Clovernook Center aims to tackle problem of illiteracy among blind and visually impaired

Clovernook Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired has operated its Braille Printing House since 1914 and has been consistently recognized as an industry leader, producing more than 30 million pages each year.
 
According to Clovernook, though, only 10 percent of individuals who are blind or visually impaired are able to read braille. More than 50 percent of students who are blind end up dropping out of high school, and 70 percent of adults within the community are unemployed.
 
“They lack the skills necessary for most jobs and many everyday situations,” says Christopher Faust, President and CEO of Clovernook Center. “We want to stem that and focus on promoting literacy for all.”
 
To target the problem of illiteracy specifically, the Center recently launched braille literacy classes in which participants meet four times each week to gain needed skills. Clovernook also has plans in the works for a book club, set to launch in late fall, in which participants will have the chance to apply their knowledge in a practical and enjoyable way through literature.
 
“Many people don't realize that a person who is blind and unable to read braille is similar to a sighted person who is unable to read print,” Faust says. “Our goal is to empower each individual we serve so they can be self-sufficient and participate fully in their community.”

Do Good: 

• Spread the word about braille literacy classes. For more information, contact Debbie Albert, who teaches 4-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, at 513-728-6247. Classes are free and open to the public.

• Support Clovernook Center.

• Make a difference in the lives of the blind and visually impaired by getting involved as a volunteer.