Tiena Jordan-Kidd is the new Vision Access Advocate with LIFE Center for Independent Living (LIFE CIL). She began working at LIFE CIL on March 3, 2025, and oversees LIFE CIL’s Older Blind Services program. She provides information and referral, independent living training, peer mentoring and advocacy assistance for people with low vision or blindness. Additionally, she facilitates monthly low vision support groups, providing low vision and assistive devices at no charge Tiena retired after 25 years from the State of Illinois, School for the Visually Impaired, working with students who are blind and visually impaired, from pre-school age to adulthood. As a legally blind, individual, and a parent of three visually impaired children, Tiena’s experience helps lay a firm foundation to connect with, and support individuals with vision loss. Tiena worked closely with diverse communities to promote accessibility and inclusion. She is particularly drawn to this role because it aligns perfectly with her passion for advancing integration and equality for all individuals with accessibility needs. Tiena moved to Normal IL in December 2023 and she is looking forward to being a vital member of the LIFE CIL team, and meeting new people in the Bloomington Normal community. In her spare time Tiena is a freelance balloon décor artist. She enjoys music, cooking and says “Family is EVERYTHING”.