OCFS Placement Project
Empowering Blind, Deaf-blind, and Visually Impaired Individuals Through Personalized Employment Services
Creating Pathways to Employment for the Blind
At ESO, we are committed to advancing employment opportunities for blind, visually impaired, and deaf-blind individuals across New York State. Through our collaboration with the New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB), and under the framework of the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) Placement Project, we provide personalized, results-driven employment placement services that empower participants—including those with combined vision and hearing loss—to enter or reenter the workforce with confidence, accessibility, and purpose.
What We Offer
Our OCFS Placement services are built around you. We take the time to understand your aspirations, assess your strengths, and provide the accessible tools, communication supports, and one-on-one guidance you need to succeed, whether you are blind, visually impaired, or deaf-blind. Every step of the journey is tailored to meet your individual needs with respect, dignity, and care.
Understand your strengths, skills, and interests to find the right career fit.
Build confidence and readiness with practical support and coaching.
We actively work with inclusive employers across multiple industries to connect you with accessible and meaningful roles.
Support
Continued assistance during and after job placement to help ensure long-term success.
Understanding the Needs of Blind and Deaf-Blind Individuals
At ESO, we tailor our employment support to meet the distinct needs of individuals who are blind and those who are deaf-blind, recognizing that inclusive services must consider both communication and navigation barriers.
| Aspect | Blind Individuals | Deaf-Blind Individuals |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Barriers | Limited or no access to visual information | Limited or no access to both visual and auditory information |
| Communication Style | Verbal speech, Braille, screen readers, audio instructions | Tactile communication, Pro-Tactile American Sign Language (ASL), Braille, intervenor/interpreter use |
| Information Access | Screen readers, audio books, visual-to-audio tools | Braille, tactile sign language, haptic communication methods |
| Orientation & Mobility | May rely on environmental sounds and mobility aids (e.g., white canes) | Use of tactile cues, human guides, assistive tools due to limited access to both sight and sound |
| Technology Use | Audio-based technology, speech-to-text software, smart assistants | Braille displays, vibration-based alerts, refreshable Braille, and specialized tactile devices |
We recognize that true accessibility means understanding and supporting each individual’s unique way of connecting with the world, and we’re committed to doing just that.
Our Team-Focused Approach
ESO has shifted from relying on outsourced trainers to building an internal, collaborative training team. This team-based model enables us to:
- Respond faster and more flexibly to your needs
- Deliver consistent, high-quality training that reflects the lived experiences of blind individuals
- Create a more inclusive and aligned support system for every participant
- Foster deep collaboration among placement coordinators, trainers, and job developers
Why Choose ESO?
- Experienced, mission-driven staff
- Deep knowledge of accessibility and workplace inclusion
- A broad employer network across industries
- Proven success in long-term placements
- Personalized support from assessment through employment and beyond
Contact Us!
Have questions or need our services? Our team is
ready to assist. Reach out today and let’s get started.
Call us today at
(914) 292–9412
Email us at
info@esoconsultants.com