
Each year on October 15, VABVI celebrates White Cane Awareness Day. This day serves to raise awareness for blind and visually impaired pedestrians as they travel Vermont’s streets and sidewalks. This year's events were the biggest and most successful yet! On the morning of the 15th, the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory graciously hosted a special factory tour for our Newport/St. Johnsbury PALS group, specifically designed as a tactile, hands-on experience to suit their needs. Later in the day, three simultaneous walks were held through the streets of Brattleboro, Montpelier and Rutland. Each saw huge turnouts by members, supportive citizens, area merchants and city and state representatives. A big thanks to all who attended; we hope to see you next year!
On the last day of July, approximately 40 people attended the ground breaking for the new VABVI head office on Kimball Avenue in South Burlington. The weather cooperated just long enough for a ceremony onsite before the celebration moved indoors to the Windjammer. Clients, staff and volunteers recognized several guests of honor representing our financiers, Chittenden Bank; our contractor, Neagley & Chase Construction; and our real estate company, the O’Brien Brothers Agency.
This past June, members and supporters of VABVI made merry at the Annual Dinner & Silent Auction, held at the Vermont National Country Club. Honorary guest Governor Jim Douglas was among more than 100 people in attendance. The evening began with a visually impaired putting competition, in which players were asked to wear goggles that simulate a visual impairment, and a silent auction of nearly 40 items raised over $18,000, all of which directly benefits the blind and visually impaired!
Next year's Annual Dinner and Silent Auction will be held at the Burlington Country Club on Thursday, June 4, 2009.

