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RSA-7-OB for FY-2025: Submission #14

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.

  1. Funding Sources and Amounts in Support of the OIB Program for the Reported Federal Fiscal Year (FFY)

    1. 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).
    2. 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.
    3. TOTAL Title VII-Chapter 2 funds – The sum of A1 + A2. Total will be automatically populated.
    4. 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.
    5. 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.
    6. Total Federal funds - Sum of A3 + A4 + A5. Total will be automatically populated.
    7. 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.
    8. 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.
    9. 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.
    10. Total non-Federal funds - Sum of A7 + A9 above; do not include In- kind contributions reported in A8. Total will be automatically populated.
    11. 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.

  2. 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.

  1. 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.
    1. 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.
    2. Administrative expenditures from all other allowable sources as identified in Part I - A above.
    3. Total administrative expenditures - Sum of 1a + 1b. Total will be automatically populated.
  2. 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.
    1. 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.
    2. Direct service expenditures from all other allowable sources as identified in Part I - A above.
    3. Total direct services expenditures - Sum of 2a + 2b. Total will be automatically populated.
  3. 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.).

  1. 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.

    1. FTE State Agency staff assigned to the OIB program
      1. 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.
      2. 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.
      3. 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.
    2. FTE through contract/subgrant – FTE assigned to the OIB program through a contract or subgrant.
      1. 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.

      2. 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.

      3. 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.
    3. 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.

  2. 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.

    1. 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.

    2. 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.

    3. 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.

    4. 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.

      1. Individuals Served

        1. 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).
        2. Enter the number of program participants who began receiving services during the reported FFY irrespective of whether they have completed all services.
        3. Total individuals served during the reported FFY - Sum of A1 + A2. Total will be automatically populated.

      2. Age at Application

        Categories 1 through 4 - The total number of individuals served in each respective age category (B1 through B4).

    5. The sum of age categories B1 through B4. This total must agree with the total reported in A3. Total will be automatically populated.

  3. Gender

    1. Self-identifies as female – Enter the total number of individuals receiving services who self-identify as female.
    2. Self-identifies as male – Enter the total number of individuals receiving services who self-identify as male.
    3. Did not self-identify gender – Enter the total number of Individuals receiving services who did not self-identify gender.
    4. Total – Sum of C1 + C2 + C3. This total must agree with the total reported in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.

  4. 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.

    1. 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.

    2. 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.

    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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.
    6. Individual did not self-identify race – Enter the number of individuals served who did not self-identify race or refused to self- identify race.
    7. Two or more races – Enter the number of individuals served who report two or more races (for multi-race individuals).
    8. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. Degree of Visual Impairment

    1. Enter the number of individuals served who are totally blind (e.g., have light perception only or no light perception).
    2. Enter the number of individuals served who are considered legally blind, excluding those recorded in F1.
    3. Enter the number of individuals served who have severe visual impairment, excluding those recorded in F1 and F2.
    4. Total - Sum of F1 + F2 + F3. The total must agree with the total in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.

  7. 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.

    1. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. Other cause of visual impairment – Enter the number of individuals served whose major cause of visual impairment is not listed above.
    6. Total - Sum of G1 through G5. This total must agree with the total in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.

  8. 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.

    1. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. Communication impairment – Older individuals may have impairments in expressive communication, receptive communication, or both, as a result of stroke, dementia, or other conditions.
    4. 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.
    5. 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.
    6. Other impairment – Enter other impairments not captured in H1 – H5 above.

  9. Type of Residence

    1. Private residence – Enter the number of individuals served who live in a private residence (house or apartment).
    2. Senior independent living facility – Enter the number of individuals served who live in senior independent living housing in which minimal support is provided.
    3. 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).
    4. 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).
    5. Homeless – Enter the number of individuals served who are homeless.
    6. 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

  1. Eye care provider – Enter the number of individuals served referred by an eye care provider (e.g., ophthalmologist or optometrist).
  2. Physician/medical provider – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a medical provider other than an eye care provider.
  3. State VR agency – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a State vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency.
  4. 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.
  5. Veterans Administration – Enter the number of individuals served referred by the Veterans Administration.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. Family member or friend – Enter the number of individuals referred by a family member or friend.
  11. Self-referral – Enter the number of individuals who were self- referred.
  12. All other sources – Enter the number of individuals referred from All other sources aside from those listed above, including Faith based organizations.
  13. 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.

  1. Clinical/Functional Vision Assessments and Services

     

    1. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.

  2. 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.

    1. 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.
    2. 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).

  3. Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services

    1. 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.
    2. 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).
    3. Number of persons reported in IV - C2 who received the following services:
      1. 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).
      2. 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).
      3. 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.
      4. Persons served – Advocacy training: Enter the total number of individuals who participated in advocacy training including consumer organization meetings.
      5. 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.
      6. 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).
      7. Persons served – Other independent living services: Enter the total number of individuals who received any other independent living service not listed above.

  4. 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.

    1. 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.
    2. 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).

  5. Community Awareness Activities and Information and Referral

    1. 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).

  6. 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.

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  1. Assistive Technology Devices and Services

    1. 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).

    2. 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).
    3. 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.

  2. Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services

    1. 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).
    2. 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).
    3. 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.

  3. 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.

    1. 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.
    2. 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).
    3. 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.
    4. 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).
    5. 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.
  4. Efficiency Measure – (To be calculated by RSA MIS from data reported in PARTS I and III)
    1. Total funds expended for direct services provided during the reported FFY (as reported in I B2c)
    2. Number of individuals receiving services during the reported FFY (as reported in III A3)
    3. 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
A. Funding Sources and Amounts in Support of the OIB Program for the Reported Federal Fiscal Year (FFY)
1,856,013
350,220
2,206,233
0
0
2,206,233
284,270
0
0
284,270
2,490,503
B. OIB Program Expenditures in Reported FFY
1. Funds expended for administrative costs in the reported FFY
82,220
0
82220.10
2. Funds expended for direct services during the reported FFY
2,260,516
0
2,260,516
3. Total funds expended for the program during the reported FFY (B1c + B2c)
2,342,736
Part II: Program Staffing
A. Full-time Equivalent (FTE) Program Staff
FTE (full time equivalent) is the number of hours per week considered full time for the positions reported below.
Please report the number of hours per week that define FTE for: (e.g., 40 hours, 35 hours, etc.).
40
40
1.00
0.00
1.0000
47.00
80.25
127.2500
48.0000
80.2500
128.2500
B. Employees with Disabilities
10
11
22
43
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.
A. Individuals Served
1,793
2,099
3,892
B. Age at Application
586
947
1,095
1,264
3,892
C. Gender
2,472
1,408
12
3,892
D. Race
7
77
693
4
2,472
627
12
3,892
E. Ethnicity
311
F. Degree of Visual Impairment
230
3,630
32
3,892
G. Major Cause of Visual Impairment
1,511
237
1,084
66
994
3,892
H. Other Age-Related Impairments
464
785
203
132
127
3,020
I. Type of Residence
3,455
249
182
0
6
3,892
J. Source of Referral
1,899
125
248
319
4
11
19
1
5
182
987
92
3,892
Part IV: Types of Services Provided and Funds Expended
Provide data related to the number of older individuals who are blind receiving each type of service and funds expended for each type of service.
A. Clinical/Functional Vision Assessments and Services
476,968.78
2,195
0
B. Assistive Technology Devices and Services
490,079.77
418
C. Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services
1,293,467.04
2,451
3. Number of persons receiving the following services:
196
590
479
0
43
62
2,315
D. Supportive Services
0.00
0
E. Community Awareness Activities and Information and Referral
0.00
F. TOTAL DIRECT EXPENDITURES
2260515.59
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.
A. 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.
B. 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.
C. Independence in the Home and Community
Measure C1: 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. 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.
D. Efficiency Measure
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: The average annual cost per individual served through the program during the reported FFY.
Provide the following data for each of the performance measures below. This will assist RSA in reporting results and outcomes related to the program.

Program Performance Data

A. Assistive Technology Devices and Services
418
418
100
B. Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services
1,518
1,502
99
C. Independence in the Home and Community
1,045
962
92
945
90.43
D. Efficiency Measure
2,260,515.59
3,892
580.81
Part VI: Training and Technical Assistance Needs
Part VII: Narrative
The New York State Office of Children and Family Services’ (OCFS) New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB) contracts with 14 private agencies to provide direct services to legally blind individuals aged 55 and older. Each agency conducts its own outreach efforts to underserved and unserved populations and reports to NYSCB at the end of the year. Outreach efforts include distributing and presenting information at health fairs and to doctors, eye care specialists, elder care agencies, churches, assisted living facilities, mental health agencies, community centers, and other public entities in neighborhoods across the state. Many contractors have staff who participate in outside boards and organizations related to aging and vision loss.

The 14 private agencies that provide direct service to participants are:
• Association for the Visually Impaired, Inc. (AVI), Spring Valley
• Association for Vision Rehabilitation and Employment (AVRE), Binghamton
• Aurora of Central New York, Inc., Syracuse
• Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI), Utica
• Chautauqua Blind Association (CBA), Jamestown
• Goodwill Vision Enterprises (formerly Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired-Goodwill), Rochester
• Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults (HKNC), Sands Point
• Helen Keller Services for the Blind (HKSB), Brooklyn
• Lighthouse Guild (LHG), New York
• Northeastern Association of the Blind (NABA), Albany
• North Country Center for Independence (NCCI) (formerly North Country Association for the Visually Impaired, (NCAVI), Plattsburgh
• Visually Impaired Advancement (VIA) (formerly Elizabeth Pierce Olmsted, M.D., Center for Sight), Buffalo
• VISIONS Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired, New York
• Western New York Center for the Visually Impaired (WNYCVI), West Seneca

The NYSCB program is called the Adaptive Living Program (ALP). The goal of the program is to make a comprehensive package of rehabilitation services available to individuals who are legally blind, over the age of 55, and not seeking paid employment. ALP includes the evaluation (assessment) of an individual’s service needs within the framework of their personal goals, abilities, and resources as well as the provision of appropriate types and level of services to promote individual achievement of rehabilitation goals.

ALP offers a range of services, including adjustment counseling (social casework), vision rehabilitation therapy (VRT), orientation and mobility (O&M) instruction, and low vision services. Individuals served by the program may receive equipment such as talking clocks, watches, braille paper, writing guides, task lighting, and low vision devices. Many private agencies involved in the ALP program also provide additional technological devices that assist participants with daily living skills, offering up to four hours of instruction on assistive technology, including items such as computers and smartphones. These agencies receive payment based on the number of participants who successfully complete a training program.

Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who Are Blind (ILOB) cases are reviewed once every two to three years when NYSCB conducts a program review of all services provided by private agencies. As part of the program review, participants are contacted by telephone to determine their satisfaction with the services.

The ALP consists of four components: ALP-1: Assessment, eligibility recommendation, and service plan development; ALP-2: Rehabilitation services provided to an older individual to assist them in achieving a greater level of safety and confidence in their living environment; ALP2-E: Enhanced rehabilitation services provided to an older individual who requires services in excess of the typical ALP-2 program to achieve their goals; and ALP-3: Rehabilitation services provided to an older individual who has significant needs and primary responsibility for managing the home.

The greater the need of services, the higher the payment for each participant served through ALP. Every participant receives an ALP-1 assessment.

It is important to note that NYSCB has reviewed all agencies prior to the span of this federal fiscal year (FFY) report. A new cycle of evaluations will begin in 2026.

Helen Keller Services for the Blind (HKSB):

DM is a 97-year-old woman who has recently experienced a loss of vision. Initially, DM was uninterested in any services, but after taking a liking to her instructor, she agreed to a low-vision appointment and a meetup with the instructor at HKSB. After expressing how much she missed reading, DM's instructor recommended applying on her behalf for audiobooks. DM agreed and asked if she could request a specific book written by Dan Wakefield, called "New York in the 50s." The instructor processed DM's request for the book. DM explained that she remembered interviewing the author of the book. DM's son explained to the instructor that his mother has been struggling with dementia but was thrilled that she remembered the book, author, and details. Because of the instructor and services provided by HKSB, DM received services she previously didn't want to accept and discovered ways to continue recreational activities that she hadn't been able to do for some time since her vision loss.

Lighthouse Guild (LHG):

Mrs. G is a 70-year-old African American diagnosed with glaucoma. Due to complications, she lost all vision. However, she refused to give up. Mrs. G came to the Lighthouse Guild in 2024 eager to learn. When workers met at her home, she was ready for a one-on-one experience to learn meal management skills.

The meal management skills that were taught included pouring hot and cold liquids, cutting, slicing and measuring ingredients. Range top and oven safety skills were also taught and practiced during the course. Mrs. G can now use small electric appliances correctly. She has learned the proper use of kitchen utensils, and food storage and identification. Cleaning tabletops, countertops, and dishwashing techniques were also addressed. Mrs. G prepared a pasta primavera for her family and an apple crisp. This has become a staple in the house moving forward.

Mrs. G will be receiving mobility training; she wants to be independent and go places on her own.
In the area of communication, Mrs. G was introduced to talking timepieces and apps such as Seeing AI and Be My Eyes, which were downloaded to her iPhone. Mrs. G signed up for our Tech Pal classes as well where young adults who are legally blind and are receiving services through the NYSCB provide training on mobile devices to older adults with vision loss. This intergenerational program provides an opportunity not only to learn tech skills but to engage in conversation with a younger person who is also visually impaired. Mrs. G is pursuing learning braille, so that she can teach others, and has also purchased Meta glasses through her own resources to help her be more independent.

North Country Center for Independence (NCCI) (formerly North Country Association for the Visually Impaired, (NCAVI):

Prior to his vision loss, “Johnny” and his wife enjoyed cooking together. After his vision loss, she did the bulk of the cooking. Unfortunately, she passed away and he began navigating through the grieving process along with relearning daily living skills. He wanted to be able to make full use of the kitchen again. He was provided with equipment and training, and as a result, he was able to prep and cook meals of his choosing. NCCI showed him the talking food thermometer (for meat), contrasting cutting boards and adaptive utensils. Johnny” now feels safe and confident preparing his favorite meals.

Visually Impaired Advancement (VIA):

Providing services through this program directly impacts an individual’s ability to remain independent and home or learn new home environments if there is a chance. A female client who is fully blind with no light perception moved from one community to another. She owned her own home where she had lived for many years and sold it to move into an apartment. This client did not know how to use any of her appliances and the fixtures in the bathroom, how to navigate through the apartment, how to navigate safely to her mailbox, and she did not know the layout of the apartment complex. With orientation and mobility (O&M) and vision rehabilitation teaching (VRT), she was able to learn how to use her appliances, identify where things were in her new apartment, and navigate safely through the complex. Without this program and her experience with our clinicians, she was facing placement into a facility.

Aurora of Central New York, Inc. (Aurora):

Aurora’s ongoing outreach continues with all area eye doctors, community organizations, senior centers, the Syracuse Housing Authority, and underrepresented communities. In addition, Aurora publishes a biannual newsletter featuring services for individuals who are blind, which is distributed to more than 3,500 community members.

Association for the Visually Impaired, Inc. (AVI):

AVI promotes its programs on its website, social media, and newsletters. It also conducts outreach and community awareness activities at the Palisades Center mall in West Nyack and other locations in Rockland County. As a result of these activities, AVI connects with people in need of services and their family members. In addition, it receives referrals from NYSCB.

AVI also attends professional conferences, including the International Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER) Conference, the Association of Vision Rehabilitation Therapists Conference, and the New York State Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (NYSAER) Conference. AVI promotes its services at senior fairs, local street fairs, and the Lions Club. Attendance at these events boosts recruitment and services.

Association for Vision Rehabilitation and Employment (AVRE):

AVRE participates in numerous health fairs (senior citizens and public) throughout its nine-county territory and maintains contact with eye care providers to encourage referrals when appropriate.

Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI):

CABVI conducted outreach through a wide range of activities, such as community presentations; Business Network International (BNI) weekly meetings; health fairs; Dark Dining; Sips for the Senses; a golf tournament; a car show; community expos; tours and educational programming at the Vision Health Wellness Center; and partnerships with the Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES), including the Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program. Additional outreach included participation in CABVI’s community health and wellness programs and collaboration with Rotary, Lions and veterans’ organizations. Through these efforts, CABVI worked to educate and partner within the community, increasing awareness and fostering a deeper understanding of the populations it serves and the full scope of services it provides.

Chautauqua Blind Association (CBA):
CBA sent letters and attended local church services; ran monthly radio and newspaper advertisements; and posted outreach content on Facebook and Instagram. CBA assisted with referrals, in collaboration with other agencies, to support families and clients. Letters were sent to eye care and primary care providers, who remain a primary source of referrals. CBA also conducted presentations on services at local assisted living and independent living facilities, increasing awareness among staff and residents. Attendance at local table events and health fairs further generated community awareness of CBA services.

Goodwill Vision Enterprises (GVE):
GVE had a table at the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) NY Annual Convention where they made connections with other low vision services provider agencies/businesses and reenforced knowledge of their name change to GVE while services remain ongoing. They educated visitors about InSight Shop and callers about GVE services and the referral process, as well as groups/classes available at the campus. GVE educated staff at Senior Independent/Assisted Living complexes about GVE services and how they can help residents to connect to low vision services. Lastly, GVE gave information and referrals for other community agencies such as Regional Transit Services (RTS) Access, Lifespan, Medical Motors, and area agencies on aging.

Community outreach with the library was used to expand Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) programming to that facility to expand upon tech services that are available to older adults.
Several presentations at assisted living facilities were conducted throughout the county to provide more information about GVE services, and how they might be beneficial to blind older adults. Both programs have allowed GVE to reach and serve even more blind older adults to ensure that they are able to remain as safe and independent as they can for as long as they can.
Ongoing communication with several independent living facilities is ongoing in Monroe County includes the Village at Unity & The Hamlet, Legacy at Cranberry Landing, Elderwood Village at Greece, Wolk Manor Enriched Living Center, Rochester Presbyterian Home, The Highlands at Pittsford, Valley Manor Assisted Living, St. Ann’s Communities, and St. John's Meadows. This has increased community awareness of services available to blind older adults and has led some residents to engage in our group programming options.
GVE held tabling events twice a month to promote vision services where flyers were distributed, and programs were explained. Also, small informational sessions were conducted at assisted living facilities to inform individuals about the technology services available at the agency.

Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults (HKNC):

HKNC continues to participate in several community outreach events with local organizations such as the NYPL Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library and local independent living centers such as the Brooklyn Center for the Independence of the Disabled (BCID), Bronx Independent Living Services (BILS) and Self-Initiated Living Options (SILO).

HKNC has continued the Friends and Family Day programming during which participants can invite their family and friends to an informational afternoon of learning and activities about vision and hearing loss, and how they can best support their family members/friends. In addition to enhancing the services received by our participants and making their training more effective by empowering their natural supports, this program enables us to reach out to the community and identify additional New Yorkers who could benefit from referral to services

Helen Keller Services for the Blind (HKSB):

HKSB continues to expand community awareness through in-service trainings and informational sessions at senior centers, independent living centers, libraries, and other community-based organizations. Staff participate in health fairs and resource events across New York City and Long Island, sharing information about vision rehabilitation and the free services available to older adults through Title VII-Chapter 2 funding.

Lighthouse Guild (LHG):

Lighthouse Guild’s Outreach Department is active in the community conducting presentations both in-person and through remote platforms. LHG is a part of a network of senior centers and agencies serving the older adult community throughout New York City. Through a management contract with the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) provides training throughout New York City to senior services programs on safe travel within the home, in neighborhoods, and on public transportation. These trainings often identify older adults with significant vision loss who are encouraged to be evaluated by the Lighthouse Guild low vision optometrists to determine eligibility and subsequent referral for ALP services. If identified as a goal by the ALP case managers and participant, the provision of 1:1 orientation and mobility training by Lighthouse Guild’s orientation and mobility specialist staff is provided, creating a continuum of services from outreach through the DOT Mobility Management program to ALP services. This is an example of one outreach/awareness efforts conducted with Title VII-Chapter 2 funds and funding from DOT.

Northeastern Association of the Blind (NABA):

This year NABA continued to navigate changes within the agency, though positive changes and adjustments in responsibilities. The agency continued to operate without a dedicated coordinator of outreach services and marketing. Even so, several departments worked together to ensure outreach efforts continued. Staff maintained contact with local ophthalmologists and optometrists and created new approaches for expanding service reach, such as offering both virtual and in-person presentations on available rehabilitation programs.

Outreach activities also extended to assisted living and senior residential communities throughout NABA’s service area. These efforts included direct conversations with professionals such as physicians, dieticians, and home health aides, as well as exploring opportunities for presentations, information sessions, and networking within those settings.

The outreach and marketing teams continued to meet consistently with other outreach specialists to strategize how to best reach individuals with limited technology access or comfort. The assistive technology center (ATC) trainer remained engaged in these discussions and contributed to planning.

NABA also strengthened its visibility through digital and media platforms. Social media channels, including YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn, along with the agency’s website, TV ads, and local radio spots were used to inform the community about NABA’s services, adaptive tools, and low vision support options.

North Country Center for Independence (NCCI) (formerly North Country Association for the Visually Impaired, (NCAVI):

NCAVI/NCCI participated in several community events in 2025, including the following:
senior celebrations, which target older adults living in the North Country Battle of Plattsburgh; tabling events/raffles to discuss services and programs; Mayor’s Cup’s social events targeting local community awareness; open houses’ events inviting the public to tour our facility and learn about programs/services; an Arc of New York award night, where NCCI received Employer of the Year for disability awareness; a trivia fundraiser in the mall, which supports people with disabilities; Parks Come Alive, a tabling event for programs and services; senior dances at the Office for the Aging in Malone. Other braille initiatives included:
• Building relationships with two local businesses to work on large print and Braille menus.
• Business cards in braille for NCCI staff.
• Local coffee shop developed a tactile reward card system to accommodate people who are blind/visually impaired.

Visually Impaired Advancement (VIA):

VIA uses funds to purchase memberships, promotional kits, admission to conferences, and tabling opportunities. These activities increase our community awareness and referral resources for our programming.

VISIONS Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VISIONS):

The VISIONS outreach team continues to take part in community activities geared to educating the public on eye diseases and their prevention. The VISIONS rehab and outreach staff focus their efforts on people and sites that may have higher populations of people who are visually impaired or blind, such as health fares, low vision doctors, older adult centers, etc. Overall, VISIONS outreach focuses on areas where people are at or below poverty line, frail elders, communities of color and/or non-English speakers. The outreach activities include presentations; medical staff training; distribution of flyers, brochures and business cards; and distribution of other low-tech devices, such as hand-held pocket magnifiers, signature guides, and thick markers or 20-20 pens.

Western New York Center for the Visually Impaired (WNYCVI):

WNYCVI continues to meet with local eye doctors and give talks at local senior centers to promote referrals for vision rehabilitation

Aurora of Central New York, Inc. (Aurora):

Aurora continues to collaborate with its affiliate agency, Liberty Resources, specifically reaching out to its primary care patients who are diabetic. Liberty Resources has implemented virtual retinal screenings for this diabetic population. Aurora received NYSCB approval to implement a work readiness program for seniors interested in returning to work and has onboarded two legally blind staff members to operate the program. The Syracuse Lions Club has also been a valuable partner in supporting seniors with vision loss through collaborative programming. Lastly, Aurora joined the Inclusive Alliance as a partner to study and pursue any future funding opportunities related to the Medicaid 1115 Waiver.

Association for the Visually Impaired, Inc. (AVI):

AVI partners with its affiliate agency Rockland Independent Living Center, doing business as BRIDGES, on capacity-building activities and initiatives. This streamlines back-end activities, including administrative and financial operations. It also allows AVI to increase resources for marketing and program development. As a result of these activities, there is a greater focus on providing direct services to more people. AVI collaborated with the Dwyer’s Veteran’s Program to raise awareness about our services in the community.

Association for Vision Rehabilitation and Employment (AVRE):

AVRE collaborated with other agencies, including the Office for the Aging, home care agencies, transportation providers, independent living centers, and various human services agencies, to encourage an exchange of referrals and continuity of care. These collaborations assist AVRE, the participants, and the staff of the other agencies in understanding how blindness services are administered. They also enable AVRE to determine how instructional services can be enhanced by working with other agencies to fill in the gaps, particularly regarding the caretaking needs of some participants.

Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI):

CABVI continues to offer community health and wellness programs, with aquatics, nutrition, and fitness. The emphasis on education, prevention of vision loss, and maintaining vision folks healthy have been the focus and intention on the program. A healthy eye is a healthy body. CABVI collaborated with agencies such as Cornell Cooperative Extension, Oneida County, the New York State Department of Health, local registered dieticians, CABVI support staff, O&M, VRT, case managers, and social work staff.

The community programs were successful again, bringing people together and helping them become aware of CABVI’s services. Several participants had a family history of eye disease, which was not disclosed previously.

Chautauqua Blind Association (CBA):

The executive director attends monthly council meetings with other local agencies, always discussing collaborative possibilities, although nothing has been implemented at this time. There was a recent discussion on holding a collaborative table event in the future, focused on senior programs in the area. Our agency also works closely with local Lions Clubs regarding activities for clients, improvements in programs, and collaboration with awareness events. By having good relationships with several local Lions Club chapters in the two counties that we serve, our name becomes more known to potential clients, doctors, and community supporters. This past year, we also collaborated with a local university for our White Cane Awareness Walk. The occupational therapy students and staff participated in an activity that generated interest in internships and potential future career paths in vision rehabilitation .

Goodwill Vision Enterprises (GVE):
• OATS (AARP/Senior Planet) - Cass providing an introduction of technology concepts to seniors to promote access to wellbeing.
• Working with Lifespan to offer Matter of Balance.
• Working with RTS to advocate for better service for our clients.
• Lifespan quarterly meetings.

Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults (HKNC):

During this year, HKNC initiated a program to provide presentations and dialogue sessions at the local independent living centers described above. These sessions were facilitated in American Sign Language and gave culturally deaf seniors access to information related to the services provided by HKNC and strategies for maintaining independence in the community. Participants had the opportunity to apply for services.

HKNC partners regularly with Big Apple Home Care, an organization that provides culturally and linguistically competent home health aides to the senior Deaf and DeafBlind communities, and the Deaf Wellness and Recreation Center, an adult day care program located in Brooklyn. Training has been provided to the direct care staff to ensure they can meet the needs of older Deaf adults with vision loss.

HKNC DB-ALP continued to collaborate with the I Can Connect Program. The I Can Connect program (ICC) is funded by the Federal Communications Commission and provides telecommunications devices for individuals with vision and hearing loss who also meet economic eligibility guidelines. This collaboration has allowed seniors with vision and hearing loss to obtain high tech communication devices (computers, smart phones, tablets, etc.) and training that is not available through the DB-ALP program.

HKNC DB-ALP continued its work and collaboration with the Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services (JBFCS). particularly with its programs serving the Deaf community

Helen Keller Services for the Blind (HKSB):

HKSB continues to strengthen its capacity through active collaboration and professional engagement. Staff partner with senior centers, independent living centers, healthcare providers, and community-based organizations to share expertise, coordinate referrals, and promote best practices in serving older adults with vision loss. Team members are active in professional organizations, such as NYSAER and the Older Adults Division of AER and regularly participate in OIB-TAC meetings and professional development conferences, ensuring that the program remains informed about current best practices and innovations in vision rehabilitation.

Each year, HKSB collaborates with Northwell Hofstra Medical School to introduce medical students to the vision rehabilitation process as experienced by ALP and VR participants, helping build awareness among future healthcare providers. Over the course of this past year, HKSB also worked with a licensed social worker to lead support groups, assisting participants in accessing appropriate community resources.

In early 2025, HKSB launched Sight Through Support (STS) in partnership with the Nassau County Office for the Aging and the EAC Network. The STS program meets weekly at the Hempstead Senior Center, offering seniors who are experiencing vision loss a welcoming space to connect, share experiences, and learn practical strategies to maintain independence. Sessions include peer support, education about resources, communication methods, and emotional support, blending professional expertise with shared lived experience. This initiative complements HKSB’s existing Adaptive Living Program, enhancing outreach and helping more older adults retain their quality of life in the face of vision changes.

Collectively, these capacity-building and collaborative efforts have expanded the reach of HKSB’s programming, improved service delivery, deepened connections with community partners, and increased support for older adults adjusting to vision loss.

Lighthouse Guild (LHG):

As in past years, ongoing outreach initiatives are focused on connecting individuals who are blind or visually impaired with resources and vision rehabilitation services, helping them maintain independence in their daily lives. Lighthouse Guild's outreach program involves direct contact with potential clients and building relationships with referral sources. To reach potential clients, targeted outreach efforts include presentations at senior centers, assisted living facilities, and other residences, as well as participation in community health fairs and other large gatherings. Ongoing communication with referral sources reinforces direct outreach efforts to older adults. Many clients are referred to the program through partnerships with new and existing referral sources. Lighthouse Guild also provides in-service training for caregivers and medical professionals to raise awareness of services and encourage referrals. Additionally, the organization regularly attends community meetings to provide updates for community members and elected officials, allowing them to reach hundreds of older adults and over 3,000 doctors, caregivers, and professionals.

Northeastern Association of the Blind (NABA):

Throughout the year, NABA continued strengthening its capacity through a variety of collaborative and program enhancing efforts. Once again, the agency organized a couple of regional technology fairs, each held in a different county, to engage residents and introduce them to NABA’s vision rehabilitation services. These events included presentations from medical professionals and specialists.

Within the rehabilitation department, staff continued to deliver a full range of supports, including ALP assessments and services, in-person VRT, O&M, social casework, assistive technology training, and employment and youth services. Participants were provided low vision aids, adaptive equipment, and instruction to help build independence, and skills for entering the workforce. To encourage connection and peer support, NABA continued its monthly Coffee and Conversation gathering for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, along with monthly Tech Tuesday sessions dedicated to technology skill-building.

Last year, NABA expanded its workforce team by bringing on a low vision coordinator for the clinic, a second employment specialist, and a new director of finance. This year, those additions have strengthened the agency’s internal capacity, improved service coordination, and enhanced the quality of support offered to participants. These expanded roles have allowed NABA to respond more efficiently to community needs, streamline program operations, and extend the reach of its vision rehabilitation and employment services. As a result, NABA is better positioned to deliver meaningful outcomes and create a greater impact throughout the communities it serves.

North Country Center for Independence (NCCI) (formerly North Country Association for the Visually Impaired, (NCAVI):

NCCI partnered with the Plattsburgh Library. They are displaying our information at their physical location and on their website. This has deepened relationships with staff who are in the process of developing new programs geared toward people with disabilities. NCCI has an employee who was elected to local government. Braille agendas have been provided for all city council meetings and as requested. This has fostered conversation in public meetings, including public comments expressing gratitude for the additional accommodation. NCCI toured the Talking Book and Braille Library (TBBL) in Albany. TBBL staff was not aware of our agency and our services; they are in the process of sharing information on their website.

Visually Impaired Advancement (VIA):

VIA has conducted continuous outreach efforts to community centers, senior centers, eye care professionals, and other aging networks, which has resulted in increased referrals. Outreach to local colleges and universities also attracts potential new clinicians to serve this population.

VISIONS Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VISIONS):

VISIONS provides services in the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Dutchess, and Ulster counties as well as Nassau and Suffolk on Long Island.

VISIONS has begun offering group training for individuals interested in beginning their training in this setting. This approach has been well received by the older population who were happy to be part of a cohort and felt less isolated, finding comfort and encouragement from their peers. Once the group sessions are completed, the VRT and O&M staff will conduct several one-to-one sessions with the participants in their home and community.

Western New York Center for the Visually Impaired (WNYCVI):

WNYCVI has partnered with other local disability agencies including participating in health fairs and other information popups to promote awareness
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