Blindness & Vision Impairments
Blindness and visual impairments refer to a range of conditions that reduce a person’s ability to see, either partially or fully. Visual impairment includes any degree of vision loss that cannot be corrected with standard glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. Blindness typically describes profound or complete loss of vision. Causes can include congenital conditions, injuries, eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration, and systemic illnesses such as diabetes. Early diagnosis, assistive technologies, vision rehabilitation, and supportive services can help individuals maintain independence and quality of life.
Maine Resources
American Council of the Blind - Maine Chapter - A grassroots organization dedicated to promoting independence, equality, and quality of life for blind and visually impaired individuals across the state. As the oldest affiliate of the American Council of the Blind, ACB of Maine offers peer support, advocacy, educational resources, and community engagement opportunities. The organization also provides scholarships and hosts events like “Tech Talk with Steve Sawczyn” to foster connection and empowerment within the blind community. For more information, visit the linked website.
Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI) - Provides services to help individuals who are blind or visually impaired achieve independence and meaningful employment. Their programs include vocational rehabilitation, independent living training, education support for children, and specialized services for older adults. DBVI focuses on empowering individuals through personalized plans, assistive technology, and community partnerships.
Education Services for Blind and Visually Impaired Children (ESBVIC) - Provides statewide support for children from birth through age 21 who have diagnosed visual impairments. Services include assessments, direct instruction, and consultations for families and school personnel, all at no cost to families or school districts. Certified Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVIs) offer guidance on educational strategies, assistive technology, and the Expanded Core Curriculum, which addresses skills beyond academics, such as orientation and mobility, independent living, and social interaction. ESBVIC operates in collaboration with Maine’s Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired to ensure comprehensive support.
Fighting Blindness - The Maine Chapter of Fighting Blindness unites individuals affected by inherited retinal diseases to share resources, support, and the latest research developments. Through educational events, community outreach, and fundraising efforts, the chapter advances the Foundation’s mission to drive research for preventions, treatments, and cures for blinding retinal conditions.
Maine State Library - Talking Books Program - Provides free access to recorded books and specialized audio players for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or have certified reading or physical disabilities. Materials are mailed free of charge through the U.S. Postal Service, and users can also access downloads through the Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) service. Eligible individuals must complete a certified application and submit it to the Maine State Library Outreach Services to enroll.
The Iris Network - Dedicated to helping people who are blind or visually impaired achieve independence and community integration. They offer a wide range of services, including vision rehabilitation therapy, occupational therapy, job training, assistive technology support, and housing programs. Their goal is to empower individuals with the skills and resources needed to live independently and pursue meaningful employment.
Regional Resources
Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI) - Offers a comprehensive directory of local resources across Massachusetts to support individuals who are blind or visually impaired. This includes rehabilitation centers, assistive technology providers, educational institutions, and community organizations that provide services such as independent living skills training, orientation and mobility instruction, braille and large-print materials, and peer support groups. MABVI also connects individuals with state agencies and specialized programs to enhance accessibility and independence.
New England Low Vision and Blindness (NELVB) - Provides assistive technology, personalized training, and support for individuals with vision loss across New England. Their services include magnifiers, screen readers, braille devices, and in-home or workplace training to promote independence. With decades of experience, NELVB helps clients find customized solutions to live more confidently with vision impairment.
New Hampshire Department of Education - Services For The Blind And Vision Impaired - Provides specialized support to help individuals with visual impairments live independently and reach their employment goals. Services include assistive technology, mobility training, vocational rehabilitation, and life skills development. Programs are available for all ages, including pre-employment services for youth and independent living support for adults 55 and older.
Perkins School For The Blind - Based in Watertown, Massachusetts, Perkins is a global leader in education and support for children and young adults who are blind, visually impaired, deafblind, or have multiple disabilities. Founded in 1829, they offer programs in early learning, K–12 education, transition services, and assistive technology, while also promoting digital accessibility and providing resources like the Perkins Library. Their mission is to create a world where every child can learn and thrive.
National Resources
American Council of the Blind - Dedicated to increasing the independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for all blind and visually impaired people. Founded in 1961, ACB advocates for equality, inspires community, and connects individuals with education and resources to support their independence. Through its advocacy efforts, ACB has successfully influenced legislation – promoting accessibility in various aspects of daily life. The organization also offers peer support, scholarships, audio description services, and a national network of affiliates.
American Printing House (APH) - Dedicated to creating accessible learning experiences for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. APH develops and distributes educational materials, assistive technologies, and resources to support lifelong learning, employment, and independent living. Their offerings include braille and large-print textbooks, tactile graphics, digital tools, and programs like the APH ConnectCenter, which provides curated advice and resources for children, parents, adults, and job seekers. APH also houses the Museum of the American Printing House for the Blind and the Helen Keller Archive, preserving the history and legacy of education for people with vision loss.
APH Connect Center - A comprehensive online resource hub created by the American Printing House for the Blind to support individuals who are blind or visually impaired, along with their families and professionals. It offers curated tools and information through specialized platforms: FamilyConnect for parents and caregivers, CareerConnect for job seekers and employers, and VisionAware for adults adjusting to vision loss. Additional features include a nationwide Directory of Services, a Transition Hub for youth, and a toll-free Information & Referral Line (800-232-5463) for personalized support.
AppleVis - A community-driven resource empowering blind, DeafBlind, and low vision users to maximize their experience with Apple products. It offers app directories, user forums, tutorials, podcasts, and accessibility guides tailored to Apple’s platforms. After a brief closure in 2024, AppleVis reopened under the support of Be My Eyes, continuing its mission to provide free, user-generated content and advocacy for inclusive technology.
Be My Eyes - A free mobile app that connects blind and low-vision users with sighted volunteers and AI-powered tools for real-time visual assistance. Users can initiate live video calls with volunteers or utilize the integrated Be My AI™ feature to receive instant visual descriptions and object recognition in over 180 languages. The app also offers a Service Directory, linking users to customer support from various companies. Available on iOS, Android, Windows, and smart glasses, Be My Eyes supports a global community across 150+ countries.
Bookshare - The world’s largest accessible online library for individuals with print disabilities, offering over 1.3 million titles in formats like audio, braille, large print, and customizable digital text. Designed for people with visual impairments, dyslexia, or physical disabilities, Bookshare provides free access to U.S. students and offers tools like the Bookshare Reader app to support learning and independent reading. This service is only free to students, otherwise it's $50 per year. For more information, visit their website.
Braille Authority of North America - The standard-setting body for braille and tactile graphics in the United States and Canada. Its mission is to ensure literacy for tactile readers by developing and maintaining consistent braille codes and guidelines. BANA oversees the standardization of braille across various fields, including literary, mathematical (Nemeth Code), music, and technical materials. It also provides resources and publications to support educators, transcribers, and producers in creating accessible materials for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. BANA collaborates internationally through its membership in the International Council on English Braille.
Computers for the Blind - Provides affordable, refurbished computers (equipped with assistive technology) for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Each computer comes with pre-installed screen reader or magnification software, allowing users to access the internet, work, study, and stay connected. The organization also offers basic tech support and optional training to help users get started. This service promotes digital independence and is available to individuals across the United States.
National Federation of the Blind (NFB) - The largest organization of blind individuals in the United States, working to advocate for equality, opportunity, and independence. NFB offers support programs, educational resources, advocacy initiatives, and connections to community networks to empower people who are blind or visually impaired. Their mission is to help individuals live the lives they want by promoting accessibility, advancing rights, and fostering self-confidence.
National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) - Part of the Library of Congress, the NLS offers a free braille and talking book library service for individuals with temporary or permanent low vision, blindness, or physical disabilities that prevent them from reading or handling standard print materials. Through a network of cooperating libraries, NLS provides books and magazines in braille and audio formats, delivered by postage-free mail or available for instant download via the Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) service. Additional offerings include a vast music collection, foreign language materials, and specialized equipment to support independent reading.
Navigating College with Visual Impairments - Written by College Consensus, this guide offers practical advice for students who are blind or visually impaired as they transition into higher education. It outlines the spectrum of visual impairments—from low vision to total blindness—and highlights the importance of early preparation, including connecting with disability services, utilizing adaptive technologies, and seeking academic or career counseling. The article also addresses social challenges, emphasizing the need for inclusive campus environments that support both academic success and community engagement.
Text2Speech - A free online text-to-speech converter. Just enter your text, select one of the voices and download or listen to the resulting mp3 file. This service is free and you are allowed to use the speech files for any purpose, including commercial uses.
The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) - Established in 1921, this national nonprofit organization is dedicated to creating a world of no limits for people who are blind or visually impaired. Through advocacy, research, and strategic partnerships, the AFB works to expand opportunities and break down barriers in education, employment, aging, and digital inclusion. Notably, AFB developed the first Talking Books and was home to Helen Keller for over 40 years. Today, it continues to lead systemic change through initiatives like the AFB Scholars Program and the Helen Keller Archive.
Vision Loss Resources - A resource hub for people with vision loss. Their website includes topics like information on various types of eye conditions, independent living, adaptive and assistive technology, sports & recreation, mental health, community connections and more. Vision Loss Resources’ goal is to help individuals adapt with confidence and live full, engaged lives.
WonderBaby - A parent-driven resource dedicated to supporting families of young children who are blind, visually impaired, or have multiple disabilities. Founded in 2006 by Amber Bobnar after her son Ivan was diagnosed with Leber’s Congenital Amaurosis, the site offers a rich collection of articles, practical tips, and personal stories written by and for parents navigating similar experiences. Backed by Perkins School for the Blind, WonderBaby.org fosters community connection and provides real-life guidance on topics ranging from early development and play to assistive technology and education.