VIA Visually Impaired Advancement

10/15/2026

🦯 A white cane is more than a mobility tool. It's a symbol of independence, confidence, and opportunity.

Today is White Cane Awareness Day, a day dedicated to increasing understanding of blindness, visual impairment, and the important role white canes play in independent travel.

In recognition of the day, VIA visited Buffalo Public School #84, partnering with Courtney Reynolds, Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) for Buffalo Public Schools, to provide education and raise awareness among school staff.

🧡 One simple way to support accessibility: If you see someone using a white cane, don't assume they need help. Ask first, and respect their response.

Awareness begins with understanding, and everyone has a role to play.

10/14/2026

🏈 THE TASTE OF TECH TICKET BLITZ IS ON! 🎉

We're giving away THREE prize packages featuring Buffalo Bills gear and VIA goodies as we count down to Taste of Tech!

🎁 WANT TO WIN? It's easy! Just comment below and tell us who you'd bring to Taste of Tech! Three winners, three prize packages. No purchase necessary!

🎟️ BUY A TICKET, GET A FREE GIFT!
The first 15 people to purchase tickets during our Ticket Blitz will receive a FREE VIA insulated tumbler at the event!

🏈 BEAT THE KICKOFF!
The giveaway and Ticket Blitz end Sunday, October 18 at 4:25 PM!

📅 Taste of Tech | Friday, October 23
📍 Resurgence Brewing Company | 5:30–8:30 PM

🎟️ Get your tickets: https://viawny.networkforgood.com/events/104113-taste-of-tech-2026

Help us spread the word! Sharing is appreciated, but not required.

Winners will be randomly selected and contacted October 19. No purchase necessary to enter. This giveaway is not sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook. Eligibility rules apply; void where prohibited.

10/12/2026

🧡 Thank You, Lippes Mathias!

We're excited to recognize Lippes Mathias LLP as an Interactive Tech Table Sponsor of VIA's upcoming Taste of Tech: Senses Beyond Sight Night!

Their generous support helps bring the experience to life, giving guests the opportunity to explore assistive technology firsthand and discover how innovative tools help people who are blind or visually impaired navigate everyday life with greater independence.

Thank you, Lippes Mathias, for supporting VIA's mission and helping us create a more accessible and inclusive community!

🎟️ Join us and experience the technology for yourself!

📅 Friday, October 23 | 5:30–8:30 PM
📍 Resurgence Brewing Company

Get your tickets: https://viawny.networkforgood.com/events/104113-taste-of-tech-2026

10/11/2026

🐍 A WILD Time with READY! 🐢🦎

Things got a little wild when our READY group had some very special visitors from Prehistoric World Reptile Zoo!

From snakes and lizards to turtles and tortoises, participants had the chance to get up close, explore through touch, ask questions, and meet some fascinating creatures!

There were plenty of smiles, surprises, and maybe even a few brave moments along the way! 💙🧡

Just another adventure with READY — Recreation, Experience, and Activities Dedicated to Youth!

A big thank you to Prehistoric World Reptile Zoo for bringing this unforgettable experience to VIA!

10/10/2026

👁️ Beyond What You See | Blindness Awareness Month

When you hear the word “blind,” what comes to mind?

Many people picture complete darkness. But did you know that most people who are legally blind have some usable vision?

🧡 At VIA, we know that vision loss looks different for everyone, but it doesn't define a person's potential.

Swipe through to learn more about the different ways people experience vision loss!

Follow along throughout October as we go Beyond What You See and share more about blindness, independence, and opportunity.

Visual examples are simplified illustrations. Individual experiences vary.

10/08/2026

🌎 Today is World Sight Day!

Vision doesn't define what's possible. 🧡

At VIA, we're committed to empowering people who are blind or visually impaired to live with greater independence, build confidence and access meaningful opportunities.

Through programs like READY, participants develop skills, make connections and enjoy experiences that encourage personal growth and independence.

Sometimes, that even includes a beautiful fall day on horseback! 🐴

Today and every day, we're working toward a world where vision loss doesn't limit opportunity.

10/07/2026

🎟️ Get your tickets here: https://viawny.networkforgood.com/events/104113-taste-of-tech-2026

What if you couldn’t rely on sight?

At Taste of Tech: Senses Beyond Sight Night, experience assistive technology firsthand and discover how the right tools can create greater independence and opportunity for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Join us for an evening of technology, food, drinks and connection, all while supporting VIA’s mission.

📅 Friday, October 23
⏰ 5:30–8:30 PM
📍 Resurgence Brewing Company
🎟️ Tickets: $75, includes food & drink

10/05/2026