Hello! We are Braille Institute, a non-profit that has been positively transforming the lives of individuals with blindness and low vision for over 100 years. We offer a range of programs, classes, and services to thousands of children and adults of all ages and all stages of vision loss. And it is all free, thanks to the generous support of our donors.
We have seven centers for blind and low vision individuals in Southern California. There’s also remote programming, our renowned library, nationwide programs like Braille Challenge
We understand losing your vision can be scary, but we believe it is not the end of independence but a new way of living. Come and learn more about us.
One Year. Lots of Impact.
Just a few ways we were able to support our community in fiscal year 2025.
Blind and visually impaired people we helped
Library and braille books delivered
Paid by those we’ve served
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Did You Know?
We have been one of America’s leading centers for blind and low vision individuals for over a century
Get to Know Us
Meet our Leaders
Annual Reports & Financial Information
Press & Media
Not sure how we can help?
Ways to Get Involved
Work With Us
Working at Braille Institute is a life-giving experience — to others, and to yourself. Find out what opportunities are available, and what it’s like to work here.
Careers
Volunteer With Us
Our volunteers are pivotal to the experiences we provide. Learn how you can give back and make a difference.
Volunteer
Support Us
Did you know there are four Friends of Braille Institute chapters and that each one creates its own dynamic fundraising events? Discover more about our chapters.
One Grateful Student
Kathryn
Student, Coachella Valley
Did You Know?
We created our very own font that is designed to improve readability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do individuals need insurance to use Braille Institute services?
If someone is losing their vision, is there someone at Braille Institute that they can talk to concerning how they are feeling?
Yes. There are various ways to obtain support in someone’s emotional adjustment to vision loss.
- One-on-one short-term adjustment counseling is available through many of our centers and even virtually online.
- Support Groups led by staff and peer facilitators are available at most centers and several community locations.
To learn more, please call us at 1-800-BRAILLE (272-4553).
When are classes offered at Braille Institute Centers?
If a doctor tells an individual to contact you, how do they get started?
It is easy to start receiving services at Braille Institute. Though not mandatory, it is helpful to bring a completed Doctor Referral Form from an ophthalmologist, optometrist, or health care provider. To schedule a Low Vision Consultation or to talk with someone about programs that may help, call 1-800-BRAILLE (272-4553).
How do I refer a client or patron to Braille Institute?
To refer someone to Braille Institute, please complete our Doctor Referral Form, then mail or fax the form to the Braille Institute at the location closest to them. Alternatively, have the person call 1-800-BRAILLE (272-4553) Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM PT. A physician referral is helpful, though not mandatory, to begin receiving all Braille Institute services.
Contact Us
We're here to help answer your questions or address your need.
Please submit your contact information and we will get back to you shortly.
Or, call 1-800-BRAILLE (272-4553) Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM PT
