AER Orientation And Mobility Division 9 Strategic Plan 2022-2027.pdf

The Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER) Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Division (Division 9) has revised its strategic plan for the period November 2022 to November 2027. The previous plan, approved in 2017, was revised due to the need for periodic updates to address changing needs and priorities of the division membership and the O&M profession.

The revision process involved a SWOT analysis, progress review, an online survey sent to division members, and feedback from a conference session. Key themes from the survey and feedback included:

- High interest in recruitment and retention of O&M professionals
- Need for high-quality O&M personnel preparation programs
- Importance of collaboration on infrastructure design, advocacy, and research
- Desire for more information about division volunteer opportunities
- Interest in recognizing achievement beyond current awards and scholarships
- Priorities for the future of O&M: recruitment, professional liability insurance, supportive colleague environment, education, advocacy, licensure, third-party billing, research, and educational opportunities on specific topics

The plan's values, vision, and mission align with AER's overall mission and vision, emphasizing compassion, diversity, independence, and collaboration. The O&M Division's specific mission is to support and empower O&M professionals to deliver standards-based practices that lead to improved outcomes for individuals with visual impairments.

The strategic plan serves as a guide for division activities and allows for new opportunities or concerns to be addressed. It also facilitates communication between division membership and leadership.