Community Education
There are many stereotypes and misconceptions about people who are visually impaired and our clients report considerable discrimination. (The American Foundation for the Blind estimates that 80% of people who are blind cannot find employment). Teaching members of our community about people who are visually impaired will help to reduce these misconceptions.
The community also needs education concerning preventable eye diseases. Community decision makers and others need information about the life-changing impact that inadequate transportation, communication and accessibility options have on those experiencing vision loss.
There is a need for people who are visually impaired to have timely information and resources to allow them to advocate effectively for themselves.
Community Services
These services include three activities, peer support groups, individual counseling, and community education. Our targeted screening program includes community education and glaucoma screening targeted to high-risk populations, African American, Hispanics and seniors.
Community education and targeted screening are all directed at the sighted community who are either at risk or who carry misconceptions about people with vision loss.
Targeted Outreach
This program is purely a prevention program. We concentrate on educating those who are at high risk for specific eye diseases. They learn the importance of regular eye care, how to access it and where to seek help for those who lose their vision. Groups at high risk are African American, Hispanic, and seniors.
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