Programs
Vocational Rehabilitation
Program
Children’s
Program
Independent Living
Program
Orientation & Mobility
Training
Activities of Daily
Living
Assistive Technology
Program
Client & Family Support
Program
Young Adults Program
Our Young Adults program empowers students aged 14–22 with vision loss to develop independence and prepare for a successful transition from high school to higher education or employment.
Offered at no cost, this program provides a supportive environment where young adults can gain essential skills to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.
More about the Young Adult Program
Participants benefit from:
- Develop Essential Life Skills: Gain the tools needed to navigate daily living and thrive independently.
- Job Readiness Training: Build the foundation for future employment through hands-on learning and preparation.
- Self-Advocacy Mentoring: Learn to confidently advocate for your needs and goals in personal and professional settings.
- Explore Post-Secondary Opportunities: Receive personalized guidance on education and career paths beyond high school.
- Engaging Weekly Sessions: Connect with peers and mentors through regular meetings during the school year.
- Exciting Field Trips: Broaden your horizons with monthly outings that inspire and educate.
- Dynamic Summer Camp Experience: Participate in a transformative summer camp with opportunities for paid work experience through work-based learning initiatives.
Prepare for the challenges and opportunities of adulthood with our comprehensive program designed to build confidence, independence, and life skills.
Join us to build a brighter future filled with independence, growth, and success!
Vocational Rehabilitation Program
Our Vocational Rehabilitation Program is designed to empower visually impaired and blind adults to access, maintain, or return to employment. Whether you are entering the workforce for the first time or re-establishing your career, our certified instructors provide personalized support to help you achieve your employment goals—at no cost to you.
More about the Vocational Rehab Program
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Assessment: We begin with an evaluation of your unique needs, strengths, and career aspirations.
- Individualized and Group Training: Benefit from tailored instruction in both one-on-one and group settings.
- Job Readiness and Placement: Learn essential tools and strategies for securing and sustaining meaningful employment.
- Vocational Training: Develop critical skills, including:
– Computer instruction with adaptive software
– Orientation & Mobility training for workplace navigation
– Independent living skills to support career success
Participants progress at their own pace, gaining the confidence and capabilities needed to thrive in the workplace. Our program is dedicated to providing the skills, resources, and support to transform goals into accomplishments.
Your path to employment starts here. Contact us today to learn more!
Independent Living Program
Our Independent Living Program empowers adults who are blind or visually impaired to maintain independence and safety in their daily lives. Through tailored instruction and adaptive techniques, participants gain the skills needed to navigate everyday tasks with confidence and ease—all at no cost.
More about the Independent Living Program
What You’ll Learn:
- Alternative methods for cooking, cleaning, shopping, and home maintenance
- Techniques for organizing, managing personal finances, and more
Comprehensive Vision Rehabilitation Training:
This program offers three core areas of training to support your independence:
- Orientation & Mobility: Safely navigate your home and community.
- Adjustment to Vision Loss: Build resilience and adapt to changes in vision.
- Assistive Technology: Master tools that enhance everyday living and productivity.
We provide both center-based and in-home (itinerant) services, ensuring accessibility for all participants. The Independent Living Program is designed to help individuals with vision loss continue living independently and confidently in their own homes.
Discover the tools and techniques to enhance your independence. Contact us today to learn more!
Ready to enroll in one of our programs?
Children’s Program: Empowering Learners with Independence & Confidence
At Lighthouse Vision Loss Center, we believe that every child deserves the tools and support to thrive. Our Children’s Program provides specialized training and instruction for children ages 5-13 who are visually impaired, helping them develop essential skills for independence, self-advocacy, and academic success.
More about the Children's Program
What We Offer
Our program provides supplementary training beyond what is received in school, focusing on the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC)—a research-based approach designed to help children with visual impairments develop critical life skills.
We offer:
After-school training on weekdays
Weekend sessions (1-2 times per month)
Training on teacher planning days
Summer and spring break programs
Through individual and group instruction, we work to:
Enhance academic achievements by reinforcing key concepts and skills
Develop social skills & self-advocacy for greater confidence and independence
Provide pre-vocational skills training to prepare children for future success
Engage parents, guardians & families as key partners in fostering independence
__________
Who is the Program For?
Children ages 5-13 who are visually impaired and need additional support beyond the classroom.
__________
How It Helps
Our program bridges the gap between school (academics) and home, providing essential skills that empower children to navigate the world with greater confidence and independence.
By combining individualized instruction, group learning, and family involvement, we help each child build the skills they need to succeed in school, at home, and in their community.
How to Get Started
STEPHANIE WASHINGTON
Children’s Program Coordinator
(941) 359-1404 ext. 750
StephanieW@lighthousevlc.org
At Lighthouse Vision Loss Center, we don’t just teach skills—we build confidence, independence, and a brighter future.
Orientation & Mobility Training
Our Orientation & Mobility program empowers individuals with the skills to travel safely, efficiently, and independently in their homes, workplaces, schools, and communities. This training is provided at no cost and tailored to each participant’s unique needs through an individualized service plan.
More about Orientation & Mobility Training
Program Highlights:
Our certified instructors work with clients to develop essential mobility skills, including:
- White Cane Techniques: Master the skills needed to navigate safely and confidently in various environments.
- Home Organization and Patterning: Arrange and adapt your living space for easier navigation and accessibility.
- Orientation Skills: Enhance spatial awareness and confidence in both familiar and unfamiliar areas.
- Protective Techniques: Learn methods to ensure safe and efficient travel.
- Sighted Guide Basics: Understand how to effectively use sighted assistance when needed.
- Innovative Mobility Strategies: Discover new approaches to regaining and maintaining mobility.
Each training plan is developed in collaboration with the participant, beginning with a thorough evaluation to identify goals and priorities. O&M training empowers individuals to embrace independence, navigate with confidence, and experience greater freedom in their daily lives.
Contact us today to learn more about how O&M training can help you or a loved one achieve greater mobility and independence!
Activities of Daily Living
Vision loss can occur at any age and often brings emotional and practical challenges, including feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Everyday tasks, from getting dressed to preparing meals, may feel overwhelming. The Adjustment to Vision Loss Program at Lighthouse Vision Loss Center provides essential support, training, and resources to help individuals adapt and maintain independence—all at no cost.
More about the Activities of Daily Living program
Program Benefits:
Our specialized classes empower participants to:
- Live Independently: Develop the skills needed to lead self-sufficient lives with confidence.
- Maximize Functional Vision: Learn techniques to make the most of remaining vision.
- Enhance Communication Skills: Master alternative methods for reading and writing.
- Cook Safely and Confidently: Gain practical cooking skills and learn safety techniques through hands-on instruction.
Through a combination of skill-building exercises and personalized guidance, participants also strengthen mobility, motor skills, patience, and confidence—essential tools for navigating daily life with vision loss.
Start your journey toward independence today. Contact us to learn more about the Adjustment to Vision Loss Program!
Assistive Technology Program
The Assistive Technology Program at Lighthouse Vision Loss Center empowers individuals with vision loss to confidently use technology to enhance their daily lives. Whether you’re new to technology or looking to update your skills with the latest tools and apps, we provide hands-on training and support tailored to your needs—all at no cost.
More about Assistive Technology Program
Program Highlights:
- Hands-On Training: Gain experience with cutting-edge visual aids and adaptive technologies designed for accessibility.
- Personalized Learning: Develop skills at your own pace with guidance from our experienced instructors.
- Comprehensive Support: Learn to navigate computers, mobile devices, and related technologies for work, communication, and daily living.
- Boost Productivity: Discover tools that make tasks easier, whether staying in touch with loved ones or remaining competitive in the workplace.
Benefits:
- Enables blind and visually impaired individuals to fully utilize computer technology.
- Builds technological literacy to support independence and productivity.
- Prepares participants for success in today’s job market.
Whether you want to explore how to make your mobile phone easier to use or need to master software for career advancement, the Assistive Technology Program is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn how technology can open new doors to independence and opportunity!
Client & Family Support Services
The primary purpose of the Client and Family Support Program is to provide both clients and family members comprehensive support, education, and knowledge regarding emotional and social rehabilitation needs. Support Services are provided in the home, virtually or on site at The Lighthouse.
For more information about any of the services listed, please contact Kaylin Petracca Client & Family Services Manager 941-415-9699 kaylinp@lighthousevlc.org
More about the Client & Family Support Services
The following services are offered:
- Coping with Grief and Loss Workshop & Group
- Self-Advocacy Workshop
- Client Support Group
- Family Support Group
- Family Sessions
- Individual Client Sessions
- Peer to Peer Support Sessions