Summer Programs Resource Page

The National Federation of the Blind operates three centers around the country where blind/VI students and adults can go to develop positive attitudes, gain self confidence, and learn the alternative skills that will enable them to lead full, independent lives. Each center offers in-depth, residential summer programs designed specifically for blind students. Unlike other summer programs for blind children, these programs are directed and staffed by blind adults who, in addition to teaching classes, serve as teachers, role models, and mentors for blind youth. These programs offer a unique training opportunity: learning skills from the people who know them and use them every day—competent, skilled blind adults. Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM) operates a similar, shorter summer program at their facility in Baltimore.

At these programs students enjoy fun activities such as horseback riding, water-skiing, camping, mountain climbing, and roller skating. In the meantime, they work hard on learning skills—independent travel, technology, braille, and daily living skills such as cooking, cleaning, and shopping. Programs for older students include career exploration, job shadowing, and a summer job!

BLIND, Inc.
(Blindness: Learning in New Dimensions)
100 East 22nd St.
Minneapolis, MN 55404
1-800-597-9558
www.blindinc.org

Colorado Center for the Blind
2233 W Shepperd Ave.
Littleton, CO 80120
1-800-401-4632
www.cocenter.org

Louisiana Center for the Blind
101 South Trenton St.
Ruston, LA 71270
1-800-234-4166
www.lcb-ruston.com

BISM
(Blind Industries and Services of MD)
2901 Strickland St.
Baltimore, Md 21223
1-888-322-4567
www.bism.org

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