Focus on employment and independent living skills
The Rehabilitation Center has everything from a model apartment to learn independent living skills to a technology center where participants learn how to integrate technology in preparation for work and in the workplace.
This is an innovative and exciting joint project of the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), the State of Maine’s Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI), and The Iris Network. Our program was developed with full involvement from the community, consumer groups, and vision rehabilitation professionals. The program is designed to deliver vision rehabilitation to working-age and young adults transitioning from school settings. Our focus is on empowerment, and our goal is full integration into the community.
Our clients can reside in an on-campus apartment with staff on hand to assist as needed. The Portland Museum of Art, the Portland Sea Dogs minor league baseball team, the YMCA, a public Park, two colleges, and a wide variety of restaurants and live entertainment venues are within walking distance. There are also several pharmacies and grocery stores nearby. The Portland Metro bus system takes visitors to the working waterfront, the Maine Mall, or even outlet shopping in Freeport, home of the L.L. Bean flagship store. Portland’s two major hospitals, including the largest in the state, are located minutes away.
Access Technology
- Training in accessible technology expands opportunities for people seeking employment, education, or increased independence.
- Day workshops or intensive week-long instruction, one-on-one in small classes.
- Highly-trained, experienced Assistive Technology Specialists provide instruction using state-of-the-art technology and devices.
Tailored to your vision needs and goals
- 40-plus hours of comprehensive instruction each week in a 2-20 week program.
- Opportunities to explore: vocational development, accessible technology, orientation and mobility, Braille, daily living skills, and manual arts
- Highly-trained, experienced staff include Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist, Employment Specialist, Certified Assistive Technology Information Specialist, Orientation and Mobility Specialist, Community Engagement Coordinator, and Personal Adjustment Counselor.
- After-hours recreational activities are organized several times a week with opportunities to explore Portland’s, culture and entertainment.
The Iris Network Rehabilitation Center offers an individualized, intensive vocational development program, driven by technology. The program is a collaborative effort between The Iris Network staff, the consumer, and their VR counselor. Program components include the following:
- Orientation and mobility
- State-of-the-art access technology
- Daily living skills
- Manual arts
- Braille
- Vocational development
- Clinical counseling
- Peer support
For more information call 1-207-774-6273 and ask for Rehab Center Coordinator .