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State program outlines training, housing and assistive services for people with vision loss
Summary
Adam Rushforth, coordinator of training and adjustment services for Utah's Division of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired, described classes, assistive devices, field services, on‑site housing and enrollment contacts during an interview on the Utah State Library program.
Adam Rushforth, coordinator of training and adjustment services for the Division of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired, outlined the agency's range of training classes, assistive devices and support options during an interview on the Utah State Library's "Utah Libraries Have You Covered" program. He directed prospective participants to schedule a tour and intake by calling the program secretary, Jody Wright, at (801) 323‑4348.
Rushforth said the program operates on‑site training in wood shop, cane travel, fiber arts, home management, computer skills and braille. He described a full‑time, residential option for students: an intensive six‑to‑nine month program that runs Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with apartments adjacent to the training center reserved for those enrolled full time. "Come on in, and let's see how we can help," Rushforth said.
The program works alongside the library's braille and audiobook services. Host and guest described free playback machines and mailed audiobooks provided through the Library of Congress program; the host said the machines and books are sent and returned at no cost to patrons. Rushforth also described a low‑vision demo room that offers devices sold at cost, and a donor loaner pool of used equipment donated by former clients' families.
Assistive technology Rushforth discussed includes closed‑circuit televisions (CCTVs) and handheld electronic magnifiers that adjust zoom and contrast. For people who are deaf and blind, staff coordinate specialized supports, including an SSP (service support program) offering up to 10 hours of assistance and the "I Can Connect" program for telecommunications and devices such as braille displays linked to phones.
On employment, Rushforth described the state Business Enterprise Program, which helps people who are blind or legally blind run vending routes, micro markets and cafeterias—often in government buildings—as a path to work. He said vocational rehabilitation counselors help with job‑search and placement when needed and that the Division is part of the Utah State Office of Rehabilitation.
Rushforth acknowledged transportation is a frequent barrier: the program does not provide routine transportation to classes. He said public transit (bus, TRAX), FrontRunner commuter rail, paratransit and local services such as Lehi Trans are common options, and field services staff can meet clients at home when needed. For field visits, Rushforth named the coordinator, Marnie West, and provided her phone: (801) 323‑4356.
Describing outcomes, Rushforth recounted a former student who had retreated from daily life after losing sight and later told him, "You gave me my life back," after returning to family visits and using public transportation. He emphasized both the employment and daily‑living benefits of the trainings.
To begin the intake process, Rushforth asked listeners to call Jody Wright at (801) 323‑4348; he also offered his direct office number, (801) 323‑4347. The program summary on the Utah State Library broadcast encouraged interested people to contact the program for tours, eligibility screening and details about the remote or in‑person services available.
