WALIC

Video of SWEAT/WALIC Quicktime version (get Quicktime player) Application Form Program Descriptions

Working at a local greenhouse

Organizing and hanging clothing at a discount retailer

Receiving wages at the end of the work week

View Page in Spanish (via Google Translate)

June 17 - July 12
Ages 16 - 22

Sample Class Report

The WALIC program is a 4-week vocational and independent living program for students 16 - 22 years of age who are visually impaired with developmental disabilities. Students must be able to participate in approximately 16 hours a week of work-related activities with only moderate support from a job coach (up to 5 hours of work in a given day). In addition:

• Students should be fairly independent in their dressing, eating, toileting, hygiene, and communication abilities.
• Students should not have challenging behaviors that interfere with the instruction of self or others.
• Students need to participate for the full four weeks of the summer program. If you are not able to make this full commitment or if you are not sure your child can endure a program of this length, please discuss this with the TSBVI principal before applying, or write this in the “Additional Information” section of the application form, in order to determine whether special arrangements can be made. TVIs please discuss this with families to be certain about this commitment.

Students spend most of their day at a community job with two job coaches, in groups of approximately four students. At these job sites, they are introduced to: (1) a variety of work routines, (2) skills for interacting with a supervisor and co-workers, and (3) other expectations for the work situation. Students learn to manage the $30 weekly stipend received for their work by participating in experiences such as budgeting, shopping, and recreational activities. They also learn about typical household bills, writing and cashing checks, and what apartments cost.

Students live in home-like settings, with 24-hour supervision, where they are taught independent living skills (such as cooking, cleaning, dressing, and personal hygiene), and participate in recreational activities and social interaction with peers. Emphasis is placed on developing independent living and community access skills, as well as promoting personal responsibility and initiative, during work and throughout all other activities.

For information about program content, contact
John Rose
(512) 206-9131
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

For information about the application process, contact
Cathy Olsen
(512) 206-9182
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Last revision: January 14, 2010