Legislators Are First to Preview DRS Visual Services Center’s New Orientation Class

OKLAHOMA CITY − State Rep. Anastasia Pittman and Sen. Connie Johnson will be the first officials to preview a new training program that helps Oklahomans remain independent after losing their vision at the Department of Rehabilitation Services’ Visual Services Center. Pittman and Johnson will visit the center, located at Shepherd Mall, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Friday, April 16.

The legislators will get a preview of the free “What We Can Do for You” orientation offered from 10 a.m. to noon on the second Wednesday of each month to people who are blind and their families. Those who attend get an overview of services available to teach them how to develop new skills and use remaining vision effectively.

Participants may return from 1 to 3 p.m. on the same day for optional, 30-minute sessions on tips for living with low vision, demonstrations of products, travel skills and assistance for those who also have hearing loss. All services are free of charge.

During their Visual Services Center tour, Sen. Johnson and Rep. Pittman will see technology that makes computers accessible for blind people, skills training for those want to take care of themselves and their homes, and a Braille training class in progress.

Rep. Pittman said she was excited to learn basic, simple things that are everyday experiences for people with blindness and vision impairments. “I’ve practiced going through my house with my eyes closed to gain greater awareness of what they go through. Have you ever closed your eyes and tried to match your clothes? We take for granted the graphs and charts we see on tests, but how could you find that information if you were blind?” said Pittman. “Visual Services staff are the experts in helping people find the answers to questions like these.” More than 120,000 Oklahomans have vision difficulties, according to 2008 data from the U.S. Census.

“All the services are available under one roof at the center to help people go back to work or school, travel independently and manage their homes and lives in general,” said Elaine Boykin, Visual Services Center manager and certified vision rehabilitation therapist. “Visual Services, however, provides the same assistance statewide through local offices and community outreach.”

Only six months ago, Doug Ross started training as a new Visual Services client. Today, he is a volunteer peer counselor who assists others in the program and works with employers looking for qualified workers.

“When you lose your vision, it’s easy to give up hope, but you don’t have to be stuck in the corner,” Ross said. “You may have to do things differently, but Visual Services will help you develop new skills so you can get your confidence back and start rebuilding your life.”

“What We Can Do for You” classes are held free of charge at the Visual Services Center, located in suite 91 at 2401 NW 23rd St. For more information and register to attend, phone 405-522-3333. Those who want to find the nearest Visual Services office may call 800-487-4042 toll free.

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