Idaho Commission for the Blind outlines programs, warns majority of funding is federal

Representatives of the Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ICBVI) briefed the Senate Health and Welfare Committee on the agency’s programs and funding, saying the commission serves people across Idaho with rehabilitation, independent‑living training and transition services and that the agency relies primarily on federal grants.

"Our 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," said Beth Cunningham, ICBVI administrator. Cunningham and Steve Ochabal, the commission’s independent living program coordinator, gave an overview of services, staffing and funding.

Cunningham said the commission provides vocational rehabilitation services designed to help individuals who are blind or…