Employment & Internships
Yes They Can!
People who are blind and visually impaired are very capable of handling the requirements daily needs and of functioning in the workplace. VISIONS offers many services to help youth and adults compete for jobs.
The Department of Workforce Development and Training (WFD, for short) administers all of VISIONS information, employment, and technology related programs. Members of the WFD team work collaboratively towards a common goal: assisting blind consumers prepare for, identify, procure, and retain jobs that are commensurate with their interests, skills and education. VISIONS offers a full complement of vocational assessment, training, and career development services. Workforce Development and Training includes:
- Individualized and group instruction in touch-typing, basic computer literacy, and keyboarding
- Individualized and Group instruction in computer applications (Internet, email, word-processing, spreadsheet and database management, training on Apple's Mac accessibility etc.)
- Soft skills training (interviewing prep, job search techniques, resume-writing, financial literacy, career interest inventories, benefits management and work incentive programs, etc.)
- The Blindline® call center, web site, and vocational training program
- The after school and prevocational training program for youth
- Internships and sponsored Work Experience Training for both youth and adults. Internships are generally sponsored by the NYS Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped (CBVH) for 8-13 weeks.
The consumer and CBVH counselor participate fully in the process with VISIONS staff through frequent meetings, phone calls and email communications. Our primary goal is to help consumers prepare for long-term career growth and encourage consumers to guide their individual career development goals.
For more information:
Adult Placement Services: Michael J. Cush, Director of Workforce Development and Training/Adults by phone (212) 625-1616 ext. 139 or email mcush@visionsvcb.org
Youth Placement Services: Dawn Suvino, Director of Workforce Development and Training/Youth by phone (646) 486-4444 ext. 14 or email dsuvino@visionsvcb.org
Pre-vocational Services and Summer Internships for high school and college blind youth: Gia Venturo-Chrisman, Youth Coordinator (646) 486-4444 ext. 24 or gventuro@visionsvcb.org
