If you’ve recently experienced significant vision loss or have been away from the workforce and are ready to reenter it, the Job Readiness Program at The Carroll Center for the Blind is designed for you.

This 12-week residential program (with a 2-week assessment period) equips individuals who are blind or visually impaired with the essential skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce. 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.

Anyone participating in a 12-week Job Readiness program must first complete a 2-week comprehensive assessment. This allows our team to better understand your current skills and goals, and determine how we can best support your success throughout the program.

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.”

Who This Program is For

• Individuals with vision loss seeking to remain in or return to the workforce.
• People exploring career options following a change in vision.
• Adults needing foundational life and work-readiness skills to pursue employment.

Program Benefits

Clients who complete the Job Readiness Program will receive:

• A free laptop with personalized assistive technology—yours to keep after graduation
• Weekly virtual tech support during and after the program
• An invitation to return each fall for no-cost refresher training (space permitting)

Program Logistics

• Length: 12 weeks (plus a 2-week assessment)
• Location: Residential program on the Carroll Center for the Blind campus in Newton, MA
• Funding Category: Vocational Rehabilitation or Private Pay

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, 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 begin with a 2-week assessment to identify their strengths and areas needing improvement in essential daily living and vocational skills. This includes:

• Safe travel and orientation skills
• Health and medication management
• Safe meal preparation
• Household management and labeling
• Use of low vision devices and adaptive technology
• Social and emotional adjustment
• Career history, goals, and readiness

Based on this assessment, our team develops an individualized instructional plan, ensuring each client gets the support they need to grow.

Reports & Outcomes

At the conclusion of the program, clients receive a comprehensive final report, which includes:

• Progress in daily living and vocational skill areas
• Summary of career goals and recommendations for next steps
• Career inventory results and skill development summaries

Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Job Readiness Program may be invited to continue with additional vocational training based on their needs and goals:

• Advanced Workplace Success (in-person or virtual): Intensive job search support, including resume and cover letter development, interview practice, and networking strategies.
• Job Market Prep: Gain real-world experience through supported internships with job coaching.
• Workplace Computing: A 4–6 week program for those who need advanced technology training or additional support using workplace tools.

Get Started

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

Contact us today to learn more or to begin the application process.