Blind and Low Vision Information Center

Organizations

1. A Blind Net
   This site provides a variety of information about blindness; general information as well as links to organizations of and for the blind, some of the companies that provide equipment used by blind people, and other resources. [More Information on A Blind Net]
   
   
2. AbilityHub
   "AbilityHub.com's purpose is to help you find information on adaptive equipment and alternative methods available for accessing computers. Searching the Internet for accurate information on Assistive Technology is much like "looking for a needle in a haystack". This website attempts to reduced the size of the haystack and bring you the information in an organized fashion." [More Information on AbilityHub]
   
   
3. AbilityOne
   Formerly known as Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD), AbilityOne is a Federal initiative to help people who are blind or severely disabled find employment by working for nonprofit agencies (NPAs) that sell products and/or services to the U.S. Government. The Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled administers the AbilityOne program. It has designated National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and NISH to assist with program implementation. The core criterion for eligibility is that 75% of total direct labor hours must be performed by people who are blind or have other disabilities. In 2006, nearly 47,000 people were employed through the program, making AbilityOne the largest source of work opportunities for people who are blind or have other severe disabilities in the U.S. [More Information on AbilityOne]
   
   
4. ACB Radio
   This Internet radio station for the blind is sponsored by the American Council of the Blind. It features blind broadcasters in eight countries, broadcasting to a worldwide audience in over 70 countries. A wide variety of programs are offered on topics like technology ("Main Menu, The Technology Show"), music (the ACB Radio Cafe), and classic drama and comedy. [More Information on ACB Radio]
   
   
5. Access Review
   Published by the Sensory Access Foundation, first as a printed journal and later as an online journal, the mission of Access Review was "to research, compile, and disseminate information on the function, comparison and implementation of access technology in education, training, and employment for individuals who are blind or visually impaired." This journal has ceased publication. [More Information on Access Review]
   
   
6. Access Technology Institute
   ATI offers online training courses to blind people on the use of current computer software such as Microsoft Windows and HTML authoring. [More Information on Access Technology Institute]
   
   
7. AccessBraille
   AccessBraille specializes in Braille transcription of materials. All work is produced by a Library of Congress Certified Braille Transcriptionist and sent free of charge via UPS Ground. The company specializes in production of Braille textbooks, technical manuals, product catalogs, large volume brochures, and other general literature requests. [More Information on AccessBraille]
   
   
8. Accessible Games
   "Accessible Games are specifically designed for blind and visually impaired computer users. Accessible Games are not games written by sighted programmers, and made accessible. Instead, they are designed and written speciffically for blind and visually impaired gamers by a totally blind programmer." [More Information on Accessible Games]
   
   
9. AccessWorld
   AccessWorld: Technology and People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired is a bi-monthly periodical for anyone who uses or wants to use assistive technology, provides technology training, has students or clients who use technology, needs to make purchasing decisions, or wants to keep abreast of technological trends and events. AccessWorld is published by the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB). [More Information on AccessWorld]
   
   
10. Adjust to Blindness and Visual Impairment
    Robert Leslie Newman provides this "forum for the frank discussion of blindness related issues." There are two major features to the site: (1) Thought Provoker, an e-mail discussion forum, and (2) short stories highlighting successful adjustments to blindness. [More Information on Adjust to Blindness and Visual Impairment]
    
    
11. Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians
    The Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) is a consumer group of blind, partially sighted, and deaf-blind adults, parents of the aforementioned and other interested individuals, with a common goal to preserve and enhance the rights of such persons in Canada through public education, advocacy, and other initiatives. [More Information on Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians]
    
    
12. American Council of the Blind
    ACB is a leading membership organization of blind and visually impaired people. With 51 state and regional affiliates and 20 national special interest and professional affiliates, the Council strives to improve the well-being of all blind and visually impaired people. Their publication, The Braille Forum is a free, monthly magazine in Braille, large print, cassette, or IBM-compatible disk. This magazine contains articles on employment, legislation, sports, products, services and other pertinent information concerning the blind and visually impaired. [More Information on American Council of the Blind]
    
    
13. American Foundation for the Blind
    The American Foundation for the Blind is a national nonprofit whose mission is to ensure that the ten million Americans who are blind or visually impaired enjoy the same rights and opportunities as other citizens. The American Foundation for the Blind promotes wide-ranging, systemic change by addressing critical issues such as employment, independent living, literacy, and technology. In addition to its New York City headquarters, the AFB maintains four National Centers in cities across the United States, and a Governmental Relations office in Washington, DC. It publishes the Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness, a professional journal, and Access World, a consumer-oriented publication on assistive technology that is available free through the AFB web site. The AFB Press also publishes books on teaching braille, which are available through the AFB Bookstore. [More Information on American Foundation for the Blind]
    
    
14. American Health Assistance Foundation
    The American Health Assistance Foundation (AHAF) funds research on Alzheimer's disease, glaucoma, macular degeneration, heart disease, and stroke. AHAF also provides the public with information about risk factors, preventative lifestyles, available treatments and coping strategies. [More Information on American Health Assistance Foundation]
    
    
15. American Macular Degeneration Foundation
    AAMDF provides information on macular degeneration, including prevention and care issues. The "Care & Services Directory" provides a state-by-state listing of professional eye care pproviders and state agencies specializing in blindness and visual impairment. [More Information on American Macular Degeneration Foundation]
    
    
16. Associated Blind, Inc.
    Associated Blind, Inc. concentrates on helping to reduce unemployment by providing highly individualized services for individuals who are blind or have low vision and who already have basic skills to help them move along a career path into better avenues of employment or entrepreneurial ventures. Its programs concentrate on professional development, skill assessment, and advising clients where to obtain the right training and resources. [More Information on Associated Blind, Inc.]
    
    
17. Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired
    The AER is an international membership organization dedicated to rendering support and assistance to the professionals who work in all phases of education and rehabilitation of blind and visually impaired children and adults. [More Information on Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired]
    
    
18. Association of Blind Citizens
    The ABC is a membership organization of blind/visually impaired persons, their friends and families, and other interested individuals who recognize the needs and issues effecting the blind community. It provides assistance through information and referral services, advocacy, and other supports to maximize and increase options and opportunities for all blind and visually impaired persons. The ABC offers an online newsletter (20/20 Access), informative meetings, and a radio show (In Focus). It sponsors an Assistive Technology Fund (ATF) that makes grants to cover 50% of the retail price of adaptive devices or software. Legally blind residents of the United States are eligible. [More Information on Association of Blind Citizens]
    
    
19. Atlanta VA Rehabilitation Research and Development Center of Excellence for Aging Veterans with Vision Loss
    The mission of the Atlanta VA Rehabilitation Research and Development Center is to improve the everyday function and quality of life of aging Veterans with vision loss and their caregivers. [More Information on Atlanta VA Rehabilitation Research and Development Center of Excellence for Aging Veterans with Vision Loss]
    
    
20. Audio Description International Website
    The mission of the Audio Description International website is to promote and support Audio Description services in various settings through shared information, referral, and education. This website is one of only two active components of the organization formerly known as Audio Description International, which last met at a conference in Washington DC in March 2002. At the present time, the organization itself is dormant, its board disbanded; but this website is updated periodically as a reference source for all who are interested. The other active component of ADI is a Yahoo Group forum in which anyone is welcome to participate. The ADI website is maintained on a volunteer basis by Fred Brack of Raleigh, NC. Fred is an audio describer and board member of Arts Access Inc, an organization whose mission is "Making the arts accessible to people with disabilities." Part of that mission is audio description. The website is owned and paid for by Barry Levine, past president of ADI and a consumer of audio description services. [More Information on Audio Description International Website]
    
    
21. Audio Studio for the Reading Impaired
    "The Audio Studio for the Reading Impaired is a non-profit agency devoted to producing recordings of printed material for anyone who is physically unable to read standard print or unable to hold a book. While we record books, magazines, and newspapers for Talking Book Libraries, our unique focus is a one-on-one relationship with individuals who have special needs for materials not recorded elsewhere. We transfer the recordings to cassettes and will mail them to our clients. We serve people all over the country. Fees are minimal: $10.00 recording fee for up to 500 pages if two copies of the reading material are provided or $20.00 if only one copy is provided." [More Information on Audio Studio for the Reading Impaired]
    
    
22. AudioDescription.com
    AudioDescription.com is a web site of Media Access Australia providing information about what audio description is and how it works, as well as details about the history of audio description. This site is constantly updated with audio description developments happening both in Australia and internationally, and it contains information about other organisations that help with audio description services. This website benefits people looking for a technological solution to media accessibility, including people who are blind or visually impaired, and people with print disabilities such as dyslexia, colour blindness, learning difficulties and physical disabilities that affect interaction with print and visual media. Other information about DVDs, Cinema, TV and the Arts is also provided, including a complete listing of audio described DVD titles available in Australia. [More Information on AudioDescription.com]
    
    
23. A-Z to Deafblindness
    This site is hosted by James Gallagher, who is deafblind himself. It offers information on, and links to, services and other resources for people who are blind, deaf and deafblind. [More Information on A-Z to Deafblindness]
    
    
24. BiOptic Driving Network - USA
    The BiOptic Driving Network is "a registered non-profit organization founded in 2001 to serve the needs and interests of those with stable low vision who may be able to drive with a miniaturized telescope mounted in the(usually) upper half of a pair of spectacles, a so-called BiOptic Telescope System (BTS). Such people may include those with albinism, nystagmus, cataracts, and corneal diseases, as well as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and other conditions that affect the central macular area." The organization has branches in the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Australia, and Taiwan. [More Information on BiOptic Driving Network - USA]
    
    
25. Blind Access Journal
    "This blog and podcast is all about the blind and our quest for the greatest possible access to all the information available in the world around us. Karen and I (Darrell Shandrow) chronicle our experiences dealing with a variety of issues as a blind couple, show how we have dealt with various blindness situations and seek comments on ways to constructively address the concrete concerns of accessibility and transportation we face on a daily basis." [More Information on Blind Access Journal]
    
    
26. Blind Ambitions Groups
    The Blind Ambitions Groups web site has information for the blind and visually impaired and their families to help them understand blindness better. It contains links to articles, tips, training, support group meetings and other topics specifically for the blind. It also has audio archives for Eyes on Employment and Sound of Sight, two radio shows for the blind that deal with life issues and employment. The programs air on stations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and on ACB Radio, the Internet radio service of the American Council of the Blind. [More Information on Blind Ambitions Groups]
    
    
27. Blind Bargains
    Blind Bargains tracks deals and bargains on blindness-related products including deals from online stores, used items, and auctions. The goal is to connect blind people with reasonably-priced equipment. Many items, especially used items, are listed on Ebay and on various Web sites, and the goal is to centralize this information. The site also offer a feature called Blind Search, a customized search engine for dozens of blindness-related websites. [More Information on Blind Bargains]
    
    
28. Blind Children's Center
    Located in Southern California, "The Blind Childrens Center is a family-centered agency which serves children with visual impairments from birth to school-age. The center-based and home-based programs and services help the children acquire skills and build their independence. The Center utilizes its expertise and experience to serve families and professionals worldwide through support services, education, and research." [More Information on Blind Children's Center]
    
    
29. Blind Children's Fund
    The Blind Children's Fund is a non-profit organization providing information, materials, equipment, and resources for parents and professionals working with children who are blind. [More Information on Blind Children's Fund]
    
    
30. Blind Citizens Australia
    The national consumer organization of Australians who are blind or visually impaired. They sponsor an online discussion of blindness-low vision issues and have a great links section. [More Information on Blind Citizens Australia]
    
    
31. Blind Cool Tech
    Blind Cool Tech is a podcast that provides interviews, takes the listener on sound-seeing tours, and discusses life and cool technology, especially technology that blind people can use. [More Information on Blind Cool Tech]
    
    
32. Blind Corps
    Blind Corps consists of an all-volunteer group of professionals in the field of work with the blind. It was formed in November of 2005 with the purpose of addressing the rehabilitation needs of blind people in developing nations by sharing the knowledge and experience of American rehabilitation professionals with individuals in developing nations who are interested in the advancement of the blind in those countries, including the blind themselves, rehabilitation workers, support organizations of the blind, government agencies, and the friends and families of the blind. The goal is to bring the blind to the point of economic, social and political equality by providing educational and technical support. The first Blind Corps project is in Turkey, where the Fiziksel Engelliler Vakfi (Physical Disabilities Foundation), in partnership with the Municipal Government of Istanbul, has invited Blind Corps volunteer rehabilitation consultants to present a program of intensive training services. The Turkish Republic is funding the expenses of seven volunteer trainers for this mission. Blind Corps is a non-profit corporation, 501c3 status pending. [More Information on Blind Corps]
    
    
33. Blind Geek Zone
    The Blind Geek Zone is a web site devoted to computers and blind computer users. Contents include audio tutorials and podcasts, documents, programs, and web links. The webmaster also offers customized one-on-one software training and technical support for reasonable rates. [More Information on Blind Geek Zone]
    
    
34. Blind Handyman & Blind Like Me
    The Blind Handyman and Blind Like Me are Internet radio programs that can be heard on ACB Radio at http://www.acbradio.org and on radio reading services for the blind around the United States. The Blind Handyman is a discussion program focused on home building, repair, and maintenance, all with the blind in mind. Listeners are invited to participate by sharing suggestions, ideas, comments, and experiences. Blind Like Me is an informative hour-long radio interview format show. The guests are blind and visually impaired individuals from all over the world, who present their unique perspective on how they have refused to let their visual acuity or lack thereof get in the way of doing exactly what they want, from sky diving to cooking. Blind Handyman and Blind Like Me are archived at the On Demand page on the ACB Radio web site. [More Information on Blind Handyman & Blind Like Me]
    
    
35. Blind Outdoor Leisure Development
    BOLD is an organization of blind and visually impaired individuals who participate in outdoor and cultural activities and people who are not visually impaired who support these activities. [More Information on Blind Outdoor Leisure Development]
    
    
36. Blind Rollers
    Blind Rollers is an online forum for discussing issues relating to blind people who have mobility disabilities. It is hosted by the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). The forum addresses the needs of blind people who require a wheelchair all or part of the time or have trouble walking. [More Information on Blind Rollers]
    
    
37. Blinded Veterans Association
    BVA is an organization specifically established to promote the welfare of blinded veterans. They offer counseling to veterans nationwide; assistance in obtaining rehabilitation services and reentering the workforce; a scholarship program for spouses and dependent children of blinded veterans; a bimonthly newsletter, BVA Bulletin; and activities organized by regional groups. [More Information on Blinded Veterans Association]
    
    
38. Blindskills, Inc.
    "The mission of Blindskills, Inc. is to distribute information and resources to visually impaired individuals and their families to enable them to meet their needs and aspirations while managing life with vision loss. Blindskills, Inc. provides a toll-free number that can be reached by anyone in the U.S. or Canada. The organization assisted 2200 callers in the last year alone. Its books, CONNIE'S KITCHEN and JOB HUNTING RESOURCES FOR PEOPLE WITH VISION IMPAIRMENTS are popular with visually impaired people, rehabilitation professionals and teachers. Blindskills, Inc. hosts a monthly support group that meets in Salem, Oregon. Staff members at Blindskills, Inc. also make presentations to service organizations, schools, retirement and senior centers and conferences for professionals and physicians in the field of vision impairment." [More Information on Blindskills, Inc.]
    
    
39. Bookshare.org
    Bookshare.org is a web-based system supplying accessible books in digital formats designed for people with disabilities. These digital formats are the NISO/DAISY XML-based format for the next generation of talking books, and the BRF format for Braille devices and printers. Access to copyrighted books from Bookshare.org is limited to people in the U.S. with bona fide print disabilities and the non profit organizations serving them. Bookshare.org takes advantage of a special exemption in the U.S. copyright law that permits the reproduction of publications into specialized formats for the disabled. Memberships are available to individuals or through organizations. Organizations that serve individuals with print disabilities may sponsor subscriptions for their students or clients. [More Information on Bookshare.org]
    
    
40. Braille Forum
    The Braille Forum is the monthly magazine of the American Council of the Blind. In addition to the versions on the web site, The Braille Forum is available in braille, audio cassette, large print, and by email. It contains information of interest both to ACB members and the general public. [More Information on Braille Forum ]
    
    
41. Braille Institute of America, Inc.
    The Braille Institute is a private, non-profit organization. The Institute offers counseling services, low vision rehabilitation consultations, and more than 200 classes in the southern California area to aid people who are blind or have low vision to lead independent, enriching lives. It also offers library services. The Institute's Braille Press is "the largest publisher of braille materials on the West Coast." [More Information on Braille Institute of America, Inc.]
    
    
42. Braille International, Inc.
    Braille International is a not-for-profit organization that provides a broad range of braille material for all ages. They are one of the world's largest producers of braille. [More Information on Braille International, Inc.]
    
    
43. Braille Jymico, Inc.
    Braille Jymico is a Canadian company that produces a variety of braille material including scientific braille (Nemeth code), tactile graphics, and musical braille. The site is in English and French. [More Information on Braille Jymico, Inc.]
    
    
44. Braille Monitor
    "The Braille Monitor is the leading publication of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). It is produced monthly and is available in large print, in Braille, on cassette tape, or in e-mail formats." An archive of every issue of the Monitor since 1987 is available for free online. [More Information on Braille Monitor]
    
    
45. Braille School
    Braille School, also known as BRL (Blindness Related Learning) is the leading provider of web-based communication learning tools for the visually impaired, their friends and family. Braille School offers "do it yourself" courses in Braille to aid in the communication among people who are living with a visual impairment. These courses will also allow people who do not have a disability to learn Braille, not only if they need it for work, but also to be able to communicate with people who are affected with a visual disability, otherwise known as a sensory disability. [More Information on Braille School]
    
    
46. Braille through Remote Learning (BRL)
    BRL is an online instructional program that provides teachers, parents, social workers, and current/future braille transcribers with a series of three integrated online courses in braille and braille transcribing. The program's goal is the provision of a complete braille instructional program to all types of consumers nationwide who have an interest in some or all aspects of braille codes. [More Information on Braille through Remote Learning (BRL)]
    
    
47. Braille Works
    Braille Works provides Braille transcription, large print document preparation, and documents in audio or screen reader friendly text files. Also available is an Access on Demand Service, enabling documents to be produced on an as-needed basis. [More Information on Braille Works]
    
    
48. Braillnet Plus
    Offered in both Czech and English, this site grew out of Czech Blind United's BBS. The site provides information on Czech Blind United and other Czech adaptive technology, guide dog, and rehabilitation services for people with visual disabilities in the Czech Republic. [More Information on Braillnet Plus]
    
    
49. BRL, Inc
    "Welcome to BRL, Inc. This web site is especially designed for partially sighted and blind visitors. At BRL, Inc., we specialize in products that aid the disabled in educational, vocational and recreational pursuits. The items listed in our catalog are designed to convert Windows computers into computers that are accessible for disabled users. We have products that will assist the blind, visually impaired and dyslexic." [More Information on BRL, Inc]
    
    
50. Casey Eye Institute (CEI)
    "Our mission at the Casey Eye Institute is to provide excellent eye care in a quality, cost-effective environment that combines education, research, clinical leadership and service to the community." [More Information on Casey Eye Institute (CEI)]
    
    
51. Challenge Aspen
    Aspen , Colorado offers a year-round program supporting sports and recreational activities for people with physical and mental disabilities. [More Information on Challenge Aspen]
    
    
52. Choice Magazine Listening
    CML offers free audio tapes of outstanding articles, short stories and poetry selected from over 100 current magazines such as The New Yorker, Audubon, The Atlantic, National Geographic, Scientific American, Smithsonian, Gourmet, Travel and Leisure, Sports Illustrated, Foreign Affairs, Outside, The Wall Street Journal, Granta and Time - along with occasional material from other media sources. These free tapes are distributed throughout the U.S. six times a year with eight hours of outstanding articles, fiction and poetry read by professional voices. The unabridged articles are recorded on 4-track tapes to be played on the special tape players available free through the Library of Congress Talking Book Program. [More Information on Choice Magazine Listening]
    
    
53. Chubu Guide Dogs Association
    Raises and trains guide dogs for the visually impaired. [More Information on Chubu Guide Dogs Association]
    
    
54. Cincinnati Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
    "The Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped provides library service to eligible individuals and institutions. Library service is free, but individuals and residents must register with the department by completing an application and providing appropriate certification." [More Information on Cincinnati Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped]
    
    
55. CNIB
    CNIB is a national voluntary agency providing services to blind and visually impaired individuals across Canada in personal and social adjustments. It acts as a consultant and resource agency to the helping professions, government departments and private industry. CNIB also provides library services; career development and employment services; counselling and referral; rehabilitation teaching; orientation and mobility training; and vision rehabilitation. The site is in English and French. [More Information on CNIB]
    
    
56. Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind
    The Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind has offered programs that enable individuals who are blind or visually impaired to obtain and maintain independence at home, school, work, and in the community. CLB's programs and services include early intervention services, training and consultation in assistive technology, career placement services, comprehensive low vision care and a wide range of rehabilitation services. [More Information on Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind]
    
    
57. Connections for the Blind
    Connections for the Blind is an online magazine of classified ads for individuals who are blind or have low vision. Ads can include offers to buy, sell, or trade products or services, including used equipment. Individuals can place their first ad of fifty words or less for free, then pay five dollars for another ad of this size. A sponsored ad (an article of 250 words or less) costs $20. All ads run for one month. Email subcriptions are free. To subscribe, send a blank email with “subscribe” in the subject line to mnoel71@juno.com. It is not necessary to subscribe in order to place an ad. Ads may be dictated by calling the Connections for the Blind phone number from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Pacific Time, or submitted by mail in braille, large type, cassette, or on diskette. Payment methods are described on the Connections for the Blind web site. [More Information on Connections for the Blind]
    
    
58. Cooking in the Dark
    Cooking in the Dark is a weekly audio program about cooking techniques for individuals who are blind. The hosts, Cheryl Cummings and Dale Campbell, demonstrate several recipes each week. The program is broadcast on ACB Radio and is also available as podcasts in a searchable archive. [More Information on Cooking in the Dark]
    
    
59. Council of Citizens with Low Vision International
    CCLVI is an advocacy group with affiliates in several major U.S. metropolitan areas. They publish "Vision Access," a journal for and by those with low vision. [More Information on Council of Citizens with Low Vision International ]
    
    
60. Council of Schools for the Blind
    The Council of Schools for the Blind is a consortium of specialized schools in Canada and the United States whose major goal is improving the quality of services to children who are blind or visually impaired. [More Information on Council of Schools for the Blind]
    
    
61. Criss Cross Technologies
    Criss Cross provides "learning and training materials for computer users who use talking computers." They serve people who are blind or have low vision and use screen readers to access computers. [More Information on Criss Cross Technologies]
    
    
62. DEBBI - Danish Electronic Library for the Blind
    A service of the Foundation for the Blind, Denmark, DEBBI provides electronic versions of books, periodicals and public documents to the Danish Blind. In Danish and English. [More Information on DEBBI - Danish Electronic Library for the Blind ]
    
    
63. Descriptive Video Service
    Descriptive Video Service (DVS) from WGBH in Boston is a national service that makes Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television programs, Hollywood movies on video, and other visual media accessible to people who are blind or visually impaired. DVS provides narrated descriptions of the key visual elements without interfering with the audio or dialogue of a program or movie. The narration describes visual elements such as actions, settings, body language and graphics. DVS is broadcast free to viewers by more than 130 public television stations nationwide. To receive DVS on television, a viewer must have either a stereo TV or VCR with the Second Audio Program (S.A.P.) feature or S.A.P. adapter. [More Information on Descriptive Video Service]
    
    
64. Dialogue
    From Blindskills, Inc., Dialogue magazine is written specifically for persons who are blind or are experiencing sight loss. Each issue contains ideas and solutions intended to enhance it readers' quality of life. Articles cover a wide range of subject matter, including adjustment techniques, mobility, employment, independence, health, technology, cuisine,student issues, sports and recreation. Short pieces of fiction and poetry, submitted by readers, are spotlighted in each issue. Dialogue contains a resource section of products and services to aid the visually impaired in all aspects of life. [More Information on Dialogue]
    
    
65. DynaVox Page Exchange
    Set up for DynaVox communicator users, therapists and programmers, this site enables users to download ready made pages for DynaVox and DynaMite Devices. In addition to sparking creative ideas, these pages can be used "as is" or can be customized for each individual user. The site also has specific instructions for connecting a dedicated DynaVox device to a computer at little to no expense. [More Information on DynaVox Page Exchange]
    
    
66. Empowerment Zone
    This is the home page of Jamal Mazrui, a blind consultant on computer accessibility. The site contains an extensive archive of information on computer accessibility. It also has a collection of documents on other issues related to disability and civil rights. [More Information on Empowerment Zone]
    
    
67. EnableLink.com
    EnableLink.com is an "online community just for visually impaired adults and their families." Its online store offers products for people with visual disabilities. The site also provides a variety of original articles, mainly written by blind and visually impaired authors. [More Information on EnableLink.com]
    
    
68. Enrichment Audio Resource Services, Inc. (E.A.R.S. for Eyes)
    E.A.R.S. for Eyes is a non-profit organization which offers free audio cassette lesson tapes that teach adaptive daily living skills to the vision impaired and their caregivers. Each lesson tape provides uncomplicated, straightforward ways to help the listener do the things made difficult by low vision. To order lesson tapes, the user must call the organization and talk to a counselor about his or her needs. There are four lesson tapes on adaptive skills in the kitchen and in food preparation; two lesson tapes on mobility in the house and when going out; three tapes on personal care (grooming, doing the laundry, and managing medications); one on techniques which help avoid embarrassment when dining with others; and one with practical advice on using the telephone. An introductory lesson, which will always accompanies the first tape that is sent, explains how to most effectively utilize the lessons and discusses the audio tape cassette player. Each lesson tape is designed to stand alone and there is no progressive order or sequence to the lessons. An individual can choose the subject areas that are the most troublesome and order only those tapes, skipping those areas that are not problematic. [More Information on Enrichment Audio Resource Services, Inc. (E.A.R.S. for Eyes)]
    
    
69. eSights Career Network
    eSights offers job listings and other information to aid people who are blind or have low vision in finding employment opportunities. [More Information on eSights Career Network]
    
    
70. ESP Software
    "ESP Softworks is the industry leading developer of accessible game software for the blind and visually impaired using cutting edge technologies and innovation. Our primary development arena includes products developed for personal entertainment. Our goal is to use the latest technologies to develop accessible games that'll keep even the most demanding of game players engrossed for hours on end." [More Information on ESP Software]
    
    
71. Finnish Federation for the Visually Impaired
    The Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired provides a variety of services for Finns who are blind or have low vision. These services include: consulting regarding employment; IT training and guidance; import, sales and lending of technical aids; production of braille, large-print and audio materials; transmission of newspapers, magazines and other publications by means of information technology; guide dog training; creation of opportunities for shared leisure activities; and maintaining a strong network of international contacts by projects and development cooperation. [More Information on Finnish Federation for the Visually Impaired]
    
    
72. Foundation Fighting Blindness
    The Foundation is a charitable organization that supports research to prevent and treat conditions that cause blindness. The site also offers materials for people who are blind or have low vision and their friends and families. [More Information on Foundation Fighting Blindness]
    
    
73. Foundation for Blind Children
    The Foundation for Blind Children (FBC) provides assistive technology, training, education and counseling for people who are blind or otherwise visually impaired from its offices in Arizona. [More Information on Foundation for Blind Children]
    
    
74. Fred's Head
    Fred's Head is an accessible, on-line catalog of useful tips, techniques, and resources for the blind and visually impaired. The heart of this catalog is drawn from the experience of Fred Gissoni of the American Printing House for the Blind, Inc. The subjects covered range from the practical-- using old greeting cards for braille notepaper, to the esoteric-what blind people experience when they dream. There is a form for submitting questions not already covered. [More Information on Fred's Head]
    
    
75. Future Reflections
    Future Reflections is a magazine for parents and teachers of blind children. It is published quarterly by the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children, a Division of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). Future Reflections is available in print, on cassette tape, or via email, and a special introductory book issue is available free from the NFB. Content from current and past issues can be accessed using the Web. [More Information on Future Reflections]
    
    
76. gh LLC
    "gh, LLC ("gh") combines innovation and expert knowledge in disabilities to provide technology-based products and services that help people with disabilities, as well as those without, gain access to information. gh offers software applications for accessing static and dynamic information and provides the service of converting information sources into a variety of accessible media formats." [More Information on gh LLC]
    
    
77. Guide Dog Foundation For the Blind, Inc.
    Since 1946, the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, Inc. has provided guide dogs free of charge to blind people who seek enhanced mobility and independence. [More Information on Guide Dog Foundation For the Blind, Inc.]
    
    
78. Guide Dog Users Inc.
    Guide Dog Users Inc. (GDUI) is one of the largest organization of people interested in the dog as a working guide. The membership is international, with the bulk of members in the continental United States, but with members in Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, Brazil, Australia and Japan. [More Information on Guide Dog Users Inc.]
    
    
79. Guide Dogs for the Blind
    Guide Dogs for the Blind is a nonprofit, charitable organization with a mission to provide guide dogs and training in their use to visually impaired people throughout the U.S. and Canada. It operates two training centers in San Rafael, CA and Boring, OR. The site offers information on guide dog training and care. [More Information on Guide Dogs for the Blind]
    
    
80. Guide Dogs of America
    "Guide Dogs of America is dedicated to its mission to provide guide dogs and instruction in their use, free of charge, to blind and visually impaired men and women from the United States and Canada so that they may continue to pursue their goals with increased mobility and independence." [More Information on Guide Dogs of America]
    
    
81. Hadley School for the Blind
    The Hadley School for the Blind offers more than 90 distance education courses to eligible students completely free of charge. From "Braille Reading for Family Members" to "Birdsong Tutor," you can select from a wide variety of Hadley courses. Course materials arrive in the mail (a few are downloadable), and for students in the U.S. and Canada, instructors are available by phone toll-free. [More Information on Hadley School for the Blind]
    
    
82. Helen Keller International
    HKI is an international nonprofit organization devoted to fighting and treating preventable blindness worldwide. With offices in New York, Africa and Asia, it helps millions of people in 80 countries preserve their sight. HKI also restores sight to blind people when possible, and works with the irreversibly blind people to support their efforts to lead more productive and fulfilling lives. Through its Childsight program, HKI provides eyeglasses and other services to children with vision impairments. [More Information on Helen Keller International]
    
    
83. Hong Kong Society for the Blind
    HKSB provides extensive services for people in Hong Kong who are blind or have low vision. [More Information on Hong Kong Society for the Blind]
    
    
84. Horizons for the Blind
    Horizons enhances self-sufficiency of blind individuals by providing braille, large print, and audio cassette and CD instruction in crafts, gardening, food preparation, and the operation of household appliances. It also produces braille, large print, and audio materials and braille signage for businesses and other organizations. [More Information on Horizons for the Blind]
    
    
85. HotBraille.com
    This site is a portal for the blind, their friend and families. It offers many resources for blind people, many of which emphasize Braille. There is even a tool on the home page that allows you to input a word and see it in Braille! Members can interact with instant messaging. Membership and all of the sites other services are offered for free. [More Information on HotBraille.com]
    
    
86. Institute for Innovative Blind Navigation
    "The mission of the Institute for Innovative Blind Navigation (IIBN) is to become a global center for the study, promotion, and development of sophisticated wayfinding technologies that have the potential for improving the efficiency and safety of travel for blind individuals. IIBN is a wayfinding think tank organized to gather consumer, public, and professional opinion, formulate proposed policies, and develop and distribute relevant information." IIBN is a 501(c)(3) charity. [More Information on Institute for Innovative Blind Navigation]
    
    
87. International Association of Audio Information Services
    IAAIS is an organization of services that provide audio access to information for people who are print disabled (blind, visually impaired, learning disabled or physically disabled). This site includes links for radio reading services for the blind in the U.S. and other countries. [More Information on International Association of Audio Information Services]
    
    
88. International Council for Education of People with Visual Impairment
    The International Council for Education of People with Visual Impairment (ICEVI) is a global association of individuals and organisations that promotes equal access to appropriate education for all visually impaired children and youth so that they may achieve their full potential. [More Information on International Council for Education of People with Visual Impairment]
    
    
89. Jewish Braille Institute of America
    The Jewish Braille Institute of America (JBI) seeks the integration of Jews who are blind, visually impaired and reading disabled into the Jewish community and society in general. The JBI Library includes religious texts and other books of specific interest to Jews. [More Information on Jewish Braille Institute of America]
    
    
90. Jewish Guild for the Blind
    The Guild is a not-for-profit, non-sectarian agency that serves persons of all ages who are visually impaired, blind and multidisabled. It offers a broad range of programs that include: medical, vision, low vision, psychiatric and rehabilitative services, managed long-term care, residential services, day health programs, schools and educational training programs for independent living. In addition, The Guild's radio reading service, InTouch Networks, and SightCare, its vision care education and training program, address the special needs of thousands of people nationwide. In addition to the home office in New York City, there are Guild offices in Albany, New York and West Palm Beach, Florida. [More Information on Jewish Guild for the Blind]
    
    
91. Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness
    The Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness (JVIB) is the international, interdisciplinary journal of record on blindness and visual impairment from the American Foundation for the Blind that publishes scholarship and information and serves as a forum for the exchange of ideas, airing of controversies, and discussion of issues. JVIB is a monthly publication that includes research articles, as well as shorter pieces of interest to practitioners and extensive news coverage about the field of visual impairment. The tables of contents are available on-line, but only a few articles can be viewed on the Web. [More Information on Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness]
    
    
92. Judy Dixon's Collection of Braille and Tactile-writing Slates
    Judy Dixon is the community relations director of the NLS, but this is her own private site. It includes descriptions of each of the more than 200 braille slates in her collection. [More Information on Judy Dixon's Collection of Braille and Tactile-writing Slates]
    
    
93. Libraries for the Blind Section, International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions
    This site includes an international directory of libraries for the blind, Guidelines for Library Service to Braille Users, and recent issues of the IFLA Libraries for the Blind Section semiannual newsletter. [More Information on Libraries for the Blind Section, International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions]
    
    
94. Lighthouse International
    Founded in 1905, Lighthouse International is a non-profit organization whose goal is to prevent the disability associated with vision loss and to enhance the daily lives of people with visual impairments at any age. New York Lighthouse Vision Rehabilitation Services is a major provider of vision rehabilitation services in New York State. Other activities of Lighthouse International include professional education, research, prevention, and advocacy. In partnership with the Royal National Institute for the Blind, it built VisionConnection, a global Internet portal for people who are partially sighted or blind. It sells products for consumers through the Lighthouse Store, and to professionals through its Professional Products Division, also known as the Low Vision SuperStore. [More Information on Lighthouse International]
    
    
95. Lioncourt.com - Mac Accessibility News
    This Web site provides information and links related to the use of Apple products by the blind and visually impaired. The site aims to collect information and resources to educate and assist blind and visually impaired Mac users, and to remedy misconceptions about the accessibility of Mac products, while encouraging use of the Mac OS X platform for work, school, or pleasure. The site includes Twitter posts, news stories, editorials, and podcast links. [More Information on Lioncourt.com - Mac Accessibility News]
    
    
96. Lions Clubs International
    Lions Clubs International is a volunteer organization with 1.3 million members in approximately 45,000 clubs in 200 countries and geographical areas. Worldwide, Lions Clubs are recognized for their service to the blind and visually impaired. This service began when Helen Keller challenged Lions to become "knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness" during the 1925 Lions Clubs International Convention. Clubs provide free quality eye care, eyeglasses, Braille writers, large print texts, white canes, and guide dogs for thousands of people each year. The Lions SightFirst Program has restored sight to 7 million people through cataract surgeries, prevented serious vision loss for 20 million people, and improved eye care services for hundreds of millions. The Lions Clubs International web site includes a locator for finding local clubs. [More Information on Lions Clubs International]
    
    
97. Lions Foundation of Canada
    Lions Foundation of Canada trains dog guides for people who are blind or visually impaired, people who are deaf or hard of hearing, and people with medically and physically limiting disabilities. All programs are offered at no charge to the client, but future care and maintenance become the responsibility of the dog guide recipient. [More Information on Lions Foundation of Canada]
    
    
98. Lions World Services for the Blind
    Lions World Services for the Blind is a training and rehabilitation center for people who are blind or visually impaired. Services include psycho-social counseling, training in independent living skills, personal adjustment training, and vocational evaluation and training. Training for independent living includes such skills as Braille, typing, oral communications, clothing care, cooking, grooming, housekeeping, independent travel through the use of a long cane, orientation to the environment, and use of transportation systems. Personal adjustment training includes the development of self-confidence in areas of social skills, physical conditioning and recreation. The center currently offers 13 vocational programs, which include three courses that teach trainees to work for the Internal Revenue Service. The three IRS courses are Contact Collection Representative, Service Center Collection Representative, and Taxpayer Service Representative. The other vocational programs are Assistive Technology Instructor, Bicycle Assembly and Repair, Enterprise Solutions Programming, Clerical Skills, Customer Service, Horticulture, Microsoft Computer Systems Engineer, Small Business Management, Small Engine Repair and Word Processing. [More Information on Lions World Services for the Blind]
    
    
99. Local Resources for the Blind
    This is a listing of Louisiana resources for the blind. [More Information on Local Resources for the Blind]
    
    
100. Low Vision Gateway
     This site provides a variety of links and information resources relating to low vision. It also contains links to low vision specialists in the U.S. and other countries whose names are listed. The site is sponsored by the Internet Low Vision Society and Low Vision Centers of Indiana. [More Information on Low Vision Gateway]
     
     
101. Macular Degeneration Foundation
     MDF provides an online primer on macular degeneration and a guide to current research efforts and findings as well as other resources related to this condition. [More Information on Macular Degeneration Foundation]
     
     
102. Matilda Ziegler Magazine for the Blind
     The Matilda Ziegler Magazine for the Blind is a monthly magazine that reprints articles covering a wide range of interests from the foremost newspapers and periodicals. These articles cover such topics as health, travel, nature, personalities, history, science, music, sport. The magazine is published in contracted braille, four-track/half-speed cassette, e-mail and diskette. There is no print edition. [More Information on Matilda Ziegler Magazine for the Blind]
     
     
103. Media Access Australia
     "Media Access Australia is a not-for-profit, public benevolent institution and Australia’s primary media access organisation. Its role is to provide information about media access and to develop and apply technological solutions to media access issues. This includes, but is not limited to, captioning and audio description. MAA is a new name for the public benevolent institution formerly known as the Australian Caption Centre. The captioning and other operations of the former Australian Caption Centre were sold to Red Bee Media in 2006. MAA is based in Sydney and works in collaboration with consumer organisations, Government and industry across the country." [More Information on Media Access Australia]
     
     
104. Museum of Modern Art Access Programs
     The Museum of Modern Art has a variety of access programs and services for visitors with disabilties or special needs, including wheelchair access for exhibits and entrances; programs for students with disabilities; sign language-interpreted programs for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing; public telephones with TTY; MoMA Audio, with a variety of audio programs, including visual descriptions of exhibits for individuals with visual disabilities; a monthly lecture program (Art inSight) designed for visitors who are blind or have low vision; Touch Tours, which allow blind and partially sighted visitors to experience a selection of sculptures and design objects from the MoMA collection; Create·Ability, a monthly program for individuals with learning and developmental disabilities and their families; special events for seniors and homebound individuals; and Meet Me at MoMA, a monthly program for individuals with Alzheimer’s and their family members or care partners. [More Information on Museum of Modern Art Access Programs]
     
     
105. Natal Society for the Blind
     The society provides services and supports to blind and partially sighted people of all ages and walks of life, throughout Kwa-Zulu Natal in South Africa. [More Information on Natal Society for the Blind]
     
     
106. National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research
     The National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR) is a non-profit advocacy organization made up of a coalition of professional, consumer, and industry organizations involved in research in eye and vision disorders. NAEVR's ultimate goal is to achieve the best vision for all Americans through advocacy and public education for eye and vision research supported by the National Institutes of Health, the National Eye Institute, and other Federal research entities. [More Information on National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research]
     
     
107. National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments
     "NAPVI is a national organization that enables parents to find information and resources for their children who are blind or visually impaired, including those with additional disabilities." It offers a national 800 line for information and referral services. [More Information on National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments]
     
     
108. National Association for Parents of the Visually Impaired
     NAPVI "is a non-profit organization of, by and for parents committed to provide support to the parents of children who have visual impairments." NAPVI has affiliate organizations in many states. [More Information on National Association for Parents of the Visually Impaired]
     
     
109. National Association for Visually Handicapped
     NAVH is a non-profit entity "dedicated to providing assistance to those with partial vision loss." The site provides information on several low vision aids, articles on the causes of vision loss and living with such conditions, and links to various resources related to low vision. [More Information on National Association for Visually Handicapped ]
     
     
110. National Eye Institute
     This institute was established in order to protect and prolong the eyesight of Americans. It is a sector of NIH. This sight contains information on research and treatments. [More Information on National Eye Institute]
     
     
111. National Federation of the Blind
     The National Federation of the Blind is an organization of blind persons, with affiliates in all fifty states plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, and over seven hundred local chapters. Members of the NFB strive to educate the public that the blind are normal individuals who can compete on terms of equality. The NFB’s monthly magazine, the Braille Monitor, includes articles on assistive technology. Other services of the NFB include the NFB Materials Center, which sells over four hundred different aids and appliances used by the blind; the International Braille and Technology Center for the Blind, an evaluation and demonstration center for speech and braille technology used by the blind; NFB-NEWSLINE for the Blind, a free talking newspaper service, which offers blind readers the complete text of leading national and local newspapers over the telephone; and Jobline, which offers national employment listings and job openings through a telephone menu system. [More Information on National Federation of the Blind]
     
     
112. National Federation of the Blind in Computer Science, A Division of the NFB
     National Federation of the Blind in Computer Science is a division of the NFB focused on computer and software issues. The division operates a mailing list that allows members to share information about the worlds of computer science and technology with each other. [More Information on National Federation of the Blind in Computer Science, A Division of the NFB]
     
     
113. National Federation of the Blind: Advocates for Equality
     The National Federation of the Blind: Advocates for Equality is a Canadian consumer group of blind, partially sighted, and deaf-blind adults, parents of the aforementioned and other interested individuals, with a common goal to preserve and enhance the rights of such persons in Canada through public education, advocacy, and other initiatives. [More Information on National Federation of the Blind: Advocates for Equality]
     
     
114. National Glaucoma Research
     The American Health Assistance Foundation (AHAF) provides this Web resource on glaucoma. It offers information on research, treatment and living with glaucoma. [More Information on National Glaucoma Research]
     
     
115. National Industries for the Blind
     NIB operates under the Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD) Act and the AbilityOne Program, a Federal purchasing program that enables people who are blind to work and provide products and services to Federal and commercial customers. Its mission is to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and its associated agencies provide a variety of services, and they manufacture and sell the SKILCRAFT line of products, which range from office supplies to instrument panel lighting on Air Force One. [More Information on National Industries for the Blind]
     
     
116. National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard Development and Technical Assistance Centers
     The National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard (NIMAS) offers blind or print disabled students the opportunity for timely access to instructional materials. Whether students require braille, audio, or digital text, NIMAS provides the standard from which these specialized formats can be created. The Development and Technical Assistance Centers work to extend, align, validate and implement NIMAS. [More Information on National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard Development and Technical Assistance Centers]
     
     
117. National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
     The NLS is provided by the Library of Congress. The site includes information on library services for the blind, an on-line catalog listing braille and recorded books available from the NLS and other library services around the world, and reference circulars on a variety of blindness-related topics. [More Information on National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped]
     
     
118. National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigment
     NOAH is a U.S. based nonprofit, tax-exempt organization that offers information and support to people with albinism, their families and the professionals who work with them. People with albinism often have low vision, and there is information about low vision and albinism on this site. [More Information on National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigment]
     
     
119. National Resource Center for Blind Musicians
     The National Resource Center for Blind Musicians is a division of the Music and Arts Center for Humanity in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The resource center provides information and referral services for visually impaired students of all ages, their parents and teachers; learning opportunities for blind students headed to college; and maintains a network of visually impaired musicians willing to share their expertise in braille music, technology and coping strategies. The Resource Center is known for its Summer Institute for Blind College-bound Musicians, a residential program which brings together students from several states and countries, who are studying music at the college level. Other activities of the resource Center include development of programs for blind children in Connecticut and teacher training. [More Information on National Resource Center for Blind Musicians]
     
     
120. Newsreel Magazine by and for the Blind
     Newsreel Magazine by and for the Blind is a monthly interactive audio cassette magazine produced in the voices of its blind or visually impaired subscribers. Each issue contains three hours of content recorded on a 4-track 90 minute NLS format cassette with usually around 50 to 60 articles. A typical issue of might include articles on the latest adaptive technology, personal experiences, pros & cons of white cane vs. guide dog, travel tips and suggestions, recipes and cooking methods, poetry, sports articles, and more. [More Information on Newsreel Magazine by and for the Blind]
     
     
121. PXE International
     Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a rare genetic disease that causes legal blindness, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disease, and other complications. PXE International funds selected research projects that will further an understanding of the condition and lead to therapy. They coordinate global research on PXE with an aim to accelerating and focusing research. They also sponsor conferences and provide information and support to people with PXE and their families. [More Information on PXE International]
     
     
122. Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America
     Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America (RSVA) is a volunteer organization composed of blind and visually impaired vendors and those individuals who support the Randolph-Sheppard program. RSVA promotes independent and effective participation in the Business Enterprise Programs (Randolph-Sheppard Program). RSVA encourages the creation of new business opportunities as well as better working conditions for all vendors. RSVA actively negotiates better merchandise pricing from suppliers blind and visually impaired vendors/managers. In many states, blind vendors have joined together to form state affiliates that carry out the purposes and programs of RSVA at the local level. [More Information on Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America]
     
     
123. Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic
     Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic, a nonprofit volunteer organization, is the nation's educational library serving people who cannot effectively read standard print because of visual impairment, dyslexia, or other physical disability. [More Information on Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic]
     
     
124. Red Bee Media Limited
     With offices in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, China, and Singapore, Red Bee Media is a business providing subtitling, audio captioning, and sign language captioning for both live and recorded media, including live television, pre-recorded programs, and DVDs. [More Information on Red Bee Media Limited]
     
     
125. Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision
     The RRTC's mission is to enhance employment and independent living outcomes for individuals who are blind or visually impaired through research, training, education, and dissemination. Its activities and other information are available on the site. The RRTC is supported by a grant from NIDRR to the Mississippi State University. [More Information on Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision]
     
     
126. Royal National Institute of Blind People
     The Institute provides services to people in the United Kingdom who are blind or have low vision. RNIB offers information, support and advice through a national Helpline; produces and distributes braille and talking books; and supports research into the causes and latest treatments of eye conditions. RNIB's Online Shop sells over 1000 products and publications. Some products are available for sale in other countries such as the United States; contact the Online Shop Export Department for information. [More Information on Royal National Institute of Blind People]
     
     
127. Royal New Zealand Foundation for the Blind
     The Royal NZ Foundation of the Blind is New Zealand's primary service provider for blind, vision-impaired and deafblind people. [More Information on Royal New Zealand Foundation for the Blind]
     
     
128. Science Access Project
     A group at Oregon State University, Science Access Project works to develop methods for making science, math, and engineering information accessible to people with print disabilities. [More Information on Science Access Project]
     
     
129. Sensory Access Foundation (SAF)
     "The mission of SAF is to assist people who are blind or visually impaired to obtain or retain competitive employment by providing the highest quality access technology assessment, computer training, job placement and accommodation services with the goal of achieving 100% job retention." [More Information on Sensory Access Foundation (SAF)]
     
     
130. Sight and Hearing Association
     "A nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing the needless loss of vision and hearing through effective screening, education, and research." [More Information on Sight and Hearing Association]
     
     
131. SightLossSolutions.org
     SightLossSolutions.org is a Web site devoted to sight loss, both low vision and blindness. Operated by an individual with 20 years of experience with low vision and 10 years with blindness, the site was launched in 2004 and provides information gleaned from television, radio, newsletters, other Web sites, professional resources, and other sources pertaining to sight loss. [More Information on SightLossSolutions.org]
     
     
132. Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped
     SAVH, formerly known as the Singapore Association for the Blind (SAB), is a voluntary welfare organization that provides services and advocacy for Singaporeans with visual disabilities. [More Information on Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped]
     
     
133. Six Friends: Resources for Christian Families Living with a Visual Impairment
     This site has many resource lists for people with visual impairments. Some are of special interest to Christians, such as "Churches Which Accommodate People with Visual Impairments" and "Denominations' Services for Members with Disabilities," and others are of general interest, such as lists of suppliers of products. [More Information on Six Friends: Resources for Christian Families Living with a Visual Impairment]
     
     
134. Skating Association for the Blind and Handicapped
     [More Information on Skating Association for the Blind and Handicapped]
     
     
135. Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute
     SKERI, a nonprofit independent research institute, is dedicated to research on human vision. SKERI conducts research on many different topics, but its main interests are: clinical studies which relate directly to the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and disorders; the development of devices and vocational programs to aid the partially sighted, blind and hearing impaired; basic research to understand how the eye and brain work. [More Information on Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute]
     
     
136. Smith-Kettlewell Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center
     This RERC conducts research and development for persons who are blind or affected by a visual impairment. The project explores rehabilitation for young children, mobility solutions for those affected with mobility disabilities as well as sight, independent travel technology, communication devices, and many other important issues concerning the blind and visually impaired. [More Information on Smith-Kettlewell Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center]
     
     
137. Soundings
     Soundings is a free, impartial and editorially independent monthly information service for anyone in the United Kingdom who is blind or partially sighted - whether they are registered or not. Soundings information, including Soundings Magazine, is available on cassette, on audio CD and on the Internet. [More Information on Soundings]
     
     
138. Spoken Language Access to Multimedia (SLAM)
     "Spoken Language Access to Multimedia (SLAM) is a spoken language extension to the graphical user interface of the World-Wide Web browser Mosaic being developed by the Center for Spoken Lanugage Understanding (CSLU) at the Oregon Graduate Institute." [More Information on Spoken Language Access to Multimedia (SLAM)]
     
     
139. T.V. Raman's Homepage
     T.V. Raman is a computer scientist at Cornell University who is internationally recognized for his work in auditory interfaces and other efforts to ensure that electronic information is accessible to people with vision-related disabilities. Dr.Raman is blind, and his homepage contains links to a variety of information sources on computers and Web accessibility. [More Information on T.V. Raman's Homepage]
     
     
140. Tape Ministries NW
     Tape Ministries NW records Christian books on tape and has a library of more than 1,200 titles available for loan by mail to individuals in the USA and Canada. All services are free to anyone who qualifies, including people who are blind, visually impaired, dyslexic, or who have disabilities that make it difficult to hold a book or turn the pages. Tape Ministries NW is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. They are a non-denominational Bible-based religious organization which partners with churches and individuals from many denominations, including Presbyterian, Lutheran, Covenant, Methodist, Episcopalian, Baptist, Assemblies of God, and many more. [More Information on Tape Ministries NW]
     
     
141. Texas Center for the Physically Impaired (TCPI), A Division of International Services for the Physically Challenged (ISVC)
     Begun as the Texas Center for the Physically Impaired (TCPI) and still operating under that name in Texas, International Services for the Visually Challenged (ISPC) serves the needs of the physically challenged and their family members in the United States and Canada. Services include information, counseling, and referrals. Programs include refurbished computers for the blind and a circulating library of over 200 descriptive video titles for individuals who are visually impaired. Computers are donated by businesses and refurbished by volunteers, and are free to blind residents of the United States or Canada with a $100 donation. [More Information on Texas Center for the Physically Impaired (TCPI), A Division of International Services for the Physically Challenged (ISVC)]
     
     
142. Tiflolibros
     Tiflolibros is a digital library for Spanish-speaking people who are blind or have severe disabilities. It offers an online catalog with more than 11,000 digital books that registered members can download using their personal password. Membership is open to Spanish-speakers from any country. Proof of disability must be provided. [More Information on Tiflolibros]
     
     
143. Tiresias
     This site "is an information resource for professionals who work in the field of visual disabilities. The site has evolved from work carried out by Dr Janet Silver of Moorfields Eye Hospital, London and Dr John Gill of the Royal National Institute of the Blind." [More Information on Tiresias]
     
     
144. United States Association of Blind Athletes
     The USABA trains 3,000 blind and visually impaired athletes in 9 sports - alpine and nordic skiing, goalball, judo, powerlifting, swimming, tandem cycling, track and field and wrestling. Since its founding in 1976, the USABA has reached over 100,000 blind individuals. During that time, the organization has emerged as more than just a world-class trainer of blind athletes, it has become a vocal champion of the abilitites of America's legally blind residents. [More Information on United States Association of Blind Athletes]
     
     
145. Upshaw Institute for the Blind
     "The Upshaw Institute for the Blind is a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing blindness, reducing the impact of blindness, and advocating for those with severe vision loss." [More Information on Upshaw Institute for the Blind]
     
     
146. V.I. Guide
     A guide to Internet resources on blindness and visual impairment for parents and teachers. The site has a wide variety of links and other information relating to services and products for people who are blind. [More Information on V.I. Guide]
     
     
147. Vision Access
     Vision Access is a free journal published "by, for, and about people with low vision." It is published quarterly in three formats (cassette, large print, and computer disk) by the Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI), a not-for-profit affiliate of the American Council of the Blind. [More Information on Vision Access]
     
     
148. Vision Australia
     Vision Australia is a national agency for Australians who are blind or have low vision. It was formed in 2004 following the merger of the Royal Blind Society (RBS), the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind (RVIB), Vision Australia Foundation (VAF), and the National Information Library Services (NILS). Other agencies that have merged include the Royal Blind Foundation Queensland; Hear a Book, a Tasmanian producer of audio books; and Seeing Eye Dogs Australia (SEDA). Services include assistive technology evaluation, employment advice and training, independent living services, library and information services, recreation and sports programs, and Vision Australia Radio. Vision Australia produces an Adaptive Technology Guide, an Equipment Solutions Catalogue, audio books, and other books and publications. Vision Australia's Accessible Information Solutions (AIS) team has developed freeware products such as the Web Accessibility Toolbar. [More Information on Vision Australia]
     
     
149. Vision Enhancement
     Vision Enhancement offers information and resources for people with vision loss. Content includes news on medical, scientific and technological advancements as well as print and Web resources. Recent sample issues and the contents from older issues are available on the site. Vision Enhancement is published by Vision World Wide. [More Information on Vision Enhancement]
     
     
150. Vision Loss Resources
     "Vision Loss Resources is an independent nonprofit 501 C(3) agency. Its mission is to assist people who are blind or visually impaired achieve their full potential and to enrich the lives of all persons affected by blindness or vision loss." [More Information on Vision Loss Resources]
     
     
151. Vision World Wide
     "Vision World Wide is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the lives of the vision impaired through direct interaction and indirectly through the caregiving community. It provides information, education, guidance, support and consumer protection, not only to the blind and visually impaired, but to the many professionals (medical, social and technical) who serve them." [More Information on Vision World Wide]
     
     
152. VisionConnection
     VisionConnection is an Internet portal for people who are partially sighted or blind, the professionals who work with them, the families and friends who support them, and anyone looking for information on vision impairment, its prevention and vision rehabilitation. [More Information on VisionConnection]
     
     
153. VISIONS
     "VISIONS is a not-for-profit charitable rehabilitation and social service agency in the New York City area. Its purpose is to develop and implement programs to assist blind and visually impaired adults to lead independent and active lives in their homes and communities, and to educate the public to understand the capabilities and needs of blind and visually impaired adults so that they may be integrated into all aspects of community life." [More Information on VISIONS]
     
     
154. Visually Impaired Information Center
     The Visually Impaired Information Center publishes the Directory of Visually Impaired Services, a comprehensive resource guide with over 900 listings of organizations, services, and activities that are available to those with visual impairments. The directory can be ordered in large print, Braille, or on computer disk or cassette tape. [More Information on Visually Impaired Information Center]
     
     
155. Voice of the Diabetic
     The National Federation of the Blind publishes this quarterly magazine for individuals with diabetic retinopathy, and other blind people with diabetes. It is offered in standard print, four-track audiocassette editions and on the Web. All editions are free. [More Information on Voice of the Diabetic]
     
     
156. Voice of Vision
     Voice of Vision is published quarterly by GW Micro. It contains information on GW Micro products and discussions of other issues relating to computer access for people who are blind or have low vision. [More Information on Voice of Vision]
     
     
157. Voiceprint Canada
     This site offers an online audio broadcast (Windows Media Player is all that is required). VoicePrint is a free 24-hour news and information audio service. Every day, volunteer readers record full-length articles, columns and feature reports related to news and sports, health, entertainment, science and more. Content is selected from more than 100 Canadian newspapers and magazines. [More Information on Voiceprint Canada]
     
     
158. WGBH - Services for People with Disabilities
     This page provides information on WGBH's closed captioning and descriptive video services. WGBH is a public television station that produces programming shown nationally and provides services to provide access to multimedia materials for people with hearing and visual impairments. [More Information on WGBH - Services for People with Disabilities]
     
     
159. Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins
     "The Wilmer Institute is known ... not only for research, but for management of exceptionally complex and serious eye cases." [More Information on Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins]
     
     
160. World Blind Union
     The World Blind Union (WBU) works on behalf of blind and partially sighted persons of the world, representing 180 million blind and visually impaired persons from about 600 different organisations in 158 countries. The WBU is a non-political, non-religious, non-governmental and non-profit organisation. It has consultative status within the UN Agencies and ECOSOC. [More Information on World Blind Union]
     
     

View State Specific Organizations

Conferences                                                         Return to top of page

1. 2007 Getting In Touch With Literacy Conference: "Charting a Course for Literacy"
   The 2007 GITWL conference offers the opportunity to share innovations, broaden horizons and expand knowledge about providing literacy opportunities to individuals who are blind, visually impaired or deaf-blind. [More Information on 2007 Getting In Touch With Literacy Conference: "Charting a Course for Literacy"]
   
   
2. 2008 Association for Education and Rehabilitation (AER) International Conference
   The 2008 Association on Education and Research conference will be representing professionals who provide services in all phases of education and rehabilitation for the blind and visually impaired. The conference is expected to attract nearly 1,200 international delegates in the field of blindness and visual impairment. There will be a central gathering place for attendees and social events will be held throughout the conference. Commercial presentation breakout sessions will be available for exhibitors. [More Information on 2008 Association for Education and Rehabilitation (AER) International Conference]
   
   
3. 2008 International Conference on Low Vision (VISION 2008)
   The theme of VISION 2008 is "Research-Rehabilitation Partnerships," conveying a multidisciplinary approach to low vision rehabiitation. The conference will feature plenary and concurrent sessions during which distinguished academics, researchers, and practitioners will present the results of their work on vision science research, services of rehabilitation and psychosocial aspects of vision impairment. Presentations will be in the format of symposia, continuing education courses and oral and poster presentations. [More Information on 2008 International Conference on Low Vision (VISION 2008)]
   
   
4. 2008 Ski for Light International Week
   Ski for Light is a program of cross-country skiing benefiting blind, visually-impaired, and mobility-impaired individuals and their guides. The primary goal of this week is to teach blind, visually-impaired and mobility-impaired people who have never skied before the basics of the sport, and to give people who have already learned the basics a chance to improve their skill and technique, or to let them just have fun on the snow. [More Information on 2008 Ski for Light International Week]
   
   
5. 6th General Assembly of the World Blind Union
   The 6th General Assembly of the World Blind Union will take place in Capetown, South Africa on December 6-10, 2004. [More Information on 6th General Assembly of the World Blind Union]
   
   
6. RNIB National Centre for Tactile Diagrams Third International Conference on Tactile Diagrams, Maps and Pictures
   This international event covers all aspects of tactile graphics (images which are touched rather than looked at) for children and adults who are blind or have low vision in education, work and life activities. Tactile Graphics 2005 also offers an exhibition and pre-conference workshops and will cover techniques, applications and literacy development of tactile graphics. [More Information on RNIB National Centre for Tactile Diagrams Third International Conference on Tactile Diagrams, Maps and Pictures ]
   
   
7. Vision 2005 London
   Vision 2005 London will take place April 4-8 2005 in London, UK. The conference, one of the largest on issues concerning people with sight problems, is sponsored by the International Society for Low Vision Research and Rehabilitation and hosted by the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB). [More Information on Vision 2005 London]
   
   

News                                                         Return to top of page

1. Adobe Improves Accessibility of Acrobat Files
   Putting documents on the web in Adobe Acrobat (.pdf files) enables the document to retain its original formatting, graphics, and photographs; However, these files are often inaccessible for people with vision disabilities and others who use screen readers. Adobe has provided some tools for converting these files to more accessible text or HTML files at their http://access.adobe.com, including an E-mail conversion service. However, if the .pdf files are not on the Internet and the user does not want to submit a file as an e-mail attachment, the Acrobat Access plug-in is the solution. Adobe Acrobat Access 4.0 for Microsoft Windows software is a plug-in for Adobe Acrobat software. The Acrobat Access plug-in converts .pdf files on a user's local system into plain text, which can then be read by screen reading programs. This plug-in is available for downloading free from the Adobe access website. System requirements for use are: 386- or 486-based personal computer (486 recommended); Microsoft Windows 95, Microsoft Windows 98, or Microsoft Windows NT(R) 4.0; 4 MB application RAM; 3 MB hard-disk space, plus 2 MB TEMP space available during installation; For Web integration, any Web browser that allows you to configure a helper application by mime type. [More Information on Adobe Improves Accessibility of Acrobat Files]
   
   
2. Bible cassettes free of charge
   If you are visually impaired or print disabled, Aurora Ministries will provide Bible cassettes free of charge. The only requirement to receive these cassettes is certification of impairment.
   Added January 2007: Aurora Ministries now make audio bibles available on cassette and on CD in an MP3 format. [More Information on Bible cassettes free of charge]
   
   
3. Blind Grandfather Graduates College with 4.0
   The Washington Post has published the story of Bob Brophy, a 72-year-old grandfather who is blind who just earned his bachelor's degree from Jefferson College in Missouri with a 4.0 grade point average. (To read this story, you will be required to register for free with the Washington Post.) [More Information on Blind Grandfather Graduates College with 4.0]
   
   
4. Call for Artists for "Shared Visions 2009-2010"
   The Eye Care Center at the Southern California College of Optometry has announced the "Call for Artists" for "Shared Visions 2009-2010", an exposition of works by artists who are blind or legally blind. Works selected by the jury will be exhibited in the Eye Care Center for a period of one year. The deadline for entries is Wednesday, May 13, 2009. [More Information on Call for Artists for "Shared Visions 2009-2010"]
   
   
5. Choice Magazine Listening
   If you are blind, visually impaired or unable to read because of other physical limitations, you are eligible to receive Choice Magazine Listening at no cost. CML is a not-for-profit taped audio anthology offering outstanding articles, short stories and poetry selected from current magazines such as The New Yorker, Audubon, The Atlantic, National Geographic, Scientific American, Smithsonian, Gourmet, Travel and Leisure, Sports Illustrated, Foreign Affairs, Outside, The Wall Street Journal, Granta and Time - along with occasional material from other media sources. These free tapes are distributed throughout the U.S. six times a year. The unabridged articles are recorded on 4-track tapes to be played on the special tape players available free through the Library of Congress. If you already have the Library of Congress player, you are immediately put on the list of subscribers. If you do not have the player, CML will send you an application form and the address of the regional Library of Congress branch where your completed form should be sent. When you have received the tape player, notify CML by the post-paid card they provide, and you will be put you on their distribution list. Please note, too, that these tapes are distributed only in the United States. To apply for a free subscription or to receive a brochure, write to: Choice Magazine Listening, 85 Channel Drive Port Washington, NY 11050. Phone: 888-724-6423 or 516-883-8280; Fax: 516-944-6849. Email: ChoiceMag@Aol.com [More Information on Choice Magazine Listening]
   
   
6. Fred's Head is proud to introduce "Brainwaves"
   Fred's Head is proud to introduce "Brainwaves," an online contest for the blind and visually impaired community. Every other week, Fred's Head will post a question. We will post the best answers--that is those that save someone who is blind or visually impaired time, trouble, effort or money on a special web page here at The American Printing House for the Blind (APH). Every month, we will randomly draw one winner from the posted answers; that person wins a $25 gift certificate from APH! Rules & Guidelines: You do not have to be blind or visually impaired to enter. On the first business day of each month, we'll draw a name from the pool of respondents whose answers were posted in Fred's Head Brain Waves the previous month. Winners will be notified by email with instructions on how to redeem their $25 APH Gift Certificate. You can use your $25 APH gift certificate toward the purchase of any APH products excluding those which can only be purchased using Federal Quota Funds. Rules subject to change. [More Information on Fred's Head is proud to introduce "Brainwaves"]
   
   
7. Freedom Scientific Begins $101,000 Scholarship Program for Students Who are Blind
   Freedom Scientific Inc.announced on June 19 that it has launched a program to award $101,000 in technology scholarships annually, beginning in the 2001-2002 school year, to high school and college graduates in the U.S. and Canada who plan to continue their education. This program will be implemented through a partnership with six leading non-profit organizations in the blindness field: American Council of the Blind, American Foundation for the Blind, Braille Institute of America, Canadian National Institute for the Blind, National Federation of the Blind, and Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic. Each partner will be responsible for screening applicants and selecting the recipients for a portion of the funds. The winning applicants will receive vouchers in amounts of either $2,500 or $1,500 to apply toward the purchase of Freedom Scientific's full line of products, including hardware, software, accessories, training and tutorials. Applicants for the award must be U.S. or Canadian residents, who are legally blind and planning to pursue a full-time course of study at either the college/university or graduate school level. Winners will be selected by the partnering organizations based on three areas of consideration: academic achievement; extra-curricular or community service leaderships, and demonstrated personal qualities. The organizations will apply these general guidelines as well as supplement them with their own specific criteria. Application forms and other submission requirements will be available from the partnering organizations' web sites. Four organizations will award to graduating high school seniors in the U.S.: ACB, AFB, Braille Institute and NFB. The CNIB will select the winners among high school seniors in Canada, while the RFB&D will make the awards for college seniors planning to pursue graduate studies from either the U.S. or Canada. Applicants should contact the specific organization's scholarship coordinator for additional information. [More Information on Freedom Scientific Begins $101,000 Scholarship Program for Students Who are Blind]
   
   
8. Freedom Scientific Inc.
   Henter-Joyce, the leading U.S. software company specializing in products for blind people, has merged with Blazie Engineering, the leading U.S. manufacturer of Braille hardware devices, to form Freedom Scientific Inc., a new company dedicated to offering a broad line of assistive technology products for people with sensory impairmentsand learning disabilities. Henter-Joyce and Blazie Engineering will continue to design, develop and manufacture their respective product lines in separate business development units, but their sales, marketing, order entry and administrative functions will be combined at the Freedom Scientific Blind/Low Vision Group, to be located in St. Petersburg, Florida. Freedom Scientific's corporate headquarters will be in Carlsbad, California. [More Information on Freedom Scientific Inc.]
   
   
9. Javits-Wagner-O'Day Renamed "AbilityOne Program"
   The Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD) program is now called the AbilityOne Program. AbilityOne is a Federal initiative to help people who are blind or severely disabled find employment by working for nonprofit agencies that sell products and/or services to the U.S. Government. In 2006, nearly 47,000 people were employed through the program, making AbilityOne the largest source of work opportunities for people who are blind or have other severe disabilities in the U.S. [More Information on Javits-Wagner-O'Day Renamed "AbilityOne Program"]
   
   
10. JAWS for Windows 3.7 to Support New Adobe Acrobat 5.0 Software
    Freedom Scientific Inc. has announced that JAWS® for Windows® 3.7 screen reader software will provide users the ability to read Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) files directly from within Adobe® Acrobat® 5.0 software. Freedom Scientific will make this capability available as a free download for current JAWS® for Windows® 3.7 users. This is targeted to coincide with the distribution date of the Adobe 5.0 software in April. When complete, JAWS will be compatible with all Microsoft® Windows® operating systems including Windows 95, 98, ME, as well as Windows NT and Windows 2000 Professional. For more information, visit the Freedom Scientific website or contact the company at Freedom Scientific Blind/Low Vision Group 11800 31st Court North St. Petersburg, FL 33710-1805. Phone: 800-444-4443 or 727-803-8000 Voice. Fax: 727-803-8001. [More Information on JAWS for Windows 3.7 to Support New Adobe Acrobat 5.0 Software]
    
    
11. Louis Braille Silver Dollar Goes on Sale
    On Thursday, March 26, the U.S. Mint began accepting orders for the 2009 Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar, which commemorates the 200th anniversary of the birth of Louis Braille, inventor of the Braille system. Surcharges from sales of the Braille Silver Dollar are authorized to be paid to the National Federation of the Blind to further its programs to promote Braille literacy. [More Information on Louis Braille Silver Dollar Goes on Sale]
    
    
12. Microsoft to Develop Translator to Convert MS Word Documents to DAISY
    John Williams writes in Assistive Technology News that Microsoft is developing a plug-in to translate Open XML documents into Daisy XML so that Microsoft Word documents will be accessible to people with visual disabilities who use assistive products that read digital publications using the DAISY XML standard. The "Save As DAISY" plug-in will be available as a free download for Microsoft Office Word (Word XP, Word 2003 and Word 2007) customers in early 2008. For more details, read the article in Assistive Technology News linked below. [More Information on Microsoft to Develop Translator to Convert MS Word Documents to DAISY]
    
    
13. NASA
    NASA has initiated a service called Iliad designed to make the Internet more accessible to people with visual impairments who have difficulty using graphical browsers like Netscape or Explorer. Users can e-mail requests to NASA for keyword searches of the Net. The Iliad system executes the search over multiple search engines and e-mails the results to the requestor. Iliad allows its users to access the resources of the Internet using text-based e-mail. [More Information on NASA]
    
    
14. NFB Helps Santa Respond to Letters from Blind Children
    Santa Claus has made the staff at the National Federation of the Blind's Jernigan Institute honorary elves. They will help him answer the letters he receives from blind boys and girls. If you fill out the form linked below by December 15, 2006, and click submit, they will make sure Santa gets your letter. You will receive a reply from the North Pole in print and in Braille. [More Information on NFB Helps Santa Respond to Letters from Blind Children]
    
    
15. NFB Starts New Forum for Blind Wheelchair Users
    The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) has launched Blind Rollers, an online forum for discussing issues relating to blind people who have mobility disabilities. The forum addresses the needs of blind people who require a wheelchair all or part of the time or have trouble walking. [More Information on NFB Starts New Forum for Blind Wheelchair Users]
    
    
16. Online Game Aims to Make the Web More Accessible
    Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have designed Phetch, an online game that aims to challenges players to describe pictures randomly selected on the Internet. The game will apply these captions to the pictures to improve the accessibilty of Web sites using these images for visually impaired people who use screen reading software. As multiple descriptions for individual images are collected by Phetch, they are tested with single players to produce an accurate caption. Play for free at the Web site below! [More Information on Online Game Aims to Make the Web More Accessible]
    
    
17. Parents with Visual Impairments Asked to Participate in Telephone Interview
    Researchers at the University of Arizona and Northern Iowa University are seeking parents who have visual impairments to participate in a telephone interview. The purpose of the study is to learn about the strategies, concerns, and experiences these parents have as they raise their children. Parenting partners of participants will also be invited to participate in the study.

    Who Qualifies as a Parent with a Visual Impairment for this Study?

    • One whose visual impairment impacts daily life (e.g., ability to read standard print, drive)
    • Individuals raising one or more children, one or more of whom must be a senior in high school or younger
    • If separated from the other parent, your child(ren) are with you on average 50% of the time or more during a given month.

    Who Qualifies as a Parenting Partner for this Study?

    • A husband or wife
    • An ex-husband or ex-wife
    • A same-sex partner who is sharing in the raising of the child(ren)
    • A roommate or family member who is living in the home and sharing in the raising of the child(ren).

    To participate, please go to the Web page linked below or contact Dr. Sunggye Hong by telephone at 319-273-7954 or by email at hong@uni.edu.

    This research will be conducted by Dr. Sunggye Hong of Northern Iowa University and Dr. L. Penny Rosenblum and Ms. Beth Harris of the University of Arizona. [More Information on Parents with Visual Impairments Asked to Participate in Telephone Interview]
    
    

18. PowerBraille
    Blazie Engineering has acquired the Telesensory access line and is now producing the PowerBraille product line. For more information on the PowerBraille line, check the ABLEDATA database (perform a brand name search for PowerBraille). [More Information on PowerBraille]
    
    
19. Questionnaire on Inter-disciplinary Work in the Area of Assistive Technology
    Marion Hersh and Gloria Moss are conducting a pilot study on the extent to which inter-disciplinary research in the fields of assistive technology and rehabilitation engineering. Marion is a lecturer in the Department of Electronics and Electrical Engineering at the University of Glasgow, Scotland. She works on assistive technology for deaf, blind and deafblind people, as well as issues relating to technology and ethics. Gloria is a free-lance researcher, based in London, England. There is some evidence that the nature of assistive technology and rehabilitation engineering encourage interdisciplinary work. They are therefore using this questionnaire to investigate the extent to which interdisciplinary work does in fact take place in these fields, any barriers and good practice. This questionnaire is both confidential and anonymous. All data will be kept securely and only statistical data will be published. They would be very grateful if you could spend a few minutes answering the questionnaire. It should not take more than 20 minutes. Unfortunately they cannot offer a reward ­ just the knowledge that you will be contributing to better understanding of the research process in assistive technology and rehabilitation engineering and the development of good practice. They hope to present the preliminary results of this work at the AAATE Conference in Dublin and would therefore be particularly grateful for speedy replies as the deadline for paper submission is 18 April 2003. However, they hope to produce a longer version of this paper for journal publication and will therefore also welcome later replies. [More Information on Questionnaire on Inter-disciplinary Work in the Area of Assistive Technology]
    
    
20. Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) on Blindness and Low Vision
    The Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) on Blindness and Low Vision is creating a database to aid in the collection of data for its research on the issues facing people who have a sensory loss then develop another type of sensory loss after age 55 (i.e. deafness then blindness). The RRTC is developing of list of people with dual sensory loss who they can contact to ask about these people's experiences and strategies for meeting the challenges posed by dual sensory loss. [More Information on Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) on Blindness and Low Vision ]
    
    
21. Statistics on Vision Impairment: A Resource Manual
    For individuals interested in statistics on vision impairment, check out The Lighthouse's online Acrobat (.pdf) publication, Statistics on Vision Impairment: A Resource Manual [More Information on Statistics on Vision Impairment: A Resource Manual]
    
    
22. U.S. Unveils 2009 Louis Braille Silver Dollar with Readable Braille
    On July 2 2008, the U.S. Mint unveiled the design of the 2009 Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar at the National Federation of the Blind's annual convention in Dallas, Texas. The Braille Silver Dollar is the first coin minted in the United States to feature readable Braille characters. The coin will go on sale in the spring of 2009, the bicentennial anniversary of Louis Braille's birth. [More Information on U.S. Unveils 2009 Louis Braille Silver Dollar with Readable Braille]
    
    
23. Valentine's Gift for Someone who is Blind or Visually Impaired
    Looking for an interesting Valentine's gift for someone who is blind or visually impaired? The Chocolate Experience, Inc., is "the original manufacturer of Brailled chocolate gifts for the Blind and Visually impaired." For the last 10 years, The Chocolate Experience has been manufacturing 13 assorted edible messages, guide dogs and more, for all occasions including Valentine's Day and Easter. The 7" x 5" , 5 oz. bars are boxed in a window gold box. Each bar is individually plastic wrapped. They make Brailled Valentine's Day hearts, Easter bunnies, and chocolate guide dogs. The dogs have an integrated chocolate harness and a brailled message of: "Best Friend". There are chocolate Labs, Shepherds and Golden Retrievers. The Chocolate Experience also manufactures sign language "I love You" pops. All products are offered in gourmet and sugar free white, milk and semisweet chocolates. For more information, you can visit their text only site. [More Information on Valentine's Gift for Someone who is Blind or Visually Impaired]
    
    
24. Wanted: People with Disabilities to Discuss Emergency Preparedness
    The American Red Cross is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and ORC Macro to develop educational materials on terrorism and emergency preparedness for people with disabilities. As part of this project, people with disabilities are invited to take part in on-line focus groups to discuss how emergency preparedness information may best address specific experiences and concerns. The eight focus groups will take place between June 27 and July 6. Each person who takes part in a group will receive $50.00.

    The educational materials will cover five major preparedness topics, including mass evacuation and evacuation planning for people with disabilities and their caregivers; emergency water and food supplies; shelter-in-place during chemical or radiation emergency; quarantine and isolation; and maintaining a healthy state of mind.

    Each focus group will consist of people in one of the following groups:

    • people with severe hearing impairments (June 27 and July 6)
    • caretakers of adults with severe cognitive disabilities (June 27 and July 6)
    • people with severe vision impairments (June 26 and June 29)
    • people with severe mobility disabilities (June 26 and June 29).

    All focus participants must be 18 years of age or older.

    The focus groups are being conducted over the Internet – you can participate from home, from work, or any place you have access to the Web. You will need a computer with a high-speed Internet connection over which you can receive and respond to questions from a moderator. People with visual disabilities, people with mobility disabilities and caregivers will need to be able to connect to the Internet and make a phone call at the same time because during part of the discussions, participants will interact with the moderator and the group by phone as well as by Internet. Focus groups with people with hearing disabilities will be on-line only. Each focus group will last approximately 90 minutes. Approximately 6 people will participate in each focus group.

    If you are interested, please contact Deb Allen at ORC Macro.
    Toll-Free Telephone: 877-539-9696 (V) (TTY users - please use your state relay service).
    E-mail: Debbie.L.Allen@orcmacro.com. [More Information on Wanted: People with Disabilities to Discuss Emergency Preparedness]
    
    

Classifieds                                                         Return to top of page

1. 
   I need a Perkins braille writer in working condition. Please email me. [More Information on ]
   
   
2. Aaron Bradley
   Purchased in august of 2002, this unit has been upgraded with keysoft 6.11. It is in perfect condition, and all braille display cells are working perfectly. Enjoy the full suite of software that is part of the braillenote family of products. [More Information on Aaron Bradley]
   
   
3. Barbara Sheinbein
   Software for braille translation. Sale must include license or offer will be deeply discounted. [More Information on Barbara Sheinbein]
   
   
4. Bill Ciccone
   Mint condition. I am the only and original owner. Printer is 10 years old and was hardly ever used. Inclued in the sale: serial and power cables; small supply of fan fold paper, and the noise reducing pad for underneath the printer. Please contact with any questions. [More Information on Bill Ciccone]
   
   
5. Bruce C. Ogilvie
   Black and white low vision reading system comes with table and monitor on compact stand. Purchased used in April 2005 for $1,800; used very little in three years. Easier to pickup than ship, but could arrange if needed. Call or e-mail for more information. Private owner. [More Information on Bruce C. Ogilvie]
   
   
6. C. Wesley
   Bought in 2008. Hardly used. [More Information on C. Wesley ]
   
   
7. Dennis Wilson
   The CCTV has a 20" color TFT LCD screen. This unit was purchased for my Father in August 2008,was used less than 10 hours and is in excellent condition. It has been stored in dust and smoke free area. Will ship to Buyers request. [More Information on Dennis Wilson]
   
   
8. Eugene
   3 and a half years old. Good condition in general except battery. Have all accessories, manual, and so on. Plus, network card, superdisk, and memory card specific for BrailleNote. [More Information on Eugene]
   
   
9. Hillary Ensminger
   Looking for a used CCTV and screen. Equipment must have good resolution and all parts must be working. [More Information on Hillary Ensminger]
   
   
10. Josh Kennedy
    This Braillenote QT32 was purchased in June 2002. Has one SMA count left. Running Windows CE Version 4.20 and Keysoft 6.11. Includes Multilingual Spanish German and French software already installed. [More Information on Josh Kennedy]
    
    
11. Josh Kennedy
    This refreshable Braille display is a 40-cell model with status cells. It was purchased in June 2002. "In good condition." Works with Jaws and Window eyes and other screen reader that support Braille displays for Windows 95 through XP. Includes USB connection to a computer. [More Information on Josh Kennedy]
    
    
12. Karen
    Item was a gift barely used in good working condition. [More Information on Karen]
    
    
13. Lisa
    [More Information on Lisa]
    
    
14. Lisa
    Like new. Comes with a dust cover and the Original Electrical Circuit Diagram and Description. Clean inside and out! [More Information on Lisa]
    
    
15. Mac
    "Perfect...like new condition." CCTV with a 17-inch monitor. Shipping available! Email for details and sale arrangements. [More Information on Mac]