Thank you for your interest in Oregon Commission for the Blind's Summer Work Experience Program (SWEP)! We are excited to share some changes to SWEP; we have two options:

1. SWEP: 2026 Emerging Leaders (previously known as Portland SWEP)
  • Runs June 20th to August 1st
  • Orientation Day on Saturday, May 30th
  • Residential program location TBA
  • Includes a paid Work Experience set up by OCB
2. SWEP: 2026 Explorations – New! (previously Salem and community-based SWEP, now combined and allows students to choose from a menu of options)
  • Runs June 22nd to July 23rd (but dates may be flexible depending on student/employer need)
  • New this year, Orientation Day on Saturday, June 6th.
  • Optional two-week residential component in July (dates TBA) in Vancouver WA in partnership with Washington's Department of Services for the Blind and Washington School for the Blind's YES 1 program. To learn more visit YES 1 | Department of Services for the Blind.
  • Optional community-based paid Work Experience set up by OCB (based on available resources in the student's community)
  • Optional recreational and Progressive Employment opportunities (e.g., activities arranged through Northwest Association of Blind Athletes, company tours, mock interviews, and other programming provided online or in the student's community)
If you are not sure what options are the best fit for you/your Student, we encourage you to apply anyway and we can chat about it! For questions or if you need help with this survey please contact Vinnie Gwozdz at (503) 720-7065 or Vincent.Gwozdz@ocb.oregon.gov.

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