The purpose of the Friedman Place Navigator Program is to provide a broad range of case management and social services to people who are blind in order for them to achieve the greatest level of self-determination, independence, and interaction within the community.

Navigator staff inform, educate, support and empower clients who are blind or visually impaired along with their families and friends in many areas, including (but not limited to) obtaining and maintaining:

Public Programs like PACE Paratransit, Chicago’s Taxi Access Program (TAP), Medicaid, Social Security, and getting a State Identification Card

Social, vocational, educational, and housing services, especially those geared for people who are blind through referral and linkage to local agencies and government departments.

Healthcare like a local clinic or hospital services and understanding how to advocate for legally-required accommodations

To apply to our Navigator program please fill out our contact form.

ELIGIBILITY:

To be eligible, the individual must be 18 years or older, legally or totally blind, an Illinois resident, and living in the community (as opposed to a residential or similar program).

Staff are available to meet in offices in Chicago’s loop and the northwest side and – as resources allow – to accompany clients to locations such as social security, the Secretary of State’s office, banks, etc. Many services can be provided remotely by phone, email, or regular mail. Staff do not provide transportation or orientation and mobility training. There is no charge for the services.

“Friedman place has been such a blessing. For 4 years now, the Rent Assistance program has reduced the burden of paying for housing and then the Navigator program helped me find scholarships to help me get my MBA which I just completed! I feel so well cared for and it is nice to know that if I have any questions about tools and resources to be independent, the staff at Friedman place are just a phone call or email away.”

-Navigator and Rent Assistance client