by Carly Eden Stokes | Apr 28, 2025 | Blog, Feature, News
Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey celebrated spring and the nonprofit’s own renewal — marked by a move to Morris Plains after 70 years in Denville— at its biggest fundraiser of the year on April 24.
“Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey is a growing and thriving organization,” VLANJ President and CEO Bill Schuldt told the 100 supporters, participants and volunteers who gathered at The Mansion at Mountain Lakes.
VLANJ’s move to Morris Plains in February “has been a spring-like transformation,” said Schuldt, noting the new space was designed specifically to accommodate needs of individuals with vision loss or blindness. “It will enhance the programs we offer and allow us to continue to grow and expand,” he said.
Kelly Bleach is presented the Founder’s Award by Jennifer Singer, Vice President, Development and Communications.
VLANJ honored Trustee Kelly Bleach with its Founder’s Award for her longtime advocacy. Bleach earned a doctorate in leadership and change, her research focused on practices for leveraging technology to advance inclusion of people with disabilities. She worked nearly 30 years with the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) in leadership roles.
“Having worked in the field for a long time, I recognize the importance of offering really high-quality services for people with vision loss,” Bleach said. “Whether it’s learning to cross the street safely, or reading a newspaper with a smartphone app, or joining a support group, the VLANJ programs can really make the difference between feeling fear and isolation versus confidence and belonging.”
Bill Schuldt and Senator Bucco are featured.
Sen. Anthony M. Bucco and Alexandra Cerasiello from Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill’s office each presented Bleach with a resolution for her commitment to helping people with vision loss. Bucco called VLANJ “a tremendous organization. What you do for those who are visually impaired cannot be matched.”
‘You Will Never See Again’
Guests listened intently as VLANJ participant Antonio Horta described how he lost his vision in March 2020 after contracting the coronavirus. He paused several times in the telling to wipe tears from his eyes. When he woke in the hospital, he found himself in complete darkness. He tore at imagined bandages over his eyes. “I tried fighting something invisible,” he said.
Following a battery of tests, the head neurologist broke the news to him: “you will never see again.” The virus had caused brain inflammation that irreversibly damaged the occipital lobes responsible for visual perception.
Speaker Antonio is featured with his wife, Consuelo.
The married father of two found out about VLANJ through a local support group. At VLANJ, he learned to prepare simple meals in the kitchen, and then to use the accessibility features on his iPhone. The staff, he said, is very dedicated and very patient. “They give all the time in the world to help us gain our independence back.”
Schuldt surprised Board of Trustees Chair Carl Augusto, whose 9-year-term ends in May, by announcing that the new VLANJ board room would be named in his honor. Augusto led the AFB for 25 years before retiring in 2016. “He brought that gravitas, expertise and national recognition to VLANJ,” Schuldt said. “Thanks to Carl’s leadership we are serving more people in more parts of New Jersey than ever before.”
Founded in 1943, VLANJ offers in-center programs in 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.
Carl Augusto, Board Chair and Bill Schuldt, VLANJ President and CEO are featured.
Expanding Reach
Enrollment in VLANJ’s in-person programs grew 90 percent between 2019 and 2024, increasing from 74 to 141 participants. An additional 159 individuals took part in virtual programs. In 2024 alone, VLANJ reached 949 people through 40 educational and community presentations.
The VLANJ@Home program recently expanded its services area and now provides in-home low vision occupational therapy in Morris, Passaic, Bergen, and Hudson counties, and select sections of Middlesex and Monmouth counties.
During the event, “Visions of Spring,” guests enjoyed performances by visually impaired students from the renowned Filomen M. D’Agostino Greenberg Music School in New York City and bid on numerous items and experiences in the silent auction.
Thank you to our sponsors and supporters:
- Integrated Project Management
- Modera Wealth Management
- Lee & Associates
- The Bleach Sisters
- The McCann Family Foundation
- Commplus
- Dyer Landscaping
- Dex Imaging
- Mutual of America
- NJM Insurance Group
- New Jersey Natural Gas
- McIntee Fusaro Del Corral, LLC
- Norman Dean Home for Services, Inc.
Donations to VLANJ are greatly appreciated, and can be made using this link: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.aspx?name=E292070&id=1
by Carly Eden Stokes | Mar 2, 2025 | Blog, Feature, News, Press Releases
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 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.
by Pat Austin | Jan 29, 2025 | Events, News
Spring is a time of new beginnings, hope, and possibilities. At Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey, we experience new beginnings every day as we provide the support and training needed to begin building rich and fulfilling lives with vision loss.
Please join us for our premier fundraising event:
Visions of Spring – An Evening of Music and Inspiration
With a memorable performance by The Filomen M. D’Agostino Greenberg Music School.
A school which empowers individuals of all ages to pursue their interest and study of music, while addressing the challenges posed by vision loss.
The Mansion at Mountain Lakes April 24, 2025 6:30-9:30 3 Hour Cocktail Reception and Silent Auction
by Pat Austin | Nov 19, 2024 | Blog, Feature, News
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.
by Pat Austin | Nov 18, 2024 | Events, Feature, News
We are thrilled to share exciting news—Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey has moved to a new location! Our new home at 201 Littleton Road, Suite 150, Morris Plains, NJ 07950 marks a significant milestone in our journey of growth and commitment to serving individuals with low vision and blindness.
This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without your incredible support. Our expanded space allows us to enhance our programs, foster deeper connections, and deliver an even more enriching experience for our program participants.
Our new location is also perfectly suited for our growing team and the vibrant community we proudly serve. In short, it’s a place where our mission to empower individuals with low vision and blindness truly comes to life.
We warmly invite you to visit and witness firsthand the lasting impact your contributions are making.
To schedule a visit or learn more, please contact Jennifer Singer, VP of Development, at Jsinger@vlanj.org or (973) 627-0055, Ext. 2.
Thank you for being a vital part of VLANJ’s journey. Together, we’re continuing to empower individuals with low vision and blindness.
by Pat Austin | Oct 18, 2024 | Blog, Events, Feature, News
Thanks to you, we exceeded our goal of raising $10,000 for our 2024 Day of Giving to support vital mental health initiatives!
We had such an incredible celebration with our wonderful program participants, our dedicated VLANJ team members, and a special meditation session led by the amazing Diane Lang.
We are so grateful for all the support. Together, we can continue to uplift, support, and empower those living with blindness and low vision.
A huge thank you again to everyone who helped us reach our goal!
We look forward to all that next year has in store – stay tuned for next year’s celebration!
Participants of VLANJ’s 2024 Day of Giving event are seated around a table, smiling, and enjoying a meal together.
Participants wave and smile warmly at the camera.
Diane Lang presents a meditation session to an attentive group of participants.
VLANJ staff standing in front of a mural, celebrating the successful event.
Did you miss our Day of Giving? You can still donate and make an impact. Thank you!
by Pat Austin | Sep 3, 2024 | Feature, News
VLANJ proudly presents our Fall Newsletter for 2024.
Newsletter – Fall 2024.
by Pat Austin | May 7, 2024 | News
VLANJ proudly presents our Annual Report for 2023.
Annual Report 2023
by admin | Oct 31, 2023 | Events
More than 130 guests toasted the 80th anniversary of Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey at an Oct. 26 celebration, sampling wines paired with music while wearing light-blocking eye shades. Held during Blindness Awareness Month, “Tasting in the Dark” gave guests a brief sightless experience and a better understanding of the fortitude and resilience of people who are blind or low vision.
VLANJ President and CEO Bill Schuldt welcomed guests at the Park Avenue Club in Florham Park “to celebrate a truly amazing milestone for people in NJ who are blind or have low vision.” Schuldt honored what he termed “the pillars” of VLANJ: program participants, staff, instructors, donors and volunteers. They have provided “invaluable contributions to our past success along with their contributions to our future which will see us through the next 80 years,” he said.
As the crowd cheered, Schuldt added, “I’m grateful for all of you, because tonight you are joining the ranks of all of those essential supporters who are pillars of VLANJ.” He thanked the organization’s loyal donors, recognizing those who have included VLANJ in their estate planning and/or made annual or monthly donations.
Schuldt gave a shoutout to Denville couple Bob & Karen Terlizzi, program volunteers for 15 years, and the VLANJ Board of Trustees. After thanking staff, Schuldt recognized Program Director Linda Groszew, who is retiring from her full-time position after 20 years with VLANJ. “No one has demonstrated a deeper dedication to our program participants,” he said. “We wish her happiness in her retirement, and Linda, you will always have a home here at VLANJ.”
VLANJ was started in Newark in 1943 as a social club by people with vision loss looking for camaraderie and to challenge societal biases. As NJ Foundation for the Blind, it opened a summer camp for blind women in Denville in 1955. Efforts expanded in the 1990s to provide year-round, life skills training and wellness programs. Technology classes were later introduced.
The organization’s reputation grew, and in 2016, it became known as VLANJ. Focused on self-sufficiency, VLANJ added occupational therapy and expanded technology training. The nonprofit effectively pivoted to online programming during the pandemic and launched orientation and mobility outings that have boosted participants’ self-advocacy and community awareness.
Today, VLANJ serves more than 200 people and offers center- and community-based programs as well as virtual classes and support groups and in-home training. VLANJ helps more people than ever before, VLANJ Board of Trustees Chair Carl Augusto said. “Simply stated, our services work,” Augusto said. Guest then watched a moving video featuring the reflections of VLANJ participants and staff.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 6 million Americans have vision loss and 1 million are blind. Those numbers are expected to grow as the population ages: While people age 65 and up make made up 17% of the population in 2020, they are expected to account for 22% by 2040.
Two guests with learning shades tasting wine participating in Tasting in the Dark.
The highlight of the 80th anniversary celebration was the sightless wine-music pairing. Hoby Wedler, a PhD chemist and nationally recognized vision loss advocate, hosted the experience.
“Every song will make you experience the wine you’re tasting a little different,” said Wedler, who is blind since birth.
After guests donned their shades, waiters poured each guest wine tastings into four glasses. Wedler then directed guests to sniff and taste the first wine as he played Dave Matthews’ “Walk Around the Moon.” When the song ended, he asked the crowd to guess the wine’s color and type, and describe the flavors.
On the third wine, guests were asked to describe its differences to the second wine, a Sauvignon Blanc. Plenty of guests confidently called out “Chardonnay” and described different flavors, only for Wedler to inform them the two tastings were the identical wine.
Four guests sitting at a table with learning shades participating in Tasting in the Dark.
“I totally thought it was different! ” said Denise Faehner, who listened intently to each song as she sipped. The Mountain Lakes resident confessed she thought the first wine, a Pinot noir, was a white wine.
“It was such a cool experience! They tasted different, very different,” said Colleen Collier, adding that she was fully immersed in the music. Collier is director of US Market Development with Samsara Vision, Inc., a medical device company that develops ophthalmic devices for people with untreatable retinal disorders. VLANJ is currently involved in a Samsara Vision clinical study.
Joe Cicchetti, a longtime VLANJ supporter, said “the experience was a lot of fun — and enlightening.” Cicchetti and his wife, Antoinette, made VLANJ one of their charities of choice years ago because “I can see the true benefit of what they do.”
VLANJ participants served as ambassadors. “Our students are loyal and advocate for us wherever they go spreading the word of what we do and how it has impacted them,” Schuldt said. “Our program participants have been at the center of everything we have done and will continue to drive our efforts.”
Schuldt said VLANJ instructors have shared expertise in an array of areas, from independent living skills, orientation and mobility, cooking, and technology to fitness, meditation, African drumming, and horticulture, among others. Participants “will tell you of the amazing impact these instructors have had on their lives,” he said.
Bill Schuldt, President and CEO and Senator Anthony Bucco holding a proclamation in honor of VLANJ’s 80 years.
During the evening, New Jersey Sen. Anthony Bucco presented Schuldt with a resolution from both the Senate and General Assembly paying tribute to VLANJ for its dedication to New Jersey residents with vision loss. VLANJ “has established a model to emulate and set a standard of excellence toward which others might strive,” it reads in part.
Tasting in the Dark was generously sponsored by: New Jersey Natural Gas; Modera Wealth Management; Samsara Vision; General Vision Services; Thatcher McGhee’s; Carl and Sue Augusto; Kelly and Kevin Bleach; and Hoby Wedler, PhD.
If you missed this year’s Tasting in the Dark, not to worry! You can still contribute HERE.
by admin | Oct 27, 2023 | Events, Feature, Press Releases, Program
This program brings the convenience of Low Vision Occupational Therapy services to a person’s home. This program focuses on addressing safety and independence in completing daily living activities and the Occupational Therapist can provide timely, specific individualized recommendations in strategies to adjust lighting, enhance contrast, improve household organization, and reduce the risk of falls and self-injury in the home.
Click here for more information.
by admin | Oct 15, 2023 | Events
Please join us for VLANJ’s signature fundraising event, “Tasting in the Dark – A Celebration of 80 Years”
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 wine tasting by Dr. Hoby Wedler, a three-hour cocktail reception and silent auction.
For a listing of sponsorship details, please click here.
For any questions, please reach out to Jennifer Singer, Vice President of Development at 973.627.0055. Jsinger@vlanj.org
by Carly Eden Stokes | Dec 13, 2022 | Blog, News
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: www.vlanj.org/donations/
Your gift will continue to grow programs and services at VLANJ. Thank you!
by Carly Eden Stokes | Dec 11, 2022 | Blog, News
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.
by Carly Eden Stokes | Dec 11, 2022 | News, Press
Thank you to CBS News and journalist Elise Preston for featuring VLANJ in honor of Blindness Awareness Month. As our President and CEO Bill Schuldt noted, “Too often people who are blind or have low vision tend to be isolated, and we want to make sure they’re part of a community and they’re getting the skills they need.”
For more information on in-person and/or virtual programs, resources, and/or support for those living with blindness or low vision, reach out to our Program Director, Linda Groszew, at (973) 627-0055, prompt 4, and Linda will assist you.
Read the full article and watch the full news segment here: https://www.newson6.com/story/63601f1ab0fd28070981d424/october-is-blind-awareness-month?bblinkid=264323330&bbemailid=43374872&bbejrid=-1800005131
by Carly Eden Stokes | Dec 11, 2022 | Events
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.
by Carly Eden Stokes | Oct 31, 2022 | Blog, Events, News
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!
Follow VLANJ on Instagram
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by admin | Aug 2, 2022 | Blog, Events, News
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 available via the form below, or call Jennifer Singer at 973.627.0055, prompt 2 for more information.
by Carly Eden Stokes | Jun 21, 2022 | Blog, Events, News
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!
by Carly Eden Stokes | May 27, 2022 | Blog, News, Press Releases
MORRISTOWN, NJ (May 26, 2022) — Guide dogs are part of Morristown’s fabric, but on Monday, participants from Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey used white canes to traverse the town’s sidewalks and intersections.
An individual holds a white cane while another has a guide dog at the checkout counter of a Morristown, NJ business.
Three orientation and mobility specialists from The Seeing Eye and VLANJ’s O&M expert provided one-on-one instruction to participants on a route that included several blocks of Maple Avenue and South Street. While one group of participants received instruction, the other toured a local business, and after lunch, they swapped roles.
“It’s so important for people with vision loss and blindness to learn mobility skills and practice how to safely navigate indoor and outdoor public spaces, as well as sidewalks, and crosswalks,” VLANJ Vice President of Programs Elsa Zavoda said. “It provides them greater self-confidence to venture out in their own communities and beyond.”
The O&M outing was the third in a series, generously funded by grants from the William G. and Helen C. Hoffman Foundation and the Lydia Collins deForest Charitable Trust. The O&M specialists from The Seeing Eye, including VLANJ trustee Lukas Franck, volunteered their services.
Two individuals stand at a street corner in Morristown. One holds a white cane.
Peggy Kane went out with The Seeing Eye’s Kristin Lake, who first fitted her with a global positioning system that alerted Kane to upcoming intersections. As they walked along Maple Avenue, Lake noted uneven sidewalks in places, and reviewed cane techniques. Kane knew the importance of listening to traffic flow to know when it’s safe to cross an intersection that doesn’t have a walking signal.
“I don’t travel out in the community by myself as much anymore, so it was good to have the opportunity to practice my outdoor navigation skills,” Kane said.
Franck, a senior consultant at The Seeing Eye, worked with Marvin Morgan. At the traffic light at Maple Avenue and Miller Road, Franck coached Morgan to raise his pole to signal his intention to cross before stepping into the crosswalk.
Inside Braunschweiger Jewelers on South Street, owner Gretchen Braunschweiger stood at a circular display case and took out highly textured estate pieces for the VLANJ participants to handle.
Feeling a thick gold chain, Matthew Graves said, “This feels like a glow stick.” He tapped on a thick, smooth sterling silver bangle and said,“it feels and sounds like glass!”
Two individuals stand at the counter of Braunschweiger Jewelers in Morristown. A woman greets them behind the counter.
After examining more than a dozen pieces of jewelry, the VLANJ participants showed Braunschweiger mobility techniques they learned. Mary Ann Zino demonstrated trailing, using her cupped hand to feel her way around the circular jewelry display. Nicole Klein showed her different cane techniques to move around the store.
A woman holds her guide dog in front of a counter filled with sweets at a local Morristown business.
Braunschweiger said people with vision loss often visit the store, but usually, they are with guide dogs. When they enter, “someone goes up to the front to greet them,” she said.
After lunch, the participants who did orientation and mobility training in the morning visited Blue Mercury, a makeup and skin care shop on the Morristown Green. The VLANJ participants learned about products and smelled perfumes and colognes, and demonstrated human guide technique to Blue Mercury staff. The outing ended with a visit to Kilwins Morristown for ice cream.
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. Explore vlanj.org for more information.
by Carly Eden Stokes | May 6, 2022 | Blog, Events, News
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://www.vlanj.org/vlanjdayofgiving2022/
