Information and Referral Specialists inform callers about BVRS programs and services. Referrals to BVRS may be made by members of the medical community, family members, friends, or by the potential client himself. Information and Referral Specialists may be reached by calling BVRS at 412-368-4400 or PA Toll Free 800-706-5050. Emails may be sent to Info&ref@pghvis.org

Case managers work with clients and their families to develop service plans. They explain BVRS programs, costs, and options, and also offer information about community services and resources.

The Supportive Services team assists people who are vision impaired and hearing impaired continue to live independently in the community. Team members provide limited transportation and volunteer services that include reading mail, serving as escorts to the store or bank, and helping with small daily chores.

Every year more than 10,000 youngsters are screened in nursery schools and daycare centers for deviations in normal vision by one full-time and five part-time BVRS staff members with the help of 800 trained community volunteers. When problems are detected, parents are alerted so they may make follow up appointments with eye doctors.

BVRS staff members who are blind or vision impaired travel with their guide dogs to speak to children in Allegheny County schools about what their lives are like without sight. Students are invited to ask questions. The goal is to educate children and expose them to the talents and abilities of people with vision loss. This program is open year round to preschoolers through high school students.

BVRS professionals and community partners share their expertise about vision loss and vision rehabilitation through community lectures on topics such as macular degeneration, age-related vision loss, and vision loss and diabetes. Dates and times of any upcoming lectures can be found under Special Events.

Program specialists and public relations professionals are available to speak about vision loss and BVRS programs and services.

This professional training covers a variety of topics that are helpful to employers who are interested in hiring people with vision impairments or keeping valuable employees who are experiencing vision loss. Topics include assistive technology, accommodations, ADA Title I Employment, job site accommodations, disability etiquette, and the supported employment concept. Disability Awareness Training is available to businesses and employers.

Tours of BVRS’ Comprehensive Vision Rehabilitation Center in Homestead provide an excellent opportunity to observe classes. Call 412-368-4400 to schedule a tour.