Delaware Association for the Blind

Description

Delaware Association for the Blind represents 17,600 Delawareans who are visually impaired or totally blind. Many of those we serve have lost their sight later in life. The elderly, who often have other limiting health conditions, can feel isolated and unaware of supportive people in their area. Through Delaware Association for the Blind programs of life enrichment, people with visual impairments can experience life with their peers and challenge themselves through outings and activities. Door-to-door transportation is provided for all activities for Delawareans from all three counties.

Services are as follows:

• The Peer Support program provides small group and/or individual counseling and problem solving for people who have recently lost their vision or who want to be a source of encouragement for others. Volunteers who are visually impaired lead the groups. Transportation is provided.

• Program services include recreational trips and activities such as arts and crafts, music appreciation, and trips broaden people’s experiences and encourage them to stay engaged in life through social interactions.

• Camp Sunnybrook provides six-weeks of camp for up to 25 five to 15-year-olds who are visually impaired. Campers cherish this time to build friendships with their peers as they enjoy music and crafts, swim in the pool, and learn Braille. Campers often experience many "firsts" here from digging a garden to watching for birds to tying their own shoes. In the lives of many campers, these are the best days of childhood.

• Speciality Resources is a store that provides hard to find items such as white canes, talking devices, and other items. These adaptive devices allow people with vision loss to live safely and remain independent. The store manager educates shoppers about options and the proper use of the item once purchased.

• Recording Services provides home delivery of audio recordings of national, state and local news, magazines articles, and many other documents. Through this service, Delawareans can stay current on events and happenings.