Metropolitan Placement ConsortiumThe Metropolitan Placement Consortium is an alliance of employment programs that work to promote equal employment opportunities for people who are legally blind or deaf-blind.
This directory will be updated as new service providers are added to the Consortium.
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NYS Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped (CBVH)
- Address:
- South Bldg., Room 201
52 Washington St.
Rensselaer, NY 12144
- Phone:
- 518 474-6812
- Website:
- http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/cbvh
CBVH is a federally-funded vocational rehabilitation agency assisting individuals who are legally blind to prepare for, attain, and retain employment. Services are also available to children, older persons, and working-age adults who require independent living services. CBVH also supervises operation of retail and vending operations under the Randolph Sheppard Act.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Counseling and guidance, assessment, vision rehabilitation services, post-secondary education support, pre-vocational and vocational skills training, and placement.
- Languages Spoken:
- English, Spanish, ASL, Portuguese, Yiddish, French, Haitian-Creole
- Hours of Operation:
- 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- Some vocational rehabilitation services are contingent upon economic need.
- Metropolitan NYC Area Contacts
- NYC: Arnold Kramer
(212) 825-5717
- Hempstead: Janice O'Connor
(516) 564-4311
- White Plains: Tom Maguire
(914) 993-5370
- Harlem: Robin Gilman-Capon
(212) 961-4400
CBVH has provided services to the vision loss population for 86 years.
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Abilities, Inc.
- Address:
- 201 I.U. Willets Road
Albertson, NY 11507
- Phone:
- 516 465-1574
- Website:
- http://www.abilitiesinc.org
Abilities, Inc., founded in 1952, is an organization dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities to live independent and productive lives.
Abilities, Inc. serves person with all types of disabilities from age 16 to 76 residing in the New York Metro area and on Long Island.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Computer/Technology Training , Counseling/Support Groups , Employment/Job Training , Rehabilitation, Vocational Assessment, Vocational Training, Job Placement, Job Coaching, Benefits Counseling, and Transitioning from School to Work.
- Languages Spoken:
- English, Russian, Spanish
Fees & Payment Policies:
- Abilities, Inc. has contracts with the New York State Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID), with the New York State Commission for the Blind (CBVH) and the Department of Veteran Affairs. Payments for services are provided by the organizations listed above.
- Hours of Operation:
- 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Contact person
- Alice Muterspaw - 516 465-1490
Abilities, Inc. has provided services to the vision loss population for 15 years.
Go to Top of PageAssociation for the Visually Impaired (AVI)
- Address:
- 260 Old Nyack Turnpike
Spring Valley, NY 10977
- Phone:
- 845 574-4950
- Website:
- http://avi-eyes.org/
AVI provides comprehensive vision services to blind/visually impaired people of all ages in their home, schools and employment settings enabling them to achieve maximum independence. All services are free to residents of Rockland, Orange and Westchester Counties.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Social Work, Orientation & Mobility, Vision Rehabilitation Therapy, Employment Placement, Children's Program Teachers of Visually Impaired, Technology Resource Center, Volunteer Services, Community Outreach, and Transportation in Rockland County. Bimonthly Educational Support Groups are facilitated by social workers in Orange and Rockland Counties.
- Languages Spoken:
- Spanish
- Hours of Operation:
- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- All comprehensive rehabilitation services and programs are free of charge. Transportation Services are provided in Rockland County only to medical appointments on a sliding scale fee. No one is denied this services due to inability to pay.
- Contact:
- Employment Specialist: Yolanda Rihlmann - 845 574-4947
All other services: 845 574-4950
AVI has provided services to the vision loss population for 38 years.
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Catholic Charities Community Services Guild for the Blind
- Address:
1011 First Avenue
New York, NY 10022
- Phone:
- 212 371-1000
- Website:
- http://www.catholiccharities.org/
- Services include but are not limited to:
Advocacy;
Braille and Reading Instruction;
Counseling/Support Groups;
Employment/Job Training;
Financial Assistance;
Housing;
Low Vision Services;
Orientation and Mobility;
Rehabilitation;
Services for Seniors; and
Transportation and Travel.
- Languages Spoken:
- English, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin
- Hours of Operation:
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- Services are free.
- Contacts:
- Celso Vera - 212-371-1011 ext.2016
- Nadine Donaldson - 212-371-1011 ext.2017
Catholic Charities Community Services Guild for the Blind has provided services to the vision loss population for 65 years.
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Computer Center for Visually Impaired People (CCVIP), Division of Continuing and Professional Studies
- Address:
- Baruch College, CUNY
1 Bernard Baruch Way, Box H-648
New York, NY 10010
- Phone:
- (646) 312-1420
- Website:
- http://www.baruch.cuny.edu/ccvip/
The mission of the CCVIP is to increase the freedom, independence, and productivity of people who are blind or visually impaired through the power of digital technology. We accomplish this through training, applied research, product testing and development, and community awareness initiatives.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Career/College Computer Skills Check-Ups; Braille Services; Web Usability Testing; Services to Baruch Students; Free Raised Line Maps; Penn Station Offers a Talking Kiosk; and Equipment Consultations.
- Languages Spoken:
- Many.
- Hours of Operation:
- See 2009 COURSES AND EVENTS CALENDAR
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- College students enrolled in CUNY, SUNY and selected colleges in the metropolitan area may enroll at no or low cost.
There is a similar fee structure for seniors and job seekers who are not eligible for training with CBVH, VESID, VA or other sponsorship.
- Contacts
- Information: Judith Gerber
(646) 312-1420.
- Director: Karen Gourgey, Ed.D.
- Assistant Director: William Reed
- Marketing Assistant: Lisa Saunders
Computer Center for Visually Impaired People (CCVIP) has provided services to the vision loss population for 31 years.
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Education and Employment Consulting, Inc (EEC)
- Address:
- 566 7th Avenue, Suite 603
New York, NY 10018
- Phone:
- 212 868-1854
- Website:
- www.education-employment.org
EEC was incorporated in 1997 with a mission to assist people with disabilities and securing competitive, integrated employment. To date, EEC has provided job placement and related services to more than 6,000 individuals with disabilities.
The Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped (CBVH) approved them as a provider of Job Placement Services very soon after their founding. In the 10 years since that designation, CBVH has referred more than 250 consumers seeking employment to them. In general, EEC has placed 1 out of 2 into competitive employment; of the individuals placed, 3 out of 4 retained their employment for 90 days or more.
EEC works only with individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment; high school age to seniors. They have a proven track record of matching consumers with jobs in which they are successful and are able to achieve self-sufficiency. Many of the CBVH referrals they have placed have also had secondary disabilities or other barriers to employment, such as medical, psychiatric, or physically related issues, substance abuse and/or incarceration.
Services include but are not limited to:
- Intake placement assessment, mock interview at employer site, job placement plan, job seeking and job development services such as resume development and workplace behavior skills, job candidate preparation, vocational counseling, job development and job search, accommodations including on site readers and other assistance.
Placement in employment, assistance with CBVH counselors and consumers in adaptive equipment and aids. Job coaching also includes interpreting services for the Deaf-Blind.
- Languages Spoken:
- Select Staff is fluent in American Sign Language and Spanish and Thai.
- Hours of Operation:
- Monday through Friday, 9-5 in our convenient Times Square location; Saturday hours are also available if needed.
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- They work by referral only by CBVH and VESID. There is no fee to the individual.
- Contacts
- Anne Rosenbloom - 212 868-1854
- Michelle Santarpia - 212 868-1854
Education and Employment Consulting, Inc. (EEC) has provided services to the vision loss population for 10 years.
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Goodwill Industries of Greater New York & Northern New Jersey Inc.
- Address:
- 4-21 27th Avenue
Astoria, NY 11102
- Phone:
- 718 728-5400
- Website:
- http://www.goodwillny.org/
More than a century ago, Goodwill began helping people achieve full participation in society. Goodwill Industries was founded in 1902 in Boston by the Rev. Edgar J. Helms, a Methodist minister. Thirteen years later, in Brooklyn, the New York Goodwill followed, founded by the Rev. Dr. Henry Paul Schauffler and the Rev Edward F. Sanderson. Goodwill's name was first put in use by the Brooklyn agency. Goodwill Industries, through the power of work, will enhance the quality and dignity of life for individuals, families and communities. They strive to overcome barriers to opportunity for people in need and facilitate empowerment, self-help and service.
Today, Goodwill Industries of Greater New York and Northern New Jersey, Inc. is a non-sectarian, not-for-profit organization serving people with mental and physical disabilities, visual impairment, the unemployed, new immigrants, ex-offenders, mature workers and under served youth.
Goodwill's diverse programs span New York City, Northern New Jersey, Long Island and upstate New York. Goodwill serves more than 110,000 people annually.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Advocacy, Employment/Job Training, and Rehabilitation.
- Hours of Operation:
- Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- Programs are at no cost to the consumer and are funded through various local, state and federal grants.
- Contact
- 718-728-5400
Goodwill Industries of Greater New York & Northern New Jersey Inc. has provided services to the vision loss population for 10+ years.
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Helen Keller National Center (HKNC)
- Address:
- 141 Middle Neck Road
Sands Point, NY 11050
- Phone:
- 516-944-8900
- Website:
- http://www.hknc.org/
HKNC is the only national vocational and rehabilitation program exclusively serving youths and adults who are deaf-blind.
Any person who is 16 years of age or older with a combined hearing and vision loss is eligible to apply to the Center.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Advocacy; Arts and Culture; Assistive Product Sources; Books and Magazines, Sources; Braille and Reading Instruction; Computer/Technology Training; Counseling/Support Groups; Employment/Job Training; Health/Fitness; Housing; Low Vision Services; Orientation and Mobility; Reading Services; Rehabilitation; Services for Seniors; Transportation and Travel.
Individualized training is provided in their Communications Learning Center where they teach the use of communication cards with pre-printed messages, print-on-palm, or note writing, and the use of devices with braille and print output for face-to-face communication.
Their Independent Living Department offers training in rehabilitation techniques for all aspects of managing a home including cooking and cleaning. Sleep shade training is offered to afford the consumer the opportunity to acquire tactual skills.
The Orientation and Mobility Department offers consumers the opportunity to receive training to travel more safely and independently within their environment utilizing strategies specifically designed for adults who are deaf-blind.
HKNC also offers support services in Audiology, Case Management, clinical Social Work, Low Vision, Medical Services, speech and Language therapy, Creative Arts, and Interpreter Services.
- Languages Spoken:
- English and American Sign Language
- Hours of Operation:
- Monday to Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- Please contact them directly for information regarding fees for their services.
- Contact
- Information Services: (516) 944-8900 ext 253 (voice/tty)
- E-mail: hkncinfo@hknc.org
HKNC has provided services to the vision loss population for 50 years.
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Helen Keller Services for the Blind
- Address:
- 57 Willoughby Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
- Phone:
- 718 522-2122
- Website:
- http://www.helenkeller.org/
Since 1893, Helen Keller Services for the Blind's mission is to help individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired, including those who may have additional disabilities, to develop independence and to actively participate in their communities. HKSB also provides public education and blindness prevention programs.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Assistive Product Sources; Books and Magazines, Sources; Braille and Reading Instruction; Computer/Technology Training; Counseling/Support Groups; Early Childhood; Education; Employment/Job Training; Low Vision Services; Orientation and Mobility; Rehabilitation; and Services for Seniors.
- Languages Spoken:
- English, Spanish, Russian, Creole
- Hours of Operation:
- 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- Services are free if qualified.
- Contacts:
- Rehab Coordinator: Frank Primeggia - 718-522-2122, extension 203
- General Information: Deborah Samuelson 718-522-2122, extension 204
Helen Keller Services for the Blind has provided services to the vision loss population for 116 years.
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Jewish Guild for the Blind
- Address:
- 15 West 65th Street
New York, NY 10023
- Phone:
- 212-769-6296
- Website:
- http://www.jgb.org/programs_employment.asp
The Jewish Guild for the Blind (The Guild) is a not-for-profit, non-sectarian agency that serves persons of all ages who are visually impaired, blind and multidisabled. The Guild offers a broad range of programs that include: medical, vision, low vision, psychiatric and rehabilitative services, managed long-term care, residential services, day health programs, schools and educational training programs for independent living.
In addition, The Guild's radio reading service, InTouch Networks, and SightCare, its vision care education and training program, address the special needs of thousands of people nationwide.
The Guild's Center for Workplace Technology provides specialized services to blind and visually impaired persons who seek training on computers and related equipment. Training is offered to persons entering the job market and to those who are presently employed, but who are losing their vision.
For individuals who require training prior to entering the labor market they offer a full array of programs ranging from basic communication skills training to advanced word processing. Their staff makes use of the latest technologies in providing instruction on multiple computer applications and the use of a wide range of assistive devices.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Vocational Counseling and Assessment; Mobility Instruction; Technology Careers Training; Academic Tutoring; English as a Second Language; High School Equivalency Preparation and Testing (GED); Pre-College Skills Program; Job Coaching and Mentoring; and Communication Skills Training.
- Contact Center for Workplace Technology:
- Phone: 212-769-7850
- E-mail: workplacetech@jgb.org >/DD>
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Lighthouse International
- Address:
111 East 59th Street
New York, NY 10022
- Phone:
- 212 821-9200
- Website:
- http://www.lighthouse.org/
Founded in New York City in 1905, Lighthouse International is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to preserving vision and to providing critically needed vision and rehabilitation services to help people of all ages overcome the challenges of vision loss.
Through clinical services, education, research, and advocacy, the Lighthouse enables people with low vision and blindness to enjoy safe, independent and productive lives.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Advocacy; Arts and Culture; Assistive Product Sources; Books and Magazines, Sources; Braille and Reading Instruction; Computer/Technology Training; Counseling/Support Groups; Early Childhood; Education; Employment/Job Training; Low Vision Services; Orientation and Mobility; Reading Services; Rehabilitation; Services for Seniors; Transportation and Travel.
- Languages Spoken:
- Many languages represented.
- Hours of Operation:
- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday thru Friday;
Some Saturday hours available.
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- Rates available.
- Contacts
- VP Career Services: Lenny Goldstein - 212 821-9277
Lighthouse International has provided services to the vision loss population for 104 years.
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New York City Industries for the Blind Inc.
- Address:
- 3611 14th Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11218
- Phone:
- 718-854-7300
- Website:
- www.nycib.org
NYCIB is a manufacturing company employing 110 legally blind and totally blind individuals in our factory facility in Brooklyn, New York.
As an employer, we hire only those working age individuals for whom blindness/low vision is the primary disability, though we do hire visually impaired/blind individuals with secondary disabilities.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Employment/Job Training
- Languages Spoken:
- English, Chinese, Spanish, Russian
- Hours of Operation:
- 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- N/A
- Contact
- Irene Schwartz at 718-854-7300 x233
New York City Industries for the Blind Inc. has provided services to the vision loss population for 13 years.
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Stargate Technology Learning Centers
- Address:
- 391 E 149th Street Room 219
Bronx, NY, 10455
- Phone:
- 718.402.4464
- Website:
- http://www.stargateny.com/
Stargate is an organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve their employment goals.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Employment/Job Training; and Job Placement.
- Languages Spoken:
- English,Spanish,French,Korean
- Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Friday, 9 AM to 8 PM
10 AM to 4 PM Saturday, Closed Sunday
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- CBVH Referrals (exclusively). There is no direct cost to the consumer.
- Contact:
- 718 402 - 4464
Stargate Technology Learning Centers' staff have more than 30 years collective experience serving the Visually Impaired.
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SUNY State College of Optometry - University Optometric Center
- Address:
- 33 W 42 Street
New York, New York 10036
- Phone:
- 212 938-4001
- Website:
- http://www.sunyopt.edu/uoc/
SUNY State College of Optometry - University Optometric Center is an article 28 diagnostic and treatment center that provides a comprehensive array of specialized eye care services.
Services are provided to individuals of all ages with varying diagnoses. Primary care eye exams are offered. Patients do not have to be legally blind to be seen.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Advocacy;Assistive Product Sources; Books and Magazines, Sources; Colleges and Universities; Computer/Technology Training; Counseling/Support Groups; Early Childhood; Education; Health/Fitness; Low Vision Services; Parent Assistance; Rehabilitation; and Services for Seniors.
Their Head Trauma Unit provides services to survivors of acquired brain injury and stroke, the Low Vision service and the Ocular disease and Special Testing Service. They offer an interdisciplinary staff which includes social workers. Monthly support groups are offered for Survivors of Acquired Brain Injury and Stroke, Loved Ones of Survivors of ABI and for Individuals with Low Vision.
- Languages Spoken:
- Many.
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- Most major insurances are accepted for payment. Fee reductions are available to individuals needing services who do not have the ability to pay.
- Hours of Operation:
- Monday through Saturday - including evening hours.
- Contacts:
- Executive Director: Dr Richard Soden - 212 938-4030
- Director of Social Work: Iris Rosen, LCSW - 212 938-4040
SUNY State College of Optometry - University Optometric Center has provided services to the vision loss population for 38 years.
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VISIONS/Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired
- Address:
- 500 Greenwich Street, 3rd Floor
New York, NY 10013
- Phone:
- 212 625-1616
- Website:
- http://www.visionsvcb.org
VISIONS/Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired is a nonprofit agency which provides a broad range of vision rehabilitation and social services for blind and visually impaired people of all ages in the Greater New York Metropolitan Area.
Consumers of all ages, who are experiencing functional vision loss, including those with multiple physical, sensory, and/or cognitive impairments work with qualified professionals to obtain vision rehabilitation therapy, orientation & mobility training, and/or individualized social work counseling services. VISIONS Department of Workforce Development and Training assists blind youth and adults in acquiring job-readiness skills. VISIONS at Selis Manor offers a wide variety of classes free of charge to visually impaired community users. Visit their web site for details.
- Services include but are not limited to:
- Advocacy; Arts and Culture; Computer/Technology Training; Counseling/Support Groups; Employment/Job Training; Health/Fitness; Libraries; Orientation and Mobility; Parent Assistance; Reading Services; Rehabilitation; and Services for Seniors.
- Languages Spoken:
- English, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Hebrew, Cantonese, Mandarin, French, Haitian Creole
- Hours of Operation:
- VISIONS Main Administrative Office is open from 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
- Fees & Payment Policies:
- There are no mandatory fees for any services. Some residential services may include a fee.
- Contacts:
- General Intake: Diana Cruz - 212.625.1616, ext. 134
- Employment & Training: Dawn Suvino - 646.486.4444, ext. 14
- Rehabilitation Training & Social Work Services: Annie Presley - 212.625.1616, ext. 115
- VISIONS at Selis Manor: Ann DeShazo - 646.486.4444, ext. 11
- VISIONS VCB: Manju Mathews - 212.625.1616, ext. 135
VISIONS has provided services to the vision loss population for 85 years.
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