Independent Living for the Blind Program

Contact: Mark Harniss (mharniss@uw.edu), Kurt Johnson (kjohnson@uw.edu)
Core Function: Technical Assistance and Outreach Training
Program: Center for Technology and Disability

The Center for Technology and Disability Studies (CTDS) provides technical assistance, policy analysis, and program implementation to the Washington State Department of Services for the Blind(DSB), primarily related to its Independent Living for the Blind Program (IL). IL empowers individuals with vision loss to live independently in their homes and communities. CTDS staff members develop and manage subcontracts with a statewide network of community providers who provide the skills, the tools, and the confidence individuals with recent vision loss need to thrive. In support of the IL program, CTDS staff provide technical assistance regarding IL best practices, develop and implement an online case management system, and compile federal and state reports on DSB’s behalf.