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Access Tech

A woman in front of a monitor with magnified textAccess technology includes apps and devices that help individuals with disabilities complete tasks and increase independence. MABVI’s Access Technology Training Centers help people who are blind or visually impaired learn to use technology that helps them do what they want to do. Assistive technology opens access to:

  • Printed and digital text
  • Healthcare information & tools
  • Financial information & banking
  • Apps for daily living
  • Transportation & navigation services
  • Social connectedness and communication

Our Centers employ tech-savvy volunteer trainers, who also serve as peer supports and role models to demonstrate the many ways that tech can improve quality of life for individuals with vision loss.

MABVI’s Access Technology Training Centers are located in Brookline, Watertown, Natick, Roxbury, Worcester, Harwich, and Fitchburg, Full sites are open 2 days (10-12 hours) per week with a staff coordinator. Contact us for an access technology assessment and to ask us about how we can help you. To find a program near you, or to become a volunteer trainer for this program, please contact us toll-free at 888-613-2777  or email us at ATCenter@mabcommunity.org

Would you like to teach your access technology skills to others? We’re recruiting peer volunteer trainers.

Access Tech services are now available for Spanish and Portuguese-speaking individuals.

See more details in these downloadable PDFs:

MABVI Tecnologia de Acces en Español

MABVI Tecnologia acessibilidade em Português

MABVI’s Access Technology Training Centers are made possible through grants and partnerships with the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, the Massachusetts Association of Councils on Aging, the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, the Highland Street Foundation, BNY Mellon, Boston Foundation, Consumer Technology Association Foundation, Cognex, The Ellenbogen Family, MATHWorks, the MetroWest Health Foundation, and the Memorial Foundation for the Blind in Worcester County.

See our access technology resources section for links to other local technology resources.

Jerry Feliz, Director of  MABVI’s Access Technolgy program chats with Patrick Olsen the New England Director of Acessible Pharmacy Services about their comprehensive home delivery service specializing in the needs of individuals who are blind or low-vision. Patrick was joined by Alexandra Luzier from the Mid-Atlantic division as well as the pharmacy’s founder Dr Alex Cohen PhD.

What has MABVI’s Access Technology Program Meant for Our Clients During Covid-19?
We asked participants in MABVI’s Access Technolgy program what the program has meant to them while being isolated during the Covid-19 crisis. Their response reflects the importance of social connection and the role technology has played to make that happen.

MABVI’s Access Technology Centers are offering Zoom virtual training courses. We will have a Voiceover Basics Class on Fridays at 10:00 am, Basics of Zoom meetings on Thursdays 10:00 am and 2:00 pm if needed, and HTML & Web design, Mondays at 10:00 am. For more information on how to join these classes, contact Access Tech Center Director, Jerry Feliz jfeliz@mabcommunity.org

As part of our ongoing series, MABVI’s Access Technolgy and Occupational Therapists are also providing informative videos on assistive devices or access technology in order to complete daily activities.


Services we provide

  • Volunteer Help

    We were founded by volunteers and today hundreds serve across the state. Volunteers can read mail, help with paperwork or grocery shopping, or be sighted guides for fitness and active living.

  • Support Groups

    The best support and advice is offered by people who really know what you’re going through – people who’ve had parallel experiences. Peers with shared experiences may even be able to anticipate your questions. While adjusting to vision loss, and even after you’ve grown accustomed to the change, a peer support group is a big help

    Group of seniors sitting at a table talking

  • Referrals

    MABVI makes referrals to low vision specialists throughout the state. These exams focus on how to use lighting, optical devices, and large print materials to help in your daily life.

    Woman trying on glasses, taking an eye exam