14 upvotes, 2 direct replies (showing 2)
View submission: Have you done and volunteer work ?
I am a volunteer, I am a Blind volunteer, for an organization called lighthouse Of Sarasota, it’s based in Sarasota, Florida, I am what they call a buddy, for people who go into the program, to let them know what to expect with the program, answer any questions they may have, this is basically a class for blind people, where they get independent, living skills, technology, technology, training, mobility training. Very important. I am what they call a buddy, so I have phone numbers of couple of ladies who are going into the program, because right now the classes are backed up, so they need advice and I’m the one who will mentor them and help them through that, by talking on the phone to them, and answering any questions they may have, or if they are fearful for anything. I am blind myself, I live independently, I can walk to the grocery store Publix now, to the post office, and I’m going to be learning to walk to another little Plaza. That’s right next to the grocery store, where they have the Chinese restaurant, nail salon, there’s a bait and tackle coffee shop, I’m willing to try that, lol. There’s even a Publix liquor store, but I don’t frequent that. But I’m going to be taught to walk to the stores. Being blind, you can live an independent life, the only thing I can’t do is drive a car. I couldn’t do it very well when I could see in the first place, so my children told me. Lol.
Comment by mosselyn at 30/11/2024 at 13:52 UTC
2 upvotes, 1 direct replies
When I was younger, I was a volunteer reader/helper for a visually impaired couple for about 10 years, and then a reader for Reading for the Blind and Dyslexic (Learning Ally) for several more.
I was amazed and humbled by how capable and courageous members of the blind and low vision community are. Not just overcoming the everyday hurdles, which is obstacle enough, but going to local places they'd never been to, traveling long distance for events, advocating for disability rights, wrestling with work accommodations, etc.
I hope that if I ever lose my sight, I can aspire to even a fraction of what the people I worked with did, rather than huddle in fear inside my house.
Comment by Ancient_Trip6716 at 30/11/2024 at 07:23 UTC
1 upvotes, 1 direct replies
What a wonderful way to volunteer and to bring comfort and confidence to others who have lost their vision. That is fantastic!