"Sights from the Past — Visions for the Future" celebrated the Center's rich history while looking to the successes of tomorrow.

Supporters, staff members, parents, and alumni converged at Andrei's Conscious Cuisine on Thursday, February 9, 2017, to celebrate Blind Children's Learning Center's (BCLC) 55 years of service.

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Guests were encouraged to participate in interactive displays which demonstrate the many techniques used to prepare children with visual impairments for independence. Historical displays around the event space illustrated the progress and achievements made over the 55 years. Founded as Services for the Blind, Inc. by five blind individuals, Blind Children's Learning Center focused on practical skills like Braille typing, sewing, cooking, and safe white cane navigation. The Center quickly adopted an early intervention approach to give children who are blind and visually impaired the best foundation possible.

The comprehensive programs of Blind Children's Learning Center give children many opportunities to overcome the barriers of a visual impairment at an early age. 

The Center was thrilled to recognize alumni and former staff members in attendance who paved the way for the meaningful work of today. Alumna parent Rebecca Harrison's speech highlighted the ways that programs of BCLC met the unique needs of her daughter, Natalie. The story of how she exceeded expectations once her visual impairments were properly addressed is a story so familiar to BCLC families.

More than ever, children with visual impairments need support from caring community members to meet their potential and gain independence.

Continue the Legacy

The Dhont Family Foundation's stepped forward with an incredible $55,000 matching gift in honor of this special occasion and to motivate others to support the important work of today and tomorrow.

Blind Children's Learning Center would also like to thank The Andrei Foundation for helping offset the costs of bringing people together in this one-of-a-kind manner. Collaborative partner Marshall B. Ketchum University gave guests a look to the future by displaying adaptive technology that will make the world more accessible to those with visual impairments. To the attendees and donors who make this event a spectacular success, thank you for prioritizing the needs and unique potential of children with visual impairments. 

​Early Braille and mobility training build a strong foundation for future success by giving children confidence to move through the world independently. A highly inclusive environment allows children with visual impairments to learn and play alongside children with sight. It becomes difficult to tell the visually impaired and sighted students apart because both share the same spirit of independence.

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