MCB/DDS Train the Trainer Project
for Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity
About
Train the Trainer Project for Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity is a collaborative program presented by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB). The goals of the Project are to strengthen outreach re: Human Guide (formerly known as Sighted Guide) and Vision Loss Sensitivity to co-workers at the agency where the trainer is employed:
Train the Trainer Project for Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity is a collaborative program presented by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB). The goals of the Project are to strengthen outreach re: Human Guide (formerly known as Sighted Guide) and Vision Loss Sensitivity to co-workers at the agency where the trainer is employed:
- Colleague to colleague training for new staff and/or
- Refresher training for existing supervisors and staff
How it Works
Selected trainers will spend a 6 hour session (inclusive of lunch and breaks) with our team of Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists. Activities will include lecture and sitting, walking and being guided while wearing a blindfold. At the end of the session* each trainer will receive all of the materials, including a training agenda, “Let’s Walk Together” video, handouts, occluders, attendance forms, etc. needed to conduct small group in-services on Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity. *Each candidate must meet specific requirements, including the passing of a multiple choice test, in order to receive the above materials, and the certificate of completion.
Selected trainers will spend a 6 hour session (inclusive of lunch and breaks) with our team of Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists. Activities will include lecture and sitting, walking and being guided while wearing a blindfold. At the end of the session* each trainer will receive all of the materials, including a training agenda, “Let’s Walk Together” video, handouts, occluders, attendance forms, etc. needed to conduct small group in-services on Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity. *Each candidate must meet specific requirements, including the passing of a multiple choice test, in order to receive the above materials, and the certificate of completion.
Collaboration & Follow–Up
Trainers will receive ongoing support, including an invitation to attend an annual meeting with fellow Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity (HGVLS) trainers from across each DDS Region.
Trainers will receive ongoing support, including an invitation to attend an annual meeting with fellow Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity (HGVLS) trainers from across each DDS Region.
Benefits for All
Individuals with Vision Loss:
Individuals with Vision Loss:
- Enhance personal safety and quality of life by working with staff and caregivers sensitive to unique needs of living with a vision loss.
- Increase the skill set of employees regarding working with individuals who have vision loss.
- Increase personal knowledge regarding Human Guide Technique and Vision Loss Sensitivity;
- Enhance presentation skills;
- Become part of a Regional collaborative team;
- Gain opportunity to support co-workers in a unique way.
Requirements
Candidates for the Train the Trainer Project must agree to the following:
Candidates for the Train the Trainer Project must agree to the following:
- Attend a 6 hour session (inclusive of lunch and breaks) that includes lecture, blindfold experience, and multiple choice test.
- Wear appropriate footwear, comfortable clothing, and dress for the weather as there is an outdoor portion of the training.
- Conduct 45-60 minute HGVLS trainings at his/her agency according to agency training needs. An annual “refresher” HGVLS training is recommended for all staff at an agency.
- Prepare all necessary paperwork: sign in sheets, evaluation forms prior to each training and send copies of all sign-in sheets and evaluation forms to MCB/DDS Partnership Project contact after each HGVLS training conducted at his/her agency.
- Notify MCB/DDS contact if the Trainer leaves the agency.
Training Locations and Dates
- Metro Region: September 26, 2018 - Training now FULL.
- Southeast Region: April 2019
- Central West: May 2019
- Northeast Region: June 2019
How to Apply
1. Download the application: Waltham Application PDF / Waltham Application RTF
2. Please fill the application out completely.
3. Mail, email, or fax as indicated on the application by .
4. You will receive confirmation via email of either your seat OR a notice that the session is full*.
* Please Note: Space is limited to the first 10 applications. Training is now FULL.
Approval from both an employee’s direct supervisor and agency director is required prior to applying
1. Download the application: Waltham Application PDF / Waltham Application RTF
2. Please fill the application out completely.
3. Mail, email, or fax as indicated on the application by .
4. You will receive confirmation via email of either your seat OR a notice that the session is full*.
* Please Note: Space is limited to the first 10 applications. Training is now FULL.
Approval from both an employee’s direct supervisor and agency director is required prior to applying
More Details about Training Days
Refreshments:
Refreshments:
- Light refreshments and water will be provided.
- Lunch will not be provided. Please do bring your own lunch.
- Please wear closed toe supportive shoes.
- Please wear comfortable clothes.
- Please bring hat/rain jacket as needed for weather. We will be working outside as well as indoors.
- Time spent under a blindfold is required throughout the day.
Questions
Please feel free to contact:
Lisa DiBonaventura, MA, COMS
Statewide Director for Vision & Vision Loss Services, DDS
Lisa.DiBonaventura@state.ma.us
Please feel free to contact:
Lisa DiBonaventura, MA, COMS
Statewide Director for Vision & Vision Loss Services, DDS
Lisa.DiBonaventura@state.ma.us
