Empowering Through Support with Vocational Rehabilitation Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Workforce Solutions East Texas • January 12, 2024

Amidst the challenges of returning to the workforce, specific populations require focused assistance. Throughout January, as we observe National Glaucoma Awareness Month and celebrate World Braille Day, we spotlight our Blind and Visual Impairment (BVI) Team.


Operating within East Texas Vocational Rehabilitation Offices, our BVI Team comprises of dedicated professionals, including Orientation and Mobility Specialists, Vocational Rehabilitation Teachers, and Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors. These experts cater to the needs of the blind and visually impaired, offering guidance on independent living, assistive technology, and orientation in unfamiliar environments.


Teachers play a pivotal role in facilitating independent living by introducing individuals to assistive software and technology designed for blind and low vision. Orientation and Mobility Specialists impart skills like white cane usage, navigating public transportation, and maneuvering through unfamiliar buildings. Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors then assist in aligning individuals with suitable employment, considering their skills, goals, and adaptive technology requirements.


For certain eye conditions, medical or surgical intervention may be necessary to preserve vision. Additionally, Vocational Rehabilitation Services offers Diabetes education classes for those living with Diabetic Retinopathy on a case-by-case basis.


Beyond East Texas, the Criss Cole Rehabilitation Center in Austin stands as a residential facility supporting individuals adapting to legal blindness. The center provides comprehensive assistance, equipping individuals with the skills needed for independent living and confidently navigating unfamiliar territories. Despite the extended stay, the experience at Criss Cole ensures that legally blind individuals have the tools required to participate fully in life.


As we navigate the complexities together, our Vocational Rehabilitation Team is here to help. If you or someone you know requires support, reach out to us – because independence is within reach with the right assistance. For more information, visit www.easttexasworkforce.org/vocational-rehabilitation-services.

TWC Kicks Off 15th Annual Veteran Hiring Initiative

October 26, 2026
This November, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is hosting the 15th Annual Hiring Red, White & You! event series. The series includes nearly 30 hiring events across the state from Nov. 2-20 to connect veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses to Texas employers. "Texas is the best place for veterans and military families,” said Governor Greg Abbott. "More than 1.4 million veterans call our great state home. Their skills and leadership make our economy stronger. These hiring events put their talents to work." "Texas is proud to be home to more than 1.4 million veterans, whose unmatched leadership, dedication, and technical skills make them invaluable assets to our state's economy,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “The Hiring Red, White & You! initiative is our way of thanking these brave men and women by directly connecting them with world-class career opportunities in Texas.” TWC partners on the events with Texas Workforce Solutions, Texas Veterans Commission (TVC), and the Texas Medical Center. “As a Navy veteran, I know firsthand the value veterans bring to the workplace,” said Texas Veterans Commission Chairwoman Laura Koerner. “Hiring Red, White & You! creates important opportunities for veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses across Texas. We’re grateful to the Governor, our friends at TWC, employers and all of our partners who work alongside us to serve those who served.” Since 2012, these free hiring events have connected more than 28,000 employers with 167,000 job seekers, including 56,157 active-duty military, transitioning service members, veterans, and their spouses. Hiring Red, White & You! events have also resulted in more than 4,100 same-day hires. “Texas veterans and military spouses possess a world-class work ethic and diverse talents that are ready to be put to work today,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “Through the Hiring Red, White & You! event series, we are making sure our military community has the direct connections they need to find rewarding, high-demand careers that honor their service.” Employers can participate in Hiring Red, White & You! at no cost and are encouraged to visit TWC’s Hiring Red, White & You page for more information. Through the WeHireVets initiative, TWC also recognizes businesses in which veterans make up at least 10% of the workforce. “Hiring a veteran is more than a way to honor their service—it's also a smart business decision that brings valuable skills and experience to the workplace,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “Through programs like Hiring Red, White & You! and WeHireVets recognition, we are encouraging employers to tap into this highly skilled talent pool.” For information on all veteran workforce services available in Texas, visit twc.texas.gov/veterans .

Employers: Join East Texas’ Largest Hiring Event of the Year

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • October 6, 2026
Workforce Solutions East Texas is seeking employer partners for Hiring Red, White & You!, the local celebration of Texas’ statewide veterans hiring event. Join us on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at the Tyler Workforce Center, 1421 S. Beckham Ave., Tyler. The opening ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by the hiring event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hiring Red, White & You! connects employers with veterans, transitioning service members, military spouses, and other qualified East Texas job seekers. It is an opportunity to meet candidates whose military experience often reflects leadership, adaptability, communication skills, and a strong commitment to service. This event is open to the public, making it an excellent opportunity to promote current openings and build your organization’s talent pipeline. Employer participation is available at no cost. Across Texas, Hiring Red, White & You! events have connected more than 26,000 employers with 153,000 job seekers, including more than 52,000 veterans. Employers who hire qualifying veterans may also be eligible for federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit benefits of up to $9,600 per eligible hire. Reserve your employer space today by registering at www.EastTexasWorkforce.org/hrwy .

Employer Driven Technical Training - Upskill Texas

September 22, 2026
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is currently accepting applications for the Upskill Texas grant program. This technical training initiative provides crucial funding for Texas businesses looking to enhance their workforce's skills and remain competitive in today's rapidly evolving economy. Upskill Texas offers financial support to employers that are: Expanding their operations Retooling their processes Introducing new services or product lines Experiencing organizational structure changes that could avert layoffs Through Upskill Texas, employers may be reimbursed up to $3,000 per trainee for 100% technical training. The majority of the trainees must have been employed by the business for at least six months. To be eligible, businesses must have 100 or more employees located in Texas and provide a 50% employer match, which can include trainee wages and benefits. Private employers may appoint a designee for the grant, including community or technical colleges, third-party trainers, or workforce development boards. Projects can range from $150,000 to $500,000. Follow the link below to learn more.
Show More