For more than a century, Blind & Vision Rehabilitation Services of Pittsburgh has been a leader in programs and services for people of all ages who are blind, vision impaired, or who have other disabilities. Our mission is to improve the lives of persons with vision loss and related disabilities by teaching independence and self-advocacy. Each year, we accomplish this mission by serving more than 1,500 adults and teenagers in nationally accredited rehabilitation, vocational, and support programs and an additional 18,000 children through our free vision screening program. BVRS is accredited by the National Accreditation Council for Blind and Low Vision Services (NAC).
Funded by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and Bureau of Blindness & Visual Services
Employment Support Services aids employers and future employees in successful hiring practices for individuals who have a variety of disabilities. Services include: community-based assessments, job coaching, work site analysis, and follow-up services.
The Deaf Blind Vocational Program helps individuals with hearing and vision loss enhance self-confidence and secure competitive employment. Training encompasses independent living skills, adaptive technology, and employment readiness.
PBA Industries offers employment opportunities at BVRS in manufacturing and assembly for individuals who are vision impaired. A wide variety of products for both the government and private sector are created in accordance with ISO 9001:2015 standards for certified quality assurance.
Rehabilitation Services
Sponsored by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and Bureau of Blindness & Visual Services
The nationally accredited Access Technology Center offers personalized instruction in accessible hardware and software to beginners, as well as career professionals and seniors who are blind or vision impaired.
The Low Vision Rehabilitation Center combines specialty optometric and occupational therapy services in a medical model to help patients maximize their remaining vision. A personalized treatment plan includes a comprehensive exam, prescribed optical aids, and the training necessary to guarantee success.
Personal Adjustment to Blindness Training is a comprehensive residential program that teaches clients with vision loss how to live independently in their everyday lives. Individualized methods are used to optimize their greatest level of self-sufficiency.
Programs for Children
This service is free to children residing in Allegheny County
Free vision screenings for children are performed by professional technicians at local day care centers, preschools, and Head Start programs. Early detection of vision deficiencies in children 12 months to 6 years of age can help save a child’s sight.
Services for Seniors
Funded by the Department of Aging or the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind
Community Based Training provides a personalized needs assessment to seniors with vision loss so they can continue to live independently in their own homes. Instruction is provided in mobility, daily living activities, and communication.
The New Outlook Program features instruction in various adaptive skills for seniors who are vision impaired. At the conclusion of classes, individuals will be able to accomplish tasks safely and independently in their own home.
Free Transportation Services are available for eligible seniors who are blind or vision impaired in Allegheny County. Door-to-door transportation is available by appointment to medical providers, bank services, and personal shopping needs.
Structured Day Programs
Licensed through the Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs
The Community Transition Program develops, improves, and expands life-long learning opportunities for adults with physical or developmental disabilities. Consumers participate in personal care and social interaction instruction, arts and crafts, and assembly and sorting activities.
Employment Transition Services provides persons with vision loss and other disabilities a supportive day program where they develop essential skills for everyday success in life and the workplace.
Youth Programs
Sponsored by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and Bureau of Blindness & Visual Services
Pre-Employment Training Services is a school-to-work program that prepares students with vision loss and related disabilities for employment. Job coaches work on site at local businesses and organizations to provide support to both students and employers.
The Career and Community Adjustment Program is designed to help students, ages 14 to 21, transition to college or employment. Participants will gain a greater sense of independence during these two 3-week sessions that will strengthen daily living skills, develop technology proficiencies, or acquire work experience. Our individualized programming is adapted to meet each students’ needs and goals.
