The only program of its kind in California, Junior Blind of America’s Children’s Residential Program (CRP) serves the unique needs of children and youth, ages 5-21, who are blind, visually impaired and have other moderate severe or profound disabilities. In a warm and loving home setting, children receive round-the-clock care, counseling and education designed to help them reach their highest level of independence. Our students learn basic life skills to help them maximize their potential, achieve their personal goals and live independent and full lives in the community.
Who We Serve
The Children’s Residential Program is home to 40 children and youth who have varying levels of medical, emotional, physical and behavioral challenges. In addition to blindness, visual impairment or disabilities, children or youth in the Children's Residential Program may have one or more of the following:
- Autistic behaviors
- Seizure disorders
- Severe neurological problems
- Hyper-activity
- Chronic heart disorders
- Cerebral Palsy
- Drug exposed/Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Program Features
- 1:2 staff-to-student ratio to foster growth and development in all areas of life. If needed, 1:1 supervision ratio is implemented.
- Children receive individualized instruction in orientation and mobility, independent living, cognitive development, communication, behavior and socialization tailored to their skill level.
- On-site medical office and nursing staff.
- Community-based outings and on-campus recreational activities in our aquatics center, gymnasium and specially adapted sensory playground (Mattel Park).
Family Services
At Junior Blind, we value “families first,” which means we offer a variety of services to help encourage and maintain strong family relationships, including:
- Campus Visits: We welcome and encourage free frequent family visits. For families who would like to stay overnight, we provide onsite overnight accommodations.
- Home Visits: For children who need to travel long-distance for family visits, we will provide assistance for funding and coordinating.
- Family Support Groups: Support groups are offered to help families adjust to and cope with emotional obstacles.
- Family Camp: Families are invited to join camp sessions held at our 40-acre campground in Malibu, facilitated by specially-trained counselors.
Our Staff
The Children's Residential Program staff is dedicated to ensuring that each child is given the opportunity to develop to his or her fullest potential and achieve their individual goals. Our residential counselors are certified by the state of California as Direct Care Professionals and are led by our Director of Residential Services, who has a master’s degree in the human services field, as well as extensive professional experience and a deep commitment to children and families.
The Children's Residential Program Director, Unit Supervisors and Case Managers have bachelor's or master’s degrees in the human services field and possess appropriate state certifications.
Additionally, our residents are given comprehensive care from a team of case managers, psychologists, nurses, dieticians, physicians, psychiatrists and occupational therapists.
Service Areas
Since the Children’s Residential Program is the only one of its kind in California, children come from across the state and all over the country to live at our residential facility.
Referral Procedure
A child may be referred to the Children’s Residential Program by a family member, healthcare or blindness professional, the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services, Regional Center or school district.
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