Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired Celebrates 63 Years of Service

Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired (GDABVI) began in 1961 as a nonprofit called the Metropolitan Society for the Blind to provide direct services to people in Metro Detroit who were blind or visually impaired and to provide consultation and staff training to health agencies and educational institutions. In 1970, the organization merged with the Detroit Society for the Prevention of Blindness.

In 2005, the organization sought out a more clearly recognizable identity and changed its name to the Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired. As it has since its beginnings, the Agency continues to help residents with visual impairments to achieve and maintain independence. The Agency works with a variety of community partners to increase awareness about blindness and its impact on individuals, their families, and the community – including attitudes that place limitations on people who are blind or visually impaired.

The GDABVI offers many services to our clients, but there are three services of which we are most proud:

•  Orientation & Mobility (O & M)
  • Evaluations and Training Sessions
  • Safe traveling and transportation for home, work and play

•  Technology
  • Computer and Keyboard Training
  • Tablet and Smartphone Training
• Special Services
  • Support Groups such as Blind Bingo and Book Club
  • Recreational Activities such as Blind Bingo and Book Club
  • Outings such as trips to Museums and Parks, and Movie Nights

At GDABVI, our quest for equity expresses itself in three primary ways:

First, we believe that everyone has a right to the healthiest vision possible. Eye care should not be limited by barriers such as access to proper healthcare, reliable transportation, nutritious food, safe and affordable housing, or a good education. We provide social services navigation to help clients overcome these challenges. Additionally, GDABVI’s vision preservation efforts include generating awareness around healthy living behaviors and chronic disease management.

Secondly, we offer a safe and inclusive environment for those who have lost their vision. From our core values to our physical space, our teaching staff, and educational methods, to events and activities, our agency embraces and demonstrates diversity, equity, inclusivity, belonging, and justice.

Finally, we advocate for the people we serve and support those who advocate for the rights of individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or disabled. Thank you for allowing us to share some of what GDABVI does, supporting our clients. We are privileged to work with so many amazing and selfless individuals.

GDABVI is pleased to welcome the following new members to the Board of Trustees:

• Nancy Brown
• John C. Scott
• Dr. Bernard Miller, O.D
• Justice Richard Bernstein

Learn more: https://www.lifebeyondsight.org
View the full annual report: https://www.lifebeyondsight.org/annualreport
Donate: https://www.lifebeyondsight.org/donate