[nfbmi-talk] renovation of the training center

[Larry Posont]

At the request of the NFBMI Board, I wrote this letter to Mr. Cannon and Ms. Heibeck concerning the renovation of the training 
center.

    National Federation of the Blind of Michigan

20812 Ann Arbor Trail

Dearborn Heights, MI 48127



September 27, 2010



Dear Director Cannon and Sherri Heibeck:



The renovation of the training center has great potential to increase services for blind individuals who take advantage of available
training options presented there. The absence of a permanent building to house the training center for the coming year could be used
to emphasize realistic aspects of daily living. We are a society that lives in one place and works in a different location. The
National Federation of the Blind of Michigan does not support renting one building to house, and provide classes for students.
Apartments should be rented with two students living in each. Staff could be available to assist with daily living skills in the
evening after classes were completed. It is probable  there are unused schools in the Kalamazoo area that could be rented for a year
with a kitchen to teach cooking, and even space for the wood shop.

            The addition of a Technology Center to the Training Center will enhance the vocational skills of students. There should
be a clearly planned strategy about what skills will be taught at that Technology Center. With a plan of what is to be taught
already in place, the staff will be more likely to secure efficient remodeled space and appropriate technology. In recent meetings,
staff have admitted that they have no knowledge of what equipment is needed for the new Technology Center, because there is not a
clear plan of action about what will be taught there.

            It would be beneficial for students to live in apartments, as this kind of living more closely parallels the structure
in our society. A concrete plan will assure that the appropriate technology and space are secured for the Technology Center.



Sincerely



Larry Posont, President

National Federation of the Blind of Michigan

517-482-1800

Email: president.nfb.mi at gmail.com

Web page

www.nfbmi.org