Individuals in Colorado living with vision loss can now access vital support and resources through the Ensight Skills Center and the Curtis Strong Center. These organizations offer a variety of services, including low-vision optometry, occupational therapy, and mobility training, all aimed at fostering independence for people of all ages.
Melody Bettenhausen, CEO of the Ensight Skills Center, emphasized the comprehensive nature of their programs. “Our mission is to help people find services and resources to continue to be productive in society and to be independent,” she stated. This focus on independence stems from a clear need within the community.
Foundation and Growth of Ensight Skills Center
Established in 2001 by former CEO Denny Moyer in collaboration with the Fort Collins Lions Club, the Ensight Skills Center was created to address the lack of local services for individuals with visual impairments in Northern Colorado. Many residents faced challenges at home, uncertain where to seek help. The vision was to create a supportive environment where those affected by vision loss could receive the training and tools necessary for thriving in everyday life.
In 2007, Ensight expanded by acquiring the Curtis Strong Center, which has since relocated to a more accessible facility at the Greeley Medical Clinic, located at 1900 16th St., Ste. 120, Greeley, CO. The organization also operates six satellite locations from Longmont to Lakewood and runs a mobile clinic aimed at reaching rural communities throughout the western slope and eastern Colorado.
“We try to make our services as accessible as possible,” Bettenhausen noted, highlighting the importance of reaching individuals in rural areas where options for low-vision services are limited.
Comprehensive Low-Vision Rehabilitation Services
The Ensight Skills Center and the Curtis Strong Center focus on low-vision rehabilitation, enabling clients to live independently with their remaining vision instead of seeking to cure or repair eyesight. “We only do the rehab,” Bettenhausen explained. Their approach enhances daily living through the use of adaptive tools and skills.
Each client receives individualized support from a full low-vision rehabilitation team, which may include:
– Low-vision optometrist: conducts functional vision assessments.
– Occupational therapist: teaches adaptive daily living skills.
– Orientation and mobility specialist: promotes travel safety and confidence.
– Assistive technology professional: trains clients on devices and tools.
Common causes of low vision include conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and traumatic brain injuries. The team assesses each client’s remaining vision and daily challenges to create a personalized rehabilitation plan. This may involve:
– In-home or workplace occupational therapy visits.
– Learning new methods for completing daily tasks.
– Utilizing large-print labels, pill organizers, or task lighting.
– Practicing safe kitchen skills.
– Navigating home and community spaces with confidence.
Sometimes, enhancing independence can stem from small adjustments, such as marking appliances or using high-contrast cutting boards for safe meal preparation. “That’s our goal: to help people continue to do the things they have to do and want to do,” Bettenhausen stated.
In addition, the centers provide orientation and mobility training, which includes:
– White cane training.
– Guide dog readiness assessments.
– Bus route navigation.
– Community travel skills.
Ensight also assists clients in exploring the realm of assistive technology, from handheld magnifiers to electronic video magnifiers, as well as smartphone accessibility features. “We work with people to find the right devices for home, work, and community,” Bettenhausen explained, ensuring hands-on training is provided for effective use.
Growing Impact and Community Support
With a dedicated team of 14 trained and certified staff members, Ensight Skills Center and Curtis Strong Center provided direct services to 830 clients last year, a number that continues to rise as more Coloradans seek support following diagnoses of vision impairment. The organization is committed to raising awareness so that individuals do not feel they must navigate their challenges alone.
“Every year, we find new ways to serve more people,” Bettenhausen added, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to community engagement.
To sustain and expand these vital services, Ensight relies on community support, which can take various forms, including:
– Visiting the Ensight Skills Center or the Curtis Strong Center.
– Learning more at ensightskills.org.
– Donating to support low-vision services and assistive devices.
– Volunteering time, with a current goal of recruiting at least 10 additional volunteers.
“Just reach out and get a hold of us,” Bettenhausen urged. “We are here to serve our community.”
For those seeking assistance, the Ensight Skills Center is located at 1101 Oakridge Drive, Ste. C., Fort Collins, CO, and can be reached at 970.407.9999. The Curtis Strong Center can be contacted at 970.353.9417.
