A Full Service Training Center For People Who Are Blind and Visually Impaired
FOCB depends on the generosity of volunteers to assist with its ever-growing needs.
About Us
Our Mission
The mission of the Florida Outreach Center for the Blind is to develop and administer programs that will integrate blind and visually impaired persons into the social, economic, and spiritual lives of their community.
Core Values
Florida Outreach Center for the Blind, Inc. (FOCB) believes that individuals who are blind or visually impaired have the right to tools and training that will allow them to reach their personal, academic, and vocational goals.
Our Programs and Services
Independent Living
Teaching alternative techniques to accomplish daily tasks and maintain independence.
Braille Instruction
Teaching reading and writing skills needed to record information, label items, and mark equipment.
Students are encouraged to learn Braille since studies show that a higher percentage of blind persons are successful in the workplace with this skill.
Students are encouraged to learn Braille since studies show that a higher percentage of blind persons are successful in the workplace with this skill.
Orientation and Mobility
Training to travel safely and confidently using a long white cane.
Assistive Technology
Training to operate computers, smartphones, tablets, note takers, magnification and screen reading software.
Monthly Activities
Crafts Program
10AM-Noon every Tuesday at the training center.
Caring and Sharing Peer Support Group
Noon every Tuesday at the training center.
Field Trips
To be announced.
Monthly Talking Book Club
3:00PM on the last Wednesday of each month, via Zoom.
Monthly Workshops
1:00-3:00PM on the 3rd Thursday of each month, via Zoom.
Please call the Center at 561-642-0005 for more detailed information about these and other events.
FOCB Impact
Did you know?
7 Minutes
Every seven minutes someone in the United States becomes blind or visually impaired. (American Foundation for the Blind)
12 Million
Approximately 12 million people 40 years and over in the United States are visually impaired. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
44,000
Palm Beach County, Florida is home to an estimated 44,000 people who are blind or visually impaired. (U.S. Census Bureau)
“My greatest accomplishment after I received services from FOCB is that I am now working and renting my own place. I’m more independent and more confident.” Jean – Former Student
“I went to the Center to learn Independent Living because I was struggling with keeping my home organized. Now all of my clothes are labeled by color, and everything has its own place. I have friends come over a lot more”. Rita – Current Student and Volunteer
“Jason my Tech instructor taught me how to order groceries online, online banking, and email. I do not have to ask people for help any longer.” Lenorris – Current Student
Save the Date
DINING IN THE DARK
A unique experience in a world of smell, taste, sound, & texture … in total darkness!
November 12, 2023 I 5 – 8 p.m.
West Palm Beach Marriott
