Welcome
The mission of ACBVI is to facilitate independence and promote full participation in all spheres of life for those who experience vision loss.
Since 1947 we have been serving adults are blind or visually impaired, DeafBlind, or living with combined vision and hearing loss.
Our work is centered on three pillars: Independence, Vocation, and Whole Person Health.
Chad’s Story by JAC on 2021-05-21
Most of us don’t exactly relish getting poked and prodded. And studies suggest that over 40 percent of men won’t go unless there’s a serious issue! That was Chad’s approach to his health. He knew he couldn’t see as well as before, but other things in his life — like providing for his family — were just more important to him.
A series of setbacks finally forced Chad to focus on his health. First, he got hurt on the construction site where he worked. So, he switched to a retail job ...
Then he lost that position — he struggled to make accurate deposits — and his driver’s license. But Chad was still determined to find a fix, one that did not involve the doctor.
Most of us don’t exactly relish getting poked and prodded. And studies suggest that over 40 percent of men won’t go unless there’s a serious issue! That was Chad’s approach to his health. He knew he couldn’t see as well as before, but other things in his life — like providing for his family — were just more important to him.
A series of setbacks finally forced Chad to focus on his health. First, he got hurt on the construction site where he worked. So, he switched to a retail job ...
Then he lost that position — he struggled to make accurate deposits — and his driver’s license. But Chad was still determined to find a fix, one that did not involve the doctor.
Sadly, Chad ended up in a hospital’s intensive care unit in 2017 after he was hit by a car. The doctors told him he has three conditions that affect his sight: cornea disease, nerve damage, and glaucoma. During his recovery, Chad became more active in his church – and it was a friend there who pointed him toward the Arizona Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
ACBVI’s experts worked with Chad to improve his orientation and mobility skills. They visited his neighborhood to help him safely practice using a white cane in familiar surroundings.
Next, Chad began learning to read Braille. He started to feel less cut off from current events and his hobbies.
But it was his assistive technology classes that really inspired Chad. At first, it was challenging to use his hearing in place of his sight — and there were days when he wanted to give up ...
With some encouragement, Chad pressed on. He began to realize that he had a knack for assistive technology, and he might one day teach these practical skills to others in need. Chad is currently leading an Alexa training class for other students virtually and is enrolled in our DST certification class, preparing for a new career as a computer support technician.
“I want to be able to give back, with compassion and integrity,” says Chad.
ACBVI
People with blindness or visual impairment face numerous challenges that can significantly impact their ability to live independently and participate fully in daily life. Navigating public spaces, accessing information, securing employment, and managing essential tasks like cooking and finances can be daunting without proper support. Many individuals encounter barriers to education, employment, and healthcare, while also facing feelings of isolation due to a lack of accessibility and inclusion in society. The limitations imposed by vision loss can affect not just physical mobility but also emotional well-being and social connection, making it harder for individuals to engage in community life and achieve personal fulfillment.
At ACBVI, we provide comprehensive solutions to help individuals overcome these challenges and reclaim their independence. Through cutting-edge assistive technology, personalized orientation and mobility training, and life skills workshops, we empower our clients to navigate their world with confidence and autonomy. We offer Braille instruction, advocacy for public transportation, and job placement services that help individuals gain meaningful employment and develop a sense of purpose. Additionally, our whole-person health approach ensures access to healthcare services, emotional support groups, and accessible medical tools, all designed to foster a holistic sense of well-being. By addressing both the practical and emotional needs of our clients, ACBVI enables individuals with visual impairments to lead fulfilling, empowered lives.
Blind and Visually Impaired
Blindness and visual impairment affect a significant portion of the American population, with millions of individuals living with varying degrees of vision loss. These conditions can result from a range of causes, including congenital disabilities, diseases like glaucoma or diabetes, injuries, or age-related degeneration. For those with blindness or visual impairment, daily tasks such as reading, navigating spaces, and using technology can present significant challenges. However, advancements in assistive technologies, such as screen readers, braille displays, and navigation apps, have empowered many visually impaired individuals to live more independently and engage fully in their communities.
Need more information?
If you have any questions or need additional information, we encourage you to reach out to us at ACBVI. Our team is dedicated to assisting you and providing the resources and support you require. Don’t hesitate to get in touch—we’re here to help. Contact us by phone at 602-273-7411 or via email at acbvi.org. To stay up to date with the latest news, subscribe to our newsletter.