The VA Palo Alto Visual Impairment Services Team (VIST) in conjunction with the Santa Clara Valley Blind Center are pleased to announce The Visually Impaired Veterans Access (VIVA) Rally at the Santa Clara Valley Blind Center, 101 N. Bascom Ave., San Jose, CA, on Thursday, February 16, 2012, from 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM. VIVA is a community event focused on providing first-line access and information to visually-impaired, low vision and blind veterans and Active-Duty Service Members (ADSM) of all eras.

The Department of Veterans Affairs Blind Rehabilitation Service provides veterans and ADSM with the latest in adaptive training and equipment for overcoming vision loss and related life challenges. Regardless of causality, period of service or degree of impairment, the VA provides services to over 3,000 veterans and ADSM in the VA Sierra-Pacific Healthcare System. The VIVA Rally will feature premier services such as leading –edge research into a broad spectrum of rehabilitation and technology to benefit persons with vision loss. The 20-30 minute presentations will feature VA staff researchers specialized in the physical and psychological aspects of visual impairment. Following each presentation a Q&A opportunity will be provided. There are 4 key presentations scheduled and additional facilities are provided for showcasing the range of VA Rehabilitative skills offered at the Western Blind Rehabilitation Center. Additionally, specialists in benefits and registration/eligibility will be available on site.

The event is open to all veterans, family members, caregivers and persons interested in assisting veterans with significant visual impairments.

Bus routes 61, 62, 23 - Minutes from Diridon Train Station.