3 minute read
Nonprofit Spotlight: Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind & Visually Impaired (GDABVI)
BY ANGIE ARLINGTON • PHOTOS BY @PHOTOSBYKPG
JIM SMOCK SHARES , “I am the executive director at the Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired (GDABVI), based in Southfield, Michigan.
Since 1961, this agency has served the blind and visually impaired in southeast Michigan; we offer a variety of rehabilitative services. The agency provides all services to our clients at no cost. They do not receive any government funding and rely on grants, contributions, donations, and gifts.”
“After your initial contact with our office, a Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT) will reach out to discuss and assess your needs and recommend next steps. Our vision rehabilitation therapy services are offered at no cost.”
GDABVI clients in our Vision Rehabilitation Therapy program are also referred to an Orientation and Mobility specialist, if the VRT and client agree that they would like additional training to move around their home or neighborhood. Some clients simply want to learn how to get to their mailbox in a safe manner, while others are interested in walking to a local store or library. Vision rehabilitation therapy services include Activities of Daily Living and Technology Training.
SPEAKERS SERIES:
Virtual Education Series addresses a variety of visionrelated health topics, including eye conditions, prevention and treatment options, healthy living, and safety. Also, covers disability issues related to employment, housing, education, and more. Sessions are accessible in video and audio formats.
SUPPORT GROUP:
Meets on the second Tuesday of each month at noon.Join us to share your experiences, connect with others on the vision journey, and learn about ways to maintain your mental and physical health and wellbeing. GDABVI’s non-clinical adult support group is staffed by the agency’s Community Health Worker who serves as a liaison to assist in navigating additional resources to meet your needs. Meetings are in-person. The group is inclusive, addresses a variety of topics related to visual impairment, and welcomes individuals 18 and over at all stages of the vision loss journey.
