For decades, our Job Readiness & Independent Living Program has helped thousands of blind and low vision clients build the skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce. If you’ve recently experienced significant vision loss or have been away from the workforce and are ready to reenter it, the Job Readiness & Independent Living Program at The Carroll Center for the Blind is designed for you.

In this 12-week residential program, our expert team of vision professionals will provide the skills, training, technology, and support you need to live more independently and return to work with confidence. Whether you are rebuilding foundational skills or preparing to pursue new employment goals, you’ll receive personalized instruction, comprehensive assessments, and the tools to build a more independent future!

Donna T.

“The Carroll Center has an amazing ability to fit a square blind person into the round peg of life with such dignity that it felt like that’s how it should be.”

Why Choose Us

• Personalized Instruction

Receive comprehensive training based on your current skills and goals.

• Expert, Caring Instructors

Learn from certified professionals who are highly trained, compassionate, and deeply committed to your success.

• Technology You Keep

Receive a free laptop with personalized assistive technology—yours to keep after graduation.

• Ongoing Tech Support

Stay connected and confident with weekly virtual tech support during and after the program.

• Continued Learning

Return for no-cost refresher training (space permitting).

• Real-World Readiness

Build essential skills needed for successful employment and greater independence.

What You’ll Learn

You’ll work one-on-one and in group settings with our experienced team to build the essential skills needed for employment and independent living, including:

• Orientation & Mobility

Learn to navigate public transit, unfamiliar routes, and workplace settings independently.

• Technology Proficiency

Explore assistive tools like screen readers and magnifiers to complete work tasks.

• Time Management & Organization

Learn to stay organized with accessible calendars, alarms, and task-tracking tools.

• Communication Skills

Improve verbal, written, and digital communication for a professional setting.

• Self-Advocacy

Understand your rights and confidently request workplace accommodations.

• Job Search & Applications

Develop a resume, create an elevator pitch, and apply for jobs independently.

• Workplace Expectations

Learn about professional behavior, teamwork, dress code, and punctuality.

• Emotional Preparedness

Build confidence, resilience, and emotional readiness to reenter the workforce.

• Financial Literacy

Understand budgeting, benefits planning, and the financial impact of employment

Assessment and Individualized Planning

All clients participating in our 12-week residential Job Readiness & Independent Living Program begin with a 2-week comprehensive assessment on the Carroll Center for the Blind campus in Newton, MA. This allows our team to better understand your current skills and goals, and determine how we can best support your success throughout the program. Based on this assessment, our team develops an individualized instructional plan, ensuring each client gets the support they need to grow.

Get Started

Whether you’re returning to work, changing career paths, or just beginning your journey after vision loss, our Job Readiness & Independent Living Program can help you take the next step with confidence and independence.

Contact us today to learn more or to begin the application process. Feel free to email us at info@carroll.org or call (617) 969-6200.

Not sure if you’d benefit from training at the Carroll Center? Take this quick survey and we’ll walk with you from there.