The National Federation of the Blind has three model rehabilitation centers which offer training programs for children, adults, and senior citizens:
These centers teach the skills of blindness. But even more important, they instill in their students the confidence to put these skills into practice. They utilize the positive view of blindness of the National Federation of the Blind. They work from the premise that blindness doesn't have to be a tragedy. If given training and opportunity, blind people can live full and productive lives. These emersion programs allow students to practice what they learn in the classroom when they return to their apartments at night and on the weekends.
Headquarters--The BISM Rehabilitation Center
3345 Washington Blvd.
Baltimore, MD 21227
(410) 737-2600
(888) 322-4567
(410) 737-2689 (fax)
Website: www.bism.org
Eastern Shore Division
2240 Northwood Drive
Salisbury, MD 21801
(410) 749-1366
(888) 749-1366
(888) 548-5085 (fax)
Western MD Division
322 Paca Street
Cumberland, MD 21502
(301) 724-4111
(888) 267-4111
(888) 316-4116 (fax)
The Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM) Rehabilitation Center offers a full-time training program to blind and visually impaired adults. The program, which lasts six to nine months, is designed to teach valuable skills, promote independence and enhance self-esteem. The multi-disciplinary teaching staff includes several blind and visually impaired instructors.
The core curriculum includes:
.. Braille reading and writing
.. Independent cane travel
.. Cooking, sewing and home management
.. Typing
.. Computer literacy
.. Physical conditioning
Twice-weekly discussions and seminars focus on important issues and attitudes affecting blind individuals. Students also enjoy meeting successful blind adults. Through off-site educational and recreational activities, students have the opportunity to further develop their newly acquired skills.
BISM offers a variety of special rehabilitation programs for seniors. These programs are available at all three locations.
6200 Baltimore Ave., Suite 100
Riverdale, MD 20737
(240) 737-5100
(240) 737-5101 (Fax)
Website: www.clb.org
E-mail: info@clb.org
The Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind serves residents of Montgomery and Prince George's Counties in Maryland, the District of Columbia and several counties in Northern Virginia. Their core services include:
.. Orientation and mobility
.. Keyboarding and basic computer classes
.. Braille reading and writing
.. Employment Marketing and Skills training
.. Job Development Placement and retention
.. Low vision assessments by a certified optometrist
.. Ongoing children's activities including a non-residential summer camp
Maryland State Department of Education
Division of Rehabilitation Services
2301 Argonne Drive
Baltimore, MD 21218
(410) 554-9107
Website: www.dors.state.md.us
E-mail: dors@dors.state.md.us
The Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) provides services to individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired through the Office of Field Services, the Office for Blindness & Vision Services and the Independent Living Program for Older Individuals who are Blind or Visually Impaired.
People who are blind and participating in WTC’s programs have the opportunity to interact with other people who are blind and thus benefit from the other services offered at this comprehensive rehabilitation center. Services include career assessments, medical services, counseling, occupational and physical therapy, speech and hearing services, tutoring, and recreational programs. A wide array of skills training programs is also available, such as information technology and word processing. WTC has residential facilities for those who find that commuting is too difficult.
Maryland State Department of Education
Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
2301 Argonne Dr.
Baltimore, MD 21218
(410) 554-9277
(866) 614-4780
(410) 554-9197 (Fax)
http://dors.state.md.us/DORS/ProgramServices/Business3
The Office for Blindness and Vision Services (OBVS) was created in 2005 to help blind and visually impaired clients of the Division of Rehabilitation Services receive the specialized services needed to return to the work force, attend school, or maintain employment. OBVS counselors are located in many of the 20 DORS offices around the state. For a list of office locations, visit .
To begin services, complete the referral form online on the DORS website or call (866) 614-4780 to obtain assistance. Your referral will then be assigned to a counselor serving your area.
When meeting with your counselor for the first time, it would be most helpful if you could bring any or all of the following: documentation of your disability, information about your income, work history, and any other health-related information.
You and your counselor will agree as to the steps required to prepare you to return to the work force. To determine the most appropriate aids and services you need, you will most likely be asked to participate in a variety of assessments at no cost to you. These assessments may include: low vision, career and technology.
Once all assessments are completed, you will be asked to participate in creating your Individualized plan for employment (IPE). This plan will include all of the services DORS will provide and list your responsibilities in helping to achieve your employment or independent living goal. All employment plans include job placement assistance.
Once the plan is completed, services can begin. Your DORS counselor will work with you until employment is found.
If you are over 55, you may qualify for services under the Independent Living for Older Blind Program. Follow the same procedures listed above to sign up for services. You will work with a rehabilitation teacher who will coordinate services to help you learn money management, cooking, independent travel, braille, and other services you may require to live as independently as possible.