Blindness-Learning In New Dimensions Inc

BLIND, Inc. is a vocational rehabilitation and training center for blind people of all ages. Our vision is of blind people living normal lives, working in mainstream jobs, raising their own families, and contributing to the life of the community. Our mission is to make that vision a reality through effective training in nonvisual techniques, changing the beliefs and attitudes of our students and the larger community about blindness, building our students' self confidence and self-esteem, and paving the way for their reintegration into the community. The Buddy Program, for which we are seeking funding, provides these services on an age appropriate basis to blind kids ages 9-14.Blind people have continued to lead BLIND, Inc. since its founding. Our board of directors, executive director, one of our assistant directors, and most of our instructional and support staff are blind. Our sighted staff receive blindfold training so they can think and function as blind persons. This wealth of personal experience with blindness gives us great credibility with the people we serve. The Buddy Program, for which we are seeking funding, works with blind kids ages 9-13 to help them develop the skills and attitudes they need to be successful in school and later life. Training is provided to these kids on an age appropriate basis so they feel secure and comfortable while learning.