Many working-age individuals who are blind or visually impaired (BVI) face significant barriers to employment, including limited access to education, training, and workplace accommodations, as well as lack of knowledge and bias among employers. As a result, individuals with vision loss experience higher unemployment rates, lower wages, and greater poverty levels compared with their sighted peers. Recognizing the value of employment in promoting independence and breaking down barriers, The Chicago Lighthouse (CL) offers job readiness training, internships, placement services, and assistive technology to more than 1,000 people each year. RDPFS grant funding will support expansion of their IT Services Career Development Initiative, which provides training and connects individuals who are blind and visually impaired with employment opportunities in the growing IT (Information Technology) sector. This Initiative meets the growing demand for IT professionals and creates sustainable career paths for the BVI community. CL is building on its proven track record in workforce development; their Social Business Enterprises serves as a direct pipeline, making it possible for clients to gain valuable work experience and confidently enter the job market. The IT Services Career Development Initiative was launched in partnership with MIS Computer, a leading IT services provider for the hospitality industry. Some initial concerns from the company regarding the capabilities of BVI individuals were quickly dispelled following customer satisfaction surveys and feedback demonstrating that CL agents consistently delivered exceptional service. Moving forward, CL is focusing on advancing the careers of its IT helpdesk agents and expanding job opportunities in this field for greater numbers of individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
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