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A Message from Rick Mitchell

Welcome to the website of the Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI). DBVI is an agency of the Commonwealth of Virginia that is dedicated to its mission of providing services and resources which empower Virginians who are blind, vision impaired or deafblind to achieve their desired levels of employment, education, and personal independence. Whether you are experiencing vision loss yourself, have a family member who has a visual disability or you’re conducting research; I believe the information you find here will be beneficial to you.

About DBVI

The Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI) is an agency of the Commonwealth of Virginia that is dedicated to its mission of providing quality services to assist Virginia's citizens who are blind, vision impaired or deafblind in achieving their desired level of employment, education, and personal independence. The Department provides a wide array of specialized services and programs for Virginia residents of all ages who are experiencing significant vision impairments attain the skills, confidence and positive outlook that are critical to independence.

Our primary focus is to assist blind Virginians in achieving quality employment outcomes. Vocational evaluation, job training, job development, placement, follow-up and other services are provided to assist consumers in obtaining jobs in the public and private sectors. Training for and employment as food service managers and vendors are available in cafeterias, snack bars, and other vending facilities in public and private buildings. The Virginia Industries for the Blind provides another employment option for blind Virginians at its two plant locations in Charlottesville and Richmond, its satellite store operations and administrative service positions across the Commonwealth.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI) is to provide services and resources which empower individuals who are blind, vision impaired or deafblind to achieve their desired levels of employment, education, and personal independence.

Vision Statement

DBVI envisions a world in which individuals who are blind, vision impaired or deafblind can access all that society has to offer and can, in turn, contribute to the greater community. We believe this is achievable.

Agency Values

Recognize the Abilities of Individuals Who are Blind – We value the contributions of individuals who are blind, vision impaired or deafblind..

Equal Access – We value equal access to all life activities including information, education, training and employment.

Exemplary Work Habits – We value integrity, honesty, teamwork and dedication.

Diversity – We value diversity, respect for the individual and personal choice.

Employees – We value our employees for their dedication and expertise.

Professional Boundaries – We value healthy appropriate relationships with the people we serve.

Latest News

Registration Now Open for 2024 Super Summer Camp!

Register now for this year's Super Summer Camp at Camp Easterseals in New Castle, VA. This opportunity provides children age 8 through the completion of the tenth grade an opportunity to have a summer camp experience. Find out more now.

2024 Opportunities for Students

A cork board with post-it notes on it with the largest post-it note entitled: 2024 DVBI Opportunities Is your student looking for something to do this spring and summer? DBVI has a host of different types of activities and events for them! Check out the Student & Transition Page for all of the DBVI upcoming activities.

Voice Your Opinion on DBVI Services
comment icon DBVI is always looking for input regarding agency strategic planning, development of agency policies and procedures, and implementing services and supports to potentially eligible and eligible individuals who are blind, vision impaired, and deafblind. Submit your written comments prior to December 31, 2023 to: Susan.Davis@dbvi.virginia.gov or by calling 804-371-3140/1-800-622-2155 (Voice/TTY).

iBill Info

Photo of iBill reader and money The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing is providing currency readers, free of charge, to eligible blind and visually impaired individuals. Individuals interested in receiving a currency reader through the U.S. Currency Reader Program must submit an application, signed by a competent authority who can certify eligibility. Applications, available in English and in Spanish, can be downloaded here.