TransVision is a program initiated by the State of Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS), Bureau of Blind Services (BBS). Its function is to assist students, 14 years and older with significant visual impairments, to have a smooth transition from high school into the world of work, college, trade school, or other specialized training in preparation for employment.

Our goal is to work closely with the school system, the students, and their families. Together we hope to help the individuals achieve the independence necessary to maintain quality of life and the opportunity to work and participate fully in his or her community and family.

Who Can Participate? Students who are blind or visually impaired, ages 14 & older, in the state of Illinois who have vision as their primary disability and are not currently a part of any developmental or vocational programs are eligible to participate.		How do I sign up? CLICK HERE to learn more about our events and programs, or just click on the "Events" link at the top of the page. Once there, you will find the information you'll need to sign up.
Students... Find out what you can expect after high school. Learn what you can do now to prepare. Make plans for living on your own. Discover more about yourself in order to choose a career. Parents... Learn about your role in the transition process. See how you can help prepare your child to live on his/her own. Become aware of the job options and assistance available. Transition Counselors... Share resource information with the student. Help the student and family make a plan to be better prepared for the future. Initiate referrals to the Division of Rehabilitation Services to have cases opened for adult services. Can participate in students’ ITP (Individual Transition Planning) meetings to provide information about programs available through adult services and the process for becoming enrolled.

TransVision provides summer transition programs, college prep weekends, parent/student seminars, and consultations with the student's Transition Planning Team throughout the year. It also offers opportunities for socialization, development of self-esteem, and self-advocacy skills. The activities are designed for students whose primary disability is visual impairment who are in mainstream programs. They address the needs of academic students in skill development to prepare them for college, technical training and competitive employment.

Events are regularly scheduled throughout the year. Other programs and events are planned throughout the year based on opportunities and needs that may arise. Once students are on our mailing list, they can be informed of any upcoming events as they are announced.

Students can be assisted in registering as a customer of the Illinois Department of Human Services (DRS) Bureau of Blind Services (BBS). Students are encouraged to start the process to have a case opened by DRS/BBS early in their junior year so that they may become eligible for adult services that will continue after high school to eventual competitive employment. Illinois Department of Human Services