Washington State Department of Services for the Blind

Our Programs at a Glance

People who are blind and visually impaired go to work successfully in all kinds of jobs, live independently, support their families, and contribute to their communities.

Employment Services

The Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) helps individuals with visual disabilities gain the necessary skills and access opportunities to reach the employment goal of their choice.

Our Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) staff assists participants as they explore career possibilities, plan their career future, and gain the necessary alternative skills of blindness, academic training, and specific job skills. We help participants get ready for their job search and the world of work. We also work with employers and participants on the job to assure a successful outcome.

Access to information technology is a key to successful employment. Our Assistive Technology (AT) specialists help participants evaluate their technology and skill development needs. We provide training on the use of computers and a wide range of access technology, including low vision aides. We evaluate job sites to determine what technology solutions are needed to enable the employee who is blind or visually impaired to work effectively.

The Business Enterprise Program (BEP) trains and licenses legally blind people to manage snack/gift shops, espresso stands and food service facilities in government buildings.

Alternative Skills of Blindness Services

Our Seattle Orientation and Training Center (OTC) provides a comprehensive and intensive training program in communications: Braille and computers, orientation and mobility, home management, and adjustment to blindness. The program offers many opportunities for social, recreational and confidence-building challenge activities, as well as real work experience. Students may live in apartments as an extension of their experience in the center.

Our Independent Living (IL) program provides services and skills training to people who have visual disabilities and are over the age of 55 so they can maintain their personal independence in their homes and in the community.

Our Child and Family (CF) consultants provide assistance to families and schools to assure that children who are blind or visually impaired receive the services necessary to achieve full educational, social, and vocational integration in their schools and in the community. Each summer, high school students have the opportunity to participate in real work experience.

For further information regarding these programs, contact us toll free at 1-800-522-7103 or visit our website at www.dsb.wa.gov.

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