How to find charities for the blind

Several charities are devoted to improving the quality of life for blind and visually impaired people, whether they are blind from birth or experience vision loss from conditions such as macular degeneration. These organizations provide essential services such as education initiatives, rehabilitation, job training, and assistive technology.

However, it’s crucial to research each one carefully before donating to ensure you’re supporting a reputable organization that prioritizes inclusivity and respect for people with disabilities.

In this article, we’ll provide an overview of some of the top charities for the blind and review them in detail.

An overview of the top charities for the blind

Disability activism may be the best way to further disability rights as it yields thorough and long-term results. But while disability and accessibility activism are excellent ways to support people affected by blindness, some charities are also worth supporting financially.

Charities may be the best option when swift action is necessary or when assistance is needed in meeting the particular needs of an individual. Fundraising can provide the necessary financial support for medical care, assistive technology, personal assistance, and independent living for financially vulnerable individuals.

It’s essential to research the charity carefully to ensure that it’s reputable, effective, and treats people with disabilities respectfully and inclusively, without infantilization. Here are some of the top charities for blind people:

The American Foundation for the Blind

The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the rights and inclusion of people who are blind or have a vision impairment. Founded in 1921 to support blinded veterans, AFB is committed to creating a world where individuals with vision loss can participate fully in all aspects of society.

They offer resources and services, such as job training and education, to help people with vision loss live independently and achieve their goals. AFB also conducts research and advocates for policy changes to improve the lives of people with vision loss.

National Federation of the Blind

The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) is a nonprofit organization that seeks to improve the lives of people who are blind or visually impaired through adaptability. The NFB promotes the idea that people with vision loss can lead independent lives and offers programs and resources to help them.

The organization focuses on issues such as accessibility, education, and advocacy. Through its programs, the NFB provides training, resources, and support to blind individuals, their families, and their communities.

Guide Dogs for the Blind

Guide Dogs for the Blind is a nonprofit organization that provides highly trained guide dogs to people who are blind or visually impaired. They offer programs that help individuals learn how to navigate the world safely and confidently with the help of a guide dog.

This charity provides free training and lifetime support to its clients, and its guide dogs perform tasks such as guiding their handlers around obstacles, alerting them to curbs, and helping them cross the street safely.

Guide Dogs for the Blind also offers programs to educate the public about the important role guide dogs play in the lives of their handlers.

Foundation Fighting Blindness

Foundation Fighting Blindness is a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding treatments, cures, and eye care for inherited retinal diseases, which cause progressive vision loss and can lead to blindness.

The organization funds healthcare research to develop new therapies and treatments, provides resources and support for patients and their families, and raises awareness about the impact of vision loss on individuals and society.

Foundation Fighting Blindness also advocates for policies that support research and development of treatments for inherited retinal diseases.

Perkins School for the Blind

While blind and visually impaired individuals can and should attend regular schools, adapted programs can help equip students and teachers in achieving an adequate learning experience.

Perkins School for the Blind is a private educational institution that provides services to blind children and young adults. Founded in 1829, the historic school offers various educational and support services to help its students achieve their full potential.

The school’s programs include early intervention services, a day school program, a residential program, and outreach services. Perkins School for the Blind also provides mentorship to professionals with blindness and visual impairment.

VisionServe Alliance

VisionServe Alliance serves as an umbrella for other nonprofit organizations that serve people who are blind or visually impaired. It provides its members with resources, training, and networking opportunities to help them improve their clients’ services.

This partnership includes various organizations such as schools, rehabilitation centers, and advocacy groups. VisionServe Alliance seeks to promote the inclusion and independence of people with vision loss through its programs and resources.

Blinded Veterans Association

The Blind Veterans Association (BVA) provides support, resources, and advocacy to veterans who have experienced vision loss due to their service. Their mission is to enhance the lives of veterans by helping them regain their independence and achieve their full potential.

They provide services such as assistance with navigating the VA system, rehabilitation programs, and opportunities for social engagement.

Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired aims to improve the quality of life for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf-blind.

The organization provides a wide range of services and programs to help these individuals achieve greater independence, including training in daily living skills, assistive technology (such as braille readers, large print books, and so on), employment services, and advocacy.

Visually impaired people can enjoy literature with Speechify Audiobooks

Reading physical books can be challenging for visually impaired individuals, but audiobooks provide an excellent alternative. Speechify Audiobooks is a digital audiobook service with a vast collection of titles in audiobook formats.

It is an excellent option for those with low vision who prefer to listen to books instead of reading them. The service offers a customizable reading experience, variable reading speed, and a user-friendly interface.

With Speechify, users can access a wide variety of books in all genres. If you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to enjoy books, give Speechify a try today.

FAQ

What is the rating of the American Foundation for the Blind charity?

The American Foundation for the Blind is among the nonprofits that has received a three-star rating from Charity Navigator, scoring 79%.

Is Guiding Eyes for blind people a legitimate charity?

Guiding Eyes for the Blind is a legitimate charity that provides guide dogs to individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

How do I know which charities are legitimate?

To know which charities are legitimate, you can research and review information about them on independent charity ratings organizations, such as Charity Navigator, Guidestar, and CharityWatch. These organizations provide information on a charity’s financial health, accountability, and transparency.

Consider supporting charities with transparent financial statements to ensure your money goes to the right places. You can also research each organization’s board of directors to learn more about their personal values.

Why should I donate to a charity?

Donating to a charity is a way to support a cause or organization that aligns with your values and beliefs. It can have a significant impact on the work that the charity does and help improve the lives of those it serves.

What should I do if I want to donate to a charity for blind people?

If you want to donate to a charity for blind people, it’s essential to research and review the charity’s mission, programs, financials, fiscal year reports, and ratings.

You can also check the charity’s website or contact them to ask questions or for more information. Finally, donate through a secure and trustworthy platform.