Only 317 people carry this credential nationwide
November 14, 2022
Contact: Amanda Just, Communications Specialist
Amanda.Just@LighthouseEducationCenter.org
Sarasota, FL – In an effort to provide exceptional service and support for those with vision loss, Judi Boylan, Vocational Rehabilitation Career Specialist with Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center, has earned a new credential from the Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators (ACRE).
Ms. Boylan earned a certification in Professional Employment Services through the University of Georgia’s WorkWorks program, part of the university’s Institute on Human Development and Disability. WorkWorks web-based certificate program is designed for employment specialists and job coaches who assist persons with significant disabilities to direct their own support systems and to become successfully employed in careers of choice. Only 317 people nationwide carry this certification.
“I felt attaining the higher credential was integral to the Lighthouse’s Employment Services Training Pilot Program, “ Ms. Boylan said.
In her role as the Vocational Rehabilitation Career Specialist, Ms. Boylan works with students with visual impairments and other, secondary disabilities, to use assistive technology to enhance their skills. She teaches job preparedness for entering the workforce, including but not limited to writing a resume and completing job applications, interview skills, digital footprint, and using social media professionally. Ms. Boylan, who has worked at Lighthouse since 2010, assists with employment placement as well as job coaching after clients are employed.
Latricia Gambrell, Rehabilitation Manager for the Lighthouse, said that this certification enhances the career readiness program at the organization. “Judi is very intentional in helping our clients find meaningful jobs.”
About Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center: Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center is the only nationally accredited, private, non-profit agency providing rehabilitation training to blind and visually impaired individuals of all ages residing in a five county region that includes Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Charlotte and Highlands. The Lighthouse offers training and rehabilitation to foster independence, productivity, and improved quality of life. For more information, please visit www.lighthouseeducationcenter.org