Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired outlines services, warns of federal funding dependence

The Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired told the Senate Health & Welfare Committee about vocational rehabilitation, independent living services, summer programs for students, the Assessment and Training Center in Boise, and the Randolph‑Sheppard Business Enterprise program.

Beth Cunningham, administrator of the Commission, said the commission has served Idahoans who are blind or visually impaired since 1967 and that its mission is “to empower people with disabilities who are blind or visually impaired by providing vocational rehabilitation, skills training, and educational opportunities to achieve self fulfillment through quality employment and independent living.” Cunningham and Steve Ochabal, the commission’s independent living program coordinator, described services statewide, including offices in Boise, Coeur d’Alene,…