterly and the subscription rates are reasonable. If you have
an interest in being published and are blind or visually impaired, Blind Skills
and Dialog may be your chance! Give them a call for details on submissions.
Blind Skills also produces a taped booklet on vision loss for persons who
are newly adjusting to vision impairment. The booklet is called, Where Do
I Go From Here? The first copy for those who are legally blind is free, and
each additional copy is $5 per tape. Call, write or e-mail Blind Skills for
copies of the tape, subscription rates or criteria for submitting your articles.
Books Aloud, Inc.-P O Box 5731 San Jose, CA 95150-5731
| (408) 808-2613 |booksaloud@acninc.net
or booksaloud@juno.com | www.booksaloud.org
This “Reading by Listening” program provides a wide variety
of recorded reading material to individuals who are blind, visually impaired,
physically disabled, or learning disabled who are unable to read conventional
print. Cassettes are available on loan at no charge and BA’s cassettes
play on standard cassette players. Standard cassette players are also available
on loan at no charge if needed. Contact Books Aloud for an application and
their requirements for verification of disability.
Doubleday Large Print Book Club (Membership Services
Center)-PO Box 6375 Camp Hill, PA 17012-6375 | www.doubledaylargeprint.com
Doubleday Large Print Book Club offers a vast selection of bestsellers,
romance,self-help, health, mysteries, and more in easy to read large print
at up to 30% off publisher’s edition prices. These Doubleday publications
are not loaned, but are sold at a discount to Large Print Club members. To
contact the LP Club at Doubleday, it is necessary to go on the Web or to write
for an application and current book list.
Dr. Paul Freeman (Author to note) | Office: (412)
359-6300 | Fax: (412) 262-9448
Dr. Freeman is one of the founding fathers of the Low Vision movement and
his book Believing Is Seeing (1997) is an excellent resource for anyone who
is experiencing vision loss due to Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD).
The book is inexpensive and may be ordered by fax or by calling Dr. Freeman’s
Office for current sources. Dr. Freeman is a very energetic Professor of Ophthalmology
at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry and acts as a consultant to many
institutions of higher learning; he has written countless articles and many
texts in the field of low vision. (If you have a college bookstore near you
and desire looking into this book or possibly others by Dr. Freeman, check
it out at your nearby academic textbook outlet.) If you have ARMD and have
questions or know of someone who does, find this gem of a book; it accurately
explains the many facets of America’s number one cause of vision loss.
National Association for Visually Handicapped-3201
Balboa Street San Francisco, CA 94121 (415) 221-3201 | staffca@navh.org
NAVH primarily provides information for individuals with low vision, on large
print
books, textbooks, and educational tools. They maintain a free-by-mail library
of large print titles for those who are looking for large print resources.
NAVH also publishes booklets related to coping with low vision problems. All
library materials are printed in 18-point size type.
National Braille Press (NBP)-88 Saint Stephens
Street Boston, MA 02115 | (617) 266-6160
The NBP has many texts, books and various documents produced in Grade II Braille
for use by readers who prefer this medium. Their list is extensive and they
also accept materials to be produced in Braille. Call for details and their
current list of texts or materials available. page up
NLS List Of Accessible Format Magazines | (800)
424-8567 (option #4) | www.loc.gov/nls
The National Library Service (NLS) not only has the Braille and Talking
Book Library Program in each State, they also maintain this information line
where you can find information and sources for periodicals and music specifically
for blind and print impaired NLS patrons. (Call the information line and press
the appropriate number for tape copies of books and periodicals, music or
Braille transcription information).
The periodicals list is large and covers magazines that might surprise you;
major names like Money, Time, Playboy, Good Housekeeping, Ebony and National
Geographic. Call (during Eastern Standard Time) for details and formats available;
you may also call the Oregon State Braille and Talking Book Library number
above to inquire.
RFB & D Choice Magazine Listening(Recordings
For The Blind And Dyslexic)
(516) 883-8280
Commonly known as CHOICE LISTENING MAGAZINE, this periodical is produced through
Recordings for the Blind &Dyslexic or RFB&D, and is full of quality
articles compiled for taped listening. Articles and poetry are collected from
current periodical such as The New Yorker, Atlantic monthly, Gourmet, Travel,
Poetry, and many other quality literary publications. The magazine is free
to blind and vision impaired listeners and two
SEEDLINGS-P.O. Box 51924 Livonia, MI 48151-5924
| (734) 427-8552 | www.seedlings.org
The books produced by Seedlings provide a unique opportunity for parents
with vision impairments who read Braille and want to read books to their kids.
Books from Seedlings will please pre-school ages to children up to sixteen.
The titles come in Grade II Braille and can be read to children, or can be
read by young Braille readers for their own pleasure. The authors of this
List have read many classic nursery rhymes and tales from Seedlings to their
young son and the array of formerly inaccessible children’s stories
is sizeable. Seedlings books might be an opportunity for new Braille readers
to exercise their reading ability, and also proves that even within the world
of vision impairment, many things thought lost are still out there to enjoy.)
Contact Seedlings for details and current listings.
The Hadley School for the Blind-700 Elm Street
Winnetka Illinois 60093 | (800) 323-4238
www.hadley-school.org
The Hadley School is the oldest and most well known correspondence school
in the Country for the blind and visually impaired. They used to do mostly
Braille training via the mail, but have in the past few ears, expanded their
curricula into a variety of fields and arts. Call or check the Web to find
out what you can learn through Hadley.
Page Up
Vision Enhancement Magazine-Vision Worldwide,
Inc. Patricia Price Publisher-
5707 Brockton Drive #302 Indianapolis, In. 46220-5481 | (800) 431-1739 | www.visionww.org
Vision Enhancement magazine has only been published for the past few years,
but has grown tremendously in popularity and its diversity of topics, information
and products covered. Persons with low vision are the primary audience, though
professionals in the low vision field are also subscribing in huge numbers.
Patricia Price has been involved in low vision advocacy for years and has
developed quite a number of professional friendships prior to starting Vision
Enhancement. Now her publication is being read here and in many countries
worldwide, providing solid information about low vision to professionals,
individuals and companies that are involved in the field. If you would like
to sample Vision Enhancement magazine, call Mrs. Price at the toll free number
above and enjoy an informative and warm conversation with her; or check the
Website to contact her and get into Vision Enhancement.
RECREATIONAL
OPPORTUNITIES
Again, this is only a short and incomplete list of contacts for recreational
opportunities, and not all listings here specialize in activities for persons
with vision impairments. The reader must decide on their own personal recreational
interests, such as passive pastimes like movies and theater, or sporting activities
like swimming, camping or hiking. In the field of specialized recreation for
the disabled, organizations and agents change frequently. This is primarily
because of changes within the organizations, due to inconsistent funding or
changes in an organization’s rented or borrowed venues or facilities.
It is a good idea to research all local opportunities by inquiring about standard
recreational activities an also ask them about disability and vision impaired
activities that they might know of. Often, community recreation departments
will have or know of disability specific recreation programs or opportunities
and be more than willing to tell you about them. City, County or State government
services related to recreation will frequently have such information on disability
related recreation programs. Many mainstream recreational outlets are becoming
more interested in accessing persons with disabilities to their programs and
facilities, which increases recreational opportunities for everyone who is
disabled. In many areas, there are now mainstream recreational facilities
that also cater to recreational enthusiasts with disabilities: both snow and
water skiing businesses, sailing marinas and clubs, horse stables and riding
programs, and many camping, fishing and hiking outlets are now accessible.
Recreational enthusiasts with vision impairments should investigate passive
opportunities also, such as musical or theater performances, art or museum
exhibitions; bird watching (listening) is another opportunity that might be
available in your area with an existing club that is willing to work with
a vision impaired group. With the advent of Descriptive Video (DVS) and other
disability associated passive recreational opportunities, it pays to search
for new options that might enhance and fulfill your recreational desires.
In the following lists, we first describe two different DVS opportunities
for Oregonians, then move on to list recreational camps for the blind and
visually impaired, then end with several general recreation
and travel listings. Page Up
DESCRIPTIVE VIDEO SERVICES:
In the early 1990’s, a new compliment to movies began to take hold –
verbal descriptions of actions within movies. Scenes where the action was
beyond the ability of most blind or vision impaired viewers was verbally described,
thereby allowing vision impaired viewers full appreciation of movies. When
the verbal and audio portions of any movie recede to the point that a blind
or visually impaired viewer can not hear what is going on, it surely detracts
from the movie experience. Now Descriptive Video Services (registered Trademark,
DVS) bring previously silent passages to the ears of vision impaired viewers!
Once you “watch” a DVS movie, you will be hooked and never again
miss those silent and often important moments in movies you are sharing with
friends or viewing on your own. No special equipment is required, only a standard
TV and VCR are needed to enjoy DVS home videos. Here are two ways of getting
DVS movies:Descriptive Video Service | DVS Home Video purchasing: (317) 579-0439
|Large print DVS catalog: (888) 818-1181| Braille DVS catalog: (888) 818-1999Descriptive
videos are available for purchase through Descriptive Video Service (DVS.)
No special equipment is required, only a standard TV and VCR are needed to
enjoy DVS home videos. All DVS videos are sold at the suggested retail price
-- there's no additional charge for the description. Described movies are
also available on loan from more than 1200 public libraries and many video
outlets. (All titles are subject to availability.) To hear a listing of the
latest DVS Home Video® titles available or hear a listing of television
programs broadcasted with DVS® call: (800) 333-1203.
Oregon State Talking Book Library – DVS
Library-250 Winter Street NE Salem, OR
97310-0645 |(800) 452-0292
The Oregon State Library’s DVS Library section has hundreds of current
and older titles that can be had just like the Talking Books that patrons
can order. The DVS movies from the State Library are ordered and sent just
as the books are – order by phone and the available titles will be sent
“Free Matter” to you for your viewing pleasure. Call and ask the
folks at the State Library for a current list of available titles.
CAMPS FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED:
The Camps listed below are located only In Oregon, Washington and California,
and those listed below are specifically for blind and visually impaired participants.
There are surprisingly few non-religious camps for the vision impaired across
the Nation and many of these are along the Eastern Seaboard, far from Oregon.
There are many camps of varying types that are affiliated with local or regional
churches however, and requesting a referral or list from the church of your
choice is not a bad idea either. For each camp listed below, it is advisable
to make contact to check the details on their exact location, the camp environment
(forest, rural or suburban countryside, etc.), their eligibility requirements,
the available recreational and additional activities, how they might be staffed,
and the fees per time attended. Each camp will probably be different in the
things you will need to attend, and likewise the fees requested for camp participation
will differ. Some of the older, more well established camps are slightly custodial
and not particularly mainstream in the activities they offer; some also occasionally
vary the types of activities they offer to appeal to a greater number of participants.
It is best to check with the camp itself to inquire as to their activities
and outlook, and maybe even talk to anyone you may know who has attended your
camp of interest. And remember; always investigate way in advance of scheduling
your trip to camp!
Camp Bloomfield
Foundation for the Junior Blind-5300 Angeles Vista Boulevard Los Angeles,
CA 90043 | (800) 352 2290 | www.fjb.org
Though the Foundation for the Junior Blind of Los Angeles owns and runs Camp
Bloomfield, the camp itself is located near the beach in Malibu California.
Camp Bloomfield serves vision impaired children, adults and their families.
There are many child and adult sessions during the warm months and three family
sessions during summer. They also offer "buddy camps" where youngsters
can bring a young friend or family member to the camp for shared activities.
Camp Bloomfield offers swimming, horseback riding, rope climbing, archery,
arts and crafts and many other outdoor and beachfront activities. There is
a $25 initial registration fee per camp. Contact the Foundation and ask about
the camp’s eligibility, schedules and activities.
Camp Harobed-P O Box 2178 Belfair, WA 98528 |
(360) 372-2735
Camp Harobed was only founded in October of 2000 and was established as a
memorial to Deborah Bloom Pigott, who was a blind recreational enthusiast.
She and her husband Jack always wanted to turn their rural and beautiful 15
acres near the Puget Sound in the mountains of the Olympic Range, into a recreational
camp for blind adults. Upon Debbie’s sudden death in August of 2000,
her friends with Jack started putting the property in order to be just that,
a rural camp for blind adults and their families. The property has a small
lake, plenty of space for hiking, tent and trailer camping, nature activities,
and work has begun for a games field for Beep baseball and other sports that
are accessible to blind and vision impaired campers. Plans for horse riding
and a more developed nature trail are in the works, and fees for the camping
sessions are still low. Sessions are scheduled for the summer months and additional
reserved camping or group use of the Camp areas may be scheduled by calling
Jack at the number above or contact Rob Cook at (541) 741-4367.
Lighthouse for the Blind, San Francisco-214 Van Ness Avenue San Francisco,
CA 94102 | (415) 431 1481 | www.lighthouse-sf.org
Enchanted Hills is located deep in the beautiful Napa Valley wine country
and is one of the Nation’s oldest specialized camps for the blind. The
camp is now a permanent trust of the Rose Resnick Center (a Foundation of
the Lighthouse) and is so well appointed, that you may not consider it a camp,
but rather a rural resort. Enchanted Hills has cabins for their guests, nature
walks, large gathering rooms and a variety of activities devoted to persons
who are blind and visually impaired. They have child and adult sessions and
are usually open from June to September. Contact Director Tony Fletcher for
details.
Page Up
Oral Hull Foundation Camp-P O Box 157 Sandy,
OR 97055 | (503) 668-6195
The Oral Hull Camp is located in Sandy Oregon, just east of Portland. The
twenty three acre Camp is beautifully nestled at the foot of Mount Hood and
is completely enveloped deep within a virgin fir forest. The camp has two
small lakes for trout fishing, an “Enchanted” botanical garden,
and many camping and trailer sites, with several magnificently developed facilities.
The main hall and its attached areas include a dormitory for members or visitors,
a pool with spa, and the dining commons area is exquisite in its accommodations.
The Foundation was started in 1962 and is now a virtual resort for the blind
and visually impaired. Visitors or members will find a fully developed place
to take a trip to, do tent or trailer camping or to call and get in on their
scheduled events. Membership allows reduced rates and greater access to the
Camp, but anyone involved in vision impairment can come and enjoy the facilities
and activities year round, though most scheduled events are during the warmer
months. If you want a near resort atmosphere, give the Oral Hull Foundation
a call and ask for membership and schedule information.
Access To Recreation-8 Sandra Court Newbury Park,
CA 91320 | (800) 634-4351 |www.accesstr.com
Access To Recreation has recreational aids for persons with mobility impairments,
and they also have a variety of aids for daily living (adaptive goods.). Some
of their products may be useful to blind or visually impaired