Peoria-Area Community Impact Guide 2022-2023

CENTRAL ILLINOIS CENTER FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED The Central Illinois Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides programs and services meeting the emotional, educational, social, and cultural needs of those we serve.

2905 W. Garden Sreet Peoria, IL 61605

Phone: (309) 637-3693 Email: info@cicbvi.org Website : cicbvi.org Facebook : cicbvi Instagram : @cicbvi YouTube : CICBVI Sight Sessions KEY STAFF: Felisa Jordan Durr, Executive Director Paula Balestreri, Operations Manager

promotes independence, communication, socialization and an opportunity for our patrons to feel valued as human beings. SERVICES AND PROGRAMS Uftring Technology Center: Internet access, PC Workstations, Screen reading programs, Computer training, Long White Canes, Magnifiers, Independent Living Aids, Blind and low vision products, Talking products, Games Education : Braille, Orientation andMobility, Assistive Technology, Family Resources Social : Weekly social program with meal, Field trips to plays, concerts, parks, shopping, restaurants, and sporting events, Bingo and other games Transportation to and from Center sponsored events Food Pantry distributed monthly Personal assistance with completing forms, braille, and mailing SIGNATURE EVENTS: Lunch Open House Wednesdays at noon, Central Illinois Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired Dinner Open House, Wednesdays 5:30pm, Central Illinois Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired Dueling Pianos Fundraiser April 21, 2022 The Broadway Lounge – Maxam Building National Eyewear Day Drive & Drop June 6, 2022 at Central Illinois Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired 15th Annual Golf Outing September 19, 2022, Arrowhead Golf Club National White Cane Day Celebration October 15, 2022 Peoria Riverfront Museum Dinner in the Dark, November 2022

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Kurt Norris, President Lanna Scannell, Vice President Vacant, Secretary Lance Barke, Treasurer Deb Conklin, Human Resources Dr. Steve Eyler Bernice Gordon-Young

VISION We envision a future where people who are blind or visually impaired have equal

Gyla Grigsby Kirk Johnson Steve Knecht Xin Lu Brandon Moss David Murphy Cora Quinn

opportunities to engage independently in our great Central Illinois community. WHAT WE DO The Central Illinois Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired has been a hallmark of Peoria, IL since 1955. Peoria is the home to the original white cane, invented in Peoria in 1930 when the city established the first ordinance granting right-of-way to pedestrians who are blind and visually impaired while carrying a white cane. Our Center is the owner of the original white cane and have it safely on loan to Peoria Riverfront Museum, so that the community can view and appreciate its historical significance. While 82 percent of those who are blind are age 50 or older and likely coping with age-related blindness, cataracts, glaucoma or macular degeneration, blindness affects all ages. We are the only not-for-profit organization in central Illinois solely focused on serving the needs of people who are blind or visually impaired. We are affiliated through our board with professionals in the eye care industry and education. The exceptional leadership provided by our board and staff enable us to understand the needs of the people we serve and to strive to provide themost current and innovative solutions for their needs. Since 1955, we have maintained a handicap equipped facility for programs and services to bring people who are blind or visually impaired together with their peers and the community. There we provide access to resources and support for patrons and their families. Every service and programwe offer

HOW TO HELP The Center does not rely upon government support but depends entirely upon private donations, grants, and sponsorships from generous individuals and businesses in our community. We also rely heavily on volunteers to help us fulfill our mission. We are continuously in need of new volunteers to contribute in a variety of ways – from serving meals, to driving, reception, clerical support, fundraising, teaching, maintenance and many other efforts. Please call (309) 637-3693 to help.

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