White Canes Connect

In this episode of White Canes Connect, Preston and David talk with Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee Company. Erin tells us why and how the company got started. Bob discusses how Covid slowed their expansion plans, but now they are in a larger location in Warren, PA. He also mentions that the company is negotiating with officials in the UK to open a site in Coventry, England. Erin gets us hungry by discussing some of the in-house baked goods.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/072

Learn More About White Cane Coffee

Learn more about the company and place orders at https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. That link is an affiliate link, meaning if you click it and purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a small commission. If you want to become an affiliate with White Cane Coffee, go to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/affiliate/. It is free to sign-up! You can also order by phone: (814) 218-2837.

White Cane Coffee Press Coverage

Erin was recently featured on the cover of Global Business Leader Magazine. Read the story at https://globalbusinessleadersmag.com/the-10-exemplary-companies-of-the-year-2022/. Coverage in The Daily Local: https://yourdailylocal.com/white-cane-coffee-ceo-willman-recognized-with-global-ceo-excellence-award/.

Connect With White Cane Coffee Company

• Email Bob Willman: [email protected]
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitecanecoffee
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/whitecanecoffee
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitecanecoffee_/

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "Hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | IHeartRadio

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or show ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

Welcome to our May 2023 monthly Digest: a monthly newsletter of the

National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania!

During the first few days of the month, we will start sending out our

calendar of events. These events will be within the National Federation of

the Blind of Pennsylvania as well as any pertinent information from the

National Federation of the Blind and the Pennsylvania blind community.

If you or anyone you know have any upcoming events or information that can

pertain to the blind community in Pennsylvania, please send them to Stacie

Leap at [email protected] by the 29th of the month so it can be added

to our calendar for the following month.

For those using screen readers, you can use your heading navigations to

skip around the email.

1. Google Calendar Links

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania also has a Google

Calendar that can be viewed either through the web or subscribed to your

calendar apps.

You can view the calendar without subscribing to it and view it on your web

browser by clicking: View our Google Calendar

https://calendar.google.com/calendar/embed?src=7jgal0nrodbmg61a8aar0o3i2g%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America%2FNew_York>

However, if you wish to subscribe to the calendar and get the events on

your calendar apps, please click Subscribe

https://calendar.google.com/calendar/ical/7jgal0nrodbmg61a8aar0o3i2g%40group.calendar.google.com/public/basic.ics>

and go through the steps to subscribe:

2. Member Spotlight" Emily Gindlesperger

Each month, we will highlight someone within our affiliate. The goal is to

allow other members to learn about other members within the affiliate. We

hope you enjoy this little spotlight!

Emily Gindlesperger serves as our affiliate as the 2nd Vice President. She

was also nominated to be our Legislative Director and 2023 Convention

Chair. As Legislative Director, she is the lead on our Washington Seminar

events where a group of people talk and advocate to our federal legislators

on issues affecting our Pennsylvania blind community. She is also the

President of the Pennsylvania Organization of Parents of Blind Children

(PAOPBC). She sits with other parents at IEP meetings in order to ensure

the best accommodations for blind children. A mother of two, enjoys baking

cookies and making soup. She likes to network with other people at the

annual state convention so if you get a chance to meet her, do not forget

to say "Hello!"

3. Calendar of Events

The following events are also on our Google calendar with the Zoom

information. If anyone within a chapter, division, or group see any errors

or misinformation, please contact Stacie Leap at [email protected]

The below information is correct as of the first week of the month. The

information is most up-to-date on the Google Calendar so please check back

periodically to ensure the right information.

Jigsaw Chapter monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who do not have a local chapter in their

geographical area. This is our at-large chapter. Meetings

Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 10 AM ET

Deaf Blind Division Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who consider themselves to be Deaf Blind and

their supporters.

Monday, May 8, 2023 at 6PM ET

Pennsylvania Organization of Parents of Blind Children (PAOPBC) Monthly

Meeting

a monthly meeting for parents of blind children and their supporters

Tuesday, May 9, 2023 at 11 AM ET

Pennsylvania Association of Blind Merchants (PABM) Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who are or wish to be involved with the

Business Enterprise Program, entrepreneurship and their supporters.

Wednesday, May 10, 2023 at 6PM ET

Greater Berks Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Berks County of

Pennsylvania

Friday, May 12, 2023 at 10 AM ET

Greater Lehigh Valley Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Lehigh Valley region of

Pennsylvania. This includes Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and the

surrounding areas.

Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 10 AM ET.

Keystone Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Philadelphia area.

This is one of two local chapters in the Greater Philadelphia area. The

other chapter is the Greater Philadelphia Chapter.

Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 10:15AM ET

Pittsburgh Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Pittsburgh area.

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at 6PM ET

Capital Area Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Harrisburg area.

Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 10 AM ET

Greater Philadelphia Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Philadelphia area. This

is one of two local chapters in the Greater Philadelphia area. The other

chapter is the Keystone Chapter.

Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 10 AM ET

Erie County Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in Erie County Pennsylvania.

Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 2PM ET

Blind Parents Group Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for blind parents, grandparents, and their supporters

Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 7PM ET

Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students (PABS) Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for blind students of all ages and their supporters.

Monday, May 22, 2023 at 7PM ET

Blind Seniors Group Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who are seniors or almost seniors as well as

their supporters.

Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at 7:30PM ET

Brandywine Valley Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Brandywine Valley.

Saturday, May 27, 2023 at 10 AM ET

Pennsylvania Association of Guide Dog Users (PAGDU) Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who have or are considering getting a guide

dog as well as their supporters.

Saturday, May 27, 2023 at 4pm ET

4. White Canes Connect Podcast

Did you know that the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania has

a podcast? It is hosted by members David Goldstein and Lisa Bryant. It

features interviews with our PA members as well as interviews and resources

for the blind community. You can listen to it wherever you listen to

podcasts.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709>,

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI>, Amazon Music

https://www.amazon.com/White-Canes-Connect/dp/B08K5B6683/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=white+canes+connect&qid=1636149501&qsid=139-0343126-3565115&s=audible&sr=1-1&sres=B08K5B6683,B07P88N4RS,B008U2QT28,B00MFS7BT8&srpt=WALKING_STICK>

, IHeartRadio

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-white-canes-connect-89603482/>,

and on Twitter

@PABlindPodcast https://www.twitter.com/pablindpodcast>. Contact White

Canes Connect at [email protected] if you have any show ideas or

wish to be on the podcast.

5. National Convention 2023

*Registration is now open for the 2023 National Convention. Tickets are $25

and banquet tickets are $70. The convention will take place in Houston,

Texas from July 1-6, 2023. Hotel information and registration links are at *

*www.nfb.org/convention* http://www.nfb.org/convention>

6. Special Shout-Outs! Birthday Wishes

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania would like to wish all

those who were born in May a very happy birthday!

Thank you, Mom!

The NFB of PA would also like to extend our gratitude to all mothers and

mother figures! Thank you for all your hard work, perseverance. Love, and

support! Happy Mother's Day!

Congratulations to Cheryl Frazier!

We would like to congratulate Cheryl Frazier for being nominated as the

President of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chapter at their April 2023 meeting.

She previously served the role of Vice President! Congratulations!!!

A Message from Stacie Leap

"Hello Federation family! Thank you to everybody for all your well wishes,

positive thoughts, and prayers as I went through a big medical emergency. I

ended up with a bad case of pneumonia that ended up affecting a lot of my

already existing health conditions. I am slowly regaining my health and

slowly taking on responsibilities. This past month has helped me reflect on

my health and I will be taking more time focusing on my health instead of

pushing it off to the side. I thank those who called, texted, and showed up

to help. I really, really, really appreciate all of you!"

7. Fundraisers PAOPBC Chocolate Fundraiser

The Pennsylvania Organization of Parents of Blind Children ended their

Sarris Chocolate fundraiser and would like to thank everybody who helped

make the fundraiser a success!

Community Service Division to bring their boxes of love service project to

national convention!

The National Federation of the Blind Community Service Division will

participate in a service project on Sunday, July 2, 2023. We are partnering

with The Ronald McDonald House in Houston, Texas.

Our division's goal is to fill 100 Bags of Love. The items we need to

collect are below:

· Individual variety snacks (Chips, Crackers, Cereal/Granola Bars of

any kind)

· Ramen noodles

· Shampoo/Conditioners

· Toothbrushes/Hair Brushes

· Toothpaste

· Disinfectant Wipes

· Ziploc Bags of all sizes

· wet wipes

· mouthwash

· lotion

· bath towels or sponges

· hand sanitizer

· razors

· deodorant (all types)

· body wash (bars or bottle)

These brand-new products can be trial or any size. Also, if you plan to

mail your products to our division president, they will need to be mailed

by Wednesday, May 31, 2023. If you have questions, please contact Jeanetta

Price at 409-344-1005.

Mailing Address

Jeanetta Price

8035 San Bruno Street

Beaumont, Texas 77708

Blind Parents Group T-Shirts Fundraiser

The Blind Parents Group still has some t-shirts left over from our

fundraising efforts at the state convention. The t-shirts come in either

black with white letterings or white with black letterings. Both shirts say

"I Support #BlindParents" with the NFB of PA Logo and "Blind Parents Group"

at the bottom. Funds raised will start a scholarship fund to assist blind

or visually impaired parents and their family through financial life

hardships. To purchase a t-shirt, please contact Stacie Leap at

[email protected]

8. Other External Events

These events are not hosted or sponsored by the NFB or the NFB of PA.

However, we think these might be good resources for those living in

Pennsylvania. If you have any events that you wish to be in our monthly

digest, please email Stacie Leap at [email protected]

SEPTA Advisory Council Meeting Postponed

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority typically holds monthly

advisory council meetings to the public; however, meetings are postponed

until further notice. There was a May meeting scheduled but it was

canceled. Please see the letter sent to the Advisory Council and public.

This was sent out in February 2023.

Good afternoon, SAC members and general public,

I regret to inform you that the February 9, 2023, SAC meeting is

canceled. SEPTA must complete an internal investigation regarding the

conduction of SAC meetings.

SAC meetings will resume upon SAC chairs and SEPTA coming to a resolution

on their internal issues. We apologize for any inconvenience this may

cause.

Sincerely,

The SAC chairs

John Jon Awareness Walk

Our member Lyvette Byrd is putting on her 2nd Annual John Jon Awareness

Walk on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at the John Heinz Wildlife Refuge Park in

Philadelphia, PA. It is to raise awareness about people with different

abilities and to honor their advocates. More information and registration

coming soon!

Liberty Resources' Blind/Low Vision Support Group

Our members Karen Rose and Simone Cooper partner up with Liberty Resources

to hold a weekly virtual support group at Liberty Resources. The aim is to

share resources and provide support to those experiencing blindness or low

vision. Meetings are weekly on Tuesdays from 1pm to 2pm ET via Zoom. You do

not need to live in Philadelphia to attend these meetings, this is open to

all in Pennsylvania! For more information or to sign-up, please email

Latoya Maddox at [email protected]

Vision Thru Art

Vision Thru Art is a weekly sculpture class for blind and visually-impaired

artists that has been running at Allens Lane Art Center for more than 30

years. Our dedicated faculty, staff and volunteers help the students

express their inner vision through a variety of media including clay, wood,

mosaic, stone and other mixed materials. The students are encouraged to

work at their own pace while enjoying the easy-going social atmosphere of

the class. In 2014, Allens Lane Art Center made the class completely free

for all the students including free art supplies each year.

*Location:* The Fluhr Studio - (downstairs back studio accessible by rear

entrance). Many of the students use Para-transit to get to the class.

Service dogs are of course welcome.

*Day/Time:* Wednesday, 10:30 am – 12:30pm and Friday 10:30 am – 12:30pm.

*Fees:* There are no fees for this class.

*Registration:* Contact by phone (215-248-0546) or by

https://allenslane.org/vision-thru-art/

Women Healed For A Purpose 2023 Conference!

Our member Lyvette Byrd is hosting her 2nd Annual Women Healed For a

Purpose Conference under her business, For The Byrds Consulting, LLC. The

mission of the conference is to equip and restore the community through a

faith-based initiative that we hope will strengthen women holistically;

mind, body, and spirit.

We are women Living Interdependently in support of Family, Friends, and our

Fellow neighbors to Educate and Empower our community. The event will be on

Saturday, October 28, 2023. More details about the event will come at a

later date!

9. NFB Pledge

I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation

of the Blind; to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind;

to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its

constitution.

10. NFB Message

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the

characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the

expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles

between blind people and our dreams.

Many thanks to everybody for all they do within the Federation!

It's time to play ball! Beep baseball that is. In this episode of White Canes Connect, we learn about the sport and the Philadelphia Fire of the National Beep Baseball Association from John Margist and Scott Hogwood. Scott tells us about the zones in the field where the defensive players are while John explains what the sighted spotters can and can't do. Scott and John stated that the team is ALWAYS looking for new players and volunteers.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/070

Connect with the Philadelphia Fire Beep Baseball Team

Learn more about the team and watch their games on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063545075205. You can message the team there, too. You can also contact John Margist at (484) 988-2377. Learn more about where the team practices in the winter at https://www.southphillysportstraining.com/.

Blind Sports Organization Information

You can learn more about Beep Baseball and other sports for blind people, including youth sports, at https://www.blindsports.org/. You can also make donations for the Philadelphia Fire on this site by clicking the Donate button on the upper right side of every page.

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "Hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | IHeartRadio

Listen on YouTube

You can listen to episodes on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast.

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or show ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

In this episode of White Canes Connect, we learn how to win one of three $10,000 travel grants from Flight for Sight founder Mike Walsh. Mike explains why he started the non-profit and what he wants from the three winning applicants. He hopes the winners will inspire blind and visually impaired people to get off their couches and travel.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/069

Apply For A $10,000 Travel Grant From Flight for Sight

If you have a great travel idea and can inspire and educate, apply for a $10,000 grant at https://www.flightforsight.net/apply-for-grants/. The application deadline is May 1, 2023. If you need some ideas, check out https://www.flightforsight.net/ideas/.

Learn More About Flight for Sight

Learn more about Flight for Sight and read their latest blog posts at https://www.flightforsight.net. If you have questions, reach out to Mike Walsh at [email protected].

Flight for Sight On Social Media

-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flightforsight

-TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flightforsight

-Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/flightforsight/

-Twitter: https://twitter.com/flightforsight

-YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flightforsight

-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flightforsight/

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "Hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | IHeartRadio

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or show ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

In this episode of White Canes Connect, we get to know Preston Gaylor, the Secretary of the Jigsaw Chapter. Preston is a co-host on two other podcasts, and that is why we thought he'd be a great contributor to White Canes Connect. He will fill in for Lisa occasionally. When not working on Radio Connect Live and Visioncast with JC & Friends, he loves listening to music. Preston is doing great work with the Lions Club. He is also the moderator of a couple of Facebook groups. Preston also tells us about his love for Pittsburgh's three professional sports teams.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/068

Listen to Preston's Other Podcasts

You can hear Preston on Radio Connection Live on Spotify at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rclthepodcast. He is also one of the "Friends" on Visioncast with JC & Friends at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/preston-gaylor.

Connect with Preston Gaylor on Social Media

You can find Preston on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/prestonpdaddy/. He's on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/preston.gaylor. Check out his YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@prestongaylor1232. He's also on Snapchat and Clubhouse.

Other Blind-Related Podcasts Preston Mentioned

Some of the other podcasts that Preston enjoys are AppleVis and All Cool Blind Tech. David enjoys listening to That Real Blind Tech Show.

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "Hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | IHeartRadio

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or show ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

In this episode of White Canes Connect, we look at the calendar of events within the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania and any pertinent information from the National Federation of the Blind and the Pennsylvania blind community.

Special Note: Stacie Leap has been doing a fantastic job assisting with the Monthly Digest. This month, Stacie is feeling under the weather. We all share our thoughts and prayers for Stacie's quick recovery.

Thank you.

Hello everybody!

Welcome to our April 2023 monthly Digest: a monthly newsletter of the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania!

During the first few days of the month, we will start sending out our calendar of events. These events will be within the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania and any pertinent information from the National Federation of the Blind and the Pennsylvania blind community.

If you or anyone you know have any upcoming events or information about the blind community in Pennsylvania, please send them to Stacie Leap at [email protected] by the 29th of the month for inclusion in our calendar the following month.

For those using screen readers, you can use your heading navigations to skip around the email.

A Message from our Affiliate President

04/01/2023

Welcome to this Month's Issue of the Digest!

No, this is not an April Fools Joke!

Spring has sprung, and we look forward to a month filled with outreach opportunities.

If you need literature for any outreach event, call the National Center at (410) 659-9314 and select option 3 for the Independence Market. All literature is mailed Free Reading Matter within a week of you placing the order.

Please inform us of any outreaches you are participating in and approximately how many individuals you speak with. This information is good for us when requesting grants to assist members.

NFB of PA April Raffle

Thank you to everyone who purchased raffle tickets! Get your Tickets ready! The time is here! If you bought an NFB of PA Spring raffle ticket, get your numbers ready. The month is finally here.

Please check out the calendar events for upcoming meetings and seminars available!

- Lynn Heitz, NFB of PA State Affiliate President

Membership Dues for 2023

We are still collecting dues for 2023! Please get in touch with your chapter and divisions for membership dues; each has different amounts.

Google Calendar Links

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania also has a Google Calendar available online or subscribed to your calendar apps.

You can view the calendar without subscribing to it and view it on your web browser by clicking the following link:

https://calendar.google.com/calendar/embed?src=7jgal0nrodbmg61a8aar0o3i2g%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America%2FNew_York

However, if you wish to subscribe to the calendar and get the events on your calendar apps, please click the following link and go through the steps to subscribe: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/ical/7jgal0nrodbmg61a8aar0o3i2g%40group.calendar.google.com/public/basic.ics

Member Spotlight" Connie Scheu

Each month, we will highlight someone within our affiliate. The goal is to allow other members to learn about other members within the affiliate. We hope you enjoy this little spotlight!

Connie Scheu holds many roles within the affiliate. She is one of the Board Directors for our State Affiliate. Connie also helps with the Erie County Chapter meetings and co-chairs our newly formed group: Blind Seniors. She also assisted in restarting the Senior Possibilities Fair at our 2022 State Convention, along with other volunteers. With all that, she also loves to sing Karaoke. If you attended our 2022 State Convention, you would have heard her beautiful voice singing Karaoke at the Talent Showcase! If you ever get a chance to meet her in person, make sure you say "Hello!"

Calendar of Events

The following events are also on our Google calendar with the Zoom information. If anyone within a chapter, division, or group sees any errors or misinformation, please get in touch with Stacie Leap at [email protected] or text (215) 776-6741.

The below information is correct as of the first week of the month. The information is most up-to-date on the Google Calendar, so please check back periodically to ensure accurate information.

Coffee With The President & Board

Bring your coffee and questions to this virtual town hall with NFB of PA President Lynn Heitz and affiliate board members.

Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at 7:00 pm ET

Jigsaw Chapter Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who do not have a local chapter in their geographical area. This is our at-large chapter.

Saturday, April 1, 2023, at 10:00 am ET

Erie County Chapter Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Saturday, April 15, 2023, at 2:00 pm ET

Pennsylvania Association of Blind Merchants (PABM) Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who are or wish to be involved with the Business Enterprise Program, entrepreneurship, and their supporters.

Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at 6 pm ET

Greater Berks Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Berks County of Pennsylvania

Friday, April 14, 2023, at 10 am ET

Keystone Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Philadelphia area. Keystone is one of two local chapters in the Philadelphia area.

Saturday, April 8, 2023, at 10:15 am ET

Deaf-Blind Division Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who consider themselves Deaf-Blind and their supporters.

Monday, April 10, 2023, at 6 pm ET

Pennsylvania Organization of Parents of Blind Children (PAOPBC) Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for parents of blind children and their supporters

Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at 11 am ET

Pittsburgh Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Pittsburgh area.

Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at 6 pm ET

Capital Area Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Harrisburg area.

Saturday, April 15, 2023, at 10 am ET

Blind Parents Group Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for blind parents, grandparents, and their supporters

Saturday, April 15, 2023, at 7 pm ET

Blind Seniors Group

a monthly meeting for seniors or almost seniors as well as their supporters.

Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at 7:30 pm ET

Brandywine Valley Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Brandywine Valley.

Saturday, April 22, 2023, at 10 am ET

Greater Philadelphia Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Philadelphia area. Greater Philadelphia is one of two local chapters in the Philadelphia area.

Saturday, April 22, 2023, at 10 am ET

Pennsylvania Association of Guide Dog Users (PAGDU)

a monthly meeting for those who have or are considering getting a guide dog and their supporters.

Saturday, April 22, 2023, at 4 pm ET

Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students (PABS) Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for blind students of all ages and their supporters.

Monday, April 25, 2023, at 7 pm ET

White Canes Connect Podcast

Did you know the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania has a podcast? Members David Goldstein and Lisa Bryant host. It features interviews with our PA members and interviews and resources for the blind community. You can listen to it wherever you listen to podcasts.

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, IHeartRadio, and Twitter @PABlindPodcast. Contact White Canes Connect at [email protected] if you have any show ideas or wish to be on the podcast.

Birthday Wishes and Special Occasions

Birthday Wishes!

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania would like to wish all those who were born in April a very happy birthday!

Blind Parents Group T-Shirts Fundraiser

The Blind Parents Group still has some t-shirts left over from our fundraising efforts at the state convention. The t-shirts come in either black with white lettering or white with black lettering. Both shirts say "I Support #BlindParents" with the NFB of PA Logo and "Blind Parents Group" at the bottom. Funds raised will start scholarship funds to assist blind or visually impaired parents and their families through financial hardships. To purchase a t-shirt, please get in touch with Stacie Leap at [email protected]

Past: Happy Valley Powerhouse Sub Fundraiser

The Happy Valley recently had its Powerhouse Subs fundraiser that ended earlier this month. They want to thank everybody who helped make this fundraiser a success!

Other External Events

These events are not hosted or sponsored by the NFB or the NFB of PA. However, these might be good resources for Pennsylvania residents. If you have any events that you wish to be in our monthly digest, please email Stacie Leap at [email protected]

Liberty Resources' Blind/Low Vision Support Group

Our members Karen Rose and Simone Cooper partner with Liberty Resources to hold a weekly virtual support group at Liberty Resources. The aim is to share resources and support those experiencing blindness or low vision. Meetings are weekly on Tuesdays from 1 pm to 2 pm ET. For more information or to sign-up, please email Latoya Maddox at [email protected].

Vision Thru Art

Vision Thru Art is a weekly sculpture class for blind and visually-impaired artists that has been running at Allens Lane Art Center for over 30 years. Our dedicated faculty, staff, and volunteers help the students express their inner vision through various media, including clay, wood, mosaic, stone, and other mixed materials. The students are encouraged to work at their own pace while enjoying the easy-going social atmosphere of the class. In 2014, Allens Lane Art Center made the class entirely free for all the students, including free art supplies each year.

Location: The Fluhr Studio - (downstairs back studio accessible by the rear entrance). Many of the students use Para-transit to get to the class. Service dogs are, of course, welcome.

Day/Time: Wednesday, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm and Friday, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm.

Fees: There are no fees for this class.

Registration: Contact by phone (215-248-0546) or by https://allenslane.org/vision-thru-art/

Women Healed For A Purpose 2023 Conference!

Our member Lyvette Byrd is hosting her 2nd Annual Women Healed For a Purpose Conference under her business, For The Byrds Consulting, LLC. The conference's mission is to equip and restore the community through a faith-based initiative to strengthen women holistically; mind, body, and spirit.

We are women Living Interdependently in support of Family, Friends, and our Fellow neighbors to Educate and Empower our community. The event will be on Saturday, October 28, 2023. More details about the event will come at a later date!

NFB Pledge

I pledge to participate actively in the effort of the National Federation of the Blind; to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its constitution.

NFB Message

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams.

Many thanks to everybody for all they do within the Federation!

Thanks!

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania team

In this episode of White Canes Connect, Lisa and David talk business with Dakota Hogwood, who runs a Grab and Go at the Green Federal Building as part of the Business Enterprise Program (BEP). Dakota explains the training she received in the program and the process of bidding for locations. She also talks about her goals and what she'd like to see happen in the program. Dakota also mentioned that she is a member of the Philadelphia Fire of the National Beep Baseball Association member.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/066

Business Enterprise Program Info

Learn more about the Business Enterprise Program in Pennsylvania at https://www.dli.pa.gov/Individuals/Disability-Services/ovr/Pages/Your-Road-to-Independence.aspx. You'll also find contact info for all the BBVS offices statewide.

Other Episodes Mentioned In This Episode

• Dakota mentioned that she, her sister, and her father have RP. In episode 057, we spoke to Michelle Glaze and Eric Bennardo from the Foundation Fighting Blindness about RP: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_057_post.mp3.
• We play a voicemail from Janice in South Carolina responding to something Lisa mentioned in episode 062 when we had Paul Howard and Kris Crawley from NOBBL: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_063_post.mp3.

Philadelphia Fire in the National Beep Baseball Association

Learn more about the NBBA at https://www.nbba.org/. Connect with the Philadelphia Fire on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063545075205.

Parents Of Blind Children Fundraiser

Support the Parents Division by purchasing candy! Go to https://www.sarriscandiesfundraising.com/VIEWBYCATEGORY.aspx?id=VA to make your purchase. If you do not see their name on the page, enter their code: 10-0316.

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | IHeartRadio

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or show ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

In this episode of White Canes Connect, Lisa and David speak with Tom Snedden from PACE, a prescription assistance program in Pennsylvania for those 65 and older. Tom tells us who is eligible for the program and how to sign up. Spoiler alert: it is easy to sign up! Tom also discusses how the program started and how it is funded. Tom has been running the program for 38 years and tells us that even if you are not 65, there may be something for you called PACE Clearinghouse.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/065

PACE Prescription Assistance Program

Learn more about PACE at https://pacecares.magellanhealth.com/. To sign up, call (800) 225-7223. Read more from the PA Department of Aging at https://www.aging.pa.gov/aging-services/prescriptions/Pages/default.aspx. Learn more about the Clearinghouse at https://pacecares.magellanhealth.com/documents/Clearinghouse_Brochure_2020.pdf.

Parents Of Blind Children Fundraiser

Support the Parents Division by purchasing candy! Go to https://www.sarriscandiesfundraising.com/VIEWBYCATEGORY.aspx?id=VA to make your purchase. If you do not see their name on the page, enter their code: 10-0316.

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | IHeartRadio

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or show ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

In this episode of White Canes Connect, David speaks with Andrea Bilello and Becca Weber from Camp Exsighting Adventures. Andrea, the President of the non-profit, tells us it is on 300 acres in New Hampshire and is for campers with visual impairments ages six to 17. Becca, a Board Member, talks about all campers' activities during their week, including adaptive sports, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, arts and crafts, woodworking, cooking and baking, team building, and accessible gaming and coding. The camp aims to provide campers with visual impairments opportunities to have fun, develop independence, confidence, and lifelong friendships.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/063

Learn More About Camp Exsighting Adventures

You can read more about the camp and apply at https://www.campexsightingadventures.com/home. You can email them at [email protected].

Parents Of Blind Children Fundraiser

Support the Parents Division by purchasing candy! Go to https://www.sarriscandiesfundraising.com/VIEWBYCATEGORY.aspx?id=VA to make your purchase. If you do not see their name on the page, enter their code: 10-0316.

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | IHeartRadio

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or show ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

In this episode of White Canes Connect, David talks about the events coming up in March within the NFB of PA and outside of the affiliate that may be of interest to blind Pennsylvanians. The script for this episode was taken word-for-word from Stacie's email. Literally. If you're not on the list serv of your chapter or division, go to https://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo. Thanks again to Stacie for compiling the monthly digest.

Welcome to our March 2023 monthly Digest: a monthly newsletter of the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania!

During the first few days of the month, we will start sending out our calendar of events. These events will be within the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania as well as any pertinent information from the National Federation of the Blind and the Pennsylvania blind community.

If you or anyone you know have any upcoming events or information that can pertain to the blind community in Pennsylvania, please send them to Stacie Leap at [email protected] by the 29th of the month so it can be added to our calendar for the following month.

For those using screen readers, you can use your heading navigations to skip around the email.

A Message from our Affiliate President

March 1st, 2023

Hello Everyone,

Happy March, Spring will be here soon and we will all feel better about getting out and about!

There are several Outreaches and Conferences coming up in the next few months and I hope to see many of you there.

Please visit our Calendar of Events for more information.

- Lynn Heitz, NFB of PA State Affiliate President

Membership Dues for 2023

We are still collecting dues for 2023! Please contact your chapter and divisions for membership dues as each chapter and division has different amounts.

Google Calendar Links

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania also has a Google Calendar that can be viewed either through the web or subscribed to your calendar apps.

You can view the calendar without subscribing to it and view it on your web browser by clicking the following link:

https://calendar.google.com/calendar/embed?src=7jgal0nrodbmg61a8aar0o3i2g%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America%2FNew_York

However, if you wish to subscribe to the calendar and get the events on your calendar apps, please click the following link and go through the steps to subscribe: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/ical/7jgal0nrodbmg61a8aar0o3i2g%40group.calendar.google.com/public/basic.ics

Member Spotlight" Denice Brown

Each month, we will highlight someone within our affiliate. The goal is to allow other members to learn about other members within the affiliate. We hope you enjoy this little spotlight!

Denice Brown serves within the National Federation of the Blind in many capacities. She serves as the President of the Greater Philadelphia Chapter going on 20 years this year. She also is one of the Board Directors for our amazing affiliate. She was recently elected to the role of Treasurer of the National Association of Blind Black Leaders and has been on the Scholarship Committee for several years. She volunteers her time teaching iPhone skills at Liberty Resources and is a proud sister of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She does so much more than we might not even be aware of. While her schedule might be tight, she finds time to attend jazz concerts, travel across the country, and hang out with her mother. If you ever get a chance to meet her in person, do not hesitate to say "Hi".

Calendar of Events

The following events are also on our Google calendar with the Zoom information. If anyone within a chapter, division, or group see any errors or misinformation, please contact Stacie Leap at [email protected] or text her at 215-776-6741.

The below information is correct as of the first week of the month. The information is most up-to-date on the Google Calendar so please check back periodically to ensure the right information.

Jigsaw Chapter monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those does not have a local chapter in their geographical area. This is our at-large chapter.

Saturday, March 3, 2023 at 10AM

Pennsylvania Association of Blind Merchants (PABM) Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who are or wish to be involved with the Business Enterprise Program, entrepreneurship and their supporters.

Wednesday, March 8, 2023 at 6PM

Greater Berks Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Bucks County of Pennsylvania

Friday, March 10, 2023 at 10AM

Leadership Seminar 2023

Selected individuals will meet in State College, PA for the annual Leadership Seminar. For more information, please contact our State Affiliate President at [email protected]

Friday, March 10, 2023 – Sunday, March 12, 2023 in State College, PA

State Board Meeting

This meeting is held quarterly. The PA State Affiliate Board convenes to discuss matters relating to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. Typically, this meeting is held virtually but for this month, we will convene in-person at the Leadership Seminar.

Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 1:45PM at State College, PA

Keystone Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Philadelphia area. This is one of two local chapters in the Greater Philadelphia area. The other chapter is the Greater Philadelphia Chapter.

There will be no March 2023 meeting due to the Leadership Seminar that is happening at the same time. The Chapter will reconvene in April 2023.

Deaf Blind Division Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who consider themselves to be Deaf Blind and their supporters.

Monday, March 13, 2023 at 6PM

Pennsylvania Organization of Parents of Blind Children (PAOPBC) Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for parents of blind children and their supporters

Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at 11AM

Pittsburgh Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Pittsburgh area.

Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at 6PM

Clusive Workshop

We have invited the team at Clusive to come and talk about their program and services.

Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 11AM

Capital Area Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Harrisburg area.

Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 10AM

Erie County Chapter Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in Erie County Pennsylvania.

Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 2PM

Blind Parents Group Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for blind parents, grandparents, and their supporters

Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 7PM

Blind Seniors Group

a monthly meeting for those who are seniors or almost seniors as well as their supporters.

Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at 7:30PM

Brandywine Valley Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Brandywine Valley.

Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 10AM

Greater Philadelphia Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Philadelphia area. This is one of two local chapters in the Greater Philadelphia area. The other chapter is the Keystone Chapter.

Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 10AM

Pennsylvania Association of Guide Dog Users (PAGDU)

a monthly meeting for those who have or are considering getting a guide dog as well as their supporters.

Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 4pm

Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students (PABS) Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for blind students of all ages and their supporters.

Monday, March 27, 2023 at 7PM

White Canes Connect Podcast

Did you know that the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania has a podcast? It is hosted by members David Goldstein and Lisa Bryant. It features interviews with our PA members as well as interviews and resources for the blind community. You can listen to it wherever you listen to podcasts.

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, IHeartRadio, and on Twitter @PABlindPodcast. Contact White Canes Connect at [email protected] if you have any show ideas or wish to be on the podcast.

National Convention 2023

Registration is now open for the 2023 National Convention. Tickets are $25 and banquet tickets are $70. The convention will take place in Houston, Texas from July 1-6, 2023. Hotel information and registration links are at www.nfb.org/convention

Special Shout-Outs!

Birthday Wishes

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania would like to wish all those who were born in March a very happy birthday!

Congratulations to Dexter Cooper on his award!

Congratulations to Greater Philadelphia's member Dexter Cooper for his upcoming award sponsored by the Men of Jericho within his Masonic organization. He will be presented with his award on Saturday, March 11th at 12PM During a luncheon. Here is the information, if you are able to attend. The tickets are $50. It will occur at:

Saint Nicholas Banquet Hall

817 N. 7th Street

Philadelphia., Pa 19123

There are also opportunities to place an ad in the booklet. The prices are $20 for a half page, and $30 for a full page.

For ads you can contact Kelly R. Myers at 610-714-1103, or [email protected]

Payments can be sent through Cash App at: $ernball

For further information and to congratulate Dexter, you can call him at: 267-584-3714

Congratulations to Stacie Leap on Anvaya Feats' featured video!

Stacie Leap was featured by Anvaya Feats for her work in accessibility testing and advocacy for the organization. Please check out the YouTube video at the following link: https://youtu.be/v0FWX4D27ms

Our Condolences to Emily Gindlesperger and Angelina Angelcyk

We regret to inform our Affiliate family that Emily Gindlesperger lost her mother earlier this week. Please keep Emily and her daughter, Angelina Angelcyk, in your thoughts and prayers. You may contact Emily at [email protected]

Fundraisers

Community Service Division Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser

Members of the Community Service Division has opened up Double Good popcorn stores throughout the country to raise fund for the division. Previous funds raised were used to host service projects at the NFB National Convention, provide financial assistance to first-time national convention attendees, and many more! Please consider buying this delicious popcorn in a variety of flavors! It comes in a variety of flavors and shipped directly to your house! From flavors like: Butter Believe It, Sergeant Salt & Pepper, Caramel DM, Sweety You Salty, and much more, you definitely cannot go wrong! It is only for four days so please do not wait but order yours starting March 3, 2023! It will be over on March 6, 2023 at 12PM ET! You can purchase the popcorn with Stacie Leap's popcorn store link which is https://popup.doublegood.com/s/qm57o5h1

NFB of PA April Raffle

The NFB of PA is selling $5 tickets for their April 2023 Raffle. Participants will choose a 3-digit number to play during the entire month of April 2023. Each day, a winner is chosen to receive a monetary prize. If your number is selected from Sunday to Friday, you will receive $50. If your number is selected on a Saturday, you will receive $100. Once a winner is selected for the day, their number is thrown back into the pot so a person has 30 chances to win during the entire month of April! Please send all payments to NFB of PA State Treasurer Brian Mackey by March 27, 2023. Each chapter treasurer has some raffle tickets in their possession to sell so please contact your chapter treasurer for more details. If you are not a part of a chapter, such as a family member, friend, co-worker, acquaintance, or supporter of any kind and wish to purchase tickets, please contact Jim Antonacci at [email protected]

PAOPBC Chocolate Fundraiser

The Pennsylvania Organization of Parents of Blind Children is participating once again with Sarris Chocolate to do some fundraising! 25% of all sales goes back into the division. This is to allow for scholarships and financial assistance that we can give back to the parents who have blind or visually impaired children.

Please consider buying some chocolate for loved ones during Valentine's Day!

Give someone the gift of chocolate for St. Patrick's Day!

Buy some to show appreciation to family and friends during Easter, all occasions and holidays in between!

This is the Spring collection and will run from now until April 2, 2023

This is to ensure that your chocolate gets to you by Easter if you wish to eat it then but you can always buy some now and more later. :)

This is the perfect gift for yourself or someone in your life!

Our Group code is 10-0316.

You can also access the following link to get to the website and support our division:

https://www.sarriscandiesfundraising.com/Group.aspx?id=10-0316

Blind Parents Group T-Shirts Fundraiser

The Blind Parents Group still have some t-shirts left over from our fundraising efforts at the state convention. The t-shirts come in either black with white letterings or white with black letterings. Both shirts say "I Support #BlindParents" with the NFB of PA Logo and "Blind Parents Group" at the bottom. Funds raised will start a scholarship funds to assist blind or visually impaired parents and their family through financial life hardships. To purchase a t-shirt, please contact Stacie Leap at [email protected]

SABE THE DATE: Greater Philadelphia Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser

Pop, pop, pop it up! The Greater Philadelphia Chapter will be having their Double Good popcorn fundraiser in April 2023. Look out in future emails on how to support!

Other External Events

These events are not hosted or sponsored by the NFB or the NFB of PA. However, we think these might be good resources for those living in Pennsylvania. If you have any events that you wish to be in our monthly digest, please email Stacie Leap at [email protected]

OVR State Board of Vocational Rehabilitation Quarterly Meeting

Thursday, March 2, 2023

Start time: 10 a.m.

End time: 3 p.m.

Break: noon – 1 p.m.

This meeting will be hybrid, with the in-person portion held at the Best Western Premier in Harrisburg (800 E. Park Dr., Harrisburg, Pa), and the virtual

portion held via Zoom. The public is invited to attend in person or connect to this meeting using the following information:

You are invited to a Zoom webinar.

When: March 2, 2023, 10 a.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Topic: PA State Board of Vocational Rehabilitation Quarterly Meeting

Please click the following link to join the webinar:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85656724729?pwd=SktvQnZvaEJPcnBBMTZFWE81cy9TZz09#success

Passcode: 210559 Or One tap mobile:

US: +19292056099,,85656724729#,,,,*210559# or +13017158592,,85656724729#,,,,*210559# Or Telephone:

Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):

US: 1-929-205-6099 or 1-301-715-8592 or 1-305-224-1968 or 1-309-205-3325 or 1-312-626-6799 or 1-646-931-3860 or 1-669-444-9171 or 1-669-900-6833 or 1-689-278-1000

or 1-719-359-4580 or 1-253-205-0468 or 1-253-215-8782 or 1-346-248-7799 or 1-360-209-5623 or 1-386-347-5053 or 1-507-473-4847 or 1-564-217-2000 Webinar

ID: 856 5672 4729 Passcode: 210559

For more information, please visit their website at https://www.dli.pa.gov/Individuals/Disability-Services/Board-and-Committee-Info/Pages/PA-State-Board-of-Vocational-Rehabilitation.aspx

SEPTA Advisory Council Meeting Postponed

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority typically holds monthly advisory council meetings to the public; however, meetings are postponed until further noticed. Please see the letter sent to the Advisory Council and public:

Good afternoon, SAC members and general public,

I regret to inform you that the February 9, 2023, SAC meeting is canceled. SEPTA must complete an internal investigation regarding the conduction of SAC meetings.

SAC meetings will resume upon SAC chairs and SEPTA coming to a resolution on their internal issues. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Sincerely,

The SAC chairs

Liberty Resources' Blind/Low Vision Support Group

Our members Karen Rose and Simone Cooper partner up with Liberty Resources to hold weekly virtual support group at Liberty Resources. The aim is to share resources and provide support to those experiencing blindness or low vision. Meetings are weekly on Tuesdays from 1pm to 2pm ET via Zoom. You do not need to live in Philadelphia to attend these meetings, this is open to all in Pennsylvania! For more information or to sign-up, please email Latoya Maddox at [email protected]

Vision Thru Art

Vision Thru Art is a weekly sculpture class for blind and visually-impaired artists that has been running at Allens Lane Art Center for more than 30 years. Our dedicated faculty, staff and volunteers help the students express their inner vision through a variety of media including clay, wood, mosaic, stone and other mixed materials. The students are encouraged to work at their own pace while enjoying the easy-going social atmosphere of the class. In 2014, Allens Lane Art Center made the class completely free for all the students including free art supplies each year.

Location: The Fluhr Studio - (downstairs back studio accessible by rear entrance). Many of the students use Para-transit to get to the class. Service dogs are of course welcome.

Day/Time: Wednesday, 10:30 am – 12:30pm and Friday 10:30 am – 12:30pm.

Fees: There are no fees for this class.

Registration: Contact by phone (215-248-0546) or by https://allenslane.org/vision-thru-art/

Eye See You I love U

Eye See You I love U is hosting numerous fundraisers coming up. You can view their events and get more information on their website at https://eyeseeyouiloveu.org/

On February 20th they will be hosting their family fun night at Chuck E Cheese that is open to parents and children of all abilities.

They will also be holding their first Walk A thon in June. On June 10th from 9 AM to 4 PM, individuals can come to Hempfield Park and participate in our Eye Will Walk With You Walk A Thon to raise awareness for Optic Nerve Hypoplasia and children with no vision and low vision.

The registration link is below. You can use code EYESEEYOU until April 20th for 15% off of registration.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/eye-will-walk-with-you-2023-tickets 499094815027?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Women Healed For A Purpose 2023 Conference!

Our member Lyvette Byrd is hosting her 2nd Annual Women Healed For a Purpose Conference under her business, For The Byrds Consulting, LLC. The mission of the conference is to equip and restore the community through a faith-based initiative that we hope will strengthen women holistically; mind, body, and spirit.

We are women Living Interdependently in support of Family, Friends, and our Fellow neighbors to Educate and Empower our community. The event will be on Saturday, October 28, 2023. More details about the event will come at a later date!

NFB Pledge

I pledge to participate actively in the effort of the National Federation of the Blind; to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its constitution.

NFB Message

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams.