Tennessee Disability Pathfinder offers a growing library of disability resources available at TNPathfinder.org. In addition to the growing directory of resources on Pathfinder’s website, here are some we’re highlighting this month.
Blindness or low vision can affect how a person accesses printed information, technology, transportation, a new workplace, or specific job tasks. It does not determine what kind of career a person can pursue. The right resources can help a person identify tools, training, and strategies that match their employment goal.
Depending on individual needs, services may include guidance and counseling, vocational training, postsecondary education, orientation and mobility training, independent-living services, personal-adjustment training, work adjustment, technology-related services, job placement, and information and referral. The goal is to help eligible individuals enter, return to, or retain employment.
Assistive technology may be another important part of the employment plan. The Tennessee Technology Access Program, known as TTAP, helps Tennesseans explore and obtain assistive-technology devices and services through programs such as device demonstration, device loan, reutilization, and funding assistance. For a person who is blind or has low vision, technology might include screen-reading software, magnification, braille technology, accessible mobile tools, or other devices based on the person’s needs.
Workers and employers can also use the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) for free, confidential guidance about workplace accommodations. JAN offers practical accommodation ideas, tools, checklists, and information about the accommodation process.
And if you are not sure which resource fits your situation, Tennessee Disability Pathfinder can help. Our statewide directory, community calendar, and Resource Navigation Team can connect Tennesseans with disability-related services and help narrow down options based on what a person needs and where they live.
The first step does not have to be knowing the name of the right program. It can simply be knowing your goal and asking for help finding the next step.
Source: Tennessee Blind & Visually Impaired VR Services – https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/ds/blind-visually-impaired-services/bvis-vrservices.html
Source: Tennessee Technology Access Program – https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/ds/ttap/
Source: Job Accommodation Network – https://askjan.org/
Source: Tennessee Disability Pathfinder – https://www.tnpathfinder.org/