Historical Marker

New Mexico Commission for the Blind Orientation Center


The Orientation Center teaches persons who are blind or visually impaired the skills to live independently and work competitively. Originally part of the New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, the “Training Center” opened in 1949 before integrated work became the preferred choice. In the "sheltered shop" graduates made brooms and cane products. NMSBVI transferred the center to the Commission for the Blind in 1968.