Annual Appeal - Elisha's Story

The cover of Elisha's Annual Appeal card — Image of Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey’s Annual Appeal card. The left side features Elisha’s quote about living with limited sight and advocating for awareness and accessibility. A small portrait of Elisha appears above the text. The right side shows an artistic watercolor of a serene woman with eyes closed, surrounded by flowing blue and green tones, with the words “Finding Joy in the Beat.”

Elisha's Story

Thirty years young, with a bright future ahead. If only I had known how quickly the light would dim.

It was May 2017. I was working two jobs, one as a dietary aid and the other as a bus driver. I had full vision, independence, and momentum. But everything changed in a single moment. After finishing my bus route on a beautiful spring afternoon, I noticed a gray spot in my right eye. I rubbed it, certain it would vanish, but it didn't.

Concerned, I saw my eye doctor. Blood filled my eyes from hemorrhaging vessels. A specialist ordered emergency laser procedures. Then came the words that stopped me: "You could go blind."

How would I survive in a sighted world? Will I still be me? After six laser surgeries and four additional procedures, including bubble insertions for retinal detachments, doctors traced my vision loss to silently progressing diabetes. With the medical storm behind me, I knew it was time to begin healing emotionally.

Annual Appeal: Elisha's Story — Image of the back side of Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey’s Annual Appeal card. The text shares Elisha’s personal story of sudden vision loss, her emotional recovery, and how joining VLANJ’s virtual and in-person classes helped her rebuild confidence. The page features watercolor art of an eye surrounded by green and blue hues, with the words “I began to reclaim my voice.” written in a blue box.

I began to reclaim my voice

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was introduced to Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey (VLANJ). I began by participating in their virtual classes, which provided vital support and connection during a challenging time. In Spring 2022, I transitioned to in-person sessions, deepening my engagement and benefiting from the hands-on experience and community atmosphere.

Two classes transformed my life in ways I never expected: Self-Advocacy and Drumming.

Self-Advocacy opened a door I hadn't known existed. It allowed me to explore my vision loss beyond the surface, peeling back layers of fear and uncertainty. With Liz's guidance, I began to reclaim my voice and rebuild my confidenceone honest conversation at a time.

VLANJ empowered me!

Drumming was intimidating at first. I struggled to find the rhythm and frustration came easily. But the moment I released my grip on perfectionism, something shifted. I found joy in the beat, and the drum became more than an instrument-it became my sanctuary.

VLANJ pulled me out of my comfort zone, empowered me to advocate for myself, and reminded me that I am not alone. The staff at VLANJ have never placed limits on me. Even as I navigate life with vision loss, they've consistently empowered me to pursue my goals with confidence. Their unwavering support has transformed challenges into opportunities. Without VLANJ, I wouldn't have the sense of purpose and excitement that keeps me moving forward.

Today, my vision is minimal-blurry and limited at night. Daylight is my best friend. I'm stable now, but navigating stairs and transitioning from light to dark remains challenging. I recently received my seeing eye dog, Mariah, who has given me the confidence to leave my home at night and the freedom to reclaim my independence.

Vision loss has taught me resilience and revealed a world I never truly saw before.

So, am I still me?

Yes. I am unique. I am confident. I am a survivor. And I am on a new journey-one filled with purpose, courage, and kindness in blindness.

Support VLANJ

Vision loss is devastating and services for adults are limited. For over 82 years, VLANJ has empowered people with vision loss or blindness by providing support, education, and training in independent living skills and assistive technology.

To support our annual appeal, please use this link to visit our donate page, or use the envelope enclosed. Your gift will continue to grow programs and services at VLANJ.

Thank you for supporting Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey.

2024 Annual Report

VLANJ proudly presents our Annual Report for 2024.

Annual Report 2024

Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey Moves to Morris Plains, Enhancing Accessibility and Expanding Programs

Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey celebrated the grand opening of its new Morris Plains location with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Feb. 27, welcoming community leaders, supporters and participants to experience the vibrant, accessible space designed to empower people with vision loss.

“This beautiful new home will allow for the continued development of exciting programs that foster our mission of helping each individual live an independent and fulfilling life,” VLANJ President and CEO Bill Schuldt told the nearly 30 guests. New Jersey Sen. Anthony M. Bucco and VLANJ Board of Trustees President Carl Augusto cut the ribbon, and Morris Plains Council President Sal Cortese presented VLANJ with the keys to the town, nicknamed “The Community of Caring.”

“We are honored that representatives from across the community took the time to join us in recognizing the important endeavor of improving services for people who live with vision loss,” said Jennifer Singer, VLANJ Vice President for Development and Communications.

Among the guests were New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired Executive Director Bernice M. Davis, Morris County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Meghan Hunscher, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill staff member Megan Waters, Morris Plains Police Chief Michael Koroski, and five VLANJ trustees.

A Space for Growth and Community

The 6,600-square-foot center, built to meet the growing needs of people with vision loss, buzzed with activity as guests peeked in on a cooking class, watched participants at work in the art studio, and listened to the rhythmic beats of a drumming session.

“I’ve always loved the energy and passion that VLANJ brings to the blind community,” Davis said. She praised the facility’s thoughtful design, noting, “it’s bright, and the dark purple doors provide good contrast.” She also admired the NaviLens system, which uses smart-device-detectable QR codes to aid navigation.

Morris Plains Council Member Nancy Verga shared a personal connection to VLANJ, recalling her grandmother's time in the program when it was the New Jersey Foundation for the Blind. “When she lost her sight, it was so important to her to be able to continue to cook and make beds and keep house,” Verga said. “She was able to maintain her independence.”

Bill Schuldt gives a tour of VLANJ's new Morris Plains location.

VLANJ, one of New Jersey’s longest-serving nonprofits for adults with vision loss or blindness, operated in Denville for 70 years before relocating. The new space allows VLANJ to accommodate a 90% increase in in-person enrollment since 2019 and meet the rising demand for programs that empower individuals with vision loss, Schuldt said. Vision impairment in New Jersey is increasing 2-3% annually due to an aging population.

“VLANJ’s new home is exclusively ours, designed specifically to meet the needs of people with vision loss or blindness,” added Vice President of Programs Elsa Zavoda. The facility features an art and pottery studio, a yoga and fitness room, a training kitchen, and dedicated spaces for technology classes, support groups, and self-advocacy programs.

Longtime VLANJ participant Ursula Rucki was impressed. “It’s nice and bright, and the setup is good,” she said. “People are excited to be in a new place.”

Honoring VLANJ’s Legacy

Black-framed photos along the new facility’s hallways highlight the nonprofit’s progression over the decades. VLANJ’s roots date back to 1943 in Newark, where adults with vision loss formed a social club to support each other and challenge societal biases. By 1955, the organization moved to Denville as New Jersey Foundation for the Blind and launched a summer camp for blind women.

VLANJ expanded from life-skills training to wellness programs and technology education. Adopting its current name in 2016, VLANJ added low vision occupational therapy. During the pandemic, it successfully transitioned to virtual programming, which remains a valuable resource for those who are homebound.

Black-framed photos along the new Morris Plains facility’s hallways highlight VLANJ's progression over the decades.

Black-framed photos along the new facility’s hallways highlight VLANJ's progression over the decades.

Today, VLANJ continues to innovate and expand its reach:

• In-person participants grew from 74 in 2019 to 141 in 2024, with an additional 159 individuals engaged in virtual programs.

• Education and community programs reached 880 people through 40 presentations in 2024.

• The VLANJ@Home program, launched in September 2023, had provided in-home low vision occupational therapy to 36 individuals by January 2025.

VLANJ offers in-center programs Monday through Thursday, including independent living skills, assistive technology, home safety, adaptive cooking, orientation and mobility, and self-advocacy. It also provides virtual education and support groups, in-home low vision occupational therapy, and real-world excursions to help participants navigate their surroundings with confidence.

“VLANJ offers classes that say to me, you are more than your physical challenges,” said Liz Edwards, a participant and self-advocacy group facilitator. “It reignites the fire and the fight within me.”

New and Expanded Services in 2025

VLANJ will collaborate with the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired to host three in-person events connecting participants through intergenerational mentorship. The nonprofit recently hired a full-time technology coordinator to offer more group and one-on-one coaching. With a third orientation and mobility specialist, VLANJ will expand center-based training and real-world outings to help participants gain confidence in navigating their environments. This spring, VLANJ is also launching a creative writing and poetry class focused on self-expression.

Support VLANJ at ‘Visions of Spring’

VLANJ’s biggest fundraiser of the year, “Visions of Spring – An Evening of Music and Inspiration,” will bring supporters together for a night of celebration and impact. The event, set for April 24 at The Mansion at Mountain Lakes, will help sustain VLANJ’s vital programs. For tickets and sponsorship options, click here. Questions? Contact Jennifer Singer at jsinger@vlanj.org or (973) 627-0055, ext. 2.

Annual Appeal - Trisha's Story

An image of the front side of VLANJ’s annual appeal card is featured. It contains the text outlined below in addition to a headshot of Trisha Ebel in the top left corner. To the right is an animation of a woman with flowing hair standing outside with her back to us. She is wearing a blue skirt whipped by the wind with white flowers on the bottom.

Throughout our 81-year history, Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey has been a leader in delivering innovative programs and services for individuals with vision loss. What began as a summer residential camp for women with vision loss has grown into an organization offering unique, state-of-the-art programs that continue to empower and transform lives.

Trisha's Story

Trisha Ebel, VLANJ's Outreach Specialist, shares her story below:

It was a Monday evening and Mom was heating up gravy on the stove. It was leftovers - boy how I loved her cooking!

I was nine years old, watching The Brady Bunch on TV, when suddenly I felt the need to cover my right eye with my hand. I realized I couldn't see out of my left! I told my mom and she put her hand over her heart and gasped for air - something was terribly wrong.

Cataracts in my left eye led to Glaucoma at ten years old. And within a year, my right eye had cataracts as well.

I had seven surgeries to remove the cataracts and stabilize Glaucoma and high pressure. I was so frightened in the hospital - these memories have stayed with me, making me feel unsafe.

I got through middle and high school, until senior year when I was unable to read regular size print. Nobody wanted to hang out with me. I was put down. I was called names. I became isolated and thought all was lost.

Later, I studied to be a travel agent but lost every job due to my vision loss. I felt defeated. My feeling of unworthiness was getting worse.

In 2006, a whole new world opened up for me when I found VLANJ and began classes. Being part of peer support, Orientation and Mobility, JAWS Technology, cooking, and advocacy helped me overcome my fears and ultimately, accept my vision loss.

Upon completing my programs, I felt a sense of total freedom, independence, and dignity. I was wearing a blue denim skirt with white flowers along the bottom. The skirt flared out and up when I spun around. I thought to myself, "The flowers feel like they are dancing!" I raised my arms and smiled.

Since that day, my smile has never left my face. I learned - vision does not affect how you feel!

Today, I have limited sight in my right eye, so I wear glasses to define objects in the right eye and balance the left. Cloudy days are the best days with no sun or glare. I can still struggle, but my life is full!

An image of the back side of VLANJ’s annual appeal card is featured. It contains the text outlined above and below in addition to an animation of a child in a red sweater and a blue skirt seated on the floor watching television in the top left corner. To the right, on the bottom, is an image of white daisies.

Support VLANJ

Vision loss is devastating and services for adults are limited. For over 80 years, VLANJ has empowered people with vision loss or blindness by providing support, education, and training in
independent living skills and assistive technology.

Your gift will continue to grow programs and services here at VLANJ.

To support our annual appeal, please use this link to visit our donate page.

Thank you for supporting Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey.

The "Vision" Of Life's Possibilities

VLANJ's 2022 Annual Appeal letter (excerpt)

Who Is Lisette?

Lisette is a vibrant artist, mother, wife, and teacher. She loves her life. She is also functionally blind.

Becoming a mother had always been her plan. But the unthinkable cannot be planned. Complications during Lisette’s pregnancy with twins led to a stroke and significant vision loss. Brokenhearted, she thought, “Will I be able to care for my children without my sight?” To add to her pain, Lisette was now also an artist without sight. Feeling hopeless, she put down her brushes for twelve years.

Lisette’s return to art

Twelve years ago at VLANJ, Lisette sits before a blank canvas, crying. With gentle encouragement from the art therapist, she tentatively makes a few strokes. The therapist outlines the strokes with an epoxy glue gun, creating a 3-D surface. Lisette, feeling the outline, starts to fill the spaces with color and texture, creating her first painting.

Fast forward to today, Thursday morning art classes at VLANJ with Lisette now the teacher. She encourages the group to explore colors by linking them to senses of taste and smell. Like the color purple... plums are purple. How does a plum smell, taste, and feel? Sweet, sticky? Purple is now sweet and sticky!

They proceed to create beautiful works of art!

“With vision loss, art is seen with the mind’s eye and then expressed through color and texture.”

What Is Art?

Art is paint, textures, colors. Images that can be felt, touched, and seen...

A story of life and loss. A rebirth of mother and artist. For Lisette, the journey was not easy - but she will be the first to tell you, that along with the tools and skills she gained at VLANJ, came the confidence and motivation to live the life she always dreamed of.

“Be my friend,” Lisette invites her students, “and we will create together.”

Vision loss is devastating, and services for adults are limited. For almost 80 years, VLANJ has empowered people with vision loss or blindness by providing support, education, and training in independent living skills and assistive technology. Here, thousands have been given the “vision” of life’s possibilities.

To support our Annual Appeal, please visit our donate page: click here.

Your gift will continue to grow programs and services at VLANJ. Thank you!

Honoring Claudia Schreiber - Giving Tuesday 2022

For Giving Tuesday this year, we honored Claudia Schreiber, a former VLANJ program participant, advocate, and Board of Trustee. Claudia lost her vision completely in 2005, and diligently figured out ways to adapt. At the time, she was in her mid-40s and had two children in elementary school. When Claudia learned about Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey (then called New Jersey Foundation for the Blind) 11 years ago, she had her driver take her the 50-plus miles from her home in Marlboro Township to the program in Denville. “At first it was strange. I’d never met a blind person before,” she said. Claudia explained: “I’d always tried to pass as a sighted person because I was ashamed of being blind.”

Claudia began attending VLANJ weekly, learning skills to reclaim her independence and rekindling her passion for art. The first pieces she created were self-portraits with clay. Her VLANJ instructor “gave me the courage to get back into my life,” said Claudia, who’d earned a degree in art and sociology from New York University in 1982. “I fell in love with this organization.”

Claudia devoted her time to empowering others who lost their sight, and was dedicated to lightening the burden of others. Claudia died May 26, 2021 from colon cancer at age 61, leaving behind dear family and friends, and a legacy that will fortify VLANJ programs for years to come. Days before her death, she established The Claudia Schreiber Program Fund. She asked that friends and loved ones continue to contribute to the VLANJ fund in her memory.

For Giving Tuesday 2022, we supported Claudia’s fund and honored her legacy.

VLANJ's Mission & Programs As Shown at Dining in the Dark 2022

Dining in the Dark 2022 was a truly immersive event through a world of smell, taste, and sound - a unique sensory experience like no other - in support of raising funds for our programs. The evening featured a cocktail hour, silent auction, dinner in the dark, and entertainment. Attendees also heard incredible words by VLANJ's President& CEO, William Schuldt, VLANJ Board Member, Ming Wu, the Saddle River Valley Lions Club, VLANJ program participant and creator of The Blind Vine, Debbie Azzarone, and VLANJ Board Chair, Carl R. Augusto.

Once again, to all who helped support this event and make it possible - and to those who continue to support Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey - THANK YOU! Please enjoy a video below highlighting VLANJ's mission and programs that was shown to attendees at Dining in the Dark 2022.

Dining in the Dark 2022 - One of VLANJ's Best Events Yet!

On Wednesday, October 26, 2022, we held our main fundraising event of the year, Dining in the Dark - and the support we received was truly wonderful.

Two attendees enjoy Dining in the Dark. One individual wears learning shades.

Dining in the Dark was an immersive event through a world of smell, taste, and sound, offering attendees a unique sensory experience like no other. The evening helped us raise funds for our programs here at VLANJ, and featured a cocktail hour, silent auction, dinner in the dark, and entertainment. It also included incredible words by VLANJ Board Member Ming Wu, the Saddle River Valley Lions Club, and VLANJ program participant and creator of The Blind Vine, Debbie Azzarone.

VLANJ Program Director Linda Groszew and Program Participant and author of the Blind Vine, Debbie Azzarone, speak at Dining in the Dark.

We couldn't be more grateful to each of our sponsors and donors, and to those who continue to support Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey - THANK YOU!

Thank you to our sponsors:

Williams Jones Wealth Management

The Church of the Saviour, Denville, NJ

Mary Ann and Brian Zino

New Jersey Natural Gas

Advanced Center NJ

Norman Dean Home For Services, Inc.

DCM Associates

General Vision Services

Thatcher McGhee's

Assemblyman Thomas P. Giblin

Modera Wealth Management

Dyer Landscaping & Lawn Care

Board Member Sponsors Lyndsey Lord, Kelly and Kevin Bleach, Carl and Sue Augusto, Carol and Jake Ray, and Dora T. Meler.

VLANJ Board Member Ming Wu speaks at Dining in the Dark.

The VLANJ Silent Auction is featured.

Didn't make it to our event this year? Not to worry - follow us on social media to stay up to date on all upcoming in-person and virtual events!

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Dining in the Dark 2022 Save the Date

THIS EVENT HAS SOLD OUT!

Due to overwhelming participation, we have met our capacity and will no longer be selling tickets to this event. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Please return to the site for information and stay tuned for upcoming events.

THIS EVENT HAS SOLD OUT!

Join us on October 26, 2022, as we celebrate our fifth annual Dining In The Dark!

Enter a world of smell, taste, and sound as you experience a unique sensory experience like no other. Help us as we raise funds to support our programs. The evening will feature a cocktail hour, silent auction, dinner in the dark, entertainment, and a wine pull.

Tickets, tables (of 10 guests), and sponsorship opportunities are available via the form below, or call Jennifer Singer at 973.627.0055, prompt 2, for more information.

VLANJ's First Annual Day of Giving: A Huge Success!

We're ecstatic to say: WE DID IT!

OUR FIRST ANNUAL DAY OF GIVING WAS A HUGE SUCCESS!

VLANJ staff members pose with Dave Steele, "The Blind Poet."

For our first annual Day of Giving, our goal was to raise $7,900 celebrating 79 years of VLANJ, in 1 day, 9 hours, and 43 minutes - in honor of VLANJ's founding year of 1943. Not only did we meet that goal, but with the help of our incredible donors and individuals and brands helping to spread the word, we exceeded it!

For our first ever Day of Giving, we raised $10,200, surpassing our goal of $7,900 by a landslide! We also received 72 gifts and participation from 69 donors, 21 of whom were new donors, and 21 donations made generously by VLANJ program participants.

A graphic depicts VLANJ's incredible results from their first annual Day of Giving.

We want to say a huge, resounding "thank you" to all those who helped us spread awareness, gave a donation, and/or came to visit us in person during our 1 day, 9 hour, and 43 minute event.

For this event, support came from all over the world - literally! A huge highlight on our Day of Giving was a special in-person event featuring Dave Steele, "The Blind Poet," during which he came to speak at our Denville, NJ location (all the way from the UK!). Dave shared about his inspiring journey with vision loss, performed an amazing in-person poetry reading, and, afterwards, met with VLANJ community members. Many VLANJ program participants traveled to celebrate our Day of Giving with us in person, enjoying in-person programs, events, and of course some celebratory cake and balloons.

A white cake with purple frosting reads: "Happy 79th Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey!"

Thank you to Dave Steele, CONQUERing, WagALot Pet Shop, local Denville, NJ businesses such as Inspiration Roll, The Pasta Shop Denville, Thatcher McGhee's Denville, Bold Blind Beauty, and individuals including but not limited to Anne, Claire Sisk, Monica Pruitt, Sadi Taylor, and Katie's Vision for donating unique gifts and/or helping us to spread the word!

We are so grateful for such a generous display of kindness and support! Because of it, we are able to continue offering services, aid, and resources to those living with vision loss who need it.

We look forward to all that next year has in store - stay tuned for our 80th year celebration!

VLANJ Day of Giving 2022

Save the Date! The 1st Annual VLANJ Day of Giving will begin on Thursday, June 16th and continue until Friday, June 17!

Our goal is to raise $7,900 in 1 day, 9 hours, and 43 minutes – in honor of our founding year of 1943.

The VLANJ Day of Giving brings our community of program participants, alumni, staff, and friends together in support of our mission and history of providing services to people with vision loss.

Our Goal: Our goal of raising $7,900 honors our home and our history where our program participants have spent time together learning skills to lead an independent life and where generations of alumni, families, friends, and staff have helped to shape VLANJ. On the Day of Giving, we celebrate our shared connection to this special place in Denville, NJ.

Our History: It all began in 1943, when a group of individuals met to address societal bias against people who, like themselves, were blind or had profound vision loss. They formed the New Jersey Association for the Blind and started the state’s first summer residential camp program for women in Denville, NJ. The founders focused on women’s needs because they had fewer options for leading an independent life at that time. Under the name NJ Foundation for the Blind, the summer camp expanded its offerings to provide life-skills training to help those with vision loss live more independent lives.

Over time, it became evident that providing tools to promote independence was key to helping individuals with vision loss. VLANJ recognized this growing need and expanded its mission to focusing on teaching basic and essential life skills, as well as providing health and wellness activities year-round for both men and women. Currently, VLANJ offers a full continuum of in person programs in Denville and select programs in Ridgewood. VLANJ also provides virtual classes to individuals and families all over the world!

Honor: Make your donation in honor of or in memory of a person with vision loss or a person who has provided services to help people with vision loss.

Make your donation to support our annual fund and help us continue to provide services for the next 79 years and beyond!

Can't wait until June 16th? You can make your Day of Giving gift now and be counted or help us spread the word by sharing this link: https://vlanj.org/vlanjdayofgiving2022/

ARISE Virtual Speaker Series Spreads Inspiration - More Than 150 Participants Have Enrolled!

A legally blind reverend offered advice on breaking the cycle of negative thinking. An English musician who lost his sight in his late 30s described how writing poems and lyrics helped him reclaim his purpose. A dietician specializing in diabetes gave tips to maintain well-being through healthy eating and exercise.

That’s a sampling of Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey’s speaker series, Achieve Resilience, Inspiration & Self-Empowerment (ARISE). More than 150 people have registered for the series, which kicked off last September.

“It’s about inspiring people with vision loss to persevere and rise up,” said VLANJ Vice President of Programs Elsa Zavoda. “We want people to feel they have no barriers to what they want to achieve."

ARISE runs four times a year. It is one of several speaker series made possible by a nearly $16,000 grant from Atlantic Health System/ Morristown Medical Center for programs that support healthy aging.

Living Independently For Tomorrow (LIFT) is the online version of VLANJ’s effective in-person Essential Low Vision course. It provides basic training in daily life activities over three weeks. Strength Through Relationships, Insights, Values, Education (STRIVE) addresses mental health aspects of adjusting to life with vision loss.

VLANJ Voices Education Speaker Series is the newest offering, and has attracted more than 100 people, Zavoda said. For the inaugural webinar, an orientation and mobility specialist discussed tips and strategies for getting around. In February, participants learned about a national pharmacy devoted to patients with vision loss.

In addition to broadening participants’ knowledge, ARISE and the other programs “establish human connection, so people don’t feel alone and isolated,” Zavoda said. The virtual programs are especially beneficial to participants who lack transportation to the in-person classes in Denville and Ridgewood.

ARISE has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from participants. Dora Meler said the program motivated her and made her feel less alone. It helped her “remember that there are others out there experiencing the same life challenges as I am,” she wrote. “It’s important to continue to find ways to lead an independent life versus not venturing out of the comfort of my home.”

Michele Valuzzi said she related to David Steele, The Blind Poet. “As someone who has written poetry but hadn’t in a long time, I was inspired by Dave’s talk, and I started writing poems again,” Valuzzi said. “His life is a great example of resiliency because he doesn’t let his visual impairment hold him back or define him.”

Explore more of what VLANJ's programs offer here.

Young Adult With Vision Loss Finds His Place Volunteering at VLANJ

Five years after attending Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey’s technology program as a high schooler, 23-year-old Aaron Grimes now spends his Tuesdays teaching others without sight all the ways their iPhones can serve them.

“I like sharing my knowledge, and making someone’s life a little bit easier,” he said. Aaron was pre-school age when he became blind. He was born with both congenital glaucoma and aniridia, a genetic disorder that prevented his irises from fully developing, he said. Aaron doesn’t recall much about his sighted years, but has memory of colors. An infection that hospitalized him for weeks claimed all his sight except for a little light perception in his left eye. Aaron attended public primary schools in Jersey City, where he’s always lived. “When I was a kid, I didn’t feel included,” he said. While attending a high school for the blind in 2017, his rehabilitation counselor encouraged him to take classes at VLANJ.

“I learned how to use advanced apps on the iPhone,” he said. One of his favorites is Seeing AI [Artificial Intelligence], which reads documents, handwriting, and barcodes on products, and identifies denominations of money. With Be My Eyes, a sighted volunteer appears on video and provides assistance. Volunteers have helped Aaron adjust his thermostat and pick out clothing. For news, he turns to NFB-NEWSLINE from the National Federation for the Blind, which reads aloud articles from popular sources.

A quote in purple letters reads: "I like sharing my knowledge, and making someone's life a little bit easier." - Aaron Grimes

“I still use all of them,” he said. When VLANJ reopened in-person classes in September, Aaron began volunteering with the mobile technology program. He takes two Access Link buses to get to Denville, often spending two or more hours traveling each way.

On a recent Tuesday, Aaron was showing Susan, a student with glaucoma, how to use the VoiceOver app that reads what is on her screen. “Aaron is great! He really helps me,” she said.

Aaron is typically paired with an instructor in the morning, and then works one-on-one with a student in the afternoon. He is eager to teach advanced apps, but understands students need to know the basics first. Aaron also makes sure students’ iPhones have the latest updates. “They call me `Zippy’ because I’m fast,” he said with a laugh.

Aaron hopes more younger adults discover VLANJ, but for now, he enjoys helping the older participants. Volunteering with VLANJ has given him purpose. “I’m happy with what I’m doing,” said Aaron, who lives with an older brother and sister-in law. (His mother died 10 years ago.) “I like spending time here. It’s nice making friends.”

Donations to Vision Loss Alliance can be made online at vlanj.org/donations or by mailing a check to Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey, 155 Morris Ave., Suite 2, Denville, NJ, 07834, ATTN: VP of Development and Communications Jennifer Singer

VLANJ Students Offer Accessibility Advice to Montclair Art Museum

Valerie Frink of Jersey City, a VLANJ participant, closely inspects a bright, colorful work by artist Jerry Pinkney, using the flashlight on her mobile phone.

MONTCLAIR, NJ (March 30, 2022) — As part of its effort to expand access for people with special needs, the Montclair Art Museum last week gave Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey participants a guided exhibit tour that featured detailed audio descriptions of artwork and multi-sensory objects to help visualize pieces.

“I liked being able to feel the object related to the artwork, and hear about the artist and materials used,” said VLANJ participant Debbie Tester, who has lost most of her sight to a degenerative eye disease. “It helped me get a picture in my head.”

The MAM tour was VLANJ’s second orientation and mobility community outing to learn and practice getting around in public spaces. The outings are generously funded by grants from the William G. and Helen C. Hoffman Foundation and the Lydia Collins deForest Charitable Trust. Two VLANJ orientation and mobility experts accompanied the group and provided training inside the museum and on its grounds.

VLANJ participants gave MAM’s program high marks. “Make it longer!” suggested Roman Dodia. Montclair State University Associate Professor Maria José Garcia Vizcaíno, who volunteers as a docent, narrated the exhibit, “Transformed: Objects Reimagined by American Artists.”

VLANJ participants view a black panther sculpture during a Montclair Art Museum tour on March 25. [MAM photo credit]

“This was wonderful,” said Francine Ford-Smith of Englewood, a VLANJ participant since 2008. “I was really able to appreciate the artwork,” Ford-Smith said. A sculpture of a black panther against a stark white background was a favorite, in part because of the strong contrast, she said.

MAM is committed to expanding access for people with special needs. It recently created the position of assistant director of Community and Access Programs, held by Celene Ryan. The museum offers virtual programs and runs in-person art classes that provide more support, with one-on-one or small-group instruction, Ryan said. New Jersey residents who receive Division of Developmental Disabilities funding can use the money to take MAM classes, she noted.

The VLANJ participants asked astute questions as they moved through the gallery, Ryan said. “They were really engaged.” They then provided feedback on the tour and MAM’s accessibility efforts in a focus group run by Montclair State University Associate Professor Elaine Gerber.

The nine VLANJ participants offered a range of useful suggestions, such as having the museum’s floor plan mapped on a GPS system like GoodMaps to help visually impaired people get around. They suggested information about artwork on plaques have a companion audio description, and that tape on the floor marking how close visitors can get to artwork be textured so people using canes can identify it.

VLANJ Vice President of Programs Elsa Zavoda demonstrated mobile phone apps that allow people with vision impairment to listen to written information about artwork. Because of the museum’s high ceilings, Zavoda recommended MAM tour guides use lapel amplifiers so visitors don’t miss narrations.

Museum Director Ira Wagner noted MAM tries to incorporate social elements into programming, inviting artists to speak. To thank VLANJ participants for their input on improving access, Wagner offered the group one-year memberships to MAM.

For more information about MAM, visit montclairartmusuem.org.

Visit vlanj.org to learn about VLANJ programs.

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About Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey

Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey is a 501(c)(3) that provides practical training and emotional support to help those who have experienced profound vision loss regain self-esteem and self-reliance. Since its founding in 1943, Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey has used a holistic approach to empower those with profound vision loss to live engaged, productive and independent lives. Go to vlanj.org for more information.

About the Montclair Art Museum

The Montclair Art Museum (MAM) boasts a renowned collection of American and Native American art that uniquely highlights art-making in the United States over the last 300 years. The Vance Wall Art Education Center encompasses the Museum’s educational efforts, including award-winning Yard School of Art studio classes, lectures and talks, family events, tours, and the mobile MAM Art Truck. MAM exhibitions and programs serve a wide public of all ages and abilities, from families and seniors to artists, educators, and scholars.

Thank You To Lydia Collins deForest Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Co-Trustee

The Lydia Collins deForest Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Co-Trustee has awarded a grant of $37,000 to Vision Loss Alliance of NJ to design and implement a hybrid model of program service delivery: in-person classes and virtual sessions via Zoom.

The approach addresses the most significant needs impacting VLANJ clients before, during, and continuing into the post-COVID-19 climate. Program participants and the community will benefit through expanded access to information and training; flexible, cost-effective services; greater diversity and geographic reach; a wider range of service options; and individualized supports and services.

Thank you to the Lydia Collins de Forest Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Co-Trustee for making these opportunities a reality for our program participants!

What’s Your Blindness?

A letter from VLANJ's CEO, William Schuldt:

What can change the ordinary to the extraordinary? What can help a person with vision loss find happiness and fulfill their dreams? With your help, Vision Loss Alliance of NJ has been doing just that for 78 years.

Ming, a wife, a mother, a writer, and a Vision Loss Alliance of NJ trustee, was born with a genetic disorder that would affect her sight and will eventually lead to total blindness. Today, she is legally blind and can only see light and shadows. While she describes her life as ordinary — I want to share with you how someone with vision loss accomplishes the extraordinary, while living that ordinary life.

You have most likely experienced a day when the demands are varied and often exhausting — with vision. Ming describes her typical morning much as yours: waking early, choosing clothes, dressing, making breakfast for the family, and getting the children ready for school. After checking that each child has her homework, snacks, water bottles, and anything else needed for the day, you take them to school. Imagine for a moment how you would get through your morning without full use of your vision, as Ming does. She will frankly say, “Parents who are blind face the same challenges as other parents, but must find different ways to address those challenges.”

As a trustee who has lived with sight loss and learned different ways of doing things, Ming highlights VLANJ’s unique approach:

• VLANJ core programs are a combination of skills-based classes and sessions that focus on mental well-being. These comprehensive services provide emotional support while covering all the basic skills that people with vision loss need to relearn. It is important to have the fundamental skills in place before moving forward, which leads to the next point.

• What sets VLANJ apart from other providers is that services do not stop at basic skills. Our range of programs, while building on basics, helps clients apply those skills to their unique lives. This is critical, because as people lose their vision, they not only want to do the basic things in life but, like everyone, they want to keep learning and enriching their lives. Ming believes that you can cultivate well-being and happiness despite losing your vision when you have the skills and supports to make that choice. For Ming, her happiness meant regaining her lost passion — ballet. She wanted to feel that joy again. After what she calls “endless procrastination,” she faced her fear of not being able to dance with her limited sight. As Ming stood in the entrance to her building clutching her cane and sending her usual message to the Uber driver to look out for her, she was full of questions. “Will I find the studio?” “Will I be able to keep up with the class?” “Will they mind that I cannot see?”

She considered each challenge. “I couldn’t see to walk or drive to the class so I ordered the Uber and told the driver I couldn’t see. He helped me. I couldn’t find the studio, so I rang the doorbell and was guided by a friendly person who occupied the first floor of the building. He helped me find the studio. I couldn’t see the teacher demonstrating, so I listened very carefully to his instructions. I was dancing!”

It was far from perfect, but for each obstacle there was a workaround. Ming explains, “I know we’d rather not need workarounds; I’d much prefer to just go to ballet class like everyone else. But it was worth the struggle, as my reward was the enjoyment of dancing and a confirmation that I could do this, even if it was hard.”

Now that Ming is dancing again, her challenge to you is this: “What is your ballet? What would fulfill your dreams and spark your passion? What is your blindness? What is holding you back? I urge you to get past the obstacles and live your dreams! The more we can find enjoyment in life without our “blindness” as the focus, the more peace we will feel. This is a journey we all can take, but it is sweeter if we have company along the way.”

Please make a gift today that will not only help those with vision loss find their passion, but may also help you to up your happiness game! You can support VLANJ here: https://vlanj.org/donations/

Yours sincerely,

William Schuldt, CEO

P.S. Your gift means that when a person loses their vision, they can access the support they need to keep living their lives. Please give your proudest gift today.

Human Echolocation: How It Works

Echolocation is shared by many species, including whales and dolphins - even people can learn how to use it!

Now, new research shows that both sighted people and those who are blind can learn how to echolocate using clicking noise, either from one's own mouth, footsteps, or walking cane taps, after just 10 weeks of training.

Read more on this interesting topic as shared by journals.plos.org here: https://bit.ly/humanecholocation

The VLANJ logo and an image via Discover Magazine depicting how human echolocation works is featured, with text that reads: "Human Echolocation: How It Works. Clicking noise creates ongoing sound waves. Sound bounces off object. Returning echo activates the visual processing area (circled) in the brain of an experienced echolocator." Text below reads: "Blind Individuals Who See By Sound."

Bringing Blind Hockey To Newark

As originally reported by the Morristown Daily Record, Josh Schneider of North Haledon, a member of the New York Metro Blind Hockey Team, organized a learn-to-skate clinic for the visually impaired at the RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House in Newark on Sunday, May 23rd, 2021. Learn more here: dailyrecord.com

Josh Schneider is pictured in full hockey uniform on the ice.

Thank You to Our Donors!

2020 was a year like no other. We are grateful to our donors who continued to support our mission. VLANJ provided virtual support to help our program participants feel connected during an uncertain time. We received over $7000,000 in 2020, an 18% increase over last year, and were able to offer our virtual programs free of charge. We hope the accomplishments of VLANJ this past year are a source of pride for our donors who made this possible.

A special thank you to our Giving Circles donors. Your gifts had a significant impact on our programs! And to our new donors in 2020, welcome and thank you for choosing to support VLANJ!

2020 Giving Circles

2020 Presidents Circle 14 Gifts of $5,000 or more
2020 Benefactors Circle 7 Gifts of $2,500-$4,999
2020 Patrons Circle 17 Gifts of $1,000- $2499
2020 Friends Circle 37 Gifts of $500- $999
2020 Loyalty Circle 155 Gifts of 5 years of consecutive giving

VLANJ Welcomes New Board Members

Ming Wu

VLANJ Board Member Ming Wu.

Ming has spent most of her career working in business development and marketing in the legal sector. She has worked for international law firms in the UK and in Hong Kong. She has a BSc (Hons) Psychology from the University of Leeds. Originally from the UK, Ming now lives in New Jersey. In recent years Ming has volunteered for UK based non-profits, The Royal National Institute for the Blind and Wakefield District Sight Aid. Ming has a passion for improving the lives of people living with sight loss and raising awareness of related topics, which she writes about on her blog.

Frank Mortimer

VLANJ Board Member Frank Mortimer.

Frank worked in higher education publishing for over twenty-five years. He was the Director of Marketing, Higher Education, North America at Oxford University Press, a not-for-profit, mission-driven
institution, where he was responsible for all facets of their marketing operations for a $54 million portfolio of print and digital products across the United States and Canada. Frank is currently an adjunct instructor at the Cornell University Master Beekeeping Program, Vice President of the New Jersey State Beekeepers Association, and a Certified Master Beekeeper. Frank is the author of Bee People and the Bugs They Love, (Kensington Publishing, March 2021), which was reviewed by the New York Times, and
he has written multiple articles featured in the widely circulated Bee Culture Magazine. Frank also serves on Ridgewood, New Jersey’s Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board. Frank is married and lives in Ridgewood with his wife and three children.

Dora Meler

VLANJ Board Member Dora Meler

Dora has more than 37 years’ experience in the IT field implementing and running technology and product solutions for financial services firms. After earning a B.S. Degree in Computer Science from Queens College in New York, she enjoyed a full career within the global investment banking industry, working most recently as Vice President/Senior Technology Project Manager at Barclays in NYC before retiring in 2018. Despite being diagnosed with glaucoma in her late 20s and experiencing a slow, steady loss of vision in the years that followed, she has continued to pursue her many interests. These include world travel, learning new language and musical instrument skills, and enjoying the outdoors through camping, hiking, tandem cycling and cross-country skiing, all while following a healthy lifestyle including practicing daily meditation.