Whether you are newly diagnosed or have "been around the block," this is where you will find the information and links to vital information, international, national, state, private, non-profit, educational, vocational, and other agencies.
Go here for where to find general information and first steps. Information on eye diseases
Other National /International Organizations
Find local resources specific you your state.
According to the World Health Organization:
The Foundation Fighting Blindness
A great starting point. The Foundation covers a large amount of information, including stories and resources, retinal education, genetic testing, research, local chapters, fundraising for research, and more. They are "the world's leading private source for inherited retinal disease research funding." They have a video series on eye diseases, and have information on genetic testing , clinical trials , research , resources, and more.
The diseases they cover are:
Achromatopsia , Bardet-Biedl Syndrome , Best Disease , Choroideremia , Leber Congenital Amaurosis , macular degeneration , retinitis pigmentosa , Refsum disease , Stargardt disease , Usher syndrome , X-Linked retinoschisis (XLRS) , and a few more rare conditions .
https://www.fightingblindness.org/
American Council for the Blind
The mission of the American Council for the Blind is "To increase the independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for all blind and visually impaired people. They have a large collection of resources and information covering advocacy and governmental affairs, music , outdoor and other activities, scholarships , news, community events , publications and much more. They have chapters in every state, scroll down to your state below to find your local chapter or locate it on their national website.
American Foundation for the Blind
How AFB Changes Lives (from their website)
Guide Dogs for the Blind
P.O. Box 151200 San Rafael, CA 94915-1200
1-800-295-4050
Hadley
Hadley's mission is "to create personalized learning opportunities that empower adults with vision loss or blindness to thrive - at home, at work, and in their communities." They have many free workshops, podcasts, and information to make your low vision life better. Everything from daily living , to technology , working , Braille , and recreation .
Hellen Keller Institute
Their vision is "A world where no one is deprived of the opportunity to live a healthy life – and reach their true potential." They provide knowledgeable articles on a variety of subjects; nutrition, international resources, and prevention of blindness.
National Federation of the Blind
The NFB provides a variety of programs and resources including training and education, advocacy and outreach, technology and products. legal programs, scholarships, braille certification, safety and support, employment and career mentoring, and so much more. They have affiliate chapters in every state so they offer very specialized services.
National Headquarters:
National Federation of the Blind
200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place
Baltimore, Maryland 21230
Phone (410) 659-9314
Email nfb@nfb.org
See below to find your state's affiliate.
The Library of Congress' National Library Services for the Blind
The Library of Congress' National Library Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired and your local libraries are great resources for accessing printed media. NLS is a free braille and talking book library service for people with temporary or permanent low vision, blindness, or a physical or perceptual disability that prevents them from reading or holding the printed page. Click here for more information and how to apply. Explore your local library's website to find out what free services are available. Most of the time, all you need is your library card sign up for services.
Mailing Address:
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled
Library of Congress
Washington, DC 20542-4962
Street Address:
1291 Taylor Street, NW
Washington, DC 20542
(202)707-5100 Toll-free: (800) 424-8567
For more national resources, click here to go to the national page.
There are many agencies and organizations that are specific to your state that provide individualized services. Click on your state to find the resources close to you.
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