Resources
Below are profiles of organizations, programs, services and useful websites from around the world. Don't hesitate to try resources from other countries; they may be of benefit to you even though they aren't specific to where you live.
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Programs and Services: Canada
CNIB provides community-based support, education, advocacy for Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. CNIB offers a range of services, including personalized rehabilitation support—in one’s home, community or at a local CNIB office—as well as emotional and wellness support. As part of CNIB’s Employment Services program, employment counselors can help with career planning, job search, job retraining and workplace accommodations. Visit your province or territory’s section of the site to see what specific employment services are available in your community.
In partnership with AFB, CNIB offers Career Connect Canada, a free resource that connects job seekers with mentors who also have vision loss.
CNIB physical and online store provides assistive products that help with all aspects of daily life. The CNIB library offers books, magazines and newspapers in various accessible formats.A comprehensive mix of information, education, tools and resources, the website provides a dedicated section on Independent Living, offering tips and advice on how to keep enjoying everyday activities and stay safe doing so. The site helps people stay connected and informed through such resources as a blog, podcast and e-newsletter. It also educates readers on various eye conditions and offers an “ask the expert” section.
Keywords: Canada, independent living, radio, podcast, online learning, library, workplace accommodations, employment services
Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work
The program, funded by Employment Ontario, gives participants tools to be competitive in the job market and the confidence to become employed. Its varied offerings include: job searching tips, resume and cover letter writing, career development sessions, interview techniques and connecting with employers. WESP also helps employers find, recruit and pre-screen qualified candidates.
Keywords: Ontario, training, mentors, career preparation, job seeking/search skills, finding job leads, interview preparation/follow-up, career advancement, workplace accommodations
Yoyo Design developed this in-depth online resource detailing website accessibility guidelines to improve the user experience of people with different disabilities.
Keywords: Internet accessibility, online access, website access for people with visual impairments
Service Canada
Provides vocational counselling, financial support for training, and job search services to recipients of Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefits, with the aim of helping them return to work. Services include: one-on-one guidance, developing a return-to-work rehabilitation plan, improving skills, retraining and prepping for employment.
Keywords: Canada, mentoring, career counselling, grants, training, career advancement, job maintenance
Job site for Canadians looking for work in all areas. The website offers job tools, career planning, a resume builder, job bank, labour market research, as well as some specific services for people with disabilities, such as employment support.
Keywords: Canada, directory, training, grants
Career Edge
A Canadian program that connects graduates with disabilities access to meaningful, six to 12-month paid internship work opportunities within the private, public and non-for-profit sector. The aim is to ensure, once the internship is complete, prospects have the confidence and valuable real-world business experience to pursue their career.
Keywords: Canada, directory, training, internship opportunity, career preparation
Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work
An online career development and employment portal for Canadians with disabilities, it provides job search tools, career guidance and resources related to education and employment. It also offers some free programs to help job seekers build up their skills and capacity. Workplace Essential Skills Partnership (WESP), is a four-week program, Partners for Workplace Inclusion Program (PWIP) enhances employability skills and Youth the Future is focused on carving successful education and career paths
Keywords: Canada, education resources, employment resources, job search, training, education
Ontario Government: Ministry of Community and Social Services
Run by the Ministry of Community and Social Services, ODSP Employment Supports provides diverse employment services to Ontarians with all types of disabilities at the local level. These include help finding a job, job coaching and interviewing skills, transportation and mobility services, assistive devices and training, and assistance setting up a small business. The application package can be found on the website. Medical documentation of a disability is required, though this is waived for Ontarians who are legally blind and who are registered with the CNIB.
Keywords: Ontario, employment counseling, training, grants, interview preparation, training, self-employment support
Dedicated to promoting and supporting equitable employment of persons with disabilities, the network offers a range of programs and services including WORKink® an online career development and employment portal, and the Partners for Workplace Inclusion Program (PWIP), providing job seekers with tools to prepare for a career or secure employment. The organization also provides accessibility solutions and disability awareness training and tools to develop a diversity plan for companies.
Keywords: Canada, finding job leads, interview preparation, job seeking/search skills, finding job leads, career advancement, workplace accommodations, employment counselling, training, grants
A network of 22 community agencies in Toronto who assist Persons with Disabilities to find and maintain employment. They also assist employers in finding qualified candidates to meet their hiring needs. Offers mentoring events, job fairs with reputable employers, and employer conferences.
Keywords: Toronto, job seekers, employers, service providers, mentorship
Offers a range of services including income support, employment accommodations, language programs, adaptive technology support, recreation and health facilities. Services are only available to those living in Toronto, Ontario.
Keywords: Toronto, Ontario, sports and recreation, training, online learning, workplace accommodation
A Canadian service that partners with corporate organizations to place skilled candidates in employment related to their fields. Typically offered free for employers, who may also be eligible for a wage subsidy, the program provides the opportunity for individuals to apply their skills in the workplace. The Online Abilities program also offers a range of job support services, such as, resume preparation, career planning, job coaching, self-employment information and advice, workshops, training and guiding employers through workplace accommodations.
Keywords: Canada, grants, training, workplace accommodations, resume preparation, job coaching, employer resources, job seeking/search skills
An employment services agency for job seekers with disabilities that offers a comprehensive list of services, including assessments, career guidance and job search support. They also run employment-related workshops and seminars, host presentations by businesses in the community and offer wide access to a variety of self-service employment resources. The organization also help employers in assessing and organizing job accommodations, including modifications to workstations, provision of assistive devices, and job coaching for clients.
Keywords: Canada, job search skills, self-employment support, assistive devices, workshops, job seekers, workplace accommodation
A Quebec-based service, working in a collaborative and interdisciplinary fashion, the organization provides specialized and ultra-specialized adaptation, rehabilitation, and social integration services to people with a significant and persistent disability. The Centre’s clients range and include children and adolescents who are blind or partially sighted. Services offered include visual skills training, assessments, psychosocial support and occupational therapy. Services are offered in French and in English and only to those living in Québec.
Keywords: Quebec, training, rehabilitation
CNIB
A free resource for students and any job seeker looking to explore jobs and network, for employers looking to diversify their workplace and for friends or family members who want to help someone in their career exploration. CareerConnect Canada offers a mentorship program whereby people connect online with individuals who are blind or partially sighted working in their fields. Using their knowledge and first-hand experience, they provide advice, encouragement and networking opportunities and can also help employers learn about accommodations and other ways in which they can diversify their workplace.
Keywords: Canada, labour market information, mentor, job/self match, employer concerning, workplace accommodation, training
Promotes the attainment and maintenance of optimum Independent Living of persons with disabilities in Toronto. Provides attendant services (AS), independent living skills training, peer support such as a diner’s club, and information about the Direct Funding program information, where persons with disabilities can become the employers of their own attendants.
Keywords: Toronto, independent living, support,
Toronto District School Board
Assists Persons with Disabilities prepare and look for employment or self-employment, as well as develop the skills necessary to maintain employment. Offers frequent workshops on organizing your job search, document creation, resume review, job coaching, and job fair success tips. Will soon offer a workshop about searching for a job using social networking sites such as Linkedin, Facebook and Twitter.
Keywords: Toronto, social networks, job seekers, self-employment, maintaining employment
March of Dimes
Although not all services are free the march of dimes employment service offers a functional abilities evaluation, vocational assessments, psycho-vocational assessments, labour market surveys. They also offer a success rate of 80% for all people serviced.
Keywords: Toronto, Canada, job seekers, assessments,
Ontario-based organization that provides legal representation and advice on a number of areas, as they relate to disability, including: accessibility, discrimination, education and employment.
Keywords: Ontario, legal advice, legal representation, support
Through twelve rehabilitation centres, the Institut Nazareth offers residents of Montréal, Laval, and the Montérégie region (southwest Quebec) services including vision evaluations, daily life skills training, counseling, assistance with adaptive technology, and career support. Applicants must have their vision loss confirmed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The organization also hosts over 6,500 offline documents on vision loss and rehabilitation, along with an online database; several videos; and an online store.
Keywords: Québec, online store, career counselling, workplace accommodations, disability specific, skills training, training
Programs and Services:
Outside of Canada
The
Hadley School for the Blind’s Forsythe Center for Employment and
Entrepreneurship (FCE) is a business and technology initiative designed to
assist individuals who are blind or visually impaired in achieving their
employment goals or starting or acquiring their own business. FCE courses are
designed to improve students’ employability and to enhance business and
technology skills for the workplace or self-employment. The FCE provides
courses, modules and webinars on current computer and smart phone technology,
as well as relevant accounting, legal, marketing, management and communications
information specific to the needs and concerns of individuals who are blind or
visually impaired. For more information or to enroll, visit www.hadley.edu/FCE or call
Student Services at 800-526-9909.
Keywords: entrepreneur training, self-employment, business skills
Fiscal Tiger, a United States-based financial management firm, recently published an informative piece, Jobs and Careers Guide for People With Visual Impairments. The Guide includes information about legislation and accommodation requirements in the US, a listing of jobs considered ideal for blind and partially sighted people, and job search tips.
Keywords: United States, Job Seekers, Visually Impaired, Statistics, workplace accomodation
Be My Eyes now creates private video support networks for work, school and other membership organizations, giving employees, students and members with vision impairments an added layer of security and support. Ask about Be My Eyes at your workplace!
Keywords: United States, Job Support, Disabilities
Offers a comprehensive range of services and information to help people who are blind or partially sighted live independently. The website’s section on eye health includes information on various eye conditions; its employment section offers job tips and search opportunities. RNIB also runs schools for children, offers courses for adults and produces talking books and a number of magazines for people who are blind or partially sighted, including its member’s magazine, Vision. Among other services, RNIB offers technology support, advice on home safety and managing one’s finances. And for professionals, the organization provides training, consultancy services and practical online support, while offering information for employers too.
Keywords: UK, job search skills, interview skills, leaving home, starting college, parents, video
Offers a wide range of services includes help for employers and career seekers, adaptive technology consultancy services, training courses and mobility services. Vision Australia also places a strong emphasis on advocacy and community education through its Speaker’s Network and other offerings. The organization offers audio books, a radio station and other means for communication. And Vision Australia provides orientation and mobility series such as cane training and orientation with guide dogs. They also provide education and training for children and adults
Keywords: Australia, online learning, online courses, directory, disability specific, skills training, training, continuing education
The New York-based organization is dedicated to helping people with low vision enjoy safe, productive and independent lives. Lighthouse runs three unique schools: an integrated preschool, a music school and an adult continuing education school. The organization also publishes informational tip sheets and publications. Lighthouse runs an online and physical store, selling an array of vision-friendly products
Keywords: United States, continuing education, music, tip sheets, assistive technology store
U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
A job accommodation resource, consultants offer guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues for the benefit of employers and people with disabilities. Services for employers include consultation on the accommodation process and accommodation ideas. Individuals receive consults on job accommodation ideas, requesting and negotiating accommodations and their rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related laws.
Keywords: United States, employment counselling, training, work stations, equipment, workplace accommodation, consultation, podcast, job seekers
RNIB – Action for Blind People
Offers a range of services, including: financial advice and housing support toward living independently; job search, building career skills and support for self-employment; social, sport and activity clubs for kids and emotional support and clinics for those recently diagnosed. They also provide technology training, support and advice, enabling people who are blind or partially sighted to become more independent and have better access to information, while parents have support groups to turn to. An ongoing blog offers personal first-hand accounts of people living with vision loss, the entries both inspiring and educational. The organization also runs a number of projects to help people who are blind or partially sighted, such as, the Concept Conference Centre—a social enterprise that trains and employs people who are blind or partially sighted to work in the kitchen and administration—and Supporting People which provides housing-related support.
Keywords: UK, sports and recreation, mentors, labour market information, blog, training, self-employment support
American Foundation for the Blind
A database of over one thousand mentors who are blind or partially sighted who work in three hundred job categories. It can be searched by job title, location, or type of assistive technology each professional requires. Users can contact mentors via e-mail after registration. Also includes a large number of stories about individuals who have found meaningful employment.
Keywords: United States, mentors, success stories
The Statler
Center offers job training and placement in two industries: Hospitality and
Customer Care. The Hospitality Program is a ten week course with start dates in
January, May, and September; the Customer Service program a seven week course
with start dates in February, May and September. Both programs are offered
through the Olmsted Center for Sight at 1170 Main Street, Buffalo, New York 14209. For informationconcerning tuition or other details, please contact the Statler Center or call 716-888-4526<
Keywords: hospitality training, customer service training
Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB)
We understand employers may have concerns about taking on someone with sight loss, or about an existing employee who is losing their sight. RNIB have recently published a new Guide for employers.
The guide addresses common questions and sets out the benefits of employing a blind or partially sighted person. It covers everything an employer needs to know about employing someone with sight loss, from the recruitment and interview process, to making sure the right equipment is in place for the employee to be successful in carrying out their role, and progress their career.
Keywords: UK employers, hiring concerns, benefits of employing workers with vision loss, accommodations, Access to Work, employment schemes, barriers to employment
Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services
Offering service providers with training in DBS Assistive technology.
Keywords: United States, online learning, training, assistive technology, information resource
National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
Provides mentoring relationships for individuals who are blind or partially sighted. Offers guidance and resources on a variety of things, such as, career development, advice for families and friends, tips for seniors and living independently.
Keywords: United States, mentor, support
Organization enables parents to find information and resources for their children who are blind or partially sighted, including those with additional disabilities. It offers outreach programs, networking, emotional support, and information through workshops and publications. It also provides a referral service and is a strong advocate. It also runs FamilyConnect, an online multimedia community for parents.
Keywords: United States, online learning, mentors, grants, parents, support
GettingHired
US resource that connects job seekers with jobs, employers, advocacy organizations and service providers. Helping people build their careers, there are articles, forums, blogs and a social networking platform connects job seekers with each other and career mentors.
Keywords: United States, employment counselling, training, labour market information
With a database of over 2,000 job seekers, EARN helps employers recruit candidates with disabilities for internships and permanent employment, and offers information and training on the interview process, workplace accommodations, and disability etiquette. Its monthly newsletter profiles business success stories, employment statistics, and current events. Its focus is on the United States.
Keywords: United States, webinars, workplace accommodation, interview preparation
American Foundation for the Blind
Hosts articles on job seeking skills, a database of mentors who are blind or partially sighted, and success stories. Job seekers can register to obtain further resources, including an online course on choosing and pursuing a career (Job Seeker's Toolkit), a résumé builder, message boards, and the chance to contact the mentors profiled on the site.
Keywords: United States, job search skills, mentors, success stories, online learning, resume preparation
Guide for Students with Visual Disabilities and Online Education
We created this guide to show how today's colleges and universities are improving their technology and resources to help students with visual disabilities earn degrees. The new guide also provides a list of online technologies and literary resoruces that students with impairments can use on their own to get ahead. Other key elements include:
- A breakdown of technologies central to visually impaired learning.
- College success tips for students with visual impairments.
- A detailed look at accommodations colleges are making for fully and partially blind students.
- A print screen option.
- Full JAWS compatibility.
Keywords: Education, international, self-help, training, online learning, assistive, technology
The podcast is a REDI Chat with Gary Horton,
CEO of Vanward Consulting in Detroit, Michigan – an entrepreneur who is blind
and runs an agency that provides employment readiness training and corporate
internship placements for young people with visual impairments. He is
interviewed by Larry Worth, SVP, Rangam, an international IT staffing firm.
Keywords: United States, Podcast, Corporate Internship Programs
College Accessibility for Visually Impaired Students
Online Colleges discusses how students with visual impairments can make the most of their college experience. It includes sections on ways to get more involved in school, a list of curated scholarships for students with visual impairments, and outlines the best assistive technologies for visually impaired students to use.
Keywords: Education, United States, Long-Distance Learning, Scholarships, Information
Helping Students with Visual Impairments
Addressing each need of students with visual impairments and improving
overall accessibility are vital to their academic success. This guide
explains how colleges are creating more welcoming and inclusive learning
environments, with a sharp focus on assistive technology, campus
resources that provide assistive services and tools, information about
scholarships for students with visual impairments, and online resources
they can access to facilitate academic and career success.
Keywords: Online learning
Disability specific training
Classroom training
United States
Adult education
Online Resources
United Nation’s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Prepared by the United Nation’s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, this thematic study provides detailed information related to persons with disabilities and the right to work. It outlines workplace policies on prohibiting discrimination, enabling effective access to guidance and training, promoting employment opportunities, ensuring reasonable accommodation, protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, and more.
Keywords: international, advocacy, research, workplace accommodations, human rights, disabilities
American Foundation for the Blind
A resource that offers tips for parents of children who are blind or partially sighted, including information on technology, education, and a toy guide. There are also message boards, blogs and videos.
Keywords: international, video, online learning, training, parenting, toys, assistive, technology, education, blog, pre-school, elementary school
CNIB provides community-based support, education, advocacy for Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. CNIB offers a range of services, including personalized rehabilitation support—in one’s home, community or at a local CNIB office—as well as emotional and wellness support. As part of CNIB’s Employment Services program, employment counselors can help with career planning, job search, job retraining and workplace accommodations. Visit your province or territory’s section of the site to see what specific employment services are available in your community.
In partnership with AFB, CNIB offers Career Connect Canada, a free resource that connects job seekers with mentors who also have vision loss.
CNIB physical and online store provides assistive products that help with all aspects of daily life. The CNIB library offers books, magazines and newspapers in various accessible formats.A comprehensive mix of information, education, tools and resources, the website provides a dedicated section on Independent Living, offering tips and advice on how to keep enjoying everyday activities and stay safe doing so. The site helps people stay connected and informed through such resources as a blog, podcast and e-newsletter. It also educates readers on various eye conditions and offers an “ask the expert” section.
Keywords: Canada, independent living, radio, podcast, online learning, library, workplace accommodations, employment services
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB)
An employment information resource for job seekers who are blind or partially sighted offering employment information, career exploration tools and job seeking guidance for students, adults and service providers.
Keywords: United States, directory, mentors, training, labour market information, Finding mentors, Job/self match, Interview preparation/ follow up, career advancement
American Foundation for the Blind and Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight
An online resource providing free, practical, hands-on information to help promote independence and enhance quality of life for individuals who are blind or partially sighted, as well as their families, friends and service providers. Offers tips related to accessibility, living independently, employment and more.
Keywords: international, training, online learning, career advancement, career preparation, workplace accommodations, interview preparation, interview follow-up
Public Service Commission of Canada
Provides job postings for opportunities with the federal government. It also offers resources for those searching and preparing for jobs as well as links to intern/coop placements for students, the Federal Student Work Experience Program and post-secondary employment programs and opportunities.
Keywords: Canada, job seekers, finding job leads, job search skills, career exploration, employment, federal student work experience program, job posting, available positions, internships, co-op positions, government jobs, high school, student jobs
RNIB – Action for Blind People
Offers a range of services, including: financial advice and housing support toward living independently; job search, building career skills and support for self-employment; social, sport and activity clubs for kids and emotional support and clinics for those recently diagnosed. They also provide technology training, support and advice, enabling people who are blind or partially sighted to become more independent and have better access to information, while parents have support groups to turn to. An ongoing blog offers personal first-hand accounts of people living with vision loss, the entries both inspiring and educational. The organization also runs a number of projects to help people who are blind or partially sighted, such as, the Concept Conference Centre—a social enterprise that trains and employs people who are blind or partially sighted to work in the kitchen and administration—and Supporting People which provides housing-related support.
Keywords: UK, sports and recreation, mentors, labour market information, blog, training, self-employment support
RNIB
With the aim of helping job seekers who are blind or partially sighted develop a variety of skills to help them find work, the toolkit addresses things like confidence, body language and visual presentation. It offers fact, tips, worksheets and role play exercises as well as advice on how to find the right job. Titled “Job Search, the Real Story” and comprising five modules, the toolkit also covers issues related to service providers and employers, providing them with advice on how to effectively offer employees a successful work opportunity.
Keywords: UK, training, career preparation, job seeking/ search skills, interview preparation/follow-up, career advancement, workplace accommodations, employer concerns
Job site for Canadians looking for work in all areas. The website offers job tools, career planning, a resume builder, job bank, labour market research, as well as some specific services for people with disabilities, such as employment support.
Keywords: Canada, directory, training, grants
Government of Canada
Providing access to services and information for Canadians with disabilities, family members, caregivers, some of the topics covered include: accessibility, advocacy, assistive technology, employment, housing and health. The site also offers the Accessible Travel and Tourism Information Finder, so individuals can locate a variety of accessible Canadian travel and tourism information.
Keywords: Canada, directory, training, accessible travel
Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work
An online career development and employment portal for Canadians with disabilities, it provides job search tools, career guidance and resources related to education and employment. It also offers some free programs to help job seekers build up their skills and capacity. Workplace Essential Skills Partnership (WESP), is a four-week program, Partners for Workplace Inclusion Program (PWIP) enhances employability skills and Youth the Future is focused on carving successful education and career paths
Keywords: Canada, education resources, employment resources, job search, training, education
Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB)
We understand employers may have concerns about taking on someone with sight loss, or about an existing employee who is losing their sight. RNIB have recently published a new Guide for employers.
The guide addresses common questions and sets out the benefits of employing a blind or partially sighted person. It covers everything an employer needs to know about employing someone with sight loss, from the recruitment and interview process, to making sure the right equipment is in place for the employee to be successful in carrying out their role, and progress their career.
Keywords: UK employers, hiring concerns, benefits of employing workers with vision loss, accommodations, Access to Work, employment schemes, barriers to employment
Organization enables parents to find information and resources for their children who are blind or partially sighted, including those with additional disabilities. It offers outreach programs, networking, emotional support, and information through workshops and publications. It also provides a referral service and is a strong advocate. It also runs FamilyConnect, an online multimedia community for parents.
Keywords: United States, online learning, mentors, grants, parents, support
A list of three publications designed to help people with vision loss by educating their families and support networks with supportive insights, coping strategies and information.
Keywords: international, information resource, support, relatives
Helping Students with Visual Impairments
Addressing each need of students with visual impairments and improving
overall accessibility are vital to their academic success. This guide
explains how colleges are creating more welcoming and inclusive learning
environments, with a sharp focus on assistive technology, campus
resources that provide assistive services and tools, information about
scholarships for students with visual impairments, and online resources
they can access to facilitate academic and career success.
Keywords: Online learning
Disability specific training
Classroom training
United States
Adult education
Online Resources
Through twelve rehabilitation centres, the Institut Nazareth offers residents of Montréal, Laval, and the Montérégie region (southwest Quebec) services including vision evaluations, daily life skills training, counseling, assistance with adaptive technology, and career support. Applicants must have their vision loss confirmed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The organization also hosts over 6,500 offline documents on vision loss and rehabilitation, along with an online database; several videos; and an online store.
Keywords: Québec, online store, career counselling, workplace accommodations, disability specific, skills training, training
Directories
The largest
educator of people who are blind or partially sighted around the world, serving
more than 10,000 students annually in 50 states and 100 countries, Hadley’s
directory offers a comprehensive list of useful websites such as dog guide
schools, distance education, specialized schools employment, parenting and
independent living.
Keywords: international, independent living, parenting, guide-dogs, job seekers, employment, training, education, assistive technology, recreation, directory
Offering a
large list of services in the US and Canada; you can also search via service or
organizational name and you can narrow your search to specific Canadian
provinces or American states. There are 325 listings under the heading
“employment, job training”.
Keywords: directory, international, training, employment, sports and recreation, workplace accommodations, financial assistance, education, job seeking, career preparation
Links by NAPVI— a national membership-based organization providing parents of children who are blind or partially sighted with information, resources, leadership, support and training. Links include schools in the U.S., parenting sites, health information and private and government organizations.
Keywords: United States
friends
family
relatives
caregivers
health
parenting resources
support
training
online education
pre-School
elementary School
high School
A host of links to various sites in Canada and across the globe. Categories include sports and recreation, employment, education and literacy, technology products and eye health resources.
Keywords: international, directory, sports and recreation, disability specific skills, training, schools, employment, job seeking/search skills, finding job leads, interview preparation/follow-up, career advancement, health
National Federation of the Blind
Offers up-to-date lists of assistive technology with prices; technology magazines and tutorials; digital and eBook resources; and recommendations on user-friendly consumer electronics. Its Baltimore-based International Braille and Technology Center gives advice and training in person and by phone. The Access Technology Blog provides news, tips, and personal reflections on many types of assistive software and devices.
Keywords: international, assistive technology, workplace accommodation, training, equipment
Scholarships, Grants and Subsidies
Service Canada
offers funding for local, regional, and national projects with the mission of helping people with disabilities prepare for, obtain and maintain employment or self-employment.
Keywords: Canada, training, grants, employment, job search
Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care
Offers support and funding to Ontario residents who have long-term physical disabilities and provides access to personalized assistive devices, with the intention of increasing independence.
Keywords: Ontario, accessibility, assistive technology, workplace accommodations
Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work
To assist students with disabilities in their pursuit for post-secondary education and training, eight scholarships, in the amount of $2,500 each, are available for the academic year. Applicants must be high school students entering a fulltime program at post-secondary institution and must be faced with a long-term disability that restricts their ability to participate in educational activities.
Keywords: Canada, scholarships, education, post- secondary
Service Canada
Provides vocational counselling, financial support for training, and job search services to recipients of Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefits, with the aim of helping them return to work. Services include: one-on-one guidance, developing a return-to-work rehabilitation plan, improving skills, retraining and prepping for employment.
Keywords: Canada, mentoring, career counselling, grants, training, career advancement, job maintenance
Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians
Each year, AEBC awards a scholarship to a post-secondary student who is blind, deaf-blind, or partially sighted. Emphasis is placed on academic achievement, leadership, and the student’s perspective on accessible education.
Keywords: Canada, education, scholarships
American Foundation for the Blind
Offering advice on how to find scholarships, grants and other funding sources for educational purposes. Also offers links to funding organizations across the United States.
Keywords: United States,Scholarships,Grants,Education,High school,Post-secondary education,Apprenticeships,Internships,Disability specific skills training,Directory
College Accessibility for Visually Impaired Students
Online Colleges discusses how students with visual impairments can make the most of their college experience. It includes sections on ways to get more involved in school, a list of curated scholarships for students with visual impairments, and outlines the best assistive technologies for visually impaired students to use.
Keywords: Education, United States, Long-Distance Learning, Scholarships, Information
Schools and Distance Learning
The largest educator of people who are blind or partially sighted in the world, with students in all 50 states and 100 countries, Hadley offers distance education courses free of charge to individuals and their families and affordable tuition courses to service providers in the field. Hadley is also the largest educator of braille. Students must be blind or partially sighted and over 14 years of age, a relative, or a service professional working with people who are blind or partially sighted.
Keywords: high school, post-secondary, free courses, distance education, online high school education, online continuing education, disability specific skills training, assistive technology
Offers a number of online resources for educators, including webinars, webcasts and a research library of more than 40,000 resource materials on blindness and deaf blindness. The Accessible Science section provides science activities that have been adapted for students who are blind or partially sighted. It also offers links to its training centre and some additional resources for professionals. The Perkins Training Center offers workshops and seminars and professionals can earn professional development and continuing education credits by watching Perkins webcasts. Perkins also writes and produces publications that serve as training guides for teachers, family members and caregivers. Its early literacy program helps parents teach early literacy skills to young children while the Assistive Device Centre gives important information on games and educational materials for children.
Keywords: Online learning
Pre-school
Elementary school
High school
Disability specific training
Classroom training
Video
Webinar
Webcast
United States
Games
Adult education
A school for students who are blind, partially sighted or deafblind. It offers a residency program at its location in Brantford, Ontario and provides life skills training, music therapy and workshops for educators. Within the school you can also find a Resources Services Library which provides Braille and alternate print formats for students across Ontario.
Keywords: Ontario, life skills, training, high school , elementary school, post- secondary students, education, vocational training, music therapy, braille library, residency program, orientation and mobility, communication skills
The
Hadley School for the Blind’s Forsythe Center for Employment and
Entrepreneurship (FCE) is a business and technology initiative designed to
assist individuals who are blind or visually impaired in achieving their
employment goals or starting or acquiring their own business. FCE courses are
designed to improve students’ employability and to enhance business and
technology skills for the workplace or self-employment. The FCE provides
courses, modules and webinars on current computer and smart phone technology,
as well as relevant accounting, legal, marketing, management and communications
information specific to the needs and concerns of individuals who are blind or
visually impaired. For more information or to enroll, visit www.hadley.edu/FCE or call
Student Services at 800-526-9909.
Keywords: entrepreneur training, self-employment, business skills
The Statler
Center offers job training and placement in two industries: Hospitality and
Customer Care. The Hospitality Program is a ten week course with start dates in
January, May, and September; the Customer Service program a seven week course
with start dates in February, May and September. Both programs are offered
through the Olmsted Center for Sight at 1170 Main Street, Buffalo, New York 14209. For informationconcerning tuition or other details, please contact the Statler Center or call 716-888-4526<
Keywords: hospitality training, customer service training
Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired
Providing links to colleges and universities in the United States, Canada and other countries that offer courses in education and rehabilitation of people who are blind or partially sighted.
Keywords: international, online learning, education, scholarships,continuing education, career advancement, advocacy
American Foundation for the Blind
Hosts articles on job seeking skills, a database of mentors who are blind or partially sighted, and success stories. Job seekers can register to obtain further resources, including an online course on choosing and pursuing a career (Job Seeker's Toolkit), a résumé builder, message boards, and the chance to contact the mentors profiled on the site.
Keywords: United States, job search skills, mentors, success stories, online learning, resume preparation
Carroll Center for the Blind
Carroll Tech is a web-based distance learning service intended to assist people who are blind or partially sighted as well as to train education and rehabilitation professionals. Courses are primarily in access technologies such as screen readers, screen magnifiers, Braille embossers, note-takers and scanners.
Keywords: international, online learning, training, videos, access technology, job maintenance, career advancement
College Accessibility for Visually Impaired Students
Online Colleges discusses how students with visual impairments can make the most of their college experience. It includes sections on ways to get more involved in school, a list of curated scholarships for students with visual impairments, and outlines the best assistive technologies for visually impaired students to use.
Keywords: Education, United States, Long-Distance Learning, Scholarships, Information
Helping Students with Visual Impairments
Addressing each need of students with visual impairments and improving
overall accessibility are vital to their academic success. This guide
explains how colleges are creating more welcoming and inclusive learning
environments, with a sharp focus on assistive technology, campus
resources that provide assistive services and tools, information about
scholarships for students with visual impairments, and online resources
they can access to facilitate academic and career success.
Keywords: Online learning
Disability specific training
Classroom training
United States
Adult education
Online Resources
Reading Services
PAL Reading Services
A registered charity, PAL provides recorded reading material for elementary and post-secondary school students, individuals, agencies and businesses.
Keywords: Audio
Canada, Pre-school, Elementary school, High school, Post-secondary, Education, Training, Communication skills, Career advancement
Makes library services accessible to people across Canada who cannot read print because of a visual, physical or learning disability. Services, available in English and French, are free. You can receive books and other materials online through the CNIB Digital Library or by having them mailed directly to your home. Also, in some participating provinces, you can access the CNIB Library materials through your public library. Accessible formats include audio, Braille and e-text.
Keywords: Canada, directory, online learning, education, career preparation, job exploration
Benetech
An online library of digital books for people with print disabilities, members download books, textbooks and newspapers in a compressed, encrypted file, then read the material using adaptive technology.
Keywords: international, education, training, directory
A collection of more than 70,000 digitally recorded textbooks and literature titles, downloadable and accessible on mainstream as well as specialized assistive technology devices.
Keywords: international, directory, online learning, education, books, high- school, post- secondary, career exploration, job preparation
National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
Offering individuals who are blind or partially sighted the ability to hear the content of over 300 newspapers and magazine in various languages, whether over a phone line or via the web.
Keywords: United States, online, audio, news, entertainment
Job Postings
Public Service Commission of Canada
Provides job postings for opportunities with the federal government. It also offers resources for those searching and preparing for jobs as well as links to intern/coop placements for students, the Federal Student Work Experience Program and post-secondary employment programs and opportunities.
Keywords: Canada, job seekers, finding job leads, job search skills, career exploration, employment, federal student work experience program, job posting, available positions, internships, co-op positions, government jobs, high school, student jobs
Job site for Canadians looking for work in all areas. The website offers job tools, career planning, a resume builder, job bank, labour market research, as well as some specific services for people with disabilities, such as employment support.
Keywords: Canada, directory, training, grants
A network of 22 community agencies in Toronto who assist Persons with Disabilities to find and maintain employment. They also assist employers in finding qualified candidates to meet their hiring needs. Offers mentoring events, job fairs with reputable employers, and employer conferences.
Keywords: Toronto, job seekers, employers, service providers, mentorship
Multi Media Content
American Foundation for the Blind
A video-radio series that follows Aaron, a teenager, as he searches for a job, deals with less-informed co-workers and gets college-ready, all the while offering tips, advice and good humour.
Keywords: international, employment, high school, video, audio, success stories, mentor, training, interview preparation, interview follow up, workplace accommodation, career advancement, college preparation
Washington State School for the Blind
A variety of videos and accompanying material offering tips on how to learn a range of life management skills.
Keywords: international, videos, training, online learning, education, disability specific skills training
American Foundation for the Blind
Fifty-one videos on a range of topics including golfing, workplace accommodation, orientation & mobility, assistive technology and Helen Keller.
Keywords: international, interview preparation/ follow-up, career advancement
workplace accommodation, online learning, training, video
Advocacy
U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
A job accommodation resource, consultants offer guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues for the benefit of employers and people with disabilities. Services for employers include consultation on the accommodation process and accommodation ideas. Individuals receive consults on job accommodation ideas, requesting and negotiating accommodations and their rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related laws.
Keywords: United States, employment counselling, training, work stations, equipment, workplace accommodation, consultation, podcast, job seekers
Le RAAQ
An organization based in Quebec (with 12 regional associations) dedicated to helping individuals who are blind or partially sighted integrate, defend their rights and promote their interests. The site also offers information and definitions for educational purposes.
Keywords: french language, Quebec, definitions, self-advocacy, integration, online learning, self-advocacy
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Publications
Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB)
Keywords: UK employers, hiring concerns, benefits of employing workers with vision loss, accommodations, Access to Work, employment schemes, barriers to employment
Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)
Keywords: Information for employers, hiring concerns, accommodations, workers who are blind or have low vision
Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB)
Blind or partially sighted people should not be excluded from employment - nor should sight loss equal job loss.
If
your profession involves supporting job seekers we can help you support
these clients. We work with partners to deliver tailored employment
solutions, and we have developed tools to help blind and partially
sighted people find work.
We can also support welfare to work providers and those whose role involve helping blind and partially sighted people into work.
Keywords: employment, employment professionals, employment supports for individuals who are blind or partially sighted.
Yoyo Design developed this in-depth online resource detailing website accessibility guidelines to improve the user experience of people with different disabilities.
Keywords: Internet accessibility, online access, website access for people with visual impairments
Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB)
We understand employers may have concerns about taking on someone with sight loss, or about an existing employee who is losing their sight. RNIB have recently published a new Guide for employers.
The guide addresses common questions and sets out the benefits of employing a blind or partially sighted person. It covers everything an employer needs to know about employing someone with sight loss, from the recruitment and interview process, to making sure the right equipment is in place for the employee to be successful in carrying out their role, and progress their career.
Keywords: UK employers, hiring concerns, benefits of employing workers with vision loss, accommodations, Access to Work, employment schemes, barriers to employment
Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB)
An employment assessment toolkit for professionals who work with blind and partially sighted people.
Keywords: employability assessment, action plan, evaluate visually impaired individuals’ abilities and vocational experiences
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Hyperlinks to websites of interest
Fiscal Tiger, a United States-based financial management firm, recently published an informative piece, Jobs and Careers Guide for People With Visual Impairments. The Guide includes information about legislation and accommodation requirements in the US, a listing of jobs considered ideal for blind and partially sighted people, and job search tips.
Keywords: United States, Job Seekers, Visually Impaired, Statistics, workplace accomodation
Zippia is a career exploration and job seeking website based in the United States. They have recently published a comprehensive workplace resource for the disabled community, which answers questions and concerns in terms of how to approach a professional working environment for a disabled employee.
Keywords: United States, Job Seeking, Career Exploration, Disabilities, Employment Statistics
Be My Eyes now creates private video support networks for work, school and other membership organizations, giving employees, students and members with vision impairments an added layer of security and support. Ask about Be My Eyes at your workplace!
Keywords: United States, Job Support, Disabilities
The podcast is a REDI Chat with Gary Horton,
CEO of Vanward Consulting in Detroit, Michigan – an entrepreneur who is blind
and runs an agency that provides employment readiness training and corporate
internship placements for young people with visual impairments. He is
interviewed by Larry Worth, SVP, Rangam, an international IT staffing firm.
Keywords: United States, Podcast, Corporate Internship Programs
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NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) is a screen reader for Microsoft Windows that is free, fully functional, and portable. It can be downloaded to a personal PC or to portable media such as a USB stick, which can be used with a school or work computer.
Keywords: downloadable screen reader, portable screen reader, free screen reader
EyeSite is a free tool for use with web browsers (Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Google Chrome) that enables visitors to rank the accessibility of websites for visitors who are blind or have low vision.
Keywords: web browser tool, website accessibility for blind users, website accessibility for low vision users
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Links to Project Aspiro Content
Downloadable Documents
Word(standard print with checkboxes) and text-only files are available for parents or teachers to download and use to determine whether children with visual disabilities have the skills they need in career education by age level (preschool, primary, and secondary). The Career Education Competencies Checklists can also be used to monitor youngsters’ progress over time.
Keywords: career education, career competencies for children, career competencies for teenagers, career competencies for young adults, career education assessment
Word (standard print with checkboxes) and text-only files are available for students, parents or teachers to download and use to determine whether adolescents with visual disabilities have the skills they need to successfully transition from school into adult roles and responsibilities. The Transition Competencies Checklists can also be used to monitor young adults’ progress over time.
Keywords: transition from school-to-work, transition competencies, transition skills, transition for students who are blind or have low vision, transition assessment
Word (standard print with checkboxes) and text-only files are available for job seekers (adults) to download and use to determine whether they have the skills they need to successfully enter employment and to identify areas where they may need additional training or assistance. Strengths/Problems Checklist can also be used to monitor job seekers’ progress over time.
Keywords: employment skills, job readiness assessment, employability skills assessment, adults who are blind or have low vision
This document provides an introduction to the RNIB publication Pre-Employment Programme Trainer’s Guide (Wolffe, 2011). The Pre-Employment Programme (PEP) is a structured learning course designed to assist adults with visual disabilities in the areas of self-awareness, career exploration, job seeking skills, and job maintenance skills.
Keywords: pre-employment training, employability skills training, preparation for work, introduction to employment skills training program
Printable Pages
Keywords: housekeeping skills, independent living skills, assessment
Keywords: grooming, personal skills, assessment
Keywords: self-advocacy, self-advocacy skills, self-advocacy assessment
Keywords: orientation and mobility skills
Keywords: suggested listening skills, improving listening
Keywords: communication skills, conversational techniques
Keywords: math, calculation skills
Keywords: finding mentors, finding role models
Keywords: finding the right job, matching one’s self to jobs, career choices
Keywords: completing applications
Keywords: interview suggestions, how to interview, interview tips
Keywords: how to advance on the job, how to get a raise, how to get a promotion
Keywords: adapted tools, adapted equipment, access to work tools, accessible tools, accessible equipment, accommodations, on-the-job accommodations for low vision workers
Keywords: how to keep a job, job maintenance
Keywords: adapted tools, adapted equipment, access to work tools, accessible tools, accessible equipment, accommodations, on-the-job accommodations for blind workers
Keywords: safety, safety issues, employer worries, employer concerns, safety concerns
Keywords: productivity, productivity issues, employer worries, employer concerns, productivity concerns
Keywords: information, access to print, access to visual information, information access issues, employer worries, employer concerns, information access concerns
Keywords: employer worries, employer concerns, travel concerns, mobility concerns, movement, travel without sight
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