Isaac, 6, was born with optic nerve hypoplasia in both eyes as well as nystagmus, a vision condition that can reduce vision and depth perception as well as affect balance and coordination. His mother, Xiomara, discovered his vision loss at six months of age and was devastated. In 2021, Isaac’s ophthalmologist at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles referred him to Braille Institute. Xiomara jumped at the opportunity to get started with our Child Development program. Isaac’s Journey of Learning When Isaac started at Braille Institute, he faced challenges with attention and ability to focus. Now, he ..read more

Los Angeles, CA – February 20, 2024: Braille Institute, a leading organization dedicated to empowering individuals with vision loss, is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Madhu Ayyagari to its Board of Directors. With over 25 years of experience in ophthalmic medical device research and development, Dr. Ayyagari brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to Braille Institute’s mission of positively transforming the lives of those with visual loss. “I am honored to join the Board of Directors at Braille Institute, an organization that has been helping individuals with visual impairm ..read more

After retiring from a career in the U.S. Navy as a scientist and engineer, Dr. Ron Peterson’s vision started to deteriorate quickly to the point of blindness. Shocked and depressed, he discovered Braille Institute, and it opened a whole new world of assistive technology and new ways to navigate independently. Realizing how artificial intelligence (AI) could help the blind, Ron now dedicates his time to AI research and instruction. From Student to “AI Investigator” “It made perfect sense to launch myself into a second career of assistive technology for the blind,” states Ron. “There is a lot to ..read more

We’re maximizing independence with audio-accessible resources. Braille Institute’s award-winning library is part of the National Library Service that provides services for the blind, visually impaired, and print disabled. Thanks to our supporters, our library was transformed last year to include a state-of-the-art recording studio, as well as a new teaching hub with iPads, laptops, braille e-readers, and other devices. The recording studio offers new opportunities to produce audio books and other materials. The latest project is in collaboration with the Glaucoma Research Foundation to record ..read more

Online seminars and personalized low vision consultations, free of charge, for those experiencing vision loss.   LOS ANGELES, Feb. 1, 2024 – February is “Low Vision Awareness Month” and Braille Institute stands at the forefront, dedicated to shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals with low vision and offering invaluable resources. This month-long initiative includes free online workshops led by medical experts, delving into the latest advancements in the understanding, treatment, and prevention of various eye diseases. Workshop Highlights: Advancements in Macular Degen ..read more

Experts discuss the latest in assistive technology to increase independence and improve daily activity for those who are blind or visually impaired LOS ANGELES, Jan. 3, 2024  Braille Institute, a leading organization dedicated to empowering individuals with vision impairment, proudly announces its 5th Annual Assistive Technology Month, taking place throughout January 2024. This month-long initiative aims to showcase the latest innovations in assistive technology, focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and gaming, for those who are blind or visually impaired. The highlight ..read more

In honor of Orientation & Mobility (O&M) Month, we sat down with Braille Institute O&M Intern Joey Hernandez to learn all about her journey into the field.  Her energetic, empathetic leadership and passion for O&M inspire our adult and youth students alike. Here is Joey’s O&M story, in her own words.  So first, can you just tell us a bit about yourself? What is your name, your current role at Braille Institute, and what are you studying?  My name is Josephine “Joey” Hernandez. I am a Youth Assistant at Braille Institute, and I’m also a former Braill ..read more

LOS ANGELES, CA – August 7, 2023: Braille Institute is pleased to announce the appointment of William (Bill) M. Nelson as their inaugural Vice President of People & Culture. Nelson brings over 30 years of experience and a remarkable background in human resources, talent management, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility, and culture building. Bill has served in leading HR roles at well-known organizations including Westfield Corporation, Amgen, UCLA, and Eastman Kodak. He has worked and lived in different countries and has experienced the dynamics of cultural awareness, diversity ..read more

The following is an excerpt from the Los Angeles Times article by staff writer Deborah Vankin: “Do touch the art. This first-of-its kind L.A. artwork offers a tactile cityscape.” You could say that Megan Whitmarsh and Carla Tome are particularly hands-on regarding their new public art project, which debuts April 26. The artists, who are not blind, created a large sensory wall and companion mural at the Braille Institute Los Angeles. The commission is part of a three-year, $2-million renovation that the East Hollywood nonprofit is unveiling this week. The 104-year-old institution ..read more

Positively Transforming the Lives of  Those with Vision Loss   Braille, audiotapes, or magnified text are just a few of the ways that students with vision impairments can access information. A variety of inclusive teaching and assessment techniques can benefit all students. Still, there are several specific techniques that are effective when teaching a group that includes children with vision impairment. The amount of visual information we receive each day is something we frequently take for granted. Many vision-impaired students lack a lifetime’s worth of visual experiences to draw ..read more