Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired 3903 Taft Dr., Anchorage ~ 907-248-7770 or 1-800-770-7517 1075 South Check St., Wasilla ~ 907-631-4077
The mission of the Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired to equip Alaskans with vision loss to meet their life and work goals. The center serves more than 300 people of all ages annually with new techniques for communication, mobility, and daily living when loss of eyesight interferes with activities or employment. Services the vision rehabilitation agency in provides include: •
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The Low Vision Clinic provides the opportunity for Alaskans with sight loss to try different optical and non-optical devices to determine which allow them to resume or continue valued activities and to live independently. The Low Vision Clinic is free of cost to recipients due to a generous donation from the Gottstein Family Foundation which provides up to $125 in selected items. Vision Rehabilitation for increased independence that includes instruction and skill development in personal and household management, the use of computers, smartphones and tablets, the application of Braille, confidence and problem solving skills, dexterity and the safe navigation of residential and business areas using a long white cane along with other important techniques. Job Readiness, On-the-Job Support, and Worksite Assessments to enhance success for those seeking employment and those already employed who are losing their sight. Visually Impaired Senior Alaskans (VISA) is a program for those 55 years of age and older living in Southcentral and Southwest Alaska who are experiencing loss of sight which interferes with their daily activities and participation in family and community life. Rural Outreach offers a low vision screening, instruction in ways to walk safely using a long white cane, methods of organizing and labeling items and documents, and modest use of computers and related equipment for better communication. The Center has used this program to expand services across Alaska. Independent Youth Program Less Vision Support Group provides members 55 and older, retired, or experiencing vision loss to members in Anchorage and in the Mat-Su Valley. We can visit you to help make your home a safer and more functional place to live and connect you with other services to improve your life. For more information, call the center in Anchorage at 907248-7770, or in the Mat-Su Valley at 907-631-4077.