Snack Bar After School Program – October through June
A work experience training (WET) program for high school students located at VISIONS at Selis Manor. Participants learn how to run a snack bar using a talking cash register, sell a variety of labeled snacks, use a microwave and serve hot beverages. In addition to the work based learning skills, there are rehabilitation lessons too. A Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT) provides weekly group sessions on skills such as cleaning, using small appliances, clothing maintenance, personal care and money management. Participants must be able to travel independently or use Access-a-ride paratransit.
Work Experience Training Program – Year Round
Internships for high school, college and out of school youth are provided at VISIONS at Selis Manor, VISIONS VCB (over age 18), and in a variety of community settings including senior centers, day care, and offices. Participants receive a financial reimbursement to cover the cost of transportation, lunch and other expenses. For summer experiences, participants should attend prevocational training before going to their worksite.
Prevocational Day Program at VISIONS at Selis Manor – President’s Week
The focus of prevocational training is career exploration, independence skills (making lunch and personal hygiene), interviewing, volunteering, and creating résumés. There are also sessions with a Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT) including lessons on budgeting and business attire. This session is specifically for participants unable to attend a residential session (i.e. cognitive delay, medical concerns, etc.).
Prevocational Training at VISIONS VCB – New York City Department of Education Spring Recess
This residential prevocational program takes place at VISIONS VCB for high school students. The curriculum contains information on interview skills, team building, budgeting, communication, mock interviews and career exploration. There are also sessions with a Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT) including lessons on meal management, clothing maintenance, and personal care. A Certified Orientation and Mobility Instructor (O&M) will provide orientation to the dorms and facility. In addition to work skills, the participants take advantage of the 37 acres of VCB with activities such as tandem biking, mini golf and nature walks.
For More Information, Contact:
Melissa Phipps
Senior Director of Youth Services
(646) 486-4444 Ext. 212
Email: mphipps@visionsvcb.org
Tween Prevocational training at August family session at VISIONS Center On Blindness (VCB)
The family sessions at VCB are for children with legal blindness and their family including parents, siblings and other significant caregivers in the child’s life. The Pre-Vocational program offers career exploration and the social skills needed to help tweens develop their goals in life.
For More Information, Contact:
Bill Hixson
Senior Director of Rehabilitation Services
(212) 625-1616 Ext. 145
Email: whixson@visionsvcb.org