Comprehensive Day-Based Training Program
The Southern Arizona Association for the Visually Impaired (SAAVI) is offering a Comprehensive Training Program for persons who are blind or visually impaired. The day-based centralized program provides intense and effective instruction in Rehabilitation, Assistive Technology,
Orientation and Mobility, and Job Development. SAAVI’s day-based program runs Monday - Friday from 9:00 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.
Based on the goals of the client and vocational rehabilitation counselor each plan will be tailored to meet the needs of the individual. Assessments will be conducted in each discipline and a combined plan will be developed. The utilization of SAAVI’s newly renovated teaching apartment will ensure that clients receive instruction in a realistic, practical environment.
Instruction will be provided in the following areas: Communication Skills, Techniques for Daily Living, Low Vision Rehabilitation, Counseling, College Preparation/Study Skills, Braille Instruction, Orientation and Mobility, Therapeutic Social Recreation and Education, Assistive Technology, and Vocational Services. Specific services are as follows:
Communication Skills: Tactual and auditory modes of communication are taught to compensate for the loss of visual acuity. Included are Braille, typing, handwriting, handling money, bill paying, talking calculator/watches/clocks, tape recorders, and mini recording devices.
Techniques for Daily Living: Tactual techniques are taught to perform numerous daily activities safely and efficiently, included are cooking, housekeeping, table etiquette, medication management, clothing selection and care, grooming, and overall home management i.e. organization, labeling and safety.
Low Vision Rehabilitation (for students with usable vision): Classes provide an understanding of legal blindness and low vision topics such as: terminology, professionals and evaluations. Students are introduced to different types of magnification devices (and optical aids) and Closed Captioned TV’s and are trained on their proper use.
Counseling: Daily counseling sessions to build confidence, self-awareness, and self-esteem will be offered. Techniques are taught re. organization, stress and time management, problem solving, self-dependence, self-advocacy, and goal setting. Group counseling subjects include: oral communication, assertiveness, work awareness, job seeking skills, and community resources. Family support sessions will also be available.
College Preparation / Study Skills: This program addresses the specific needs for students planning to pursue post-secondary education. Curriculum will include note taking, Disability Resource Center, recording devices, protocol with college professors, accessing Library of Congress materials, and other topics, which relate specifically to the college experience.
Braille Instruction: Group and individualized instruction in Braille individually paced.
Orientation & Mobility: This program teaches individuals to travel safely and independently. Goals may include indoor training residential, light business down town travel, bus travel, and adapting to rural environments.
Therapeutic Social Recreation & Education: Social and recreational activities provide trainees the opportunity to become well-rounded individuals. The goal is to teach independence in meaningful leisure pursuits, as well as self-confidence and stress reduction. Activities include arts and crafts, board games and cards, community outings, personal safety, and many more exciting things.
Assistive Technology: The SAAVI Technology Center provides both group and individualized instruction in standard computer applications and assistive technologies.
Vocational Services: SAAVI will provide Employment Readiness and Development services in the following areas; career exploration and planning, work ethic, personal appearance, job application/ resume preparation, job search techniques, interviewing skills, dealing with rejection, job development/placement, retention techniques, job enhancement.
If you have any questions regarding SAAVI's Comprehensive Day-Based Training Program, please contact Lisa Banta via email or call (520)-795-1331.