Here for every step
OVERVIEW
At Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired, supporting the whole family is part of the mission. Families are welcomed into a community of support where each individual journey is recognized as unique; however, every member knows they are not alone. A CCVI parent has the opportunity to master the necessary tools to help their child grow and thrive with helpful hands available along the way.
Each year, the Parent Group sponsors a back-to-school social in early fall to kick off the new school year, as well as provides a treat to the staff on the first day back. Social activities have included Poker Night, Parents Night Out, and Braille Boot Camp.
Educational programs for parents have included speakers from CCVI staff, national experts in vision impairment, and community resources for children with disabilities. Recent topics included using humor to manage the stresses of raising a child with special needs, making simple adaptations to facilitate teaching visually impaired children about their environment, and planning for appropriate care of special needs children in the parent's absence.
Parents set up Family Teams for CCVI's biggest fundraiser, the Trolley Run. The Parent Group is also involved in raising much-needed funds for scholarships, emergency medical, family, and therapy needs.
PHILOSOPHY
Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired believes...
· Children have a right to reach their highest potential.
· Families provide the most significant role in the healthy development of a child.
· CCVI staff offers exceptional expertise, compassion, and hope for children who are visually impaired and their families.
· CCVI volunteers and contributors most generously dedicate their time, talent, and funds.
· Educating the community and advocating for children who are blind or visually impaired is a responsibility.
LEARNING TOGETHER
When a child joins Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired, their family joins a community of parents in support of each other. Families unite under the CCVI mission and share a common goal of helping all children reach their highest potential.
EDUCATION AS AN ALLY
A life-altering diagnosis can feel daunting. No one knows a child’s needs, personality, and capabilities like their parent; which is why an education at CCVI is collaborative. Parents are an integral part of the learning process and professionals at CCVI treat every parent as a resource. In return, parents can lean on CCVI as the blueprint for a child’s success takes shape. As a parent of a child with visual impairment, information is an ally. Find out more about common diagnoses, vision terminology, and medical professionals in the field below.