HVLOP and Intervenor/SSP Programs
Martha H. holds the position of Hearing and Vision Loss Specialist (Deaf/Blind) at the Duluth Lighthouse for the Blind. The services she offers to the community include assessment and appropriate referrals for consumers who are experiencing significant hearing and vision losses. Independent Living Skills training, self-advocacy information, case management and follow-up with consumers are also major portions of the HVLOP.
Staff training for other agencies in the area of hearing and vision loss is provided by the HVLOP staff and other Lighthouse staff as requested. Resource files, facilitation of support groups, and educational presentations are other parts of the community services available through Martha and the Intervenor/SSP staff.
The Intervenor program staff, Julaine Netzel and Brenda Alanen, are supervised by the HVLOP Specialist and provide well-qualified, specialized services. Both Intervenors are skilled in various communication methods used by persons with the dual sensory loss and customize their work according to each person’s needs.
Services and activities available with the Intervenors include assistance with auditory and visual information while shopping, attending to appointments, transportation, and personal or social errands. Consumer needs and available family input determine many of the referrals and individual goals while participating in the HVLOP and Intervenor programs.
