Independent Living Skills Instruction

The department provides services for adults over the age of 18 with disabilities in the Inland Empire. Services include assistive listening devices, assistive technology equipment loan, disability related counseling, independent living skills instruction, orientation and mobility training, and vocational rehabilitation. Services are targeted to individuals with blindness, congenital deafness, physical disabilities, and visual impairments. Services are restricted to the Inland Empire include the communities of Blythe, El Centro, Palm Desert, Ontario, San Bernardino, Temecula and Victorville.

Vocational rehabilitation services assist individuals to secure and maintain employment. The goal is to help clients prepare for employment and to enhance their ability and potential to live more independently. The services provided are individualized and may include disability-related examination, counseling, pre-vocational or independent living training, job training and placement, equipment that is necessary for the job, and other types of assistance.

The agency also provides a Counselor-Teacher Program for the Blind. Services for this program include counseling; specialized information and referral; and training in communication skills, daily living skills, home management, mobility and orientation. There are no geographic restrictions.

The Assistive Technology Loan Program is available through the District Office. Eligible low to moderate income parents and persons with disabilities may apply for up to $35,000 in loans for Transportation or Assistive devices. Loans are granted by eligible lenders and administered by the AT Network.