this is the educational and social programs page of the blind service association website.

educational and social programs

about

Whenever we receive calls from people with sight loss their main focus is trying to learn as much as they can about their eye condition including updates on research, technology and coping. BSA's educational programs, which are offered throughout the year, highlight many of these concerns and issues. Guest speakers include ophthalmologists, attorneys with information on rights and legal issues, vendors showing the latest low vision products and other professionals. In addition to educational programs, BSA sponsors social activities on a regular basis. Check BSA's Calendar of events by clicking here.

braille

Braille is a necessary tool especially among young children. It helps children develop skills in grammar and punctuation. Studies have shown that people who are braille literate are more likely to be employed than those people who rely on voice synthesizers alone. Braille like print enables one to jot down a phone number, prepare a shopping list, take notes, file materials, label clothes, label cans of food, they can play card games like bridge and even scrabble. Blind Service Association offers private Braille classes to blind and visually impaired adults and children. Contact Brian Oleszczuk(email) or call 312-236-0808 to sign up for classes.

computer and adaptive devices

Blind Service Association has PC's equipped with internet access and popular adaptive software such as JAWS® and ZoomText at its downtown main office. Laptops are also available for individual use in private rooms. Clients can also take advantage of equipment which include closed circuit televisions (CC-TV's), reading scanners and Orcam glasses. Individuals interested in using our equipment should telephone to schedule an appointment at 312-236-0808.

book club

Once a month interested members, clients and volunteers hear a live reading of a short story and to join in a post-reading discussion. Volunteer readers choose stories that are available through the National Library Service (NLS) BARD program. Call Marty Kummetz at the office to enroll for this service. You can find the date of the next Book Club meeting on our Calendar of Events or call the BSA Office at 312-236-0808.