Adult and Transition Services Program (ATS)

The ATS Program, Adult and Transition Services, targets the rehabilitation needs of employment-bound adults and the transition needs of youth who are blind or visually impaired.

The statement of the ATS Program is to assist adults and transitioning youth who are blind or visually impaired to achieve satisfying, self-reliant lives which enable them to fully integrate into their communities.

We accomplish this by providing a high-quality continuum of services including: comprehensive assessments, instruction in adaptive daily living skills, use of low vision aids, orientation and mobility, assistive technology, Braille, adjustment counseling and mentoring, provision of information on recreational options and other resources, assistance with career exploration, job readiness, job development and placement.

Individualized services are provided in a manner that promotes dignity and self-confidence while empowering students with resources that will help them make strides toward their dreams.

What is the ATS Program?

The ATS Program, formally known as the SMART Program, began in 2004.  It is a nonresidential comprehensive and cohesive job readiness program to assist blind/visually impaired youth and adults to obtain or maintain employment. 

Who Pays for the Services?

FBC is a private nonprofit organization, which depends on grants, contracts, and fundraising.  The ATS program is funded through a contract with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), a division of the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), under the Arizona Department of Economic Security (ADES). 

How Does a Person Enroll in the Program?

To participate in services here a person must first be a VR client.  After a VR client selects the program, the VR counselor sends a referral.  When space is available the client is scheduled for a series of assessments – in assistive technology (AT), Braille, orientation and mobility (O&M), activities of daily living (ADL), career exploration (CEX), low vision, and adjustment to disability.  Reports are sent to the VR counselor.  The student typically begins receiving training right away.  A Staffing is held as soon as possible, including the client, the VR counselor, and our staff.  The results of the assessments are reviewed and recommendations are made as to how much time the participant may need in each area. 

How Long Does the Program Take?

The individual’s current skill levels, goals, and learning pace, determine how long it will take to complete the program.  Progress is monitored throughout, and monthly staffings are held with the student, staff and VR counselor.  Our mutual goal is for the participant to finish with confidence in his/her job readiness and ability to lead a productive, satisfying life.

Schedule

The program runs Monday through Thursday 8:00-3:00 and Friday 8:00-noon.  Each student has an individualized schedule, which may vary from one week to another. 

Transportation

New participants who are able to travel independently and safely are responsible for arranging their own rides from the outset.  However, if necessary, a VR counselor may arrange taxi rides for a student initially.  The goal is for the student to take charge of his/her own transportation as soon as it is determined by the O&M instructor that the individual is a safe traveler and knows the relevant routes. 

Low Vision

Clients who have any remaining vision and have not had a low-vision evaluation within the past 6 months will be scheduled for an evaluation with Dr. Lisa Chiles, an optometrist specializing in low vision.  She runs our Vision Rehabilitation Services.  She will send a report to your VR counselor specifying what, if any, low-vision aids could maximize effective use of your vision.  Your VR counselor will staff any recommendations with VR’s consulting vision specialist.  If they concur, the devices will be ordered.  When they arrive, Dr. Chile’s staff provides instruction in their use.

Cyndy Ross
Coordinator, ATS Program
(602) 337-8261
cross@seeitourway.org
Foundation for Blind Children
1235 E. Harmont Drive
Phoenix, AZ  85020
Fax: (602) 678-5809
www.seeitourway.org