Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI)

Mission:
The Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI) is a state agency dedicated to empowering Virginians who are blind, vision impaired, or deafblind to achieve their desired levels of employment, education, and personal independence.

Who They Serve

• Virginia residents of all ages who are blind, vision impaired, or deafblind
• Services are available statewide, including to residents of Louisa County and surrounding regions

Core Services and Programs

Vocational Rehabilitation:
* Vocational evaluation, job training, job development, placement, and follow-up
* Assistance in obtaining jobs in both public and private sectors
* Specialized training and employment opportunities as food service managers and vendors in cafeterias, snack bars, and vending facilities
* Employment options through Virginia Industries for the Blind, with locations in Charlottesville and Richmond

Educational Services:
* Support for students and transition-age youth, including summer camps and year-round activities
* Orientation and mobility training
* Low vision services and rehabilitation teaching
* Independent living skills development
* Technology training and access to adaptive devices

Specialized Services:
* Services for individuals who are deafblind
* Library and Resource Center, including access to library services, National Library Service (NLS) materials, and braille textbooks
* Distribution of currency readers for eligible individuals through the U.S. Currency Reader Program

Additional Information

• DBVI values equal access, integrity, and the abilities of individuals who are blind, vision impaired, or deafblind
• The agency offers opportunities for public input on its strategic planning and services
• Programs are available for children, youth, and adults, with some services requiring eligibility determination

How to Access Services

• Virginia residents, including those in Louisa County, can apply for services directly through the agency
• The agency maintains regional offices and provides information on how to locate the nearest office

Note: For detailed eligibility requirements and to apply for specific programs, contact the organization.