Alabama Initiatives for Children and Youth Who Are Deaf-Blind

Our goal is to build capacity of state and local agencies, parents and professionals to improve services and outcomes for children and young adults who are deaf-blind and their families by providing innovative technical assistance, information and training.

Mom with small child in her lap. Child is looking at bubbles.
Elementary student walking with parents and teachers.

  • Alabama Initiatives for Children and Youth who are Deaf-Blind

    Boasting statewide distance learning capabilities and programs, the Alabama Initiatives for Children and Youth who are Deaf-Blind identifies children, ages birth to 22, who are deaf-blind or at risk for dual sensory loss. Through targeted individual/group technical assistance and assistive technology support/assessment to caregivers and school systems, Alabama Initiatives for Children and Youth Who are Deaf-Blind works to improve student outcomes. Services are provided through AIDB’s Talladega-based campuses (Alabama School for the Blind, Alabama School for the Deaf, Helen Keller School of Alabama and E.H. Gentry Facility) and eight Regional Centers across the state.

    Technical Assistance

    Technical Assistance is a collaborative process between the Alabama Initiative for Children and Youth who are Deaf-Blind, professionals, the child and their family. Together, we work on early identification and intervention, needs assessments, goal negotiations and service decision-making. Services may include resource and information sharing, networking with parents or professionals, on-site/distance learning coaching and modeling and/or professional development to facilitate improved self-advocacy, academic achievement and transition services for children and youth who are deaf-blind.

    Assistive Technology

    Assistive Technology support and assessments are provided for academic settings. Assistive Technology Assessments for all ages can be provided at the E.H. Gentry Facility in Talladega or at your nearest Regional Center. Services are available to meet your classroom, home, work and leisure needs. Services from Alabama Telecommunications Administration Program(ATAP) and iCanConnect are also available.

    Within the Alabama Initiative for Children and Youth who are Deaf-Blind, AIDB also partners with the National Center on Deaf-Blindness; Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services; The University of Alabama at Birmingham Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation; and Sight Savers of Alabama to assist with Assistive Technology needs for people of all ages. 

    Forms To Request Services

    To request services, please contact Megan Trescott at trescott.megan@aidb.org.