The focus of the July 2026 monthly report is DSB's Independent Living (IL) Program. Through a partnership with the University of Washington and a team of community-based providers, the IL Program offers training to adults who are Blind, Deaf-Blind or Low Vision, so that they can participate in everyday life. Customers can learn different ways of doing things, like doing laundry, paying bills, using a phone to stay connected with loved ones, or shopping at grocery stores. They can learn to get around their homes, neighborhoods, and communities safely and independently. When visual disability makes daily life difficult, the IL Program is here to help. 

Voice of the Customer: Current IL Program Participant Scott Kosa

Kim Canaan, IL Program Manager, talks to Scott about his experience so far with the program and what he has found most beneficial. Watch the interview with Kim and Scott.

In Their Own Words: IL Program Provider Rafael Ramirez

Rafael Ramirez, an IL Program provider since the summer of 2019, joins Kim Canaan on Zoom to discuss what being a provider is like and to share a little about his own experience with low vision. Watch the interview with Kim and Rafael.

Esme’s Story: Connecting with Her Community

Esme reached out to the Independent Living (IL) Blind Program for assistance when she wanted to not only learn about different assistive technology options, but also to connect with various blindness and low vision groups in her area. Read about Esme's experience and what has changed for her.

Coming Soon to IL: The VISION Training Program

To reach underserved geographic areas of the state and to address growing waitlists, the IL Program has become creative! In September 2026, the IL Program is launching a new virtual training program, called VISION, to help participants build the skills they need to live independently. Eight virtual group sessions, led by an IL provider, will run from September to early October, using the book “Lessons for Living” as a guide. During each session, the facilitator will talk about a different topic related to living independently with low vision or blindness. A few class sessions include a focus on making the most of the participants’ remaining senses, learning about a variety of low vision devices and tools, and exploring the emotional impacts of vision loss for adults. Participants will also get a chance to learn about the benefits of labeling and organization, adaptive cooking techniques, cleaning skills, and strategies for managing clothing care. After the program concludes at the beginning of October, each participant will be asked to assess the value and effectiveness of the program. Based on what is learned, there will be plans to offer VISION to more IL participants in the future!