Welcome
 
 
White Cane Awareness Day
Supporting Students Workshop
Ground Breaking  Annual Dinner
In November VABVI had the distinction of hosting this year's annual conference for the Northeast Chapter of the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (NE/AER) at the Stoweflake Resort in Stowe. VABVI's dedicated Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVI) did a fantastic job organizing and running the conference, which attracted international professionals in the fields of service and rehabilitation for the blind and visually impaired. Michael May, keynote speaker, is the recent recipient of a successful vision restoration surgery and subsequently the subject of a book about his life and achievements, which is presently being turned into a major motion picture.

Back To Top

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!

Back To Top
On September 26, VABVI held a day-long educational workshop for families, para-educators and teachers of visually impaired students. Participants experimented with special goggles that sumulated impauired vision, then ate meals and socialized while blindfolded. These exercises helped family members and educators better understand the challenges visually impaired children face and provided insight to helping these kids overcome obstacles. Learning and reading strategies were also discussed for students who read large print and Braille.

Back To Top

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.

Back To Top

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!

 

Back To Top

 

Next year's Annual Dinner and Silent Auction will be held at the Burlington Country Club on Thursday, June 4, 2009.