Youth Services

Support for youth who are blind or low vision is essential for their success in school, daily life, and the workforce. Our services equip students with the skills and resources they need to thrive academically, professionally, and economically.

Youth Services assist children ages 3–12, ensuring they have assistive technology available at home, and helping them with building confidence and independence from an early age. Youth and students may receive Pre-employment Transition Services (for ages 13-21) and VR Transition Services (for ages 14-24).

Youth Services for ages 3-12

Youth Services may be available to children who:

  • Are between the ages of 3 and 12
  • Have documentation of legal blindness or a progressive eye condition that may result in legal blindness within 24 months

(Youth age 13 and older may begin receiving Pre-employment Transition Services and Vocational Rehabilitation Services to support their journey toward independence and employment.)

Each child receives services tailored to their unique needs, with a focus on developing independence to support success in high school, college, and beyond. Services may include:

  • Counseling and guidance
  • Family counseling and support
  • Adjustment to blindness
  • Independent living skills training
  • Socialization and recreational activities
  • Information, coordination, and referrals to community resources
  • Assistive technology at home

Pre-employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)

Pre-ETS are available to students who:

  • Are between the ages of 13 and 21
  • Are enrolled in a secondary, post-secondary, or other recognized education program
  • Have an IEP, 504 plan, or other form of documented disability

Pre-ETS are based on a student’s individual needs and help them identify and explore career interests, plus develop independent living and social skills. Pre-ETS may include:

  • Job exploration and career counseling
  • Work-based learning experiences in the community
  • Counseling on post-secondary educational options
  • Workplace readiness training
  • Self-advocacy instruction

VR Transition Services

Vocational Rehabilitation Transition Services support students and youth who:

  • Are between the ages of 14 and 24
  • Have documentation of legal blindness or a progressive eye condition that may result in legal blindness within 24 months
  • Are eligible for and enrolled in VR services

Services are based on a youth’s specific interests and needs and may include:

  • Eligibility and needs assessments
  • Counseling and guidance
  • Disability-related skills training
  • Post-secondary educational assistance
  • Job-related services (search, placement, and retention)

These services are designed to help youth prepare for and obtain competitive integrated employment.