Summer 2006 Edition
On this page (click on a topic to go directly to it):
- The Power of Determined, Enthusiastic Giving
- Low Vision Services in Carbon County
- Improving the Vision of Children in Need
Click here to request the newsletter.
The Power of Determined, Enthusiastic Giving
Lehigh Valley Martial Arts under the leadership of ABVI Board Member Paul Miller, worked long and hard to raise funds for ABVI through our Pathways to Independence Walk held June 2, 2007. When asked about his kids' efforts this year Paul indicated that he was "so proud of the group this year and their efforts. They were innovative in their ability in varying the forms of raising money for the walk." Paul indicated that he views their participation in fundraising activities such as ABVI's Pathways to Independence Walk as a progressive way to develop their leadership skills so that they can utilize their mental powers for a greater chance for success in life.
One family in particular stands out in their creative methods of fundraising. Dylan and Cody with their Mother Annette (above), developed a "give back' method of fundraising that raised $50.00 in two hours time. They walked through their neighborhood dressed in their Kung Fu Ghees, Dylan wearing his green sash and Cody his yellow one, knocking on their neighbor's doors. They indicated to the neighbors that if they donated anything "from one dollar to a million dollars" to ABVI's Pathways to Independence Walk, that they would show them a Kung Fu move. Dylan demonstrated the Tiger Set, and Cody performed the Walking the Web set which is strategic moves enabling blocking and defense against blows. According to the boys' Mom Annette, this approach intrigued the donors. They gave the boys feedback about their honest, compassionate, authentic approach, and they felt that they received something back for their donation. Annette indicated that she felt this was a good experience for her boys. She volunteers in several places in the community and her goal for her boys is that they also become community volunteers. Our thanks to all who contributed
Low Vision Services in Carbon County
By John, Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist, Certified Low Vision Therapist
Last September, ABVI launched Low Vision Services, a service that helps people with low vision make the best use of the remaining vision. Low Vision Services is unique in that it travels throughout Lehigh County, setting up clinics in senior centers and housing facilities to make access to the service easier.
This spring and summer, Low Vision Services went even further, holding several clinics in Palmerton to serve Carbon County. The first was at the Village at Palmerton in May. In addition to serving six residents of the facility and larger community, a seminar was held for the general community giving over thirty individuals an overview of ABVI services.
"Having A.B.V.I. visit our facility and the area brought to light the real need for the type of
services that A.B.V.I. provides," said Jennifer Ebert, Director of Marketing and Admissions at The
Village at Palmerton. "I heard many people say that their doctor told them that there was nothing
else that they could do. A.B.V.I. shows them that there is a "Plan B." Our residents are some of
those exact people, who are now receiving assistance through their programs to learn how to cope
with the loss of vision."
ABVI looks forward to continuing to provide education and rehabilitation services in Carbon County.
For more information about our services, please call
Donna, Program Supervisor,
at 610-433-6018, Ext. 15.
Improving the Vision of Children in Need
By Bill, Prevention Coordinator
Pamela J. didn't know where to turn. A single mother of five children, she had recently been laid off from her job and lost her medical coverage. Her nine-year old son Ezekiel was in desperate need of a new pair of eyeglasses, which she could not afford. A friend told her about the ABVI Remedial Eye Care Program, and she phoned our office requesting any assistance we could provide. A Remedial Eye Care application was mailed to Pamela, which she completed and submitted. After reviewing the application, Ezekiel was approved to receive an eye exam and eyeglasses from one of the many local eye care professionals who have teamed with ABVI to provide their services at a reduced rate. A voucher was mailed to Pamela with information about scheduling the appointment. Upon Ezekiel's eye examination, it was determined that he needed polycarbonate lenses to protect his eyes. Ezekiel had cataract surgery at the age of two and has no lenses covering his eyes. Additional funding was approved for the shatterproof lenses.
Pamela is relieved knowing that Ezekiel has the proper lenses to protect his eyes and is grateful to ABVI for procuring them. With his new glasses, Ezekiel can continue on the road to educational success as a 4th grade Honor Roll student.
Eye exams and eyeglasses obtained through the ABVI Remedial Eye Care Program directly impact a person's life. Because of the generosity of the Allentown Lions Club, local area foundations and our donors, our partners and supporters in our work, children can succeed in school, seniors can remain independent and adults can find employment.
Association for the Blind &
Visually Impaired
614 North 13th Street
Allentown, PA 18102-2199
Copyright©2006