It is dedicated to assisting all who are living with vision loss to achieve greater independence through excellence in education and wrap-around support services that advance necessary skills and establish meaningful community connections. VisionLink is committed to collaborating with local, regional, and national partners to broaden access to resources and opportunities that enable those with vision loss to live their lives to the fullest. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, VisionLink has been providing all of its services remotely through both phone and online education, programming, and support. VisionLink has a long history in Philadelphia, with its lineage dating back to 1874 when the Pennsylvania Working Home for Blind Men was established. VisionLink’s name reflects the organization’s progressing mission of broadening available resources and serving as a link or connector to educational programs, services and support– whether provided by VisionLink or elsewhere in the community – that can best serve the goals and aspirations of people who are living with vision loss. Services
VisionLink provides a wide range of services:
• Home Management & Independent Living Skills: VisionLink staff and instructors educate program participants in a variety of at-home and in-the-community subject areas, including orientation and mobility, home management skills building, reading and writing braille, keyboard skills, and using specially adapted equipment as well as assistive technology. Participants learn to orient themselves to the community, navigate safely with the use of a white cane, use public transportation for increased independence, and setup and manage their home and community environments safely and effectively.
• Using Technology as a Tool: During one-on-one and group training, participants learn to use adaptive technology and software such as screen readers and magnifiers for computers, mobile phone apps, and smart speakers.
• Community-Based Enrichment and Resource Connections: VisionLink has direct partnerships with locally based cultural and community organizations, and can facilitate access to a variety of accessible social experiences and hands-on activities programmed in partnership with organizations such as the Philadelphia Ballet, Free Library of Philadelphia, and Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.
• Resources Beyond VisionLink: VisionLink provides wrap-around support by connecting people with resources and organizations that can help address a variety of issues, such as healthcare and wellness, housing, employment, family and social support. Additional resources include links to local city and government resources as well as regional and national nonprofits and associations that can address a variety of issues and concerns.
• At-Home Resources & Support: With the closures brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, VisionLink curated a robust schedule of virtual programming both within and beyond the organization, including webinars and conference calls that are free and open to the public and activities for at-home learning.
• Philadelphia Lighthouse of the Blind: Through Philadelphia Lighthouse of the Blind, an endowment fund administered by VisionLink, qualifying participants can receive assistance with the purchase of technology devices and adaptive equipment such as screen readers, iPhones and iPads, computers, and writing aids and guides. Individuals eligible for Lighthouse assistance must be active participants in VisionLink classes or programs; meet the low-vision requirements of those served by VisionLink; demonstrate financial need; and complete an application process.
