From jessica.collette at dbvi.virginia.gov Mon Dec 2 13:13:29 2024 From: jessica.collette at dbvi.virginia.gov (Collette, Jessica (DBVI)) Date: Mon, 2 Dec 2024 13:13:29 +0000 Subject: [Rehab] DBVI Career Opportunities - 12/2/24 In-Reply-To: <01010193877cc382-e972a76c-c071-42a1-809b-602dd6e2d2f0-000000@us-west-2.messagingfabric.com> References: <01010193877cc382-e972a76c-c071-42a1-809b-602dd6e2d2f0-000000@us-west-2.messagingfabric.com> Message-ID: Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. [Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired] DBVI Career Opportunities - 12/2/24 Listed below are the DBVI Career Opportunities currently posted. Each position may be accessed directly in the state PageUp system by clicking on the applicable Quicklink. Since vacancies are posted frequently, check PageUp for the most up to date listing at jobs.virginia.gov. Here are some helpful tips to remember when applying: * Review the position?s Job Description. * Complete PageUp application accurately to reflect relevant work history as it relates to the position for which you are applying. * Contact HR, prior to the position closing, if you have any issues accessing PageUp or submitting an application. * PageUp closes all positions at 11:55 pm on the Closing Date. * Screening is based upon information relevant to the position for which you are applying. HR determines candidates for interview by comparing the information disclosed in the application, resume, cover letter and transcripts to the screening criteria for the particular position. Be sure to like DBVI on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VDBVI and visit us on the web at https://www.dbvi.virginia.gov. Job Title: Orientation & Mobility Specialist (Previous applicants need not reapply) Location: Henrico Position #: RCB00034 Closing Date: Open until filled Quicklink: Apply Now ? Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired Stay Connected with Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired: [Facebook] [Youtube] From david.b.andrews at state.mn.us Wed Dec 4 15:40:30 2024 From: david.b.andrews at state.mn.us (Andrews, David B (DEED)) Date: Wed, 4 Dec 2024 15:40:30 +0000 Subject: [Rehab] FW: Orientation and Mobility Instructor Posted! SSB-Minnesota In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: This is a good job, and there is a possible $5000 signing bonus! Dave From: Hanson, Lindsey A (DEED) Sent: Wednesday, December 4, 2024 9:26 AM To: #DEED_SSB-AllStaff Subject: Orientation and Mobility Instructor Posted! Importance: High Working Title: Orientation and Mobility Instructor Job Class: State Program Administrator Senior Agency: Department of Employment and Economic Development * Job ID: 82036 * Location: St. Paul * Telework Eligible: Yes, may be eligible for some telework * Full/Part Time: Full-Time * Regular/Temporary: Unlimited * Who May Apply: This vacancy is open for bids and for all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be considered through 12/10/2024. * Date Posted: 12/04/2024 * Closing Date: 12/11/2024 * Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Employment & Economic Development / MAPE * Division/Unit: State Services for the Blind * Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:00am to 4:30pm * Days of Work: Monday - Friday * Travel Required: Yes, up to 80% of the time * Salary Range: $27.84 - $40.82 / hourly; $58,129 - $85,232 / annually * Classified Status: Classified * Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE) * FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional * Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities. Job Summary *The successful candidate may be eligible for a $5,000.00 hiring incentive* Minnesota State Services for the Blind (SSB) has been serving blind, low vision, and Deaf Blind Minnesotans since 1923. Each year SSB assists thousands in leading full, active, and productive lives. Come be part of a great organization in a great state. This position will function as an Orientation & Mobility instructor (white cane). They will provide instruction for consumers who are enrolled in the Workforce Development Unit and the Senior Services Unit. In addition to providing the instructional services, this employee will transact with Counselors in both program service areas to report on the consumer's assessed needs and to report on the consumer's progress as they undergo training. Documentation of the process will be a requirement of the work. This position would include local and statewide travel up to five (5) days per week, depending on customers' needs. This position will be meeting with customers at their homes, worksites and community spaces. This position is telework eligible and is occasionally required to be on-site at the St Paul Office. Staff are provided with the tools and equipment to be successful in a virtual work environment and may telework from anywhere in Minnesota or a neighboring state. Please note, the telework policy could change with notice based on business needs. *Hiring Incentive: The successful incumbent of this position may be eligible for a hiring incentive of $5,000 paid out in two (2) lump sums following the completion of the required probationary period and following two (2) years of successful service in the role Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held. Only applicants whose resumes clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for this position. Two (2) years* of experience in rehabilitation services, assessing consumer needs, and working with individuals of varying skill levels, with relevant experience such as volunteer work, internships, practicum, and other closely related experience as determined by the agency AND Applicant must hold at least one of the following certifications. Applicants may be considered if they are able to obtain one of the following certifications within their probationary period of employment: * Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) * National Orientation and Mobility Certification (NOMC) *Bachelor's degree in human services or other closely related field as determined by the agency may substitute for one (1) year of experience; master's degree substitutes for eighteen (18) months of experience Applicants that meet the above minimum qualification will be further evaluated on the following: * Knowledge and skills in adult and youth learning styles and techniques, rehabilitation teaching, and orientation and mobility instructor * Ability to communicate effectively and in a timely manner * Ability to analyze and assess customer skills, training needs and limitations * Ability to produce timely, clear and readable case documentation * Incumbent must maintain valid driver's license and insurance OR have other reliable transportation. Travel arrangements can be made with drivers employed by State Services for the Blind upon request and depending on availability. Preferred Qualifications * Certified in both of the following: * Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) * National Orientation and Mobility Certification (NOMC) * Ability to communicate in a second language (specifically American Sign Language, Somali, Hmong, or Spanish) * Our employees are dedicated to ensuring cultural responsiveness. Preferred candidates will have a variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures. Additional Requirements A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. The background check may consist of the following components: * Criminal Background Check * Employment Record Review (current and former State employees only) * Employment Reference Check * Conflict of Interest Review * Driver's Record Check The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. Application Details How to Apply Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers at state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers. Connect 700 Program To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Talent Acquisition at talent.acquisition.deed at state.mn.us. Veterans To be considered with Veteran's Status, you MUST indicate this on your application and submit a copy of your DD-214 form and other required documentation to talent.acquisition.deed at state.mn.us by the closing date. Recently Separated Veterans (RSV): Effective July 1, 2009, legislation provides that the top five RSV applicants who apply and meet the qualifications for a vacancy shall be granted an interview. Certain Disabled Veterans: Effective August 1, 2012, legislation provides state agencies with the option to appoint certain disabled veterans on a non-competitive basis. See the above links for criteria and eligibility. Current State Employees * Please apply via Self Service. * If eligible for bidding or expression of interest: This vacancy will be open for bids/expression of interest and all qualified applicants simultaneously. Current employees of DEED who are currently in the same classification, who are eligible, and apply within the seven (7) day period will be considered prior to filling the position by other means. Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Adjeka Zigah at lynda.zigah at state.mn.us. Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? * A sense of purpose in their work * Connection with their coworkers and communities * Opportunities for personal and professional growth Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well. Your benefits may include: * Paid vacation and sick leave * 12 paid holidays each year * Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans * Fertility care, including IVF * Diabetes care * Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children * 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children * Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) * Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death * Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury * Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care * Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support to help you reach your career goals: * Training, classes, and professional development * Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: * A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance * Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues * Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. Lindsey Hanson | SSB Training & Employment Manager Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development State Services for the Blind 2200 University Ave West, Suite 240, St. Paul MN 55114 Direct: 651-539-2340 Cell: 651-295-0649 Fax: 651-649-5927 Web | Twitter | Facebook [SSB Logo] -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 48701 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- An embedded message was scrubbed... From: "Do_Not_Reply at state.mn.us" Subject: Interesting job at State of Minnesota Date: Wed, 4 Dec 2024 15:22:04 +0000 Size: 8176 URL: From dandrews920 at comcast.net Thu Dec 5 18:13:23 2024 From: dandrews920 at comcast.net (dandrews920 at comcast.net) Date: Thu, 5 Dec 2024 12:13:23 -0600 Subject: [Rehab] Latest Future Reflections In-Reply-To: <00ef01db46c8$0ec72fa0$2c558ee0$@att.net> References: <00ef01db46c8$0ec72fa0$2c558ee0$.ref@att.net> <00ef01db46c8$0ec72fa0$2c558ee0$@att.net> Message-ID: <000f01db4741$6d4e0e80$47ea2b80$@comcast.net> The convention issue of Future Reflections is now available online. This issue includes highlights from the NOPBC conference, presentations from General Sessions, impressions of first-time convention attendees, and much more, including a talk given by our own Denise Avant at the NOPBC board meeting. You can find the convention issue at https://nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/fr/fr43/4/fr4304.htm. Enjoy! Debbie S. -- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. www.avast.com _______________________________________________ From deutscherblaine at gmail.com Fri Dec 6 08:13:25 2024 From: deutscherblaine at gmail.com (Blaine Deutscher) Date: Fri, 6 Dec 2024 02:13:25 -0600 Subject: [Rehab] =?utf-8?q?Subject=3A_Hello_from_Blaine_=E2=80=93_Explori?= =?utf-8?q?ng_Structured_Discovery_Certification?= Message-ID: Hi Everyone, I hope you?re all doing well! My name is Blaine, and I?m currently looking into becoming structured discovery certified. I?m from Canada, so right now I?m in the process of learning the regulations and figuring out the logistics to come down and pursue this exciting journey. I?ve been doing some research on the apprenticeship program, but I wanted to ask for some general feedback on the differences between the Louisiana Tech master?s program and the apprenticeship program. I understand that with the apprenticeship, you do an immersion phase at a center for about 3 months, and then move to another center for 800 hours of apprenticeship. The immersion phase seems like a great opportunity to get a feel for things and discover what you enjoy. How does this work at Louisiana Tech? I know students go to LCB for a stint, but do they also follow it with an apprenticeship afterward? A little about me: As mentioned, I?m Canadian, and structured discovery isn?t widely recognized here unless you work as a private contractor. The organization CNIB has a branch called Vision Loss Rehab Canada (VLRC), but they don?t recognize blind people as being capable of becoming orientation and mobility instructors, unlike the structured discovery model. In fact, they don?t believe blind individuals can pursue careers in O&M due to safety concerns. While other areas like assistive technology and rehab are open to blind professionals, VLRC?s stance on O&M is a significant barrier for anyone wanting to pursue that path in Canada. I first learned about structured discovery through friends who attended the Louisiana Center for the Blind (LCB). I was so impressed by the program, especially seeing blind people navigate a large hotel confidently at the NFB convention. I love that structured discovery not only teaches practical skills but also emphasizes a positive philosophy. Here in Canada, O&M instructors only see clients once or twice a week, while centers in the U.S. provide daily, more intensive training. It?s one thing to teach someone how to use a cane or cook, but it?s another when you help them believe in themselves. I?m inspired by how blind people who?ve gone through structured discovery are truly living the life they want. I often see blind people enjoying life with their families?parents taking their kids to the fair, and blind couples doing everything together, which is something that?s less common in Canada. I really appreciate everyone?s feedback so far! I have some logistical details to work out, like what to do with my wife while I?m doing the apprenticeship program. I?m considering doing my immersion at LCB and then possibly moving on to Saavy Services, as they mentioned my wife could join me. The big challenge, of course, is affordability. Living on a long-term disability income while doing some podcast editing on the side doesn?t leave much room to save, especially when a large portion of the income is going to rent and basic needs. I?m figuring out how to make the trip work, including food and living expenses during both the immersion and apprenticeship phases. My wife and I had a good conversation after the NFB convention and agreed that if I found a job in the States, we?d sell everything and start fresh down there. One more thing?I?m a Seeing Eye graduate, and I was wondering if any of you orientation and mobility instructors who are also guide dog handlers could share what you do with your dog while you?re working. If you're teaching assistive technology, you could probably leave your dog in a kennel in the classroom, but what about when you're out all day with students? Do you leave your dog back at the center and pick them up during lunch or after work? I?d love to hear how others manage this. Thanks again for all the great feedback and support. I look forward to hearing from everyone and learning more about this incredible field. Best, Blaine From debandjeff at allophone.com Sat Dec 7 22:25:25 2024 From: debandjeff at allophone.com (debandjeff at allophone.com) Date: Sat, 7 Dec 2024 16:25:25 -0600 Subject: [Rehab] =?utf-8?q?Subject=3A_Hello_from_Blaine_=E2=80=93_Explori?= =?utf-8?q?ng_Structured_Discovery_Certification?= In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <001301db48f6$e9bbdf40$bd339dc0$@allophone.com> Hello Blaine, I can provide you with some information regarding your questions. The apprenticeship will allow you to earn the NOMC; however, a lot depends on where you are looking to work. Many employers want at least a Batchlor's Degree, and many want a Masters in order to consider you for employment. Now, there are a number of private agencies, and subcontracting opportunities, so the apprenticeship can work if you choose to go this route. There is also the Masters Certificate program through Louisiana Tech, and this can be a good alternative. The young woman that will be taking my place here in Nebraska obtained her NOMC through this program, and it took approximately a year. The full Masters of Arts would give you the best opportunity in terms of employment, but in truth, either the Masters Certificate or the Degree will likely land you a job before you graduate. Being you are from Canada, you would need to look into obtaining a work Visa, and working your way toward citizenship, since this would get you benefits, such as finding it easier to move to other jobs where things such as medical insurance are better. I'm referring to working for a state agency versus a private one, which tend to be a bit less able to provide really good benefits. As far as how the Master's certificate and Degree are concerned, both involve an internship, so you would still be receiving hands-on training, and lots of sleep-shade training before you would be teaching on your own. You would also be able to turn to those of us on the NOMCT committee to answer questions and encouragement. That is the National Orientation and Mobility Certification Trainers Committee, by the way. We also offer online trainings, and we are involved in the National conference held prior to the NFB National convention each year. Regarding your guide dog, I don't use a dog, and I don't know if any NOMC's currently do, so I'm not sure what to suggest. You do have to keep in mind that you would be teaching with a cane, since a major part of your job is to role model for your students, so you probably should discuss this with Dr. Bell, and he can perhaps help you to figure out the proper balance. I wish you luck, and if you have additional questions, please feel free to contact me. Jeff Altman MA NOMCT CVRCB -----Original Message----- From: Rehab On Behalf Of Blaine Deutscher via Rehab Sent: Friday, December 6, 2024 2:13 AM To: rehab at nfbnet.org Cc: Blaine Deutscher Subject: [Rehab] Subject: Hello from Blaine ? Exploring Structured Discovery Certification Hi Everyone, I hope you?re all doing well! My name is Blaine, and I?m currently looking into becoming structured discovery certified. I?m from Canada, so right now I?m in the process of learning the regulations and figuring out the logistics to come down and pursue this exciting journey. I?ve been doing some research on the apprenticeship program, but I wanted to ask for some general feedback on the differences between the Louisiana Tech master?s program and the apprenticeship program. I understand that with the apprenticeship, you do an immersion phase at a center for about 3 months, and then move to another center for 800 hours of apprenticeship. The immersion phase seems like a great opportunity to get a feel for things and discover what you enjoy. How does this work at Louisiana Tech? I know students go to LCB for a stint, but do they also follow it with an apprenticeship afterward? A little about me: As mentioned, I?m Canadian, and structured discovery isn?t widely recognized here unless you work as a private contractor. The organization CNIB has a branch called Vision Loss Rehab Canada (VLRC), but they don?t recognize blind people as being capable of becoming orientation and mobility instructors, unlike the structured discovery model. In fact, they don?t believe blind individuals can pursue careers in O&M due to safety concerns. While other areas like assistive technology and rehab are open to blind professionals, VLRC?s stance on O&M is a significant barrier for anyone wanting to pursue that path in Canada. I first learned about structured discovery through friends who attended the Louisiana Center for the Blind (LCB). I was so impressed by the program, especially seeing blind people navigate a large hotel confidently at the NFB convention. I love that structured discovery not only teaches practical skills but also emphasizes a positive philosophy. Here in Canada, O&M instructors only see clients once or twice a week, while centers in the U.S. provide daily, more intensive training. It?s one thing to teach someone how to use a cane or cook, but it?s another when you help them believe in themselves. I?m inspired by how blind people who?ve gone through structured discovery are truly living the life they want. I often see blind people enjoying life with their families?parents taking their kids to the fair, and blind couples doing everything together, which is something that?s less common in Canada. I really appreciate everyone?s feedback so far! I have some logistical details to work out, like what to do with my wife while I?m doing the apprenticeship program. I?m considering doing my immersion at LCB and then possibly moving on to Saavy Services, as they mentioned my wife could join me. The big challenge, of course, is affordability. Living on a long-term disability income while doing some podcast editing on the side doesn?t leave much room to save, especially when a large portion of the income is going to rent and basic needs. I?m figuring out how to make the trip work, including food and living expenses during both the immersion and apprenticeship phases. My wife and I had a good conversation after the NFB convention and agreed that if I found a job in the States, we?d sell everything and start fresh down there. One more thing?I?m a Seeing Eye graduate, and I was wondering if any of you orientation and mobility instructors who are also guide dog handlers could share what you do with your dog while you?re working. If you're teaching assistive technology, you could probably leave your dog in a kennel in the classroom, but what about when you're out all day with students? Do you leave your dog back at the center and pick them up during lunch or after work? I?d love to hear how others manage this. Thanks again for all the great feedback and support. I look forward to hearing from everyone and learning more about this incredible field. Best, Blaine _______________________________________________ Rehab mailing list Rehab at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/rehab_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Rehab: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/rehab_nfbnet.org/debandjeff%40allophone.com From dandrews920 at comcast.net Tue Dec 10 19:41:24 2024 From: dandrews920 at comcast.net (dandrews920 at comcast.net) Date: Tue, 10 Dec 2024 13:41:24 -0600 Subject: [Rehab] FW: Flight for Sight - The $10, 000 travel grant application is LIVE! In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <004a01db4b3b$9e69a940$db3cfbc0$@comcast.net> Hello National Federation of the Blind community! The application for next year?s $10,000 Flight for Sight Travel Grant has LAUNCHED! Flight for Sight?s mission is to empower individuals to imagine, design, and lead impactful travel projects that elevate the blind and visually impaired community. These projects not only expand personal horizons but also drive positive change and demonstrate the creativity, innovation, and independence of individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Do you have a great idea for a travel project that will benefit the blind and visually impaired community? Apply for a $10,000 travel grant today at FlightForSight.net/Apply If you have any questions email Mike Walsh at Mike at FlightForSight.net. -- Mike Walsh Executive Director Mike at FlightForSight.net +1 608-609-8919 FlightForSight.net Donate Linktree Newsletter Sign Up Listen to our story on the That Real Blind Tech Show podcast! Please note: We use an email tracker called Mailsuite. Its main purpose is to track if an email has been opened and not lost in Spam. It also lets us know the links you clicked on. If you wish to not have emails from us tracked please let us know! From dandrews920 at comcast.net Thu Dec 12 21:42:05 2024 From: dandrews920 at comcast.net (dandrews920 at comcast.net) Date: Thu, 12 Dec 2024 15:42:05 -0600 Subject: [Rehab] FW: Casting Call, Actor who is blind or low vision In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <00c301db4cde$b1e95070$15bbf150$@comcast.net> From: Bacon, Everette Sent: Thursday, December 12, 2024 2:46 PM To: Andrews, Dave Subject: Fwd: Casting Call, Actor who is blind or low vision Hi David, Can this be shared far and wide? Thank you, Everette Bacon 2nd Vice President National Federation of the Blind 200 East Wells Street, Baltimore, MD 21230 801-631-8108 | ebacon at nfb.org The National Federation of the Blind is a community of members and friends who believe in the hopes and dreams of the nation?s blind. Every day we work together to help blind people live the lives they want. Begin forwarded message: From: Joe Strechay > Date: December 12, 2024 at 12:57:27?PM MST To: jstrechay at gmail.com Subject: Casting Call, Actor who is blind or low vision ? Happy Thursday! I am reaching out to see if this could be shared for a project being developed. Thank you for any help! I have the description attached and the text pasted below and described by Be My Ai. ELI)color The image is a casting call announcement for an independent feature film seeking a male lead. The background is dark with a subtle texture, and the text is prominently displayed in yellow and white. At the top, in large yellow letters, it says "CASTING CALL" with the subtitle "Independent feature film is looking for male lead" in smaller white letters below it. On the left side, the text describes the character "Eli," who is a complex, visually-impaired teenager aged 17-22 with a sharp mind and rebellious streak. The description details Eli's reliance on his younger brother, Ben, and his coping mechanisms, which include drugs, alcohol, esoteric audio-books, flight simulator video games, and playing piano. It mentions his struggle with alienation and his yearning for connection despite pushing people away. It also notes that previous acting experience is not necessary, and that being a musician is a plus, though not required. Blind or low vision individuals are preferred. On the right side, there are instructions for applying. Applicants are asked to email kelly at studiocloy.com and provide their full name, age, location, height, contact details, a recent photo or headshot, and a short intro video no longer than one minute. The text in this section is in yellow. Sincerely, Joe Joe Strechay Email: jstrechay at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: FTSOMV_CASTINGCAL(ELI)color.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 200482 bytes Desc: not available URL: From ksims at latech.edu Tue Dec 17 21:43:09 2024 From: ksims at latech.edu (Kristen Sims) Date: Tue, 17 Dec 2024 21:43:09 +0000 Subject: [Rehab] =?windows-1252?q?Subject=3A_Hello_from_Blaine_=96_Explor?= =?windows-1252?q?ing_Structured_Discovery_Certification?= In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hi Blaine, If you are interested in the Louisiana Tech Graduate Program, I woul be happy to talk with you. You can use the link labeled Book Time to meet with me and we can discuss at your convenience, or you can email me at ksims at latech.edu. Kristen J. Sims, M.Ed NOMC NCUEB Orientation and Mobility Program Louisiana Tech University College of Education and Human Services Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness 210 Woodard Hall PO Box 3158, Ruston, LA 71272 318.257.4554 | 318.348.4637 LATech.edu [cid:2d9f4044-9f1c-47c3-9bf5-d42aa6af7ee3] Book time to meet with me ________________________________ From: Rehab on behalf of Blaine Deutscher via Rehab Sent: Friday, December 6, 2024 2:13 AM To: rehab at nfbnet.org Cc: Blaine Deutscher Subject: [Rehab] Subject: Hello from Blaine ? Exploring Structured Discovery Certification Hi Everyone, I hope you?re all doing well! My name is Blaine, and I?m currently looking into becoming structured discovery certified. I?m from Canada, so right now I?m in the process of learning the regulations and figuring out the logistics to come down and pursue this exciting journey. I?ve been doing some research on the apprenticeship program, but I wanted to ask for some general feedback on the differences between the Louisiana Tech master?s program and the apprenticeship program. I understand that with the apprenticeship, you do an immersion phase at a center for about 3 months, and then move to another center for 800 hours of apprenticeship. The immersion phase seems like a great opportunity to get a feel for things and discover what you enjoy. How does this work at Louisiana Tech? I know students go to LCB for a stint, but do they also follow it with an apprenticeship afterward? A little about me: As mentioned, I?m Canadian, and structured discovery isn?t widely recognized here unless you work as a private contractor. The organization CNIB has a branch called Vision Loss Rehab Canada (VLRC), but they don?t recognize blind people as being capable of becoming orientation and mobility instructors, unlike the structured discovery model. In fact, they don?t believe blind individuals can pursue careers in O&M due to safety concerns. While other areas like assistive technology and rehab are open to blind professionals, VLRC?s stance on O&M is a significant barrier for anyone wanting to pursue that path in Canada. I first learned about structured discovery through friends who attended the Louisiana Center for the Blind (LCB). I was so impressed by the program, especially seeing blind people navigate a large hotel confidently at the NFB convention. I love that structured discovery not only teaches practical skills but also emphasizes a positive philosophy. Here in Canada, O&M instructors only see clients once or twice a week, while centers in the U.S. provide daily, more intensive training. It?s one thing to teach someone how to use a cane or cook, but it?s another when you help them believe in themselves. I?m inspired by how blind people who?ve gone through structured discovery are truly living the life they want. I often see blind people enjoying life with their families?parents taking their kids to the fair, and blind couples doing everything together, which is something that?s less common in Canada. I really appreciate everyone?s feedback so far! I have some logistical details to work out, like what to do with my wife while I?m doing the apprenticeship program. I?m considering doing my immersion at LCB and then possibly moving on to Saavy Services, as they mentioned my wife could join me. The big challenge, of course, is affordability. Living on a long-term disability income while doing some podcast editing on the side doesn?t leave much room to save, especially when a large portion of the income is going to rent and basic needs. I?m figuring out how to make the trip work, including food and living expenses during both the immersion and apprenticeship phases. My wife and I had a good conversation after the NFB convention and agreed that if I found a job in the States, we?d sell everything and start fresh down there. One more thing?I?m a Seeing Eye graduate, and I was wondering if any of you orientation and mobility instructors who are also guide dog handlers could share what you do with your dog while you?re working. If you're teaching assistive technology, you could probably leave your dog in a kennel in the classroom, but what about when you're out all day with students? Do you leave your dog back at the center and pick them up during lunch or after work? I?d love to hear how others manage this. Thanks again for all the great feedback and support. I look forward to hearing from everyone and learning more about this incredible field. Best, Blaine _______________________________________________ Rehab mailing list Rehab at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/rehab_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Rehab: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/rehab_nfbnet.org/ksims%40latech.edu -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Outlook-mnrjk5af.png Type: image/png Size: 528 bytes Desc: Outlook-mnrjk5af.png URL: From jessica.collette at dbvi.virginia.gov Fri Dec 20 14:43:44 2024 From: jessica.collette at dbvi.virginia.gov (Collette, Jessica (DBVI)) Date: Fri, 20 Dec 2024 14:43:44 +0000 Subject: [Rehab] DBVI Career Opportunities - 12/20/24 In-Reply-To: <01010193e435da45-9ccde666-5a55-4b92-9985-32016b0b7eb3-000000@us-west-2.messagingfabric.com> References: <01010193e435da45-9ccde666-5a55-4b92-9985-32016b0b7eb3-000000@us-west-2.messagingfabric.com> Message-ID: Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. [Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired] DBVI Career Opportunities - 12/20/24 Listed below are the DBVI Career Opportunities currently posted. Each position may be accessed directly in the state PageUp system by clicking on the applicable Quicklink. Since vacancies are posted frequently, check PageUp for the most up to date listing at jobs.virginia.gov. Here are some helpful tips to remember when applying: * Review the position?s Job Description. * Complete PageUp application accurately to reflect relevant work history as it relates to the position for which you are applying. * Contact HR, prior to the position closing, if you have any issues accessing PageUp or submitting an application. * PageUp closes all positions at 11:55 pm on the Closing Date. * Screening is based upon information relevant to the position for which you are applying. HR determines candidates for interview by comparing the information disclosed in the application, resume, cover letter and transcripts to the screening criteria for the particular position. Be sure to like DBVI on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VDBVI and visit us on the web at https://www.dbvi.virginia.gov. Job Title: Orientation & Mobility Specialist (Previous applicants need not reapply) Location: Henrico Position #: RCB00034 Closing Date: Open until filled Quicklink: Apply Now ? Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired Stay Connected with Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired: [Facebook] [Youtube]