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.

More Than 1,000 Job Opportunities Available at Hiring Red, White & You!

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • November 5, 2026
This event is open to the public!

East Texas Veterans and Public Invited to Hiring Red, White & You! Job Fair November 10 in Tyler

November 4, 2026
TWC-led Statewide Initiative Connects Veterans and Employers

Texas Annual Growth Rate Outpaces Nation as Labor Force Adds 15,800

October 27, 2026
Texas recorded a total of 14,461,300 nonfarm jobs after shedding 11,100 positions in September. Over the year, the state added 154,300 jobs for an annual growth rate of 1.1 percent, outpacing the national rate by 0.8 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,948,400 after adding 15,800 people over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 3,600 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.4 percent. “The addition of more than 154,000 jobs over the year reflects balanced growth across Texas industries,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “Texas continues to outpace the nation because of innovative programs like Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants, which are equipping students with skills that help businesses compete today and plan for tomorrow.” The Manufacturing industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in September after adding 4,700 jobs. Professional and Business Services added 1,600 jobs over the month while Information added 1,400. “The 15.9 million Texans in our labor force drive our economy, and TWC is dedicated to fueling their success,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “Through statewide initiatives like our annual Hiring Red, White & You! career fairs and the Texas HireAbility campaign, we are actively connecting Texans of all abilities with the critical training and resources they need to build prosperous, lifelong careers.” The Midland metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.2 percent in September. It was followed by the Abilene, Amarillo, College Station-Bryan, and San Angelo MSAs, which registered at 3.5 percent. “TWC is focused on ensuring that every Texan can find a rewarding career that allows them to contribute their unique skills and experiences to our economy,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “Initiatives like this month’s Texas HireAbility campaign help strengthen our communities and allow Texas businesses to tap into a dedicated and driven talent pool.” Employment estimates released by TWC are produced in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. * All estimates are subject to revision. To access this and more employment data, visit TexasLMI.com . The Texas Labor Market Information Data for September is scheduled to be released on Friday, November 20, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT).
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