Annual Reports from Previous Years
Introduction
The Washington State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind (SRCB) is an advisory group of volunteers appointed by the Washington State Governor to provide counsel and guidance to the Department of Services for the Blind (DSB). In Washington State, the DSB has primary responsibility to deliver Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services, the Business Enterprise Program (BEP), and Independent Living (IL) skills training to individuals who are Blind, Deaf-Blind or Low Vision. DSB provides services for individuals that can cross one’s entire life span.
The purpose of the SRCB is to review, evaluate, and make recommendations to DSB on its plans, policies, and activities to ensure that people in our state who are Blind, Deaf-Blind or Low Vision receive the most effective and efficient rehabilitation services possible.
In addition to providing direction to the Director of DSB on behalf of the public and customers, the SRCB also advises and reports to the Governor and makes recommendations to the State Legislature about services that impact the lives of blind people. The SRCB works closely with other state councils, agencies, and organizations to enhance the services, opportunities, and rights of Washingtonians who are Blind, Deaf-Blind or Low Vision.
The SRCB is established and authorized under the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended under the 2014 Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA). Under local Washington State law, the SRCB is authorized in statutes RCW 74.18.070 through RCW 74.18.100.
Dear Rehabilitation Services Administration Commissioner Danté Allen, and Washington State Governor Jay Inslee,
I am pleased to present the 2024 Annual Report on behalf of the Washington State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind (SRCB).
This completes my first year as Chair of the SRCB. We continue to experience a high level of dedication by Council members to our work. This year we continued holding our meetings by utilizing the Zoom platform, which allows for connection via either computer or phone; except for the September 13th meeting when we met in person at the DSB office in Seattle for the first time since December 2019. At that meeting, we held our annual training for new and existing members.
SRCB members were given the opportunity to attend the National Coalition of State Rehabilitation Councils (NCSRC) Conference held In Seattle in October. Five members were in attendance, and council member Julie Brannon gave a presentation on the importance of including disability consumer group members on the state rehabilitation councils.
This year, our membership committee, chaired by SRCB past Chair Julie Brannon, was able to fill two open positions on the council. There is one position currently open, and the committee is already working on filling it and planning ahead for the council appointments set to end in 2025.
Below is a list of continuing members, the members leaving us, and the new members joining us, along with the positions they hold.
SRCB Committees continue to be a strong working and functioning force within the SRCB. The SRCB Executive committee meets monthly; all other committees have agreed to make a commitment to meet quarterly between each SRCB meeting with the exception of the policy committee which meets when policy needs are designated.
Sincerely,
Andy Arvidson, Chair
Washington State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind
Get to Know our Council Members
Continuing Members
| Name and City | Representing |
|---|---|
| Andy Arvidson Anacortes, WA |
Business, Labor and Industry |
| William Dowling Port Orchard, WA |
State Workforce Investment Board |
| Cathy Wilson Tacoma, WA |
Business, Labor and Industry |
| Christopher Zilar Spokane, WA |
Section 121 Native Americans |
| Jennifer Bean Bellingham, WA |
Client Assistance Program |
| Julie Brannon Puyallup, WA |
Current or Former Recipient of VR Services |
| Julie Harlow Graham, WA |
Business, Industry and Labor |
| Kara Thompson Vancouver, WA |
Current or Former Qualified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (ex-officio member) |
| Kris Colcock Bainbridge Island, WA |
Disability Advocacy Group |
| Kristin Geary Seattle, WA |
Community Rehab Program (CRP) Provider |
| Larry Watkinson Olympia, WA |
Current or Former Recipient of VR Services |
| Michael MacKillop Seattle, WA |
DSB Executive Director (ex-officio member) |
| Rebekah "Bek" Moras Lacey, WA |
State Independent Living Council (SILC) |
| Sara Logston Vancouver, WA |
Individuals who are blind or have multiple disabilities |
| Shawnda Hicks Tacoma, WA |
Parent Training and Information Center |
New Members
| Name and City | Representing |
|---|---|
| William Dowling Port Orchard, WA |
State Workforce Investment Board |
| Dr. Liz Stewart Olympia, WA |
State Educational Agency |
Exiting Members
| Name and City | Representing |
|---|---|
| Jacob Kamaunu Auburn, WA |
Business, Industry and Labor (BEP) |
Staff
| Name and City | Representing |
|---|---|
| Meredith Stannard Seattle, WA |
DSB Appointed Liaison |
| Yvonne Verbraak Olympia, WA |
SRCB Staff Assistant |
A Chance to Connect, Learn from, and Work With Each Other
The SRCB met four times during 2024. One meeting was held in person with hybrid attendance options offered, and three meetings were held via the Zoom platform. For both options, connection information was advertised ahead of time to allow interested consumers to take part regardless of where they live throughout our state. In addition to special presentations and subcommittee updates, meetings consisted of a report from the DSB Executive Director about progress towards goals outlined in the state plan and a report from the SRCB Chair about Council activities.
The agenda always offers an opportunity for public comment on subjects related to Council business including the Vocational Rehabilitation and Independent Living Programs, and issues impacting the employment or independence of Washington State citizens who are Blind, Deaf-Blind or Low Vision.
Agenda items this year included:
- SRC-B Committees continue to be a strong working and functioning force within the SRCB. We had full and functioning committees this year; new and continuing SRCB members will confirm their committee choices in early 2025.
- Elections for Chair and Vice-chair were held at the December SRCB meeting: Andy Arvidson was re-elected Chair by acclamation; and Kris Colcock was re-elected Vice-chair by acclamation. Both will serve for one-year terms.
- DSB staff member reports for this year included:
- Lisa Wheeler, Assistant Director of Vocational Rehabilitation-Workforce, and Carl Peterson, Business Relations Manager
- Reported on the new Business Relations team and focus on supporting business customers
- Sara Logston, Birth through 13 Program Manager
- Explained the new DSB Explorers program at DSB serving young people and their families
- Damiana Harper, Assistant Director of Vocational Rehabilitation-Customer Services
- Introduced the DeafBlind Consortium, which was developed in response to feedback from customers, the blind consumer groups, and the SRCB
- Explained the new Milestone Planning process being rolled out at DSB to improve customer engagement
- Lisa Wheeler, Assistant Director of Vocational Rehabilitation-Workforce, and Carl Peterson, Business Relations Manager
- Council member reports were given from:
- Jen Bean, Client Assistance Program (CAP). Presented the CAP Annual Report
- In September, we held the first in-person SRCB meeting since 2019. Presented new Onboarding Packet, and provided training for new and current members. The training was developed by an ad hoc committee consisting of SRCB members.
An SRCB member was involved in meetings to provide input regarding DSB’s website redesign project.
Committee Accomplishments in 2024
The SRCB has four standing committees that do the work of the Council. Every member is expected to serve on a committee. This year, all new members were assigned to committees to allow for every member’s involvement. Committees have been asked to meet quarterly, before each SRCB meeting.
Executive Committee
The Executive Committee met monthly with the DSB Executive Director in 2024. In these meetings we covered many topics including, future RSA monitoring, business relations and work force, preparing statement to maintain current DSB Director with the new Governor transition, Business Enterprise Program, creating on-boarding packet for new council members, implementing new DSB website, Customer Assistance Program, concerns about the use of learning shades at the OTC, training session for current and on-coming council members. It has been a very productive year and full of enthusiasm from all members.
The Executive Committee is made up of the Chair, Vice-Chair, and Chairs of all the committees plus staff liaison Meredith Standard. In 2024 the members were Chair Andy Arvidson, Vice-Chair Kris Colcock, Membership Chair Julie Brannon, Policy Chair Kris Colcock, and Customer Satisfaction Chair Jen Bean.
Membership and Collaboration Committee
The Membership and Collaboration Committee recruits Council members and works to maintain a strong, active and high-functioning Council.
Bylaws Responsibilities for this committee:
- Develop and update recruitment materials
- Ensure that all required positions of the Council are filled
- Design and implement a recruitment plan for Council positions
- Track Council member attendance
- Assure Council practices advance an accessible Council culture
- Assist members to identify support needed to fully participate in Council activities
- Respond to sensitive member concerns and emerging issues
- Coordinate new member orientation
- Identify how members can develop and refine leadership skills and prepare for Council member opportunities
The six-member committee has been busy this past year. The two open positions for 2024 were filled which are noted below:
Bill Dowling
Representing: State Workforce Investment Board
Council start: 9/9/2024 Current term expires: 9/13/2026
Liz Stewart
Representing: State Educational Agency
Council start: 2/29/2024 Current term expires: 9/13/2026
There is one position currently open for Labor, Business, and Industry which has historically been filled by a BEP operator. The committee is in the process of recruiting someone to fill the position.
We held our first in-person meeting since 2019 on 9/13/2024 at the WA State Department of Services for the Blind office in Seattle. The membership committee was thrilled to have a chance for current and new members to meet in person.
The committee assisted with the development of our annual training event which was held at the in-person meeting. This training speaks to the membership committee’s responsibility of making sure members understand their roles on the SRCB.
Some training topics included:
- Purpose of annual SRCB training
- How DSB went from a Commission to an Agency; SRC History and the Law
- The Role of the Blind Consumer Organizations
- Overview of Function, Rights, and Responsibilities of the SRCB, including interaction with DSB, member positions and selection, and SRCB committees
- Overview of Current SRCB By-laws
- Input from each member category as to who they are and what they represent with time for questions
The committee worked hard to develop a new member on-boarding packet and had discussion and sent emails from the entire SRCB as to what should be included in the packet. Since this was the SRCB’s first attempt at this project, we realized the benefit of this onboarding packet for all members. This packet was organized and made available in electronic and printed formats by the SRCB staff assistant.
Documents Included in the packet were:
- Welcome
- SRCB recurring schedule
- SRCB Bylaws
- SRCB Functions
- SRCB Current Membership
- What is VR within DSB?
- CAP Brochure
- DSB Common Acronyms
With a full Council and everyone trained, the Membership and Collaboration Committee is looking forward to another great year ahead!
Policy and Planning Committee
This committee provides input to DSB’s internal policies and practices by identifying opportunities to engage in DSB internal workgroups; giving input on policy changes affecting DSB participants; and supporting DSB’s State Plan forums.
This past year committee members participated in various aspects. Along with DSB staff and other members of the community, committee members were part of the DSB website redesign efforts. The committee chair attended several design meetings, offered feedback and gave input in regard to website content and design. Additionally, the chair of the committee attended the DSB All Staff meeting where the majority of the work revolved around creating a new mission statement, vision statement and objective of the agency as it serves the blind and low vision community. The ultimate goal was to give a clear and concise message regarding what blind and low vision individuals can expect from the agency no matter their age, employment goals or how long they have been experiencing blindness or low vision.
As a committee we met a couple of times with the goal of evaluating the Self-Employment policy of DSB. Our goal is to bring the policy up to date and ensure those customers wishing to explore self-employment options are given the best tools possible to do so. It is important to consider the business feasibility in the current economic environment along with the feasibility of DSB supporting such an endeavor. With a durable policy in place, customers can explore the feasibility of their business concept. While the beginning work was started, there is much left to accomplish in 2025.
Customer Satisfaction Committee
The Customer Satisfaction Committee evaluates customer satisfaction and other DSB performance measures, makes suggestions for program improvement, coordinates opportunities for public feedback, and provides input to the SRCB Annual Report.
This committee oversees the anonymous satisfaction survey for VR customers who exited services in the federal fiscal year. Surveys were completed online. Participants are encouraged to include written comments on their experience with DSB. This helps capture both analytical data and valuable feedback that allows DSB the opportunity to enhance their programs and customer service.
Last year our committee worked on updating and expanding the Customer Satisfaction survey. The new survey is administered by Washington State University (WSU), and we will get an analysis of responses to survey questions and comment questions annually. Previously, the survey was sent only to customers whose case had been closed. This resulted in a limited sample and low return rate. The new survey is sent to customers in various phases of the VR process, has updated questions, and provides a broader range of satisfaction scoring options.
We have not yet completed the full year cycle; however, we are pleased with the quantity of responses so far. Below is a summary from the most recent quarter, which had over 400 responses and numerous comments. DSB’s goal is 80% satisfaction, where customers response is either agree or strongly agree.
- Overall satisfaction = 77.4%
- DSB understands my disability = 75.1%
- DSB understands what is important to me = 73.5%
- DSB understands my disability barriers to employment = 73.6%
- Services are going quickly enough = 57.5% (a dramatic downward trend to disagree compared to first four questions)
- Assistive Technology services = 68.5%
- Orientation and Mobility services = 60.9%
- Work readiness = 63.2%
- DSB provides info & training to achieve employment goal = 63.2%
A quick review of the comments, not a full analysis by WSU, most people found the services impacted their life positively through interaction with their Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC), information, tools, and ability for greater self-reliance.
Those who had no or negative impact cited DSB staff communications, listening, responsiveness, pace, and lack of skills to address blindness and other disabilities, particularly intellectual and hearing disabilities. Many responses noted new untrained staff and change in staff as disruptive to their progress. Of the 60 or so who cited reasons for exiting before employment, a number cited health, other priorities and a few acknowledged their own lack of effort toward progress. There were frustrations in communications with VRCs, including a lack of clarity on how DSB can assist or more DSB guidance needed, and frustrations in relationship and understanding.
Services were also cited: wasting time, no progress, pace of services, and lack of services that met the individual’s need or multiple disabilities. A couple described being “kicked out” for getting a job (not a career) with the Lighthouse for the Blind. One cited the transition from Pre-Employment Transition Services to Vocational Rehabilitation services didn’t demonstrate value.
One area the Council hears consistent feedback on is the need to improve services for Deaf-Blind customers. Our committee decided to make that our focus for the year. Committee members Kara Thompson and Jen Bean participated in the DSB’s DeafBlind consortium, a first step to addressing this need. Additionally, we have begun work on Deaf-Blind customer listening sessions scheduled for 2025 and will be partnering with the Executive committee on the project moving forward.
The SRCB has not completed customer listening sessions before, so we are being thoughtful and strategic as we develop the process in hopes it may be used again in the future. We need to consider communication and accommodation needs, confidentiality, and areas to focus on. We are excited for the opportunity to learn more from individuals with lived experience and expect the results will include strategies and recommendations for DSB to improve service delivery, customer satisfaction and program outcomes for individuals who are Deaf-Blind.
A Nationwide Emphasis on Pre-Employment Transition
DSB serves young people ages 21 and under who are Blind, Deaf-Blind, or have Low Vision.
- Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) help teens and young adults who are ages 14 to 21 and in high school, college, or another recognized education program and eligible for special education programs.
- The DSB Explorers Program provides services and supports to children ages 13 and under and their families.
DSB supports young people ages 21 and under with vision loss by preparing them for successful futures by providing workshops, programs, and activities provide geared towards teaching age-appropriate skills of blindness, self-advocacy, orientation and mobility, and educational and career exploration.
Some specific programs and workshops offered in 2024 included:
- The 3T Academy, Transform, Transition, Thrive, (formerly known as BRIDGE) wrapped up its final summer at Eastern Washington University in July. 3T Academy has gone through an exciting change and is now a year-round program. It now supports students learning and exploration, covering not just 4-year university preparation and experiences but also 2-year college pathways, trade school programs, and credentialed programs. These changes reflect the program's commitment to the diversity in choice that our students have when exploring post-secondary education and training options. The 3T Academy meets virtually each month throughout the year, and offers quarterly field trips to rotating locations around the state to explore the different options that students can choose from when transitioning away from high school and seeking further education in the state of Washington.
- Youth Employment Solutions 2 (YES 2) is a multi-week summer program held in Seattle, WA. It is focused on career exploration by providing experience, opportunity, career preparation, and paid internships for Washington’s young people who are Blind, Deaf-Blind or Low Vision. In addition to the internships, customers spend their off-work hours experiencing residential living in the YES residence in Seattle. Students have many opportunities to practice self-advocacy through financial and life management skills learned during the program. A highlight of the program this year was the addition of a community partner who specialized in improvisation training. Students engaged in comedy improv to hone their skills for real-world scenarios, such as interviewing for jobs, on the job etiquette, and other social scenarios that can prepare them for success in their chosen pathway. It was a big hit, and everyone had lots of fun seeing the creative ways students engaged in this type of training.
- The Pre-ETS program kicked off a new annual weekend workshop in 2024 called Stronger Together. This opportunity is designed to focus on a new topic each year and to bring DSB staff, students, families, educators, community partners and providers all under one roof to share information with each other. The goal is to improve our collective understanding of one another, and to provide training and information for those in attendance to address all of our roles in students with disabilities and their transition from high school. This first year was a huge success, and planning is underway for Stronger Together 25.
In 2024, DSB provided a variety of services to 291 youth and students with a disability.
More information about Youth and Family services on agency website
Getting People to Work and Helping Them Keep Their Jobs
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is for people interested in finding or maintaining employment. The comprehensive program considers the needs of each individual and provides quality services to customers rather than just placing people in jobs. The VR customer takes an active role in determining scope and goal among a wide-ranging set of services. Customers often need training in adaptive skills of blindness, computer technology for on-the-job success, career exploration and matching interests and aptitude to job types, or internships and other work experiences.
At the end of 2024, 100 customers achieved successful employment outcomes with an average hourly wage of $37.87. Forty-eight of these customers received job retention assistance in order to keep a job that was at risk due to their visual disability. Three customers who got or kept a job are Honorably Discharged Veterans. Fifty-seven customers now have all of their medical health insurance paid by their employers, as a result of employment through DSB services. Twenty-one customers are no longer relying on Public Assistance as their primary source of income. The eldest participant was 89 and needed assistance retaining their position as a teacher. In 2024, DSB assisted 94 VR customers with their higher education tuition.
A few examples of employers include ACE Hardware, Air Force Sustainment Center, Amazon, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, City of Seattle Parks and Recreation, Community Health of Central Washington, Costco Wholesale, F5 Inc, Facebook - Meta, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Fred Meyer, Gage Academy of Art, Home Depot, Lifeline Connections, Microsoft, Portland Community College, Professional Realty Services International, Seattle Children's Hospital, Spokane School Dist. 81, University Of Washington (UW), Virginia Mason Memorial Hospital, WA State Department of Ecology, WA State Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), WA State Dept of Labor & Industries (L& I), WA State Dept Of Services for the Blind (DSB), Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB), and Whitman College.
More information about VR services on agency website
OTC Graduates are Confident, Independent, And Successful
The Orientation and Training Center (OTC) at the DSB is primarily a residential and commuting program for vocational rehabilitation customers who need intensive daily instruction in adaptive skills of blindness, employment-related experiences, and adjustment to blindness services. While all skills trained at the OTC are also available through each field office, the OTC allows for intensive, daily training and practice of the necessary adaptive skills of blindness. Students participate in a variety of classes while at the OTC including home management, computers and technology, orientation and mobility, Braille, home maintenance, careers and education exploration, and discussion on blindness seminars. OTC students also participate in other activities and learning experiences such as tandem bike riding, kayaking, and rock climbing; these activities help students build confidence in their blindness skills. The skills students learn at the OTC enable them to be independent and successful in their homes, schools, jobs, and in their communities.
OTC Graduate's Story
Annette is a fearless individual who has overcome numerous challenges throughout her life. In the 1970s, she found herself as a newly divorced mother of two young boys, facing uncertainty and discrimination as she pursued her college education to create a better future for her family. Annette's passion for learning led her to pursue a career as a dietitian, which involved taking numerous challenging chemistry courses. A professor at the college noticed this and encouraged her to pursue a different degree. While in college, Annette took the initiative to secure an internship by reaching out to a company specializing in plating solutions. Impressed by her drive and skills, she was offered a full-time position as a process engineer upon graduation. Annette's dedication and hard work allowed her to climb the ranks within the company, eventually landing a managerial role in the engineering department. Throughout her career, Annette has worked at a total of four different companies, showcasing her adaptability and resilience.
Eventually, Annette went back to college to earn another degree and started her own church. For eight years, Annette dedicated her time and energy to her ministry, bringing hope and comfort to her congregation. However, as her vision loss progressed, Annette found it challenging to manage the church's day-to-day operations, and it became a growing concern. Despite her love and passion for her calling, Annette made the difficult decision to close her church.
In May 2022, Annette participated in an Intensive Week at OTC, finding solace and optimism in the realization that life after vision loss can offer more than just stagnation. This transformative experience inspired her to enroll as a residential student at OTC in the following term. Annette felt restricted in her career options due to limitations in her computer skills, transportation, and social interaction as a person with vision loss. The OTC program offered solutions and guidance on how to overcome these obstacles and continue pursuing fulfilling careers. Seminars were held to discuss these changes, including fear of the unknown. The program also provided practical advice on personal hygiene, professional dress, and simplifying wardrobes to navigate safely.
OTC holds a special place in Annette's heart, as she believes that its value lies in the effort one invests in it. At times when she struggled with pain and challenges, she relied on the support and encouragement of others to persevere. OTC provided her with not just accommodation and structure, but also valuable information and a sense of community, fostering growth and empowerment.
By the time Annette graduated the OTC, she felt inspired, empowered, and encouraged to continue forward. The program not only provided her with a foundation to pursue her career but also allowed her to start her own business - People to People. The business's name reflects its mission to support and uplift others, with services that include education, web design, and accounting. Annette has already established a business license and website; and is presently working on QuickBooks and YouTube to provide additional value to her clients. Overall, the OTC program empowered Annette to pursue her passions and continue contributing to society.
More information about the OTC on agency website
Legally Blind Individuals Learn to Be Independent Entrepreneurs
The Business Enterprise Program (BEP) provides training and opportunities for qualified Blind, Deaf-Blind, and Low Vision individuals to become independent entrepreneurs, operating successful food service businesses, including delis, cafeterias, micro markets, and espresso stands, in government buildings. With a combination of online training and hands-on experience, customers complete training in all facets of food service facility operation to become BEP Licensees. They can apply to be operators of program locations, and the program will provide the essential food service equipment and provide ongoing guidance to the operator. The Licensee of each location is solely responsible for the success of the business.
In 2024 the BEP continued to experience the lingering effects of the pandemic. A large percentage of the predominant customer base for the enterprises located in federal, state, and county government buildings continue to work from home, and it is evident that many office buildings will not return to pre-pandemic levels of occupancy. The program has successfully launched micro markets in a couple of locations, and is exploring some of the many vending options outside of snack food and drinks.
Two remodeled BEP locations re-opened at the end of 2023 and were able to offer updated and fresh dining options to the State Legislature when it returned to session in 2024. It was gratifying to actively demonstrate what had been accomplished thanks to funding allocated by the State Legislature in 2022. Work was ongoing throughout 2024 with much needed equipment updates in a number of locations, refreshed menu offerings, and creating a sense of collaboration among the BEP licensees.
The BEP team at DSB is committed to finding solutions that will support the current licensees and continue to grow the program for the future.
BEP statistics for 2024:
- Median BEP vendor income for 2024 was $74,012
- 10 facilities combined had total gross sales of $3,345,713
- Sales tax collected from all facilities was $240,004
- Payroll tax from all facilities was $143,211
More information about BEP on agency website
Living Independently with Vision Loss
The IL Program serves customers 18 years old to over 100 years old. In 2024, IL served nine centenarians! Most of the customers are 55 or older and the average customer is in their mid-80s. Most customers live in their home or apartment rather than in a nursing or assisted living setting, and request services in order to continue doing so.
The most popular Assistive Technology devices provided throughout the year were handheld magnifiers, address books, and writing guides. Over the past year the IL Program has been able to increase the number of higher tech devices available, such as phones, tablets, and digital magazines.
As 2024 came to a close, the program’s IL service providers statewide served 784 clients. Overall, IL service delivery to underserved minority populations has increased and more outreach work is needed but the program is moving in the right direction. The partnership with Washington Talking Book and Braille Library to deliver loaned technology devices more seamlessly to customers who need them continues to be a resounding success! The recent pandemic highlighted the importance of being able to live independently at home rather than transfer to a residential assisted living situation, and emphasized the critical value of the Independent Living services to the health and safety of Washington State elders.
George's Success Story
George is a tenacious and community-oriented man in his 60s. In the winter of 2023, George and his partner moved to a new home. Before the move, George’s age-related macular degeneration had been worsening, but he was able to get around the environment he was familiar with. The move disrupted his mental map and routines, and George knew he needed extra help. Having previously accessed Independent Living (IL) Blind Services in 2016, George called his former provider to resume their lessons.
During their first appointment together, George expressed that he would like to be able to keep track of his appointments, write checks, and better connect with friends. He’d also like to be able to monitor his health; with diabetes, George needed to keep a close watch over his blood sugar levels. While George’s partner typically handled his appointments, health, and finances due to his vision loss, George wanted the skills to take care of these things himself. With this, George’s IL provider gave him a large print calendar to keep track of important dates, a writing guide to ensure he could fill out checks properly, and a talking glucometer that reads blood sugar readings aloud. The IL provider left these devices with George to practice using with a note that they’d follow up on his progress during their next appointment.
When the IL provider next called George, he was experiencing difficulties. George had separated from his partner who did not support his growing independence. While George was supported by his church community, he had to drastically cut down costs to remain in his home. As George navigated his separation, he told his IL provider he’d like to take a break from services until he was more settled.
Nine months later, George reached out to his IL provider again. With support from the church and his family, George could get internet service again and was ready for the assistive technology training they had put on hold. George’s IL provider got him an iPad from the IL Special Device Lending Program. After setting up the device with accessibility features and George’s contact list, the IL provider taught him how to use Siri to answer questions, message friends, and read web pages aloud. George was amazed at how user-friendly the iPad could be, with easy magnification options to accommodate his fluctuating vision.
When George’s IL provider called to follow up on his progress with the iPad, he was enthusiastic. He was able to use the device to read, do his banking, send messages to friends and family, and ask Siri all sorts of questions that came up if he had any trouble. George said the iPad and training had been “life-changing!” Having regained a sense of financial, medical, and social independence, George and his IL provider agreed that they should bring his case to a close with the reminder that the IL program would always be here if he needed further support.
Tamera's Success Story
Tamera is a determined 76-year-old woman living with her beloved dog in King County. In the summer of 2022, Tamera lost all her vision after experiencing giant cell arteritis. After spending time recovering in the hospital, Tamera returned home and realized she needed help adjusting to this major life change. Though she had friends, family, neighbors, and caregivers to support her, Tamera wanted to learn the skills to maintain her independence. With that, she reached out to Independent Living Blind Services (IL) to get the assistance she needed.
Once she connected with the IL provider in her area, Tamera told them that her main goal was to learn how to navigate around her home. When they first began working on orientation with vision loss, Tamera frequently bumped into objects and doorways and had difficulty accurately placing herself within her house. Her IL provider taught her a few techniques, such as using landmarks to map her home and using trailing techniques to identify these landmarks by feel. They also worked on safely walking up and down the stairs and making sure Tamera was comfortable walking necessary routes when she was home alone, like from her bedroom to the bathroom or kitchen. After a few sessions—and Tamera asking her family and friends to let her figure out her location on her own, Tamera’s orienting skills significantly improved. In the summer of 2022, Tamera’s confidence in moving around her home was restored; Tamera and her IL provider decided to bring her case to a close.
Over time, Tamera’s balance and sense of space continued to improve significantly. In the summer of 2023, Tamera knew she was ready to tackle the outdoors, so she contacted her former IL provider to get more help. This time, her goal was to be able to take her dog for walks around her neighborhood. Tamera and her IL provider started close to home, first getting used to making her way to her mailbox. This allowed Tamera’s IL provider the opportunity to introduce some orientation techniques before straying too far from her home. The IL provider instructed Tamera on counting her steps, using touch-based landmarks, and using the sounds of the street to align herself with the sidewalk.
Once Tamera was comfortable going out and collecting her mail independently, she and her IL provider started widening their route so that she could take short walks around her neighborhood. In between sessions, Tamera practiced this route alongside a neighbor. Over time, Tamera’s IL provider said that her route to the mailbox was flawless, and Tamera began taking her dog on short, independent walks while remaining oriented. Tamera and her IL provider brought this case to a close, with the reminder that she could always call to get more instruction if she had other goals to meet in the future. At the end of their time together, her IL provider praised Tamera, saying “she has never taken her eye off the prize of being independent, even if it has taken longer or been harder.”
More information about Independent Living Services on agency website
A Letter of Reflection from the Director of the Washington State Department of Services for the Blind
Dear RSA Commissioner Danté Allen and Governor Jay Inslee:
The past year has been invigorating and productive for the Washington State Department of Services for the Blind. We have been redefining, overhauling and rebuilding our agency culture, processes, and communications to improve the customer experience and outcomes.
The post-pandemic environment provided the agency with many challenges, including managing high-volume recruitment and retention needs; urgency for increased customer engagement; changed patterns for outreach; re-balance of hybrid work patterns and systems; and shifting agency identity and composition. We identified emerging needs and negotiated means for addressing those needs.
We received significant external guidance and leadership throughout the year, for which we are grateful.
Commissioner Allen, your tenure in the role has provided VR agencies – and DSB – with documented and critical flexibilities aiding our ability to provide necessary services more effectively. You have brought a greater alignment among the field and RSA through your active listening and clear vision.
Governor Inslee, the refresh and deepening in Executive Order 24-05 of your original call for increased employment of individuals with disabilities among the state enterprise is a gift to the state. It is significant that one of the first and one of the last actions in your term as governor has been an active call for equity for people with disabilities. You have been a constant champion.
SRCB Chair Andy Arvidson and SRCB members, your collective input, experience, support and guidance has been powerful this past year. The passion you hold for the work of the agency is evident, by offering key strategic goals and observations, gathering and analyzing customer input, and securing resources that helped shape the agency’s improved processes and successes.
One of the shared strategic goals put forth by the SRCB and included in the agency’s state plan is to improve the customer experience for individuals who are deaf and blind. SRCB members have been active with DSB staff in building a cross-agency coalition of service providers to Deaf-Blind individuals with the goal of developing best practice guidelines and streamlined shared services. The SRCB has initiated plans for listening sessions throughout 2025 to better understand the individual experiences of Deaf-Blind customers in order to identify gaps and areas of improvement. DSB has negotiated training through the Helen Keller National Center for intensive training for all DSB direct-service staff, with less-intensive training available for all indirect-service staff to develop an agency-wide shared awareness and place of belonging for Deaf-Blind individuals at DSB.
A second shared strategic goal identified by the SRCB and embedded in the agency’s state plan was a need to radically alter processes to increase customer engagement in the VR process, and have more customers continue through services to achieve their career goal. The agency has radically redesigned processes this past year, and while it is still early in the changes to note definitive success, early data suggests we are on a good path. The agency altered intake, eligibility and planning processes with the goal of shrinking any unnecessary time gap from customer’s first call to receiving the first set of services. We reorganized and strengthened the agency structure, adding programs for internal training, data and quality assurance, and business relations to support the business customer.
The revisioning efforts that have started in 2024 will continue into 2025. The major goals include building systems and processes that:
- Lessen the bureaucracy that our customers and staff encounter
- Build relationships with businesses and external partners
- Improve our employee morale and environment
- Develop leadership and staff initiative, adaptability, accountability and customer service skills
- Prepare more skilled VR participants
The agency’s BEP program has made good strides in moving out from the challenges and constriction due to the pandemic. The agency is moving forward in our last year of state-funded overhaul and refresh of the BEP facilities, adding new critical equipment to replace many end-of-life items; overhauling key capitol campus facilities such as the OB2 Chin Don Café, the Leg Dome, the Natural Resources Building, and the Pritchard Building; and developing and implementing new streamlined and customer-focused models such as micro-markets and grab-and-go features. The planning in place for 2025 includes expansion of vending and micro-market services including east of the mountains; recruitment and training of the new generation of BEP; and maximizing and expanding BEP revenue streams.
The Independent Living program has been increasing provision of services, and provider capacity, over the past year. IL has added new providers over the year and implemented fee schedule increases to increase recruitment and retention of those resources. There continues to be a critical shortage of provider capacity in King County, and the wait times have extended beyond six months for those needing services there. The program has added part-time providers to address the need, but the King County backlog will take time to reduce, and attention is being given to locating and developing provider capacity for those customers. The IL Program has continued its partnership with the Washington Talking Book and Braille Library and with the Washington Assistive Technology Act Program to deliver necessary technology devices to individuals around the state. The equipment includes smart home speakers, digital handheld magnifiers, phones, tablets, text to speech readers, and CCTVs to magnify printed materials. Through this partnership over 100 CCTVs have been issued at a reduced cost to the agency.
The Independent Living Program also has acted as an entry to more robust Vocational Rehabilitation services needed for achieving a career path. Over ten IL customers have recently started services in IL and later moved to the VR program with plan goals such as Special Education Teachers, Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Counselors, Information Security Analysts, and Customer Service Representatives.
The agency provides services to youth below age 14 and their families through the state-funded Explorers Program. This was the first year for outreach and building services. The Explorers Program collaborated with the NFB BELL Braille education program this past summer, and have focused on connecting peer parents to discuss how to foster healthy self-advocacy and identity for their blind children, and to provide age-appropriate career readiness by folding the child more naturally into family chores and preparing meals, learning about accommodations that can work for their child.
The past year has been one of improving and building. As an agency we recognized the change through developing a new set of shared mission, vision and values.
Our new stated mission is: Working together with individuals who are Blind, Deaf-Blind or Low Vision so they can flourish in their homes, communities, and workplaces.
Our forward-looking vision is: An accessible and prosperous future without limits.
Our core values are:
- Empathy – We seek to understand and meet you where you are.
- We know that changes in one’s vision can be an emotional journey, it can take courage to make the call to build the new skills necessary to get or regain career and life activities, and everyone’s journey is unique
- Integrity - We provide authentic, transparent, and responsive services.
- We are expected to be knowledgeable, genuine, clear and responsive, and to provide meaningful services
- Collaboration - We build dynamic teams and meaningful partnerships.
- It is through partnership that we together achieve the result the customer wants and need, and It is through community partners that we keep our connection to critical resources and information that benefit customers
I am so appreciative to be connected to this agency, the public vocational rehabilitation system, and the blindness community here in Washington State. I am proud of the work and care the DSB staff give, and so appreciate the customers who find the courage to make the call to the agency, ready to learn adaptive methods that bring greater access to the community and the workplace. There is often a steep learning curve for those individuals who have had a change in their vision, and there are some heavy emotional aspects in adjusting to the loss.
I am grateful that comprehensive and individualized services is the heart of the Rehab Act and feel confident that our agency holds that to heart.
Thank you, Commissioner Allen, Governor Inslee, and SRCB Chair Arvidson for your full support and guidance this past year.
In gratitude,
Michael MacKillop
Executive Director, DSB
Previous State Rehabilitation Councils for the Blind Annual Reports
All Reports are PDFs.