Metrolina Association For The Blind

06/11/2026

Our staff recently had a chance to interact with a vision loss group at a local retirement community here in Charlotte. During our presentation, we paused to take questions from the group.

"What is Vision Rehabilitation?" asked one of the group members.

Of course, Vision Rehabilitation is integral to everything we do here at MAB, but the term may be confusing. We like to say it's "life rehabilitation."

In other words, what were the things that you did before vision loss that you would like to continue doing, or do again? Learning ways to adapt everyday tasks, from cooking to using a computer to getting around your home or your city--all of this, and much more, is Vision Rehabilitation.

We couldn't celebrate without highlighting the rewarding career opportunities that are available in this field. Vision Rehabilitation specialists can work for nonprofit organizations like Metrolina Association for the Blind, state agencies like the Division of Services for the Blind, or even as private instructors. Either way, these specialists teach skills that foster confidence and independence.

06/10/2026

We're celebrating , and our focus today is on access technology. In fact, we're just wrapping up our spring AT class with our instructor, Joseph, who is helping our clients gain skills and confidence to use VoiceOver, JAWS, and other accessible tools to use their phones and computers. Screen readers, voice assistants, smart speakers, voice recognition software, and other adaptive technology are essential for calling, texting, emailing, and accessing information online.

Check back soon for photos from our AT class!

06/09/2026

Celebrate with us! Independence is the goal of vision rehabilitation. What does that look like?

- Orientation & Mobility training (O & M) helps people with vision loss navigate their environment safely and confidently.

- Independent living skills training demonstrates how to use remaining vision most effectively and develop compensatory strategies for performing daily activities. Training may include home labeling, specialized training for cooking, cleaning, and much more.

- Time management: Access technology and accessible software help create and maintain your calendar and effectively manage day-to-day and longer-term activities.

- Finances & money management: Training helps you maintain independence with budgeting, money identification, and a broad range of financial transactions. Assistive technology enables online banking, other digital financial tools, and the reading of crucial financial documents. The use of apps and assistive aids includes screen readers and magnifiers.

- Assistive technology helps to access information and more easily perform tasks and may optimize the use of mobile devices, access technology, and other assistive devices and aids to stay connected.

- Adaptive devices and specialized low-vision aids include magnifiers, specialized glasses, talking devices (such as clocks), and more.

- Maintaining vital connections: Staying socially connected and participating in the activities you enjoy can significantly reduce the risk of social isolation, loneliness, and depression.

At MAB, our mission is "to reduce, prevent or eliminate the daily challenges experienced by people living with blindness or visual impairment and to facilitate the personal growth and development of such individuals."

Support our mission today! Go to https://hubs.ly/Q04k2MLh0 to help support our training and programs that foster independence.

06/08/2026

The latest version of our Wise Eye newsletter is hot off the presses! Go to the link below to read all about it.

Metrolina Association for the Blind newsletter

06/08/2026

Join us in celebrating Vision Rehabilitation Week. This is what we do at MAB!

Vision Rehabilitation Week celebrates all life-changing vision rehabilitation services for people living with blindness and low vision as well as the compassionate, highly trained individuals who provide these services.

Vision rehabilitation training can start during the early stages of vision loss, after all vision correction (including glasses/contacts) and other medical interventions (such as surgery) have been exhausted. Even when a doctor tells a patient that nothing else can be done medically, vision rehabilitation offers vital hope and can significantly improve independence and quality of life at any age. Vision rehabilitation can help those with vision loss due to genetic factors, and common and rare eye diseases, including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, refractive errors, and other eye changes.

06/07/2026

Join Team MAB to support Achilles International Charlotte's inaugural 5K and family fun run on July 25 at Marion Diehl Recreation Center.

This race is the signature event of Achilles International, a global 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering athletes with disabilities and veterans. Since 1983, Achilles has served more than 150,000 athletes worldwide by removing barriers to athletic participation, building supportive communities of athletes and volunteer guides, and championing inclusion in sports and society.

More than just a race, the 5K & Family Fun Run is a celebration of inclusion, resilience, service, and community. The event will bring together able-bodied runners, athletes living with disabilities, and veterans, demonstrating that athletes of all abilities can safely and successfully compete in mainstream sporting events. The goal is to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and create meaningful opportunities for connection while honoring the strength and perseverance of those who continue to inspire our community.

Join Team MAB at:

https://hubs.ly/Q04khK6d0

Free registration is available to our first 10 registrants who are blind or visually impaired. Please call (704) 887-5138 to request a free spot!

06/06/2026

Do you have small appliances, jewelry, furniture, or other items that need repair? Volunteers are ready to help. Bring your items to the Repair Cafe community event. $5 suggested donation. No gas-powered items, weapons, or TVs. 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. June 13 at The Innovation Barn, 932 Seigle Ave. Go to the link below to see all upcoming dates.

https://hubs.ly/Q04jYrLz0

06/05/2026

Metrolina Association for the Blind client night out

Come out with us to the Meck Sounds Outdoor Concert Series! On June 18, we will head to Eastway Regional Recreation Center to experience The Sound. With phenomenal vocalists and a powerful horn section, local cover band The Sound delivers high-energy performances featuring Top 40 hits, classic R&B, Motown grooves, and soulful anthems to create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Local food trucks will be on-site and beer will be available for purchase for adults age 21 and older. No outside alcohol will be permitted. Attendees can also complete a short survey to enter a raffle. Raffle winners will be selected during each concert to receive a summer swag bag of beach day essentials.

MAB transportation will be available for this event on a first-come, first-served basis, so make your reservation early. Reminder: MAB transportation must be reserved separately from the RSVP below. 7:00 to 9:00 pm June 18 at Eastway Regional Recreation Center, 3150 Eastway Park Drive.

https://hubs.ly/Q04jZ_bF0

06/05/2026

A great resource from Lions Services to support the BVI community here in Charlotte!

Introducing Lions HEART Counseling Services – Free Support for Emotional Wellness

WHO- Lions Services is proud to offer FREE Lions HEART Counseling Services to Individuals who are blind, low vision, caregivers, or anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, or life transitions who could benefit from counseling and emotional support services.
________________________________________
WHAT- Lions HEART Counseling Services provide a confidential and supportive space to:
• Process life challenges and emotional stress
• Build coping and grounding skills
• Strengthen emotional regulation
• Improve communication and problem-solving
• Navigate change with greater confidence
Services are offered through the Lions HEART program, which focuses on health equity, accessibility, and emotional wellness for individuals with vision loss.
________________________________________
WHY- People with vision loss experience significantly higher rates of depression, anxiety, isolation, and barriers to accessing mental health care. Lions HEART was created to reduce these disparities by offering accessible, compassionate support that promotes resilience, independence, and overall wellbeing.
You do not have to face challenges alone.
________________________________________
WHERE- In-Person Appointments
Lions Services
Mondays from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Telehealth Appointments
Additional sessions available by scheduling.

To Schedule an Appointment
Call or Text:
(980) 263-9282
Provider
Donna Jean Breece
Therapist / Student Intern
North Carolina Youth Violence Prevention Center

06/04/2026

The Blind Institute of Technology's Career Seekers program ensures professionals with disabilities can access training and career opportunities.

A Career Seeker is a professional with a disability who is ready to take the next step toward a meaningful career. Whether you’re skilling up through the BIT Academy, reskilling into a new field, or already job-ready with certifications and experience, Career Seekers gain access to training, mentorship, and apprenticeship opportunities that lead directly to employment with top employers.

Go to the link below for more information.

BIT Career Seekers Funded to ensure professionals with disabilities nationwide can access training and career opportunities – at no cost. What Is A Career Seeker? A Career Seeker is a professional with a disability who is ready to take the next step toward a meaningful career. Whether you’re ski...