A.V.R.E. InSight Newsletter
Association for Vision Rehabilitation and Employment, Inc.
Binghamton, New York
Fall 2003, Volume 28, Number 4
Our Mission is "To assist people who have a vision disability enhance life quality through attaining or maintaining personal and economic independence, and help remove obstacles imposed by vision disabilities."
Jobs: We’re Making It Happen!
Creating jobs for people who are blind or visually impaired has long been a major focus of A.V.R.E. In fact, when the Association first began in 1926, it was the only focus. Foremost in the minds of our founders was the need to provide the means for blind people to earn a good living. See The President's Corner article for a more complete look at our employment program vision.
During the past two years, A.V.R.E. has placed twenty-four people with a vision disability into jobs. From young adults placed in temporary summer employment, to adults going into long-term professional positions, our employment services work in partnership with the employers and the prospective employees. We would like to tell you a little about some of them.
Young adults were placed in Tompkins County in summer jobs such as grooming pets, and working in the Hangar Theater; and Adam Drake worked with the Finger Lakes State Parks. In Cortland County, Jeremy Conger worked for the YMCA. Anthony Felice worked for a vendor in the State Office Building in Broome County. Several of these employees were offered long-term positions, but chose to return to school. Amanda Bedell was placed with the Tioga County Courier paper, and when asked to continue into the school year, she accepted.
Professional positions were obtained for several adults. A Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor was placed with a state agency in Broome County; Ed Roorda, Jr. joined the team at Raymond-Hadley Corporation in Spencer (Tioga County) in the purchasing department; and in Chenango County, Chenango Memorial Hospital has a new prep-cook in their cafeteria.
Creating quality employment through community partnerships. It's what we do!
Photo of Finger Lakes State Parks employees: Jason Kinney, Adam Drake, Fawn Snyder, Judi Lott, and Ronda Williamson. End of article.
The President's Corner. By Robert Hanye, President and CEO.
Jobs, Work, Money! These are just about the first three words I heard when I came into this field on the first work day of 1974. They were the mantra of a fellow named Harold (Ric) Richterman. Ric is an icon in the field of services for people with a vision disability, who has retired to Florida. But his words still make straightforward sense and form the basis of much of what we do at A.V.R.E.
Jobs - Being employed - having an occupation - being a contributor. These are important ideas that help each of us establish a place in our community. Work - Producing something of value - making something worthwhile. Feeling productive is so important to our own sense of worth. Money - The means to be independent - pay our own bills - take care of our family. It's pretty hard to be independent without income. When we feel like we make a contribution, produce something of value and have income to support ourselves, we really believe in our own potential. We then find a way to solve other problems that come our way. Jobs, Work, Money.
A.V.R.E. is committed to employment opportunities for people with a vision disability. This past year 24 individuals found employment in a community business, came to work in our manufacturing plant, got a summer work experience or took a job at our switchboard operation. We have now awarded five scholarships to young people pursuing education to prepare for a job. We have forged new and improved relations with the Commission for the Blind and Workforce Development One-stops for employment preparation and job search. We hire and promote people with a vision disability within the organization whenever we can.
Our commitment is long standing. It's why, in 1929, the Association started a production employment program with Mr. Hiram Rogers as the first legally blind employee. In 2004, we will be celebrating 75 Years of Quality Employment Services!
The "Broome County Association of the Blind" was actually first organized in 1926. We have been through many changes since then: re-incorporations, name changes, different locations, and various types of services and businesses. However, our original commitment to independence through work remains as strong now as it was in 1929. Remember: Jobs! Work! Money! Photo of Mr. Hanye. End of article.
Bringing People to Jobs.
Because A.V.R.E. is about job creation, we have had the opportunity to bring new people into our community. Recently, we assisted a legally blind young man move into Binghamton to take an entrepreneurial position. We helped him locate a place to live near his work, and provided him with orientation & mobility training so that he can walk around our community or take the city bus safely. We gave him rehabilitation training, both in his home and at his job, helping to make the relocation as comfortable as possible.
Over the past couple of years, we brought several professional people to our community to work on staff within our organization, and have helped people move to our area so they can accept positions in our manufacturing program.
These new neighbors chose us and this area over other choices they may have had. They came here to go to work and that's exciting! End of article.
Successful People.
Having a vision disability does not place a limitation on success in the workplace. There are many well-known, visually impaired people in the world who have "pushed the limit" and become very successful in their fields of endeavor.
Right here in our own community, there are a number of highly successful blind and visually impaired people working in a variety of areas. There are lawyers, university professors, small business owners, a corporate vice-president, an artist, a systems analyst, and more. Here at A.V.R.E., we have a vice-president of operations, two professional rehabilitation teachers, an order processing clerk, a receptionist, machine operators, assemblers, packers, and others.
With determination and persistence, it is possible. End of article.
Quotable Quote: "To find out what one is fitted to do, and to secure an opportunity to do it, is the key to happiness." John Dewey.
The Spotlight Is On.
Vincent Howell: Working Beyond Retirement.
When it comes to working, age is no barrier for Vinnie Howell. At the age of 73, he still holds a full-time job in our Industries Manufacturing department. Visually impaired since birth, Vinnie has never let his vision disability slow him down. Until a few years ago, he had enough sight to get around on his own. Now he is a familiar figure in downtown Binghamton as he walks to and from work each day with the help of his guide dog, Vern.
Vinnie's work experience through the years has been varied: he worked in a local grocery store for 10 years, and McLean's Department Store for 13 years. In 1977, after taking training in Albany, he opened his own small engine repair business, working on lawn mowers and snow blowers. When his eyesight deteriorated, he closed his business and came to work at A.V.R.E. in 1989.
Vinnie has always stayed busy away from work, as well. For 27 years, he was a volunteer fireman with the Hinman's Corners (now Chenango) Fire Department. From 1972 until 1977, he was the Fire Chief. He is also a 32nd degree Mason and was Master of the Otsiningo Lodge in 1977.
Vinnie's strong work ethics and his kind and generous heart have earned him two awards here at A.V.R.E. In 1991, he was the recipient of the Melvin L. Rosendale Employee of the Year Award, and in 2000, he was chosen as the A.V.R.E. Citizen of the Year. Vincent Howell. A very inspiring person. Photo of Vinnie packing paper into a box.
Aaron Baier: Combining College and Work.
Aaron Baier is not about to sit around and let "grass grow under his feet." Only 20 years old, Aaron is on his way toward making his dream of a career in psychology come true.
Aaron, who is from Oxford, NY, was told that he might be visually impaired when he attempted to get his driver's license at the age of 16. Several doctor visits later, it was determined that Aaron has Retinitis Pigmentosa and is legally blind.
In high school, Aaron participated in a BOCES program that allowed him to work in several volunteer situations that awakened his interest in psychology. He was an observer in a Drug & Alcohol Rehab program, worked with students in a Special Ed class at Norwich High School, and worked in a social club for people with mental disabilities.
Aaron first came to work at A.V.R.E. during his summer vacation when he was 16, and returned each year. Presently, he is working an average of 20 hours per week while he is attending Broome Community College as a full-time student. He plans to attain a 2-year Liberal Arts associate's degree, then transfer to SUNY Cortland. There, he plans to finish his bachelor's degree and continue on to earn his master's degree in Clinical Psychology. He would like to work in counseling people with disabilities, particularly those with mental or developmental disorders. Aaron Baier. A very determined young man. Photo of Aaron removing copy paper from a machine. End of article.
Ready For That Job?
People seek employment for many reasons: to receive a paycheck; to provide a valuable skill or service to a business; to put that hard-fought education to work at last; to stay busy; to feel productive; to get out of the house. People who are visually impaired have the same goals. However, given the barriers to employment faced by people who are blind or visually impaired, getting or keeping that job is a challenging task. A.V.R.E. can help with getting "employment ready."
Where do we begin to get ready? Well, that depends on the individual but there are some key points that are important to address prior to landing a job. These may not seem to be job related but are very important to success in the workplace. They can include things like dressing for success, managing medication, finding safe and appropriate housing, strong travel techniques to get to and from work, and many more. A.V.R.E. staff members work with the individual to strengthen skills in these areas. When these skills are acquired there is a much higher likelihood of attaining and maintaining employment. The job applicant and the employer can concentrate on the qualifications for the job.
Once a person with a vision disability has gotten that job, it is important to keep these kinds of skills up to date, and A.V.R.E. can help with refresher training. Together, A.V.R.E., the employer and the employee can plot courses of action to handle things like technology and accommodations on the job. Sometimes a work process might change or vision may change. Both make it necessary for the employee to assess what might be needed to stay current with the requirements of the job. End of article.
Job Hunting? Call Us!
If you are legally blind or have a significant vision disability, A.V.R.E. is interested in working with you in your job search. How can we help? We can talk with you about your qualifications and your interests and help you match them with an employer who is hiring. We can help you prepare your resume and practice interviewing. We can work with you on strategies to get that interview. We can plan with you about accommodations and the requirements to fill a particular job. We can work with you on skills that may be needed to make working a success. We can connect you with other job sources to make your search as comprehensive as possible. We are partnering with the Social Security Ticket to Work program, the GROW program of the Office for the Aging, the Commission for the Blind, Employer networks, the New York State Career Centers, and others. We can place you in our own on-site Industries manufacturing program.
We understand what it takes for someone with a vision disability, who wants to work, to find a job. Our Employment Specialist, Alycia Harris, wants to talk with you! Give Alycia a call at 607-724-2428, ext. 117, or email her: aharris@avreus.org
The Kid's Corner. By Diane McMillan, Early Intervention & Youth Specialist.
Holiday Toys.
With the Holidays nearly upon us, parents are searching for just the right toys to buy for their children. With so many items available, choices can be confusing. What can you get that will suit the child, will be fun to play with, and will help him or her to learn and develop? For a parent with a visually impaired child, this can be even more challenging.
Here are some questions you can consider before making your purchase: Is the toy appropriate for your child developmentally? Can it be used as she gets older? Is it versatile? Is it safe, durable, washable, and without small parts that can come off and cause choking? Is the toy visually appealing to the child with low vision? Does it have tactile appeal and a pleasing scent? Will your child interact with the toy and find it fun to use? Is it child-size and easy to use?
Does the toy have a cause-and-effect quality, such as a puzzle? Does the toy make noise, and can the volume be adjusted?
Once the gifts have been opened, take time to explore each new toy along with your child. Show enthusiasm as you play with the toy yourself, describing how it looks and what it does. Place your hand over your child's hand to help manipulate the toy. Visually impaired children are sometimes reluctant to try new experiences and can become overwhelmed. Try introducing just one or two new toys at a time. But most of all, have fun!
Play will help your child grow and develop, and learn about his environment. It helps develop both fine and gross motor skills, motivation, curiosity and self-esteem. Above all, your child will feel loved and cherished. Learning through play is the foundation for future learning, preparing for independence and a successful work career. End of article.
A.V.R.E. Employees Are In The News! Our Employees Shine!
We are pleased to announce that our Veterans Administration Hospital switchboard operators have been recognized as Shining Stars by the Mid-Hudson Veterans Administration Medical Center.
A.V.R.E. employees Claudia Michon, Keith Murray, Deborah Holmes, and Penelope Simon work at the VA campuses in Montrose and Castle Point, NY. They were recently cited for outstanding customer service to veterans, family members, employees, visitors, and other customers of the Medical Center. These employees are totally blind, legally blind, and sighted. They process all incoming calls and also monitor the hospital alarm systems, carrying the responsibility for dispatching the appropriate response teams.
Each employee received a certificate that said: "You are hereby recognized as a "Shining Star" for delivering exemplary customer service. Your dedication to serving our veterans is key to achieving the mission, vision and values of the VA Hudson Valley Health Care System."
Nancy Winter, Public Affairs Officer for the Medical Center, stated, "The operators deal with a variety of emotions and attitudes as the first person that answers the individual's call. They show courtesy and respect to each individual, treating them with excellent customer service."
The Shining Star Program is an internal recognition program of the Mid-Hudson VA. This is the first time it has been awarded to employees who work there under contract. A.V.R.E. operates the switchboards by contract with the Medical Center under the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Program, through National Industries for the Blind. The contract has been in place for approximately three years. The New York State Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped was instrumental in making technology adaptations and recruiting.
Congratulations to Claudia, Keith, Deborah and Penelope! Photo of Claudia, Penelope, Keith and Deborah. End of article.
Employee News.
Two of our Program Services staff recently completed all the requirements necessary to become NY State certified in their areas of expertise. Congratulations go to Ralph Gedeon, who has received his certification as a Rehabilitation Teacher, and to Sara Moyer, whose certification is in Orientation & Mobility.
A.V.R.E. Early Intervention & Youth Specialist Diane McMillan was recently elected to the Board of Directors of the New York State Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired. Diane will serve a three year term and we are certain she will do a great job!
New Employee: We welcome Dennis Messersmith, our newest Industries Program employee. End of article.
Happy Retirement!
We extend our best wishes to John Cooney upon his retirement the end of October. John began working in our Industries manufacturing program in 1969, and through the years he has worked on a wide variety of products and tasks. He has always been a highly reliable and dedicated employee, and a warm and cheerful co-worker. John was honored in 1990 by being chosen as the recipient of the Melvin L. Rosendale Employee of the Year Award.
While he is excited about his new home in Chittenango, NY, where he can be closer to his sister and her family, John has said that he will greatly miss his friends and co-workers here. And we will miss you too, John! Congratulations! End of article.
2003 Scholarship Winners
Three outstanding students were recently selected to receive the Charles V. Costello Memorial Scholarships for the 2003-2004 academic year.
Ms. Brianna Cook is a 2003 graduate of Greene Central High School, and is attending Broome Community College this fall. She intends to pursue Social Work, with a focus on working with children. Brianna, who has a vision impairment, was active in many high school activities, including cheerleading and a variety of volunteer activities.
Mr. Adam Drake, who is both deaf and visually impaired, attends Rochester Institute of Technology, in conjunction with the National Institute for the Deaf. He is in his second year at R.I.T., and is majoring in business. Adam is a resident of Trumansburg.
Ms. Amy Orshal is a 2003 graduate of Athens Area High School, who is attending Lycoming College this fall. She intends to pursue a business or math-related profession and had a strong academic record in high school. Also having a vision disability, Amy believes that "opportunities are endless if you further your high school education."
These three fine young people embody the spirit and ideals of Charles Costello, who held a strong belief in the value of higher education. Mrs. Beverly Costello and A.V.R.E. established the memorial scholarship fund in honor of Charlie, who was a highly respected community leader and A.V.R.E. board member for many years.
We extend our congratulations and best wishes to Brianna, Adam and Amy! End of article.
"Now You Can Find It!"
We all misplace things, some of us more than others. We all spend precious minutes, even hours, searching for items we need but just can't find. Help is here in the form of a wireless electronic locator, called "Now You Can Find It." This device is an affordable solution to a common problem.
The locator consists of a small base unit (4-3/4 inches by 2-3/4 inches by 1-1/2 inches) and four receiver beeper discs. The base unit has a magnetic mounting bracket that attaches to a metal surface, such as a refrigerator, and runs on two AA batteries. Each beeper disc can be attached to any object with its key ring or with a double-sided adhesive sticker-pad. The discs and the buttons on the base unit are color-coded and can be labeled. They're even coded with Braille-like bumps for someone with limited vision.
If you are constantly misplacing an item such as your TV remote, your keys, or your eyeglasses, simply attach a beeper disc to it. When it is lost, carry the base from room to room with you, pressing the corresponding button on the base unit, and follow the loud beeps!
The "Now You Can Find It" costs $49.95, and has a one-year warranty. To order one, call Sharper Image, toll free: 1-800-344-4444. End of article.
Let's Go Skiing!"
How does someone with little or no vision ski? How does he or she know when to "schuss" or "snowplough"; or whether to "traverse" or execute a "christy"? The answer is simple: a sighted guide tells her.
Skiing by blind people first appeared as an organized activity in the mid-1960s, and is performed all over the world today. A good skier who is also a good sighted guide is essential. The guide is responsible for describing the surroundings and for choosing the line of downhill descent. Unlike many other sports, a blind skier does not need any specially adapted equipment.
For downhill (Alpine) skiing, there are two guide systems in use. In the first method, the guide skis directly behind the blind skier, and tells him what to do. This method requires wide slopes without obstacles. The alternate method is for the guide to ski directly in front of the blind skier. Verbal communication is still essential, but the blind skier may also be able to hear the guide's movements. In both methods, when the guide decides it is necessary to turn, he tells his partner which direction and when to turn.
For cross-country (Nordic) skiing, either of these guide methods can be used, or if space allows, the guide may ski alongside her partner. The Ski For Light Program conducts a week-long event each winter at a U.S. location. The primary goal of the program is to teach adults with vision or mobility impairments the sport of cross-country skiing.
Locally, Greek Peak Ski Resort in Virgil (near Cortland), NY offers a Sports Program for the Disabled. This adaptive teaching program provides a snow sports experience for people who have a vision or other disability, from age 6 to 60. A staff of more than 30 certified ski instructors and Special Olympics instructors, plus over 60 trained volunteers, offer one-on-one instruction in skiing or snowboarding.
Greek Peak's program starts on January 4, 2004, and continues into March. The Sunday program offers both morning and afternoon sessions and costs $15 per day, which includes equipment rentals, a ski lift ticket, and a personal instructor. Lessons are available during the week by reservation only, and regular rental and lift ticket prices are in effect.
For more information about the Greek Peak Disabled Sports program, call Mr. Dick Wierman at 607-785-6960 or Peter Rogers at 607-785-1008, or visit their website at www.skigpsd.org. Happy Skiing! End of article.
The Bulletin Board.
Home Improvement Loans.
Metro Interfaith Housing Counseling in Binghamton is offering a home improvement program which can help owners complete a wide range of repairs. Program assistance is in the form of a deferred payment, interest-free loan that is secured with a five year term mortgage. This program is made possible through a grant from the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation's HOME Program.
The home must be a single-family residential property and must be located in certain targeted areas of the city of Binghamton. Owner occupancy is required and there are income eligibility limits for approval, as well as some additional requirements.
Metro Interfaith is a non-profit housing agency which has served the Southern Tier of NY since 1968. If you would like to find out if you qualify for this home repair program and to learn more details, contact Christian Sezenias at Metro Interfaith at 607-723-0723.
New Medicare Limits
Beginning September 1, 2003, Medicare limits how much it covers for several outpatient therapy services. They are: Physical Therapy and Speech-Language Therapy combined, $1590 per year. Occupational Therapy, $1590 per year.
After the patient pays the $100 yearly Medicare Part B deductible, Medicare pays 80%, and the patient pays 20% of the cost of the therapy.
The payment limits apply to outpatient therapy received from doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language therapists, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and physician assistants. The limits generally don't apply to the therapy services received at a hospital outpatient department.
For more details and for any questions, please call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). Information from Medicare bulletin provided by HealthNow.
Just A Reminder.
A.V.R.E. now has a computer lab that is available for anyone with a vision disability to use. The three computers in the lab are equipped with several accessible software programs. All are connected to the internet. There is also a scanner, a Braille translation program, and a Braille embosser.
If you would like more information about the lab, or would like to make an appointment to use it, call A.V.R.E. Program Services Director Laura Henry at 607-724-2428.
A.V.R.E. Recycles!
Do you use a computer printer in your home or office? Your used, empty printer cartridges can help us! Simply take the empty cartridge out of the printer, insert it into the box your new one comes in, and drop it off at our agency or call to receive a postage-paid mailer.
Does your place of business have a number of printers? We can provide a collection box that can be placed in a central location where employees can place the empties. When it's full, we'll even pick it up.
We will send the cartridges to a recycling center, and will receive money for them. It costs you nothing! It costs us nothing! It helps save our environment, and it benefits A.V.R.E.! What more can you ask? Call Joyce Bucci at 607-724-2428 for details. End of article.
Have Speakers; Will Travel!
Has your group or organization run out of ideas for interesting programs at your meetings? A.V.R.E. can help. We have people available to speak to your group about vision disabilities and what our vision rehabilitation and employment programs are all about. Give us a call! 607-724-2428 or email avreinfo@avreus.org End of article.
Newsletter Formats
A.V.R.E. InSight is currently available in the following formats: Large Print (14 pt.); Braille; Text document on IBM-compatible disk; Emailed text document; and Audio cassette tape. If you would like to receive your InSight in a different format, you may call Joyce Bucci at 607-724-2428 or email jbucci@avreus.org End of article.
Thanks For Caring!
We have received two very generous cash donations that will be used for purchasing chairs and side tables for our lobby. We would like to thank Ms. Penelope Simon, who is one of our VA Hospital switchboard employees for her thoughtful donation. We would also like to thank our very special friend, Mrs. Ida Rosendale, who has given us yet another generous Wish List donation. We're looking forward to purchasing that new furniture. Thank you to both!
Another A.V.R.E. employee at the VA Hospital switchboards recently donated a student-sized desk and chair, which now has a new home with the family of a visually impaired employee. Thank you to Claudia Michon! We have also received a used refrigerator for our lunch room. At 20 cu. ft, it is quite a bit larger than the one we had been using. Thank you very much to A.V.R.E. employee Lewis Lysak and his fiancé, Kayla, for this donation!
If you would like to make a donation to our Wish List, or a cash donation to our general fund, please contact Joyce Bucci at 607-724-2428 ext. 122. The dollar amount of your gift would be an eligible tax deduction. You will receive a letter of receipt and thanks from us and a public thank you in our next newsletter. End of article.
Happy Holidays, from us to you!
Publishing information:
InSight is published quarterly by the Association for Vision Rehabilitation and Employment, Inc. (Formerly Blind Work Association), 55 Washington St., Binghamton, NY 13901, 607-724-2428, FAX: 607-771-8045.
Email: avreinfo@avreus.org Website: www.avreus.org Editor: Joyce Bucci.
A.V.R.E. is a local, private, non-profit organization that is managed by a volunteer Board of Directors. We serve visually impaired individuals of all ages who live in the NY counties of Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Tioga and Tompkins, as well as the PA counties of Bradford, Susquehanna and Tioga. A.V.R.E. is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. If you would like more information about A.V.R.E. or its services, please feel free to contact us.
Our vision is to be the first in choice and quality with respect to vision rehabilitation and employment services in the Twin Tiers; and to be a model for the broader community in understanding vision disability.
End of newsletter.