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Wed 15 Mar, 2006 08:41 pm
I have the seed of an idea for starting a business. It would be to provide reading services to those who are visually impaired, such as people with macular degeneration, stroke, blind from diabetes,etc. I am a former attorney who has always loved to read. I know people can get books on tape or CD but I wonder if there is a market for someone like me who would love to share her passion for reading with those who no longer have the ability to read. I could read novels, magazines, newspapers, etc. I live in the Chicago area. I'm thinking of starting at charging $10.00 per hour. I would start advertising simply by putting up flyers in local coffee shops, grocery stores, libraries, doctors' offices, hospitals, nursing homes, etc. But first, how do I find out if there is a market for such services in my local geographic area? Does anyone have any answers to that specific question? Does anyone have any other creative ideas/ suggestions? Thank you.
where are you located? Most school systems need readers, but it's more of a social service than a business idea. You might be able to get 10/hour, but you may not. I volunteered in college.
I suggest you contact local libraries and colleges/universities.
Here in the Boston area we have the Perkins School for the Blind. Maybe they'd have some idea for you. I imagine they have a website.
Hi irisheyes,
I'm not sure if flyers are your best bet for advertising because of the nature of your audience. Probably internet-based advertising (craigslist and the like) and agencies that serve the blind would be more effective.
Here are some organizations in Chicago that can help you get the word out and probably give you some good advice:
http://www.guildfortheblind.org/
http://www.thechicagolighthouse.org/default.asp
This is national:
http://www.nfb.org/
Good luck!
