Nebraska Program Information
What are the eligibility requirements?
- Individuals 55 and over who experience functional limitations and/or a marked decline in their ability to retain the level of independence they desire because of a severe vision loss or blindness.
- There is no charge for services. NCBVI is state and federally funded. Services are provided in all 93 counties of Nebraska.
What is the process for applying for services?
Referrals can be made by contacting any of the addresses or numbers listed below. Upon receiving a referral, NCBVI staff will schedule an evaluation meeting where application can be made if appropriate.
What documentation is required?
Medical documentation is not required to apply for OIB services. Eligibility is determined based on functional limitations and evaluated need.
Available Services:
- Low vision evaluation, such as a counselor assisting with determining the optimal level of magnification.
- Learning about and obtaining independent living aids, such as magnifiers, talking clocks/watches, cooking devices, etc.
- Training in using independent living aids or technology devices
- Information and referral to other programs, such as audiobooks
- Social and peer support
- Presentations to groups of individuals regarding vision loss
Program Contact Information:
- Phone: 1-877-809-2419 or 402-471-2891
- Fax: 402-471-3009
- Referral Email: ncbvi.autho@nebraska.gov
- Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
- Address: 4600 Valley, Road, Suite 100, Lincoln, NE 68510
Additional services information:
- Group Home Teachings
- Are coordinated across the state to bring together small groups of individuals who share similar experiences and can benefit from a group training session. Participants may do group cooking activities, share and learn about new alternative strategies, learn technology skills, learn about new technology that may benefit them, and most importantly, receive social and peer support from one another.
- Statewide OIB Conference
- We bring individuals together from across the state to learn from a variety of mini sessions conducted by NCBVI staff or guest instructors. The conference brings in a variety of keynote speakers and vendors to showcase independent living aids. Participants are able to connect with new social supports that often turn into life-long connections. NCBVI hosts this conference every few years as the budget allows.
Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired Brochure
Program Manager
Angie Hoff – Certified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor for the Blind has been with NCBVI since 1996 and has served as the OIB Program Manager since 2021. Angie provides direct services to Nebraska’s older blind in the western half of the state, as well as training and support to outside agencies and NCBVI staff throughout the state. Angie is the director/coordinator of NCBVI’s yearly OIB Silver Summit conference which provides up to 200 OIB consumers the opportunity to network and receive training to further enhance their independence goals.