Press and Media

Press FAQs

• How long does it take to learn Braille? Learn to travel with a cane or dog guide? Use computers?

  Everyone learns at a different pace and style, and training can take from a few months to years. Learning things like Braille or access technology might be easier for someone who has been blind all or most of their life, while people who lose their vision later on may have more difficulties. Having information and resources as well as maintaining a positive attitude and being persistent are keys to overcoming challenges! VisionCorps works with each client to determine their goals, and develops a personalized plan to reach them.

• What do dog guides do?

  A dog guide is specially trained to safely guide someone who is blind or vision impaired. The handler tells the dog where to go by giving him directions (such as forward, left and right), and the dog leads the person. Don’t touch a dog guide while it is wearing a harness. A dog guide is working and its job is to be attentive to its handler’s commands and safety. Your touch may confuse the animal or distract it from doing its job. Dog guides  are allowed in all public places in the United States. While VisionCorps does not train dog guides, they do provide the Orientation and Mobility training required before any client is eligible to attend a dog guide school. In addition, VisionCorps assists clients with dog guides with any challenges that arrive following the acquisition of a dog guide.

• What is legal blindness?

  Legal blindness is is defined as having a visual acuity (sharpness of vision) of 20/200 or worse in the better-seeing eye with correction (glasses or contacts) or having a visual field (area of vision) less than 20 degrees (extreme tunnel vision).

• How do I begin services?

  You can be referred by your eye care physician or refer yourself. We then ask for a report from your eye doctor to ensure we are providing you with the services you need based on your eye condition. Contact Mary Lou at 717-205-4141 or mkubicki@visioncorps.net

  Physician Referrals 

• What is the cost for services?

  VisionCorps services are provided at no cost. Most services are supported by donations from the community and revenue from the Business & Industry Group. Should clients require assistive devices or other products, there may be a cost involved. VisionCorps can connect clients to organizations to help offset these expenses.

• Can I talk with someone about what services may be right for me or a loved one?

  Yes! You may call VisionCorps toll-free by dialing 866-876-8550 or send us a message by visiting our Contact page. We would be happy to talk with you about any questions or concerns you may have before referring yourself or someone else.

  Contact Us 

• What services are available?

  VisionCorps services focus on providing the tools and training necessary for people living with low vision and blindness to live as independently as possible. Services include prevention of blindness, rehabilitation services, support, and education services, and training in access technology. Services are personalized to the individual and are provided to all ages.