Transitions are hard for everyone, but can be especially fraught with anxiety for blind and low vision students and their parents. I’m excited to introduce you to a valuable resource that can help. MEET EMPOWER VI!
I’ve had the pleasure of contributing two video segments to their program. And I appreciate that they are committed to sharing a variety of perspectives on important topics.
The video below is me discussing the importance of allowing my blind son Kai to take risks. It’s titled, Kim Owens: The Dignity of Risk. It is part of a free course that parents can access by clicking here. If you take the free course, please also take the survey at the end. The data is important in supporting this work.
The next video is me sharing about our choice to send Kai to a local public school instead of the state’s school for the blind. It’s titled, Kim Owens: Public School Perspective. It is part of a free course that can be accessed by clicking here.
To check out more videos like these, visit the EMPOWER VI YouTube channel!
LEARN MORE ABOUT EMPOWER VI
At EMPOWER VI our goal is to support transition-aged students with visual impairment, especially those in rural communities, by providing the tools, resources, and community they need to succeed after high school.
Whether you’re a student, a family member or a professional, we offer free, virtual resources that help bridge the gap between high school and what comes next, including postsecondary education, employment, and independence.
What We Offer: Resources on Demand
Accessing quality transition resources should not depend on your zip code. That is why we have created an online hub full of accessible, self-paced online courses for blind and low vision youth, and those who support them.
For students, learn how to advocate for yourself, explore career options, or prepare for college, all at your own pace. For families, understand the transition process and get practical tips on how to support your child. For professionals, find tools and strategies to guide students through this critical life stage.
Check out our transition-focused resources and come back often, as we’re always adding new content.
Stay connected by signing up for our monthly newsletter. Each issue focuses on one key transition topic, with a simple breakdown of what it means and why it matters. At the end, we offer a hands-on way for students, families, and professionals to get active and apply what they’ve learned.
Get Involved: Programs and Opportunities
Our work goes beyond resources, as we’re building a community. Here are some ways to engage with us:
EMPOWER VI Mentoring Program
Each summer, we invite high school juniors and seniors who are blind or have low vision (from any U.S. state) to join our virtual Mentoring Program. Students are matched with Mentors who also have visual impairments and are further along in their postsecondary journeys. Together, they work on building skills, confidence, and a roadmap for the future, with the guidance
of our experienced EMPOWER VI staff.
Advisory Boards
We believe the best way to support students is to listen to their voices, and those of adults who have been there too. That is why we have both a Student Advisory Board and an Adult Advisory Board, made up of individuals with visual impairments. Want to help shape our work? Check our Advisory Boards page to learn about recruitment opportunities.
Communities of Practice
Communities of Practice (CoPs) bring together parents, guardians, and professionals. These virtual groups meet regularly to learn together, share experiences, and support one another. If you’re looking for connection and community around supporting transition-age youth with visual impairments, sign up for a CoP today.
Final Thoughts
At EMPOWER VI, we know that transition-age youth who are blind or have low vision have big dreams, and we are here to help them reach their goals. No matter where you live, you are not alone. Visit our website at empowervi.org to explore our resources, sign up for programs, and join our growing community.
group of students holding books and school supplies, with text that reads
EMPOWERing Youth with Visual Impairment.
Navigating Blindness 