RSA-7-OB for FY-2025: Submission #10
Instructions
Submittal Instructions
Grantees of the Independent Living Services for Older Individuals who are Blind (OIB) program must complete and submit their annual RSA 7-OB Report online through RSA’s website (https://rsa.ed.gov).
To register with RSA’s MIS, go to https://rsa.ed.gov and click on Info for new users. The link provides instructions for obtaining an agency- specific username and password. Further instructions for completing and submitting the RSA 7-OB Report online are provided upon completion of the registration process.
OIB grantees submitting the RSA 7-OB Report online are not required to mail signed copies of the 7-OB Report to RSA. Grantees must submit the 7-OB report in the MIS with an authorized signature and date. The signed lobbying certification form must be submitted by mail, fax, or electronically with the authorized signature and date.
The RSA 7-OB Report must be submitted to RSA no later than 90 days after the end of the reported Federal fiscal year (FFY) (i.e., December 31).
PART I: FUNDING SOURCES AND EXPENDITURES IN SUPPORT OF THE OIB PROGRAM
NOTE: References to Title VII below are to Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended by Title IV of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
Funding Sources and Amounts in Support of the OIB Program for the Reported Federal Fiscal Year (FFY)
- Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant award for reported FFY – Enter the total amount of your Title VII-Chapter 2 grant award for the reported FFY. Amount must agree with 10d of the Federal Financial Report form (SF-425).
- Title VII-Chapter 2 carryover from previous FFY – Enter the amount of Title VII-Chapter 2 grant funds carried over from the previous FFY. Enter zero, if none.
- TOTAL Title VII-Chapter 2 funds – The sum of A1 + A2. Total will be automatically populated.
- Title VII-Chapter 1, Part B funds – Enter the total amount of Federal Title VII-Chapter 1, Part B (State Independent Living Services) funds made available for support of the OIB program in the reported FFY.
- Other Federal funds available for expenditure in the reported FFY - Enter the total amount of any other Federal funds available for expenditure to support the OIB program for the reported FFY. Other Federal funds may include, but are not limited to, such funds as SSA reimbursement, Title XX Social Security Act funds, and Older Americans Act funds, including the carryover of such funds that are available for expenditure in the reported FFY.
- Total Federal funds - Sum of A3 + A4 + A5. Total will be automatically populated.
- State funds (excluding in-kind contributions) - Enter the total amount of State funds available for expenditure in the OIB program. Include funds from State appropriations as well as funds from other State sources that were available to support the OIB program for the reported FFY.
- In-kind contributions - Enter the total dollar amount of fairly evaluated and documented in-kind contributions from state, local, and public agencies, as well as non-profit and for-profit organizations. These can include but are not limited to services, materials, equipment, buildings, or office space that was utilized in support of the OIB program.
- Other non-Federal funds - Enter the total amount of funds from other non-Federal sources including local and community funding, non-profit or for-profit agency funding, voluntary client contributions, etc. Do not include in-kind contributions. State funds should be reported in A7 above.
- Total non-Federal funds - Sum of A7 + A9 above; do not include In- kind contributions reported in A8. Total will be automatically populated.
- Total of all funds available for expenditure in the reported FFY - Sum of A6 + A7 + A9. Do not include in-kind contributions reported in A8. Total will be automatically populated.
OIB Program Expenditures in Reported FFY
In this section, report allowable expenditures made in support of the OIB program in the reported FFY. For the purpose of this data collection, the term ”expenditures” means charges made by a non- Federal entity to the Federal OIB award (2 C.F.R. § 200.34).
In this data collection, expenditures are to be reported under two categories, (1) administrative costs, and (2) direct service costs. Within these categories, funds expended from the Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal OIB grant award and from non-Federal funds used to meet the match requirement in accordance with 34 C.F.R. § 367.31(b) and
§ 367.61 are reported separately from allowable OIB expenditures made from other Federal and non-Federal sources. However, OIB grantees remain responsible for tracking specific information related to the expenditure of OIB funds from each source. For example, specific information on expenditures made from the OIB Federal award and from non-Federal sources used in meeting the match requirement must be reported on the SF-425.
- Funds expended for administrative costs in the reported FFY - Enter the total amount of funds expended for administrative costs, including administrative support staff and general overhead costs, during the reported FFY. Do not include expenditures for direct services provided by agency staff or the expenditures of contract or sub-grantee staff that provide direct services under contracts or sub-grants. For example, if an administrator spends a portion of his or her time providing administrative services and the remainder providing direct services, include only the expenditures for administrative services.
- Administrative expenditures from (1) Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant award funds, including allowable carryover funds from the previous FFY and (2) non-Federal sources used in meeting the match requirement as reported on line 10j of the SF-425.
- Administrative expenditures from all other allowable sources as identified in Part I - A above.
- Total administrative expenditures - Sum of 1a + 1b. Total will be automatically populated.
- Funds expended for direct services during the reported FFY - Enter the total funds expended for direct program services during the reported FFY. Amount reported must equal the total funds expended for services in Part IV – F.
- Direct service expenditures from (1) Title VII-Chapter 2 OIB Federal grant award, including allowable carryover funds from the previous FFY and (2) non-Federal sources used in meeting the match requirement as reported on line 10j of the SF-425.
- Direct service expenditures from all other allowable sources as identified in Part I - A above.
- Total direct services expenditures - Sum of 2a + 2b. Total will be automatically populated.
- Total funds expended for the program during the reported FFY - Sum of B1c + B2c. Total will be automatically populated.
Part II: Program Staffing
Base all full-time equivalent (FTE) calculations on the number of hours per week considered full time for the position. Record all FTEs assigned to the OIB program during the reported FFY irrespective of whether salary is paid with Title VII-Chapter 2 funds. Report the number of hours per week that define FTE for State Agency staff and for Contract/Subgrant staff (e.g. 40 hours, 35 hours, etc.).
Full-time Equivalent (FTE) Program Staff
Record the FTE administrative and support staff and direct service staff, including State agency staff and contract/subgrant staff, for the OIB program. If a staff member provides both administrative and support functions and direct services, report the percentage of FTE devoted to administrative and support activities under “Administrative & Support” and the percentage of FTE devoted to direct services under “Direct Services.” For example, assuming a full-time 40 hour work week, if 20% (8 hours per week) of a staff person’s time was spent on administrative and support functions related to this program, and 80% (32 hours per week) of the staff person’s time was spent in providing direct services for this program, the reported FTE for that staff person would be 0.2 for administrative and support functions and 0.8 for direct services.
- FTE State Agency staff assigned to the OIB program
- Administrative and support – Under “Administrative & Support,” enter the FTE of all administrative and support staff (e.g., management, program directors, supervisors, readers, drivers for staff, etc.) assigned to the OIB program from the State agency.
- Direct service – Under “Direct Service”, enter the FTE of all State agency direct service staff (e.g., rehabilitation teachers, Independent Living (IL) specialists, orientation and mobility specialists, social workers, drivers for individuals receiving services, etc.) assigned to the OIB program from the State agency.
- Total – The total State agency FTE (A1C) is the sum of the “Administrative & Support” FTE (A1A) and “Direct Service” FTE (A1B). Total will be automatically populated.
- FTE through contract/subgrant – FTE assigned to the OIB program through a contract or subgrant.
- Administrative & support – Under “Administrative & Support” (A2a), enter the FTE of all administrative and support staff (e.g., management, program directors, supervisors, readers, drivers for staff, etc.) assigned to the OIB program through contract/subgrant.
Direct service – Under “Direct Service” (A2b), enter the FTE of all direct service staff (e.g., rehabilitation teachers, independent living specialists, orientation and mobility specialists, social
workers, drivers for individuals receiving services, etc.) assigned to the OIB program through contract/subgrant.
- Total – The Total Contract/subgrantee FTE (A2c) is the sum of the “Administrative & Support” FTE (A2a) and the “Direct Service” FTE (A2b). Total will be automatically populated.
- Total FTE – The system will generate the FTE totals for Administrative & Support and for Direct Service, as well as the total FTE for the program.
- FTE State Agency staff assigned to the OIB program
Employees with Disabilities
Record the number of employees with disabilities that are represented in the categories below. Individuals reported here should include both agency and contract/subgrant staff.
- Employees with disabilities other than with blindness or severe visual impairments – Enter the total number of employees with disabilities, excluding those with blindness or severe visual impairments. Employees with blindness or severe visual impairments are reported separately in B2 and B3 below.
Employees with blindness or severe visual impairments who are age
55 and older – Enter the total number who are blind or who have severe visual impairments and are age 55 and older.
- Employees with blindness or severe visual impairments who are under age 55 – Enter the total number who are blind or have a severe visual impairment and are under age 55.
Total employees with disabilities – Enter the number of employees reported in B1, B2, and B3. Total in B4 will be automatically populated.
Part III: Data on Individuals Served
Provide data in each of the categories below on the number of individuals for whom one or more services were provided (program participants) during the reported FFY.
Individuals Served
- Enter the number of program participants carried over from the previous FFY who received services in this reported FFY (i.e., an individual who received services in September (or any other month) of the previous FFY and continued to receive additional services in the reported FFY).
- Enter the number of program participants who began receiving services during the reported FFY irrespective of whether they have completed all services.
- Total individuals served during the reported FFY - Sum of A1 + A2. Total will be automatically populated.
Age at Application
Categories 1 through 4 - The total number of individuals served in each respective age category (B1 through B4).
- The sum of age categories B1 through B4. This total must agree with the total reported in A3. Total will be automatically populated.
Gender
- Self-identifies as female – Enter the total number of individuals receiving services who self-identify as female.
- Self-identifies as male – Enter the total number of individuals receiving services who self-identify as male.
- Did not self-identify gender – Enter the total number of Individuals receiving services who did not self-identify gender.
- Total – Sum of C1 + C2 + C3. This total must agree with the total reported in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.
Race
Categories 1 through 7 - Enter the number of individuals served in the reported FFY for each of the 7 race categories (D1 through D7). Self- identification is required to the greatest extent possible. It is generally expected that the information recorded will reflect the individual’s own identification of race from these categories.
Observer identification is not required. If the individual refuses to self-identify, record in item 6 (individual did not self-identify race). An individual should only be reported in one of the 7 categories. Item 7 should be used to report individuals served who identify two or more races. The multi-race category (item 7) should not be used to report an individual who identifies only 1 of the 5 races listed and also identifies that they are of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. Hispanic or Latino ethnicity is recorded in section E, regardless of race.
- American Indian – Enter the number of individuals served who are American Indian or Alaska Native. American Indian/Alaska Native means a person having origins in any of the original peoples of North and South America (including Central America), and who maintains tribal affiliation or community attachment.
Asian – Enter the number of individuals served who are Asian. Asian means a person having origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the Indian subcontinent including, for
example, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippine Islands, Thailand, and Vietnam.
- Black or African American – Enter the number of individuals served who are Black or African American. Black or African American means a person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa.
- Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander – Enter the number of individuals served who are Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander. Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander means a person having origins in any of the original peoples of Hawaii, Guam, Samoa, or other Pacific Islands.
- White – Enter the number of individuals served who are White. White means a person having origins in any of the original peoples of Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa.
- Individual did not self-identify race – Enter the number of individuals served who did not self-identify race or refused to self- identify race.
- Two or more races – Enter the number of individuals served who report two or more races (for multi-race individuals).
- Total – Sum of items D1 through D7. This total must agree with the total reported in A3 above. Do not include the Ethnicity sum from E1. Total will be automatically populated.
Ethnicity
1. Enter the number of individuals served who reported that they are Hispanic or Latino. Hispanic or Latino means a person of Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other Spanish culture or origin, regardless of race.
Degree of Visual Impairment
- Enter the number of individuals served who are totally blind (e.g., have light perception only or no light perception).
- Enter the number of individuals served who are considered legally blind, excluding those recorded in F1.
- Enter the number of individuals served who have severe visual impairment, excluding those recorded in F1 and F2.
- Total - Sum of F1 + F2 + F3. The total must agree with the total in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.
Major Cause of Visual Impairment
Enter only one major cause of visual impairment for each individual served during the reported FFY. Below are the most common causes of visual impairment among older individuals.
- Macular degeneration – Enter the number of individuals served who have macular degeneration as the major cause of visual impairment. Macular degeneration is a progressive disease of the retina wherein the light-sensing cells in the central area of vision (the macula) stop working and eventually die.
- Diabetic retinopathy – Enter the number of individuals served who have diabetic retinopathy as the major cause of visual impairment. Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the blood vessels of the light- sensitive tissue at the back of the eye (retina) caused by diabetes.
- Glaucoma – Enter the number of individuals served who have glaucoma as the major cause of visual impairment. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases causing optic nerve damage that involves mechanical compression or decreased blood flow.
- Cataracts – Enter the number of individuals served who have cataracts as the major cause of visual impairment. A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens of the eye resulting in blurred vision, sensitivity to light and glare, distortion, and dimming of colors.
- Other cause of visual impairment – Enter the number of individuals served whose major cause of visual impairment is not listed above.
- Total - Sum of G1 through G5. This total must agree with the total in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.
Other Age-Related Impairments
Older individuals who are blind may have one or more other age-related impairments or disorders that impact their ability to carry out customary daily life activities in the home and community. Listed below are age-related impairments (other than visual impairments) that are common among older individuals. Enter the total number of individuals served in each of the categories listed in H1 through H-6. Individuals may report one or more non-visual impairments/conditions.
- Hearing impairment – Hearing impairment occurs when there is a problem with or damage to one or more parts of the ear, and may be a conductive hearing loss (outer or middle ear) or a sensorineural hearing loss (inner ear) or a combination. Presbycusis is the gradual hearing loss that occurs with aging.
- Mobility impairment – Older individuals may have difficulty with gross motor behavior, such as moving around in the environment, or with fine motor skills, such as writing. Conditions such as Osteoporosis (loss of mass and quality of bones), osteoarthritis (inflammation and deterioration of joints), and sarcopenia (age- related loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength) may contribute to frailty and injury in older individuals. Other conditions that contribute to loss of mobility and independence include disorders in the central nervous system that control movement such as in Parkinson’s disease.
- Communication impairment – Older individuals may have impairments in expressive communication, receptive communication, or both, as a result of stroke, dementia, or other conditions.
- Cognitive or intellectual impairment – Cognitive impairments, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, impact parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and executive functioning. Individuals with intellectual disabilities (e.g., Down syndrome), should also be included in this category.
- Mental health impairment – Older individuals may have impairments or disorders that affect their mental health such as: Mood disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder); Sundown syndrome, which affects individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s; and psychosis or a personality disorder.
- Other impairment – Enter other impairments not captured in H1 – H5 above.
Type of Residence
- Private residence – Enter the number of individuals served who live in a private residence (house or apartment).
- Senior independent living facility – Enter the number of individuals served who live in senior independent living housing in which minimal support is provided.
- Assisted living facility – Enter the number of individuals served who live in assisted living facilities (e.g., housing that provides personal care and services which meet needs beyond basic provision of food, shelter and laundry).
- Nursing home/long-term care facility – Enter the number of individuals served who live in nursing homes/long-term care facilities (e.g., any facility that provides care to one or more persons who require nursing care and related medical services of such complexity to require professional nursing care under the direction of a physician on a 24 hour a day basis).
- Homeless – Enter the number of individuals served who are homeless.
- Total – Sum of I1 through I5. This total must agree with the total in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.
J. Source of Referral
- Eye care provider – Enter the number of individuals served referred by an eye care provider (e.g., ophthalmologist or optometrist).
- Physician/medical provider – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a medical provider other than an eye care provider.
- State VR agency – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a State vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency.
- Government/public or private social services agency – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a government/public or private social services agency, not listed elsewhere, that provides assistance to consumers related to eligibility and securing entitlements and benefits, counseling, elder law services, or assistance with housing.
- Veterans Administration – Enter the number of individuals served referred by the Veterans Administration.
- Senior program – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a senior program defined as a community-based educational recreational, or socialization program operated by a senior center, nutrition site, or senior club.
- Assisted living facility – Enter the number of individuals served referred by an assisted living facility defined as housing that provides personal care and services which meet needs beyond basic provision of food, shelter and laundry.
- Nursing home/long-term care facility – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a nursing home/long-term care facility defined as any facility that provides care to one or more persons who require nursing care and related medical services of such complexity to require professional nursing care under the direction of a physician on a 24 hour a day basis.
- Independent living center – Enter the number of individuals served referred by an independent living center (ILC) defined as a consumer- controlled, community-based, cross-disability, nonresidential private nonprofit agency that is designed and operated within a local community by individuals with disabilities, and provides an array of independent living services.
- Family member or friend – Enter the number of individuals referred by a family member or friend.
- Self-referral – Enter the number of individuals who were self- referred.
- All other sources – Enter the number of individuals referred from All other sources aside from those listed above, including Faith based organizations.
- Total – The sum of J1 through J12. This total must agree with the total in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.
Part IV: Types of Services Provided and Funds Expended
Provide data related to the number of program participants receiving each type of service and funds expended for each type of service.
Total expenditures for direct program services in Part I - B2 must equal the total funds spent on services in Part IV - F. In other words, the amount reported in Part I - B2 must equal the sum of the expenditures reported in Part IV - F. Salary or expenditures associated with direct service staff or contractors providing direct services should be included in the expenditure of services provided in A1, B1, C1, D1 and E1.
Clinical/Functional Vision Assessments and Services
- Total expenditures from all sources of program funding - Enter the total expenditures, including expenditures from Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant funds and all other sources of program funding, for clinical and/or functional vision assessments and services, whether purchased or provided directly.
- Persons served – Vision Screening/Vision Examination/Low Vision Evaluation (unduplicated count): Enter the total number of individuals who received clinical vision screening or vision examinations from qualified or certified professionals such as ophthalmologists, optometrists, or low vision specialists (i.e., one individual may receive multiple services during the reported FFY but should only be counted one time). Assessment areas may include functional visual acuity and fields, efficiency of vision in the performance of everyday tasks, and evaluation for low vision aids or equipment. Functional vision assessments are typically provided by professionals who are certified or have a master’s degree in low vision rehabilitation. Do not include evaluations for orientation and mobility, which should be included in IV - C3.
- Persons served – Surgical or therapeutic treatments to prevent, correct, or modify disabling eye conditions (unduplicated count): Enter the total number of individuals who received surgical or therapeutic treatment to prevent, correct, or modify disabling eye conditions, including prescription optical devices(i.e., one individual may receive multiple services during the reported FFY but should only be counted one time). Nonprescription optical aids and devices should be reported in IV - B2.
Assistive Technology devices and services
As defined in Section 3(4) of the Assistive Technology Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-364), “assistive technology device means any item, piece of equipment, or product system whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.” Assistive
technology devices may include such items as canes, slates, insulin gauges, closed circuit televisions, computers, adaptive software, magnifiers, adaptive cooking items, adaptive recreational items, handwriting guides, braille devices, large button telephones, etc. Assistive technology services may include the evaluation of assistive technology needs of an individual, services related to acquisition of technology, loan programs, maintenance and repair of assistive technology, training or technical assistance for the individual or professionals related to the use of assistive technology, programs to expand the availability of assistive technology, low vision services related to the use of optical aids and devices, and other services related to the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.
- Total expenditures from all sources of program funding – Enter the total amount of expenditures, including expenditures from Title VII- Chapter 2 Federal grant funds and all other sources of program funds, for the provision of assistive technology devices and services.
- Persons served – Provision of assistive technology devices and/or services (unduplicated count): Enter the unduplicated count of individuals who received one or more assistive technology devices and services (i.e., one individual may receive multiple assistive technology devices and services during the reported FFY but should only be counted one time).
Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services
- Total expenditures from all sources of program funding - Enter the total expenditures, including expenditures from Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant funds and all other sources of program funding, for the provision of services and adjustment training leading to independent living. Evaluation and assessment services (excluding those included in IV - A2 or IV - B2) leading to the planning and implementation of services and training should be included in these costs.
- Persons served – Independent living and adjustment training services (unduplicated count): Enter the unduplicated count of individuals who received one or more independent living and adjustment training services (i.e., one individual may receive multiple independent living and adjustment training services during the reported FFY but should only be counted one time).
- Number of persons reported in IV - C2 who received the following services:
- Persons served – Orientation and mobility training: Enter the total number of individuals who received orientation and mobility (O & M) services or travel training (i.e., learning to access public or private transportation and to travel safely and as independently as possible in the home and community with or without the use of mobility aids and devices).
- Persons served – Communication skills training: Enter the total number of individuals who received communication skills training. This category includes, for example, training in reading and writing braille; training in the use of the telephone (including mobile phones); training in the use of readers, newspaper reading services, radio and talking book services; and training in other communication skills and technologies. This category also includes training in keyboarding and computer literacy. Training in the use of specialized computer software (e.g., screen reading software) and adaptive equipment should be reported under assistive technology services (IV - B2 above).
- Persons served – Daily living skills training: Enter the total number of individuals who received daily living skills training. This category includes, for example, training in the use of blindness and low vision alternative techniques for telling time, food preparation, grooming and dress, household chores, medical management, shopping, and recreational activities.
- Persons served – Advocacy training: Enter the total number of individuals who participated in advocacy training including consumer organization meetings.
- Persons served – Adjustment counseling and/or peer support services: Enter the total number of individuals who received adjustment counseling and/or peer support services (individual or group) to assist them in adjusting to visual impairment and blindness.
- Persons served – Information and referral services: Enter the total number of individuals (program participants) who received information and referral to other service providers, programs, and agencies (e.g., senior programs, public and private social service programs, faith-based organizations, consumer groups, etc.) to enhance adjustment, independent living, and integration into the community. Do not include individuals who received only information and referral and for whom no other services were provided (e.g., non-participants, the general public, and other service providers).
- Persons served – Other independent living services: Enter the total number of individuals who received any other independent living service not listed above.
Supportive Services
Supportive services are services provided to individuals with disabilities so that they can access other program services. Under
this category, report the number of individuals who received reader services, transportation, personal attendant services, interpreters, or other support services while actively participating in the program or attaining independent living goals.
- Expenditures – Enter the total expenditures, including expenditures from Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant funds and all other sources of program funding, for the provision of supportive services.
- Persons served – supportive services (unduplicated count): Enter the unduplicated count of individuals who received supportive services as described above (i.e., one individual may receive multiple supportive services during the reported FFY but should only be counted one time).
Community Awareness Activities and Information and Referral
- Expenditures – Enter the total expenditures, including expenditures from Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant funds and all other sources of program funding, used to support community awareness activities/events and providing information and referral services to individuals for whom this was the only service provided (e.g., health fair for seniors, training for other professionals, telephone inquiries, and general inquiries about services for older individuals who are blind).
TOTAL DIRECT EXPENDITURES
Sum of A1 through E1. The total must agree with the direct service expenditures reported in Part 1 - B2c.
Part V: Program Performance Measures and Outcome Data
The revised GPRA measures for the OIB program are listed below. Grantees must report the data necessary to calculate program performance on these measures as outlined in the instructions below following the list of measures.
Program Measures
Objective: To restore, improve, or maintain the independence of older individuals whose functional capabilities have been lost or diminished as a result of vision loss or blindness.
Assistive Technology Devices and Services
Measure A – The percentage of individuals receiving assistive technology devices and services who demonstrated improvement in one or more functional capabilities during the reported FFY consistent with the objectives for receiving such devices and services.
Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services
Measure B - The percentage of individuals receiving one or more independent living and adjustment training services who demonstrated improvement in functional capabilities during the reported FFY.
Independence in the Home and Community
Measure C1 – The percentage of individuals completing a plan of services who reported feeling more confident in their ability to maintain their current living situation.
Measure C2 - The percentage of individuals completing a plan of services who reported an increased ability to engage in their customary daily life activities in the home and community.
- Efficiency Measure – (Measure will be calculated by RSA using MIS data reported in PARTS I and III)
Objective: To provide cost effective supports and services to increase the independence of older individuals who are blind so that they may remain in the community and to prevent or delay the need for an increasing level of care, particularly for those individuals who are at risk of entering institutions.
Measure D – The average annual cost per individual served through the program during the reported FFY.
Instructions for Reporting of Performance Data in Part V:
For measures A, Assistive Technology Devices and Services, and B, Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services, data is reported for individuals whose change in functional capabilities was assessed during the reported FFY, following the receipt of one or more services provided through the program.
For measures under C, Independence in the Home and Community, data is reported for individuals completing a plan of services during the reported FFY. For the purpose of this measure, “a plan of services is a set of services provided through the OIB program designed to meet an individual’s goals.” For the purpose of the items reported under C, an individual who has completed his or her plan of services does not need to have formally exited the program.
Grantees are not required to report data for efficiency measure D in Part V. The average annual cost per individual served through the program during the reported FFY will be calculated by RSA based on data reported in Part I, B3 and Part III, A3.
Assistive Technology Devices and Services
From the unduplicated number of persons served that received assistive technology devices and services reported in IV - B2, enter the number of unduplicated individuals receiving assistive technology
devices and services for whom change in functional capabilities was assessed, during the reported FFY (Denominator).
- From the unduplicated number of persons reported in A1 above, enter the unduplicated number of individuals receiving assistive technology devices and services who demonstrated improvement in one or more functional capabilities, during the reported FFY. Note: An individual who maintained but did not improve their capabilities may be reported here if the individual’s goal was to prevent further decline in their capabilities (Numerator).
- The percentage of individuals receiving assistive technology devices and services who demonstrated improvement in one or more functional capabilities during the reported FFY consistent with the objectives for receiving such devices and services. (A2 divided by A1 X 100). The percentage is calculated by RSA MIS.
Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services
- From the unduplicated number of individuals receiving independent living and adjustment training services reported in IV C2, during the reported FFY, enter the unduplicated number of individuals receiving independent living and adjustment training services for whom change in functional capabilities was assessed during the reported FFY (Denominator).
- From the unduplicated number of persons reported in B1 above, enter the unduplicated number of individuals receiving independent living and adjustment training services who demonstrated improvement in one or more functional capabilities. Note: An individual who maintained but did not improve their capabilities may be reported here if the individual’s goal was to prevent further decline in their capabilities (Numerator).
- The percentage of individuals receiving one or more independent living and adjustment training services who demonstrated improvement in functional capabilities during the reported FFY (B2 divided by B1 X 100). The percentage is calculated by RSA MIS.
Independence in the Home and Community
Responses to items C1 through C5 below are based on individuals who completed their plan of services during the reported FFY. Note: For the purpose of these measures, an individual who has completed his or her plan of services does not need to have formally exited the program. For example, an individual who has completed individualized services but continues to participate in ongoing peer support activities provided through the program would be included.
- Total: Enter the total number of individuals completing a plan of services during the reported FFY (Denominator). Note: This means a specific set of services designed for the individual to meet his or her goals.
- Engage in customary daily life activities: Enter the number of individuals completing a plan of services during the reported FFY who reported an increased ability to engage in their customary daily life activities in the home and community (Numerator).
- The percentage of individuals completing a plan of services who reported an increased ability to engage in their customary daily life activities in the home and community. (C2 divided by C1 X 100). The percentage is calculated by RSA MIS.
- Maintain Living Situation – Enter the number of individuals completing a plan of services during the reported FFY who reported feeling that they are more confident in their ability to maintain their current living situation (Numerator).
- The percentage of individuals completing a plan of services who reported feeling that they are more confident in their ability to maintain their current living situation (C4 divided by C1 X 100). The percentage is calculated by RSA MIS.
- Efficiency Measure – (To be calculated by RSA MIS from data reported in PARTS I and III)
- Total funds expended for direct services provided during the reported FFY (as reported in I B2c)
- Number of individuals receiving services during the reported FFY (as reported in III A3)
- The average annual cost per individual served through the program during the reported period (D1 divided by D2).
Part VI: Training and Technical Assistance
On July 22, 2014, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) was enacted and included a new requirement under Section 751A that the RSA Commissioner shall conduct a survey of designated State agencies that receive grants under section 752 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by Title IV of WIOA, regarding training and technical assistance needs in order to determine funding priorities for such training and technical assistance. Enter a brief description of your training and technical assistance needs related to the implementation and improvement of the performance of your OIB program (for example, financial management, reporting requirements on the 7-OB, program management, data analysis and program performance, law and applicable regulations, provision of services and service delivery, promising practices, resources and information, outreach, etc.).
Part VII: Narrative
See descriptions of items to be included in the narrative on the 7-OB form.
Part VIII: Signature Instructions
SIGN AND PRINT THE NAME, TITLE AND TELEPHONE NUMBER OF THE OIB PROGRAM DIRECTOR.
The certifying official (either the Program Director or a designated officer) must have the legal authority to submit the form on behalf of the agency.
Part I: Funding Sources and Expenditures in Support of the OIB Program
Part II: Program Staffing
Part III: Data on Individuals Served
Part IV: Types of Services Provided and Funds Expended
Part V: Program Performance Measures and Outcome Data
Program Measures
Objective: To restore, improve, or maintain the independence of older individuals whose functional capabilities have been lost or diminished as a result of vision loss or blindness.Measure: The average annual cost per individual served through the program during the reported FFY.
Program Performance Data
Part VI: Training and Technical Assistance Needs
Part VII: Narrative
The State Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired implements the Title VII-Chapter 2 program through a sub-grantee/contractor. All the funds are granted to: the Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 60 Kimball Avenue South Burlington VT 05403. Outreach activities at VABVI have no set policy in regard to expanding into under-served or un-served populations. We reach out to everyone who requires our services and cover the entire state. One of our concerns is that many potential consumers might not be aware of our services. Therefore, we do as many outreach activities as we can, depending on the number of requests and the availability of the staff. Towards that end, we have trained a number of our clients as volunteers who do some of the activities for us; informing them about visual impairments and telling them about the services offered by VABVI. VABVI conducts a variety of activities to create awareness among individuals with visual impairments and the general public, regarding our services and to create positive attitudes about disabilities. During FY25, VABVI staff participated in 264 community activities. Training workshops accounted for 26.9% and Community Advocacy represented 46.2% of the total hours allocated to community efforts. The attached Appendices (I & II) illustrate these findings.
Appendix 1
COMMUNITY EFFORTS BY TYPE OF ACTIVITY
FISCAL YEAR 2025
# of Activities Hours % of Total
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Public Information/Outreach 75 176.5 26.1%
Attendance at Workshops & Conferences 17 153.5 22.7%
Community Involvement & Community 63 143.5 21.2%
Advocacy
Radio/TV Appearances 6 12.0 1.8%
In-Service Training 18 28.75 4.2%
Meeting of Professional Organizations/ 85 162.25 24.0%
Public Officials
Other Community Activities 0 0 0
Totals 264 676.5 100%
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Number
Newsletters-Electronic 11
I.L. Brochures 683
Service Descriptions 214
Press Release/Interviews/Facebook and Tweets 272
Other Mailings 8504
Appendix II
Fundin1 Activit� Event Town Count� No. of hour Preferred name
Collaborative meeting with Professionals Zoom 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
Collaborative meeting with Professionals Discuss their student recruitment efforts 0.00 Stephanie Bissonette
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Access Vermont Accessibility Conference Waterbury Washington 3.50 Sheila Thurston
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Tech Fair Hinesburg Chittenden 6.00 Sheila Thurston
02 • Chapter 2 Phone consult concerning VI Phone consult for technology 1.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 • Chapter 2 Phone consult concerning VI Phone call with past client regarding phone options 0.50 Sharon Wille-P.adnas
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy VABVI Tech Fair Hinesburg Chittenden 6.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Presentation about VABVI services and vision Winooski Chittenden 2.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 • Chapter 2 Phone consult concerning VI VI Consult re: toots, materials w/past client (GW) Newark 1.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 • Chapter 2 Phone consult concerning VI Phone Consult 0.50 Sharon Wille•Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 Professional training by staff Presentation Winooski Chittenden 3.00 Sharon Wille•Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 LEAP LEAP (first session) Colchester Chittenden 2.50 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 LEAP LEAP (First session) Colchester Chittenden 2.50 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 LEAP LEAP (Second Session) Colchester Chittenden 2.00 Sharon Wille•Padnos
02 • Chapter 2 LEAP LEAP (Second Session) Coldiester Chittenden 3.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 • Chapter 2 LEAP LEAP (Second session) Colchester Chittenden 2.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 • Chapter 2 Acquiring Professional Development A VRT Conference 7.50 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 Acquiring Professional Development A VRT Conference 3.50 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 • Chapter 2 Professional training by staff PALS Colchester presentation Colchester Chittenden 1.50 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 A VRT Conference 3.50 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 • Chapter 2 Phone consult concerning VI Phone consult for assistive tech issue 0.75 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 Acquiring Professional Development Webinar 2.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 • Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Drop off Merlin device for Nancy fletcher to rent Rutland Rutland 0.25 Julia Solcau
02 • Chapter 2 Community advocacy WCD planning committee Jack, Eric, Kate, Tabor, Muffy Rutland Rutland 2.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Shared Clients DBVI Springfield 2.00 Jack Trainor
02 • Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Shared Client 02,03,04 DBVI Springfield 1.00 Jack Trainor
02 -Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Shared Clients 02Priority 03, 04 DBVI Springfield . 2.00 Jack Trainor
02 -Chapter 2 CollaborativE! meeting with Professionals Quarterly DBVI Rutland Client Planning Progress Rutland Rutland 1.00 Jack Trainor
02 • Chapter 2 Collaboratrve meeting with Professionals Shared Clients Priority 02, 03, 04 OBVI Springfield 1.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals QuartJey Planning: Melissa , Kate, Jack Rutland Rutland 1.00 Jack Trainor
02: Chapter 2 Community advocacy PALS Brattleboro Brattleboro Windham 1.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Planing Instruction bioptics & pre•driver readiness 1.00 Jack Trainor
02 • Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Lesson 1 Fitting the Bioptic spotting skills Brarneboro Windham 2.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals lesson 2 Bioptic Focus Near Far Fast Spotting Drills Brattleboro Windham 2.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals lesson 2 Bioptic Focus Near Far Fast Spotting Drills Brattleboro Windham 2.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 2 Coll�borative meeting with Professionals White Cane Day Event Planning Meeting RM&Route Bellows Falls Windham 2.00 Jack Trainor
02 • Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals White Cane Day Event Planning MeetingRM & Route Bellows Falls Windham 2.00 Jack Trainor
02 • Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Lesson 3 Using Bioptic Everyday and Pre Driver Skills Brattleborci Windham 3.00 Jack Trainor
02 • Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Shared client 02 priority 03-04 DBVI Springfield 1.00 Jack Trainor
02 • Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals lesson 4 using a Bioptic everday & Pre Driver Skills Brattleboro Windham 3.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals lesson 5 Bioptic Distance Spotting Estimate Read Drills Brattleboro Windham 3.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services EMO Berlin Washington 0.50 Etsuro Nishlyachi
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VA8VI services EMO Peacham Caledonia 1.00 Etsuro Nishiyachi
02 • Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VA8VI services Access VT Waterbury Washington 4.00 Etsuro Nishiyachi
02 • Chapter 2 Phone consult concerning VI Phone call Newark Chittenden 0.50 Etsuro Nishlyachi
02 • Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Tech Fair Hinesburg Chittenden 6.00 Etsuro Nishiyachi
02 - Chapter 2 Phone consult concerning VI Assistive technol�gy consultation Caledonia 0.50 Etsuro Nishiyachi
02 • Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 2025 Gerontology symposium Burlington Chittenden 8.00 Etsuro Nis.hiy.achi
02 • Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Lunch meeting Berlin Washington 1.50 Etsuro Nishlyachl
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services NEK Resource Fair St. Johnsbury Caledonia 7.00 Etsuro Nishiyachi
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Newport PALS group Newport Orleans 1.50 Etsuro Nishiyachi
02 • Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Rutland Rutland 1.00 Eric Shaw
02 • Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals Rutland White Cane Day Committee Meeting Rutland Rutland 1.00 Eric Shaw
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services WCAX program "Across the Fence" South Burlington Chittenden 1.00 Dan Norris
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Barre Lions Presentation Barre Washington 1.00 Dan Norris
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Bradford Public Library CCTV Bradford Orange 1.00 Dan Norris
02 - Chapter 2 Professional training by staff Retired Teachers Association NEK Newport Orleans 2.00 Dan Norris
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services WCAO Events LEAP 1.00 Dan Norris
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02- Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 • Chapter 2 Community advoc.Jcy
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals 02 - Ch.apter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02- Chapter 2 Community advocacy OZ- Chapter 2 Community advocacy 02- Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Cl)apter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter Z Collaborative meeting with Professionals 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Acquiring Professional Development
02 - Chapter z Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals OZ - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with Professionals 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services 02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy APS Committee Waterbury Washington 3.00 Steve Pouliot
02 - Chapter 2 Community itdvocacy Burlington Advisory Committee on Accessibility Burlington Chittenden 1.00 John Thomas
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy Burlington Advisory Committee on Accessibility Burlington Chittenden 1.00 John Thomas
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy Burlington Advisory Committee on Accessibility Burlington Chittenden 1.00 John Thomas
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy Burlington Advisory Committee on Accessibility Burlington Chittenden 1.00 John Thomas
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy Burlington Advisory Committee on Accessibility Burlington Chittenden 1.00 John Thomas
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy Burlington Advisory Committee on Accessibility Burlington Chittenden 1.00 John Thomas
02 - Chc1pter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services State Accessibility Conference Waterbury Washington 3.00 John Thomas
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services State Accessibility Conference Waterbury Washington 3.00 John Thomas
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy I Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Community Involvement Fair-Champlain College Burlington Chittenden 4.00 John Thomas
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative meeting with ProfessIonals IPromote awareness of VI and VABVI services BACA subcommittee meeting playgrounds & accessibility upgrades Burlington Chittenden 1.00 John Thomas
02 - Chapter 2 Community advocacy\Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Lawson's Siposlum Waitsfield Washington 5.00 John Thomas
02 - Chapter 2103 - OBVI VRI04- DBVI IL Monthly Planning, Olga, McKenzie, Melinda & Jack 1.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 21O Collaborative meeting with ProfessionalsIProfessional training by staff Lesson 3 Bioptic Far Fast Drills Stationary To Move Route 9 Brattleboro Windham 2.00 Jack Trainor
03-DBVI VR Professional training by staff OBVI Vision Services Training Montpelier Washington 4.50 Oan Norris
05- SPED VI talk with four 3rd grade classrooms Sooth Burlington Chittenden 1.25 Stephanie Ferguson
05- SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Quarterly SAIL Team Meeting 2.00 Stephanie Ferguson
05- SPED IRLE Planning for IRLE 2025 w/collaboration from LEAP 0.50 Stephanie Ferguson
OS-SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Discuss DBVI Partnership to Partnership grant 7.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED LEAP Planning 2025 summer program South Burlington Chittenden 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS -SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Improving feedback to itinerant TVl's 3.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 - SPED Professional training by staff Best practices for transition students 2.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 -SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Introduction to Monarch $10 Mil Grant 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED Collaborattve meeting with Professionals Division 1 Leadership Meeting 2.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS -SPED Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Volunteer far Children's Services Burlington Chittenden 2.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 -SPED Community advocacy Introduction to Braille and guide dogs Hinesburg Chittenden 3.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS - SPED Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Volunteer for Children Services Burlington Chittenden 2.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS· SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals APH Ex-Officio Trustee Meeting 1.50 Stephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Discuss DBVI Partnership to Partnership grant 8.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05- SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Introduction to UMass new student teaching farms 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS- SPED Community advocacy ECHO Center Burlington Chittenden 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05- SPED Resources/ materials development Created tactile art work Out of State 4.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05- SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Discuss DBVI Partnership to Partnership Gr;:mt Chittenden 4.50 Stephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals VFN Transition Conference Burlington Chittenden 7.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS - SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Monthly meeting of Directors of Childrens Services 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 - SPED Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Described children services 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05- SPED CollaboratiYe meeting with Professionals Fulfilling grant requirements and attending meetings Burlington Chittenden 0.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05- SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Improving accessibility 0.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 - SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Fulfilling grant requirements and attending meetines Burlington Chittenden 3.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Discuss DBVI & VABVI Events 1,00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 - SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Discussed talking topics for BARD Pod Cast on 7/7/25 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Consultation doe vlins international student from Asia 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 -SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Locate field testers for website of games for blind students 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 - SPED Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services O&M lnservice for staff of 50 people Montpelier Washington 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 -SPED Co!labora_tive meeting with Professionals APH Ex-Officio Trustee Meeting 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 -SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Consulation for blind international student from Asis 2.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS - SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Fulfilling grant requirements and attending meetings Burlington Chittenden 1.50 Stephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals VT AOE Special Education Coordinators Meeting 2.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05 -SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Monthly meeting of Directors of Children Services 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS - SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Discuss DBVI & VABVI Events 0.50 Stephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Discuss DBVI & VABVI Events 2.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS - SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Ontroduction to UMass new student to our IMC 1.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05- SPED Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Two weekly volunteers for Children Services Burlington Chittenden 8.00 Stephanie Bissonette
05- SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Fulfilling grant requirements and attending meetings Burlington Chittenden 12.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED Resources / materials development Created tactile art work Out of State 8.00 5tephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED Community advocacy Created tactile art exhibits 4.00 Stephanie Bissonette
OS-SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals ICommunity advocacy Zoom meeting to discuss making a mural in Worchester, MA 1.00 Shelby Glass
05- SPED Community advocacy Dinner in the Dark staff O&M Meeting Burlington Chittenden 1.00 Shelby Glass
OS- SPED Collaborative meeting with ProfessionalsICommunity advocacy Meeting with groups about possible VABVI Training 1.00 Shelby Glass
05 -SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals\ Community advocacy Burlington Parks and Rec to make possible playgrounds 1.00 Shelby Glass
OS-SPED Acquiring Professional Development Webinar 1.50 Shelby Glass
OS-SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals\ Community advocacy Pre�K White can day Montpelier Washington 0.00 Shelby Glass
05 -SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals ICommunity advocacy I Professional training by staff P-K White Can Dy Montpelier Washington 0.00 Shelby Glass
05 -SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals ICommunity advocacy IProfessional training by staff Middle School training Essex Chittenden 1.00 Shelby Glass
05 - SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals ICommunity advocacy I Professional training by staff White Cane Awareness Day Burlington Chittenden 0.00 Shelby Glass
05 • SPED Professional training by staff CVJ Training about CVI characteristics related to student Biirre Washington 0.75 Julie Vinikoor
05 - SPED Professional training by staff Meeting to share FVA with a focus on accomodations Lamoille a.so Julie Vinikoor
05 -SPED Professional training by staff Training to unified team around student's visual impairment Waterbury Washington a.so Julie Vinikoor
05 - SPED Professional training by staff Training for PE teacher to provide vision information Waterbury Washington a.so Julie Vinikoor
OS - SPED Professional training by staff Training on student's visual impairment and accomodations Waterbury Washington 1.00 Julie Vlnikoor
05- SPED Professional training by staff Info on VABVI services and students at the school with VI Waterbury Washington a.so Julie Vinikoor
OS-SPED Community advocacy Severe Disabilities Class UVM 4.00 Hope Watson
05 - SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals IPromote awareness of VI and VABVI servicesIResourct Vision In-Service Burlington Chittenden 2.00 Hope Watson
05- SPED Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services I Resources/ materials development Delivery of Proclamation and Vision Resource Guides South Burlington Chittenden 1.00 Hope Watson
05- SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Rutland White Cane Day 2025 Meeting Rutland Rutland 1.00 Eric Shaw
OS- SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals AERBVI Div 9 Exective Committee Meeting 2.00 Eric Shaw
OS-SPED Professional training by staff Shape 2025 Conference Killington Rutland 1.00 Eric Shaw
OS-SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals White cane Day Committee meeting Rutland Rutland 1.00 Eric Shaw
OS- SPED Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services O&M Division Open Forum 1.00 Eric Shaw
05- SPED Community advocacy Cortical Visual Impairment inservice for staff of Mt Anthony Union Mil Bennington Bennington 1.00 Eric Shaw
OS- SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Consultation - AAC Systems Ryegate Orange 1.50 Dan Howarth
05 -SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Consultation for medical model educational placement (Keene Perspectives) Windsor 1.00 Dan Howarth
OS-SPED conaborative meeting with Professionals Perkins Psychological/ low vision referral Barre Washington 1.00 Dan Howarth
OS-SPED Professional training by staff Able library services for VI Students Williamstown Orange 1.00 Dan Howarth
05 -SPED Acquiring Professional Development Second Symposium Foreign language students with VI Out of State 4.00 Dan Howarth
OS - SPED Resources/ materials development APH Products requisition Keene Perspectives White River Junction Windsor 1.00 Dan Howarth
OS -SPED Collaborative meeting with Professionals Baby VT I-Team intake/ FCWC Barre Washington 1.00 Dan Howarth
OS -SPED Resources/ materials development Neptune OCR Scanner 1.00 Dan Howarth
10-0ther Collaborative meeting with Professionals Monarch Rise Grant information 1.00 Virginia Goodman
10-0ther Collaborative meeting with Professionals UMass CATIS-remote Boston, MA on-line Out of State 1.00 Virginia Goodman
10-Dther Collaborative meeting with Professionals UMass CATIS-remote Boston, MA-remote Out of State 1.00 Virginia Goodman
10-0ther Collaborative meeting with Professionals Monarch update webinar 1.00 Virginia Goodman
10-0ther Collaborative meeting with Professionals UMASS CATIS student observed remotely Remote Out of State 1.00 Virginia Goodman
10-0ther Collaborative meeting with Professionals Conversation w-lib. IT re: accessibil!ty issues 1.00 Virginia Goodman
10-0ther Acquiring Professional Development I Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Gave CATIS interview to student in TYi program 1.00 Virginia Goodman
10-0ther LEAP LEAP Colchester Chittenden 2.50 Virginia Goodman
10-0ther LEAP LEAP Colchester Chittenden 2.50 Virginia Goodman
10- Other Acquiring Professional Development Al in the Context of AT overview 1.00 Virginia Goodman
10- Other Acquiring Professional Development A Walk through revised OM severity rating scale 1.00 Virginia Goodman
10- Other LEAP LEAP Colchester Chittenden 1.25 Sheila Thurston
10- Other LEAP LEAP Colchester Chittenden l.7S Sheila Thurston
10-0ther LEAP LEAP Colchester Chittenden 3.00 Sheila Thurston
10- Other Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services filming with Sam Gougher and Oient interview O&M training Rutland Rutland 2.00 Jack Trainor
10-0ther Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Sam Gougher Frank M Interview & O&M Training Rutland Rutland 2.00 Jack Trainor
10- Other Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Sam Gougher: Sherry M. Interview and O&M Training Rutland Rutland 2.00 Jack Trainor
10- Other LEAP O&M Mobility Dorm Spaces and Dining Hall Burlington Chittenden 2.00 Jack Trainor
10- Other Collaborative meeting with Professionals AERBVI Division 9 Executive Committee Meeting 2.00 Eric Shaw
10- Other Collaborative meeting with Professionals Rutland White cane Day Committee Meeting Rutland Rutland 1.00 Eric Shaw
10- Other Collaborative meeting with Professionals 01B - TAC Prag. Manager's Conference Arlington VA Out of State 15.00 Dan Norris
10- Other Acquiring Professional Development VSA Incremental Funding Increases N/A 3.00 Dan Norris
10-Dther Professional training by staff AERBVI Webinar Orange 2.00 Dan Norris
10-0ther Collaborative meeting with Professionals AERBVI Bylaws 2.00 Dan Norris
10-Other Professional training by staff Champlain Community Services Training Colchester Chittenden 2.00 Dan Norris
10- Other Professional training by staff Vision Services Presentation Burlington Chittenden 2.00 Dan Norris
10 - Other Acquiring Professional Development VSA Incremental Funding Training 2.00 Dan Norris
10 - Other Professional training by staff Champlain Community Services Training Colchester Chittenden 2.00 Dan Norris
10-0ther Collaborative meeting with Professionals AERBVI - Committee work Board of Directors 2.00 Dan Norris
Action status Activity Event Town county hours First name
02- Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services White Cane day Montpelier Washington 2.00 Etsuro Nishiyachi
02 - Chapter 2 Acquiring Professional Development NEAER annual conference Stowe Lamoille 22.50 Etsuro Nishiyachi
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative Meeting w/Professionals/Officials ABLE library Advisory Committee online 1.50 Dan Norris
02 - Chapter 2 Collaborative Meeting w/Professionals/Officials AERBVI Committees online online 5.00 Dan Norris
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services White Cane day Burlington Chittenden 5.00 Dan Norris
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services White Cane day Barre Washington 6.00 Dan Norris
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Outreach at Manchester's Equinox Village Manchester Bennington 1.00 Julia Soleau
02 - Chapter 2 Community Advocacy White Cane day Arlington Bennington 3.00 Julia Soleau
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Outreach Bennington Bennington Bennington 1.00 Julia Soleau
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Sheldon Towers Outreach in Rutland Rutland Rutland 1.00 Julia Soleau
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services White Cane day Newport Orleans 1.00 Sheila Thurston
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services White Cane day Montpelier Washington 1.50 Sheila Thurston
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services White Cane day Barre Washington 1.50 Sheila Thurston
02 - Chapter 2 Community Advocacy Spruce Peak staff training Stowe Lamoille 1.50 Sheila Thurston
02 - Chapter 2 Acquiring Professional Development NEAER 2024 Conference Stowe Lamoille 11.50 Sheila Thurston
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Facilitated Pals group for Dan Lyndonville Caledonia 5.00 Sheila Thurston
O&M LEAP Program Leap Bus route & Travel Skills Burlington Chittenden 2.00 Jack Trainor
10-0ther Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services White Cane day Brattleboro Windham 2.00 Jack Trainor
10-0ther Acquiring Professional Development NE/AER November 12 thru 15 Stowe Lamoille 22.50 Jack Trainor
02- Chapter 2 Community Advocacy WRJ Pals group White River Junction Windsor 2.00 Jack Trainor
02- Chapter 2 Community Advocacy Springfield Pals group Springfield Windsor 2.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 2 Community Advocacy Brattleboro Pals group Brattleboro Windham .2.00 Jack Trainor
02 - Chapter 2 Promote awareness of VI and VABVI services Speaker: New director of DAIL White River Junction Windsor 1.50 Melinda Underwood
02 - Chapter 2 Community Advocacy In person drop in visit to office for LVtools/info S. Burlington Chittenden 1.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 Acquiring Professional Development NEARER Conference Stowe Lamoille 22.50 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 Acquiring Professional Development Presentation and follow up at Pines senior living S. Burlington Chittenden 3.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
05- Special Educa Acquiring Professional Development Professional development - Carroll Center Boston Out of state 5.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
05- Special Educa Professional Training by Staff Support VRT in training with client Williston Chittenden 2.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 Community Advocacy Online presentation for Dartmouth-Hitchcock online online 1.50 Sharon Wille-Padnos
02 - Chapter 2 Community Advocacy Presentation table for UVM OT safety open house Burlington Chittenden 4.00 Sharon Wille-Padnos
Total Hours 143.00
Appendix III
Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Review of Services
CC to: ______________________
Name: ________________________________________ Date services completed: ___________________
Phone: ________________________________________
Client funding: _______ Instructor / Office: ____________________________________
1.Did you receive any equipment? Is it working for you? Yes No N/A
2.If not, do you wish to donate it to VABVI? Yes No N/A
3. We are trying to help people be more independent.
Yes No N/A Not answered
4. What is your current living situation? If appropriate ask:
Do you feel you can remain in your current
living situation?
Yes No N/A Not answered
5. If no, is it for reasons other than your vision? Yes No N/A Not answered
Comments, suggestions or other ways we may serve you:
6. If you have any complaints or suggestions that you would prefer to share with the Supervisor of Adult Services you can call, Dan Norris toll-free at 1-877-350-8838.
Did the client want Dan’s contact information? Yes No
7.IF QUESTIONS WERE NOT ANSWERED, select reason:
Unable to contact Client not able Client unwilling
8. Comment results: Very positive Fairly positive Client needs more services Negative
If appropriate ask: Would you like to help other visually impaired people by sharing your story? Yes No
Action taken: Exit completed Re-referred Client deceased
Prepared by: _________________________________ Date: ________________
Supervisor: __________________________________Date: ________________
A few months ago, a presentation was held for one of the PALS groups regarding traveling on planes with vision loss. A member of the group shared how he really disliked using his cane in public and how he was rather concerned about traveling around with vision loss in the community. Over the next several months, other group topics related to travel occurred, and he met with one of our mobility specialists. A few weeks ago, he traveled to France with his wife. Upon his return, he reported that he did indeed mark his plane ticket as being a person with a visual impairment. He said the airports were very receptive and helpful in getting him around the terminals. He said that as he traveled around Paris, in stores and on the street, police and store clerks would ask him if he needed anything. He further reported that when he visited the Louvre, he was surprised to find out that he could enter for free because he had the white cane. He was shown a tactile art display, which had a tactile Mona Lisa and other famous paintings that were able to be felt. But the most wonderful event was when they approached the actual Mona Lisa. He said there was a red velvet fence that all the guests needed to stand behind, which was about 50 feet from the painting. However, an official approached him, took him around the cord, and brought him to within ten feet of the painting to view it closely. He said he was surprised and felt a little self-conscious standing alone with his cane forty feet in front of a crowd of people behind the cord. But then he looked at the Mona Lisa and thought, “You know what? I’m going to just stand here with my cane and enjoy this!” When he shared this story, we celebrated this major victory with him. This client recognized that the cane gave him freedom and opportunities he would never have enjoyed without it.
As part of the project objectives, VABVI has developed specific programs that have helped meet the needs of our Chapter II group.
1. Because of the nature of our rural state, and the lack of public transportation, we have recruited volunteers to provide rides to this population. These volunteers provided 1,990 trips, volunteered for 2,492 hours, and drove about 45,366 miles last year. Because of this service, our clients were able to be integrated into their communities, providing them with shopping and other social opportunities. This results in a healthier mental and physical condition. 83 Chapter II clients used this service throughout the year. This collaboration is with the VT Agency of Transportation.
2. Another activity has been to meet with our Chapter II clients in Groups. There they are provided with peer counseling, rehabilitation services, and recreational activities such as crafts and outings. This feature allows our Rehabilitation Teachers to meet with several clients at once in order to see a larger number of people on a more frequent basis, (twice a month) and to provide them with more opportunities for peer interaction and community involvement. We have up to ten different groups operating throughout the state. The locations of these groups are as follows:
1. Burlington 6. White River Junction
2. Montpelier 7. Springfield
3. St. Alban 8. Rutland
4. St. Johnsbury/Newport 9. Brattleboro
5. Middlebury 10. Bennington
These groups follow a basic 12-week curriculum that covers Independent Living Skills. It can be modified to meet the needs of a particular group. The curriculum is:
1. Low Vision 2. Vision Rehab Services
3. Home Safety 4. Labeling
5. Communications 6. Money Identification
7. Personal Grooming 8. Food
9. Getting Around (O&M) 10. Feelings About Being Visually Impaired
11. Leisure 12. Community Support Systems
We had 90 Chapter II clients attend the groups during the last year. In FY01, we began scheduling low-vision evaluations whenever possible in our offices so that our teachers could see more clients as well as having various demo equipment available for our clients to view while they are there. This has been quite successful, and we will continue to offer this service this way. As needed, we run a group of clients with diabetic retinopathy. Most of which are Chapter II clients. The group runs for ten sessions. The goal of the group is to allow people with the same eye disease to meet each other with the purpose of sharing their experiences, obtaining a greater degree of knowledge about diabetes, and offering each other emotional support. Guest speakers include an M.D. specializing in diabetes, a diabetic educator, a rehabilitation teacher for the visually impaired, and an exercise specialist. The feedback from the participants from previous groups was that this experience helped them to better understand their eye disease, obtain a more positive emotional attitude, learn about adaptive aids to help them with their visual impairment and develop a greater knowledge base about their disease.
Comparison to Statistics FY24 FY25
Consumers Served 771 751
New Referrals 519 476
Carry-Overs 302 231
Low Vision Exams 17 14
Community Activities 263 264
Number Hours 682 677
Number of Goals Set 3447 4141
Number of Goals Achieved 2173 2786
Number of Goals in Progress 1070 1072
3. VABVI plays an active role in Vermont to promote the interests of persons with disabilities. This role includes the involvement of staff with community groups and participation in task forces and committees. Through these efforts, VABVI has sought to develop a network of collaborative relationships with other agencies that enhance its ability to deliver services and improve community options for visually impaired persons. VABVI also works with DBVI in promoting white cane awareness events each year. This is done to promote and advocate safety, equality, and inclusion of people who are visually impaired. Typically, it also leads to additional client referrals. VABVI offers many opportunities for the older blind and visually impaired person to volunteer and help others. We also provide the necessary support such as transportation and materials to facilitate these efforts. We have many clients benefiting from this program either as givers or recipients of these volunteer activities. Seeing their peers in these events encourages other visually impaired people to seek out our services. VABVI referred 102 clients to other agencies to promote their services as well.
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