DRS hosts free in-person summer training for Services for the Blind clients

OKLAHOMA CITY  — Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired will offer Transition VIBE 2021 in June and July at Oklahoma School for the Blind in Muskogee.

VIBE consists of two, one-week sessions focused on in-person career assessment and job exploration training for clients ages 16-21. 

The dates are June 21 to 25 and July 26 to 30.

There is no charge to participate.

SBVI, Transition and OSB are all programs in Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services.

VIBE curriculum includes independent living and travel skills, teambuilding exercises, mock interviews, technology use and employment readiness training.

The goals are to help participants prepare for post-secondary education, competitive employment and independent life. 

SBVI staff and Pre-Employment Transition Services, or Pre-ETS specialists, will lead and coordinate activities.

Pre-ETS specialists are employed all year through a DRS’ contract with the National Center for Disability Education and Training at The University of Oklahoma Outreach

“SBVI staff are excited to have our Transition VIBE program for youth at OSB again this summer,” SBVI Administrator Tracy Brigham said. “The curriculum will be different each week, so students may enroll and get new information in both classes.”

VIBE students will stay overnight in OSB dorm rooms with meals provided and technology and Internet service available.

SBVI and Transition will follow appropriate COVID-19 safety protocol.

To register or get more VIBE information, contact snow@okdrs.gov or dtrout@okdrs.gov, or phone 405-522-333.

DRS Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired works with clients to achieve independence and employment through career counseling, vocational education and training, medical services required to become employable and assistive technology focused on specific needs and employment goals. In 2020, SBVI served 1,490 jobseekers.

DRS Transition Program provides vocational rehabilitation services to prepare students with disabilities for employment and life after high school. Services may include career counseling, vocational evaluation, work adjustment training, on-the-job training, work study, and job development and placement. 

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