Study: CABVI has $17 million impact on local economy

The Herkimer Telegram related: An impact study of the Industries for the Blind of New York State and its Affiliated Agencies conducted by the University of Buffalo details the economic and quality of life impact in communities that employ blind or visually impaired workers.

“The key for improving prospects for people who are blind and want to work is improving opportunity and that’s the goal of this impact study,” said Rudy D’Amico, president and chief executive officer of the Central Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired, during a press conference Tuesday at CABVI’s main location on Kent Street, Utica.

Eight nonprofit organizations across the state partner with IBNYS to provide employment for blind New Yorkers. According to CABVI, the study released in October 2011 showed “the economic impact of the eight agencies on the state’s economy is $168 million reflecting, $88.3 million in direct sales, through more than 21,600 orders as well as $80 million in spin-off activity in related industries.”

D’Amico said during the press conference CABVI’s economic impact in Central New York is $17 million each year, including $4.4 million in payroll. He also said Central Industries expects its revenue to exceed $37 million this year, compared to $12 million in 2000.

The conference was held inside the association’s Central Industries manufacturing area, where blind and sighted workers work side-by-side to produce goods on about 30 product lines. In 2010, the association had 200 total employees with 79 of whom were blind or visually impaired.

“There is a perception the challenges associated with the unique needs of an employee who is blind cannot be overcome. This is not true,” said D’Amico. “With CABVI’s support and that of the state Commission for the Blind we can help employers and employees achieve reasonable accommodations.”

D’Amico also said they have a goal to double the number of blind and visually impaired individuals at each IBNYS affiliate to nearly 1,000 by 2016.

“CABVI and New York are working hard to breakdown barriers in the community,” he said.

State Sen. Joseph Griffo said about 60 percent of those who are blind in New York are unemployed, and about 70 percent nationally.

“CABVI is so important in playing such a significant role for individuals who want and need that chance to work, said Griffo, R,C,I - Rome, during the press conference.
“Many individuals suffer from blindness from birth or injury and are frustrated with the challenges they have to face and confront. Trying to find a job compounds that frustration.”

Griffo said he and other legislators will continue to support the efforts of CABVI and the IBNYS.

Assemblyman Marc Butler was among the state legislators who showed their support for CABVI, which serves those in Herkimer, Fulton, Montgomery, Oneida, Jefferson, Lewis and northern Otsego counties, during the press conference.

“Many of us have believed in the high quality and reliable workforce here at CABVI and now its there in black and white,” said Butler, R,C,I - Newport, about the study after the press conference.

Butler said by supporting their efforts, they are “helping these people and helping the economy.”