An alternative approach to employment for people with deaf-blindness

American Rehabilitation, Spring, 1989 by Barbara Hausman

* During his early 20's, "D.L.," deaf-blind due to maternal rubella syndrome, expected his training outcome to be sheltered employment. After a work experience in food service on and off campus, HKNC staff realized that "D.L." had potential for employment in the competitive market. A videotape of his performance and a written recommendation from his community employer was sent to the referring agency along with recommendations for ongoing food service training. Soon after, he was working full-time in a fast-food restaurant and is presently being considered for a supervisory position.

* "G.M.," a young woman, also deaf-blind as a result of rubella syndrome, participated in a baking and cooking work experience on campus. She is now working and training in a community-based bake shop in Westchester County, New York. Consultation was provided by the HKNC mobility and home management staff and an interpreter/job coach was facilitated through other local community agencies.

The Helen Keller National Center has been addressing the needs of a population which is perhaps one of the most challenging to vocational rehabilitation. HKNC Director Barrett and his staff believe that early planning, identification and coordination of support services, training of vocational rehabilitation staff and employers in the local community, and matching clients' support needs with local resources will lead to employment and integrated living in the home community for people with deaf-blindness. The service models at center headquarters and nationwide are also applicable to other profoundly disabled populations. They are surely valuable to administrators and staff of rehabilitation training centers which are attempting to define or expand their role in providing employment-related services. But the ultimate evaluation of HKNC's highly structured approach to supported employment and living, and to its training and service delivery system, rests with the consumers themselves.

Ms. Hausman is Director of Public Relations, Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults.