WorkSource Puts Focus on DSB Services

A new quarterly focus on DSB has been added to the All Staff meetings at WorkSource for employees located in the Silverdale and Sequim offices. This ongoing series is designed to strengthen partnerships, increase staff awareness, and build practical skills to better support individuals who are blind, deafblind, or low vision in their employment journey.

The series was launched with an overview of DSB and Vocational Rehabilitation 101. This session provided foundational knowledge about DSB services, eligibility, and how VR counselors partner with job seekers to identify career goals, develop employment plans, and access training, tools, and job placement support. Staff also learned how DSB collaborates with WorkSource to ensure customers receive coordinated, comprehensive services.
 
DSB will continue to build on this foundation by exploring topics that are both informative and directly applicable to day-to-day interactions. Upcoming highlights will include:

  • Blind etiquette and communication strategies: Understanding respectful language, appropriate ways to offer assistance, and how to create a welcoming environment.
  • Human guide techniques: Guidance for safely and effectively assisting individuals with vision loss in navigating spaces
  • Assistive technology and devices: An overview of tools such as screen readers, magnification software, braille displays, and other adaptive equipment used in the workplace.
  • Eye conditions and functional considerations: Insight into common eye conditions and how they may impact work tasks, along with practical considerations for service delivery.
  • Employment strategies and accommodations: Exploring job matching, workplace accommodations, and how to support employers in creating inclusive work environments. 

The quarterly spotlight is virtual and is specific to these two WorkSource locations, which merge for a combined monthly All-Staff meeting. The plan going forward is to include Vision Rehab Specialists, Assistive Technology Specialists, and Vocational Rehab Counselors in the training as well. The one exception to the virtual format is the annual September in-person All-Staff meeting, which happens once a year. There are plans for DSB's involvement there to include more hands-on focus, such as sighted guide training, demos, etc.

DSB has received wonderful feedback from WorkSource so far, “These focused topics are so meaningful”. This is a great reminder of the impact that can be made together in this partnership. Here's to continuing this shared learning journey and growing the skills to support job seekers of all abilities.