Blinded Veterans Association

I was discharged from the navy as Honorable/disabled in 1965, but for some unknown reason they rated my disability as a 0% I had suffered a brain injury. Due to the way they wrote up my discharge, I was denied all VA benefits. However, The Blinded Veterans took up my case a few years ago and today I am rated at 95% disabled an have full medical and disability funding! They took my case even though it was very complicated and has taken many claims and claim reviews.. in fact they are still working to get me at !00%
This is special because every other lawyer and group had refused to help me due to the complexity of my case. In addition, because of their efforts my spouse will be better cared for if I die. they are awesome.

They step up and advocate for veterans who are blind or have low vision. Assist in beneficial laws and rules. Sponsor training and workshops. Investigate new devices for the blind to see if they would be beneficial or not. Just a great group

Well I'm fairly new to this group so I'm still learning what it can do for me and I've not been disappointed!!

Keep up with the great service that you provide to those veterans needing to be pointed in the right direction with the right information!!

My name is Irena, and I was in the Navy from 1967 2: 1970 in Seattle Washington as a
Yeoman doing clerical work.
I was diagnosed with end-stage glaucoma became legally blind, and I was able to receive a GUIDE DOG with the help of the BVA program and the brc, Blind Rehab Center.
They have helped me getting my life adjusted to my vision loss. My husband passed away and the BVA reached out to me to ask if I needed help. I was so happy that they called and they showed me a new way to live my life as comfortably as possible. They have helped with my medical eye issues. They taught me how to live independently, by showing me so many helpful tools, appliances and electronics that would help me. Show me how to navigate going to stores, getting on the bus, how to find items, on shelves what is the best, they showed me how to use electronics from iPhone to iPad to computers and other devices such as high-tech Merlin and the da Vinci. .. hi magnification, reading capabilities that everything is read to you. In the kitchen, how to slice dice safely, And improving your quality of life. When being visually impaired blinded, it’s not the end of the world. It seems like it, but the BVA has so many support systems from health quality of life, exercises, yoga meeting in group via zoom calls, and the BVA also has YouTube, which gives us connections with other veterans in the same situation. They now have the AMBASSADOR program it is veteran volunteers helping other veterans. It’s like we all are in the same boat, different disabilities, but with the Blind Rehab, we’re all there for each other and helping each other. There are volunteers and there are programs in the BVA that they send our veterans to participate in games from fishing to to skiing, we have the senior games that veterans compete against each other, which is awesome. The BVA always has some thing for the veterans to do and not be sitting at home doing nothing. They are our support system, keeping us busy, healthy, happy, meeting other people, and just knowing that we are special. There is so much I would like to say, but I know I’m chitchatting away, and my apologies if there’s misspelled words or whatever the print here is so small, I am sure that my friends and colleagues will be sending kudos to the BVA for helping a lot of veterans giving them a better life and enjoyment.
I am hoping and wishing that you will be able to support us giving many more veterans an upgrade in their life with the help of the BVA Program for me and the kudos to the Ambassador program. This is where we as veterans help for the veterans and getting the word out that the BVA is there to help each and everyone of us. And BVA also send the veterans to games and events all donations there are given to the BVA goes to all of our veterans making our life easier and manageable. Everything is so expensive and many of our veterans are homeless which is a sad thing. Very sad but the BVA is out there helping everyone as best as they can and through donations they could do that. Thank you so much for reading my long chitchat, sorry it was not able to proofread it and sometimes the recordings they do not understand my accent. Again, thank you so much for thinking of us and hoping you will be able to help us. Thank you.
If you need to call me from my phone number is 425-486-3099.

The Blinded Veterans Association was a beacon of hope when I was losing my vision. They guided me through one of the most difficult times in my life. They taught me how to advocate for myself, which resources are available to me (and where to find them), that I am not alone in this and their are others that are/have going/gone through this life-changing event. With peer support and direction I was able to go outside into the public with my head held high and feeling proud. Through their various groups I was able to learn how to apply for a guide-dog, and what to expect throughout the process. They hold various activities that get the members involved an doing things some people think would be impossible to do without sight. They teach you about the various blind rehabilitation centers, and which ones might suit your needs best.

They are like the family that you truly like!

I am a United States Marine Corps Veteran. Approximately 12 years ago I was in the process of loosing my sight and was forced to leave my job of 19 years. With my future up in the air and my mental and emotional state going down hill fast, I was convinced to enter the blind rehab center at my local VA hospital. While there I was introduced into the Blind Veterans Association. The fellow Veterans I met through the BVA was the shot in the arm I needed. Not only did they understand what I was going through but they provided the sense of community I was longing for to replace the state of lonely less I have allowed myself to fall in. I once again had a purpose and a mission which the BVA spearheaded despite my vision lost. The change in me was rapid and very noticeable to all of those around me and close to me. I know have a commitment to service for my fellow blinded Veterans and have continued forward ever since with no plans of turning back. Thank you Blinded Veterans Association for the impact and the positive change in this Marine’s life!

Since becoming a member of the Blinded Veteran’s Association in March of 2022, I have found the organization to be a place of comradery, like-minded individuals, constant peer support and an avenue to multiple resources to help me along my sight loss journey. Being able to become a BVA Ambassador has greatly increased my knowledge of the organization and given me insight to share what I have learned with my local Atlanta Chapter members. I have been able to help link many blinded veterans with the resources that have increased their ability to live a more independent life. I feel the work BVA is doing through Congress will greatly impact the lives of not only Blinded Veterans, but all veterans as a whole. Being a member of the Blinded Veteran’s Association has given me a sense of pride and the opportunity to connect to our local community through clothing drives for homeless veterans. This community engagement shows Blinded Veterans are alive and well and making an impact in the community where we live.

I love to tell everyone I know about the BVA. I went to the Convention in Washington DC and I enjoyed meeting and learning about the BVA.
I was not a member and I became so motivated to join as soon as the low vision membership was voted. I am now a new Ambassador this year. I am also Treasurer of BVA New Jersey. I am grateful to be a part of the BVA team.

I am a blind veteran and eventually discovered the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), and I am incredibly impressed by their work. As the only congressionally chartered nonprofit focused on blind and low vision veterans, BVA’s commitment is truly inspiring.

From the very start, it’s clear that BVA is devoted to representing and supporting our veterans. Their advocacy and outreach efforts are unmatched, ensuring that the needs and rights of blinded veterans are always a top priority.

Initially, I had some concerns about the percentage of donations that go toward administrative costs. However, those worries quickly vanished once I learned more about their operations. Many of the critical services they provide fall under administrative costs, and their actual administrative expenses are far below the national average for nonprofits. This level of transparency and efficiency is truly admirable.

The team at BVA is incredibly diverse, coming from all walks of life, and many are blind veterans themselves. Their firsthand experience and deep understanding of the challenges faced by blinded veterans make their work even more impactful. Their dedication to serving and honoring these veterans is evident in everything they do.

I urge everyone to support the Blinded Veterans Association. Their unwavering commitment and exceptional service make them a standout organization in the veteran community. Join me in supporting BVA and sharing their mission so we can ensure they continue to thrive and make a difference in the lives of our blinded veterans. Let's spread the word and make a real impact together!

The BVA is an outstanding non-profit that really help veterans with visual impairments. In 2011 the BVA helped me get 100% PT that was denied to me since 1999.

This nonprofit has benefited my aunt so much! She is a vibrant, strong, independent woman, and because of this organization, she continues to be a vibrant, strong independent woman!!! Thank you for your continued efforts.

I was 38 years old and being medically retired from the Army after nearly 20 years of service. The Department of Veterans Affairs decided my loss of sight was only worth 30% disability compensation. The BVA fought for me and I received 100% service connection which was a life changer for a family of 5. I was able to return to college and earn my PhD. Now I am able to have a career and provide for my family. Without the BVA and their support I am not sure what would have happened tome. I was able to show my children that even with a disability I could still be a productive member of society and blindness is an inconvenience not a death sentence. AS a college instructor I can also show my students any obstacle can be overcome.

My late husband was a long time member. The leadership worked unceasingly to do whatever was necessary to improve the lives of members. They never hesitated to go to bat for anyone who had a problem and never stopped until the problem was solved.

The BVA has helped me tremendously through the years. It’s a great nonprofit organization

My sister is an Army veteran. She is a member of BVA-NJ. Her membership has helped her to grow and stay connected.

I have met a lot of members at different events. I finally decided to join after a few years. The webinars are very useful. They keep me updated about the different technology and how to get it from the VA. Good organization

Great professional people. I used them to file a claim and they got me my backpay. They know what they are doing. I lost my sight a couple of years ago from a disease after I got out of the air force. They looked at all my records and were able to get it service connected. They keep you informed.

This organization helped me through the tough times. Great Friends, good support. I am a monthly giver now. They do great work for vets

This organization helped me with my very complex VA claim. I got everything I deserved within months after fighting for years with other service officers. I got years of back pay. Great people.

The BVA empowers blind vets to help themselves and others. Great role models. I give every month.

As a professional in the blindness field, the BVA is one of the best organizations to work with! It's clear that members feel a genuine connection and appreciation for a shared vision of what can be accomplished.

It is an honor to serve our blind and low vision Veterans. Our organization empowers those living with sight loss and their families and caregivers.

They help me meet other blind veterans and learn what I am entitled to. They also hooked me up with free ski trips, fly fishing, golf, kayaking, water skiing and great friends. They help
Me with my guide dog! Great organization to donate to and participate in !

I have had the honor of meeting some of the staff and blinded veterans at BVA. The services that this organization provides are extremely beneficial to the members. It is a wonderful organization providing essential life-changing experiences for visually impaired veterans.

A wonderful organization that empowers blinded veterans to live a more meaningful life with a sense of purpose.

I've had the great pleasure of meeting the staff and seeing how passionate every one of them is to helping make blinded veterans lives easier. I'm glad to support such a wonderful organization

Being a veteran is hard, being a blinded veterans is even more difficult. I'm proud to support such a wonderful organization that adovocates and offers peer support for not only blinded veterans, but veterans like myself. Ensuring that no veteran gets left behind.

A wonderful organization that supports our blinded veterans.

Meredith Buono-Dagrossa was amazing!

Mrs. Dagrossa helped us from start to finish.

She was very knowledgeable and friendly.

We will definitely return next year!

BVA was there to provide support and mentorship when I was most vulnerable and in need. As a combat veteran, I was in dire need of the type of service and programs that BVA provides. They will always be one of an elite few Veteran Organizations that have a place in my heart.

George M. 'Buck' Gillispie was my stepdad. He married my mom when I was 9. We played football in the street outside our home. He could kick the ball a mile in the sky. I never was able to kick as well as he did.
Buck and my mom got me a dog, Tippie. Buck, Tippie and a friend of his, his kid and dog and I would go hiking in the hill above our home in Monrovia, CA.
While he was working for the BVA, he was asked to visit all of the blinks in New England. He visited most of them, traveling alone and with just his Hoover cane, by bus and train. But some were too far off the beaten path to reach that way. So in my Junior year of high school, we put our 5 h.p. Johnson outboard in the back of our station wagon, left our home in Connecticut, and we traveled throughout New England, stopping to fish at the many lake along the way.
Could I have had a better father? No. He was God's gift to me. Bob Ashmore

The BVA or Blinded Veterans association is an amazing group that not only builds community but takes important steps towards improving the lives of its members and people in the blind and low vision community overall.

The Blinded Veterans Association proved effective by providing information that made me aware of a benefit that was needed by a fellow blinded veteran. I contacted BVA National Headquarters. A field representative worked with the veteran and ensured the benefit was received. I received a thank you card from the veteran’s widow. This is just one instance of how the BVA leadership and members can assist our fellow blinded veterans.

Going blind Sucks! That being said, the BVA and its members are what took me from a place of despondency to a place of self worth and having a reason to live again. Through them rowing the boat and letting me sit back and learn how to live as a blind person in America was invaluable. They have given me the opportunity to now row that boat and help many other veterans learn how to live again, this time with blindness. Through the encouragement of the members of the BVA I can now encourage others, even those veterans and non-veterans alike about how to continue with a fruitful and exciting life and the many challenges we face every day. It isn't easy and walking into walls hurts, but being able to speak with fellow blinded veterans through the BVA channels lets me know that it's OK to laugh at things like walking into walls, we've all done it because we can't see the walls. That is also a euphemism in that so many folks feel that because we are blind we have nothing but insurmountable walls blocking our path. The camaraderie the BVA provides helps us to cope with knowing that although those walls are there, they are not very strong and we can break them down VERY EASILY! Through the legislative actions, Veteran Service support and Operation Peer Support programs, in addition to so many local Regional Group activities the BVA, through its 76 year history has shown the world what a GREAT organization can do for Americas Heroes. Give us a long white cane, a talking compass and a fellow BVA member and we will navigate the world!

A great association to part, informative in the issues of vision problem and a great a association we can look forward to for the new research literature. I would contribute when I can.

I lost my sight, as well as my hearing on March 31, 2019, at the age of 23. At that point, I thought my life was over and that I’d spend the rest of my days living in a nursing home. A few months later, while I was attending blind rehab, I was fortunate enough to cross paths with some of the BVA’s Operation Peer Support members, who spread awareness for the VA and organize adaptive sports events, as well as secure funding for those events. It was at this time that I discovered some of the incredible things I’d be able to do again, like snowboarding, rock climbing, whitewater kayaking and rafting, and so much more. Having been extremely active before I lost my sight, this meant the world to me, and restored my sense of hope.

Y December of the same year, I was back on the slopes in Colorado, learning how to snowboard, getting the chance to spend time with other blinded veterans, feeling independent once again, and feeling a sense of overwhelming joy I hadn’t felt in a long time. I was blown away by how much the trip brought to my life. I went there expecting snowboarding to be the most valuable part of the trip, but the time spent with the other veterans before and after our time on the slopes was so incredibly healing. They understood what I was going through, taught me how to process it all, and to be open about what happened to me, because that in itself if is very healing.

The Blinded Veterans Association provides exceptional resources, camaraderie, and services for blinded veterans, their families, and caregivers. As a former employee, and long-term member, I will cherish my lifelong friendships, acquaintances, and memories of trips and adventures exploring and challenging the limits of my disabilities. Keep fighting the good fight, and taking care of our nation's blind and visually impaired veterans!

We were members for only a year but was very impressed by this organization.

I am a Veteran and so lucky to be able to be treated by the Tucson VA BVA. I have met many people who have come to this facility, many from other states who claim that our Tucson BVA is by far better than others they have been to..

If it were not for the Tucson BVA I could not function as an independent person. They have provided training and equipment that many low vision persons who are not eligible to use the VA only wish they had access to. There is never a day that goes by that I don't count my blessings to have access to the teachers and equipment they have provided me with.

Thank you very much and God Bless the BVA.

Margo L Carlisle

I'm a blinded veteran, and I like to get things done. Since 2011 I have actively held all Post/Locale positions in the American Legion and the 40&8 Society, and as a District Finance Officer. Nobody complained. Hey, I'm still a Post Commander and may be a 40&8 Chef de Gare next year.
I love the companionship, and the comfort of familiarity. However, I'm still somewhat alone. The Blinded Veterans Organization completes my needs. I'm not yet as active as I could be, but that will change after I know that my Legion Post and 40&8 Voiture Locale are secure after the pandemic. The future with and for the BVA matters. It's important. It's special.
Respectfully,
Michael Paul Beetham
Phoenix, AZ

They assisted me in service connecting my vision loss with the Dept. of Veterans Affairs; which allows me to live independently and continue working. Their specialization in assisting Veterans with vison loss is unrivaled anywhere in the US.

In 2014 I became involved with the BVA as a volunteer. My friend and fellow Army Ranger Danny Wallace introduced me to the organization through OPS (Operation Peer Support). I lived in North Georgia and was able to coordinate along with some fellow retirees some mountaineering training at Camp Frank D. Merrill in Dahlonega Georgia. There were American and British Blinded veterans that participated in the week long events.
Meeting those veterans and seeing their enthusiasm climbing and rappelling was incredibly inspiring I was hooked. Since then I have travelled all over the United States volunteering with Operation Peer Support. From California to DC meeting and guiding these incredible veterans has been an honor and a privilege.
The BVA truly does care about their veterans and goes above and beyond to continue to challenge these veterans and give them the opportunities to continue to live an adventurous lifestyle showing that the only boundaries there are, are the ones we create.

Joe Amerling
1SG USA RET

My name is Ricky and I am a member of the BVA I joined this Organization in 2015 after losing some vision and becoming visually impairedI was in a really dark place at that time in my life due to my life changing so drastically and it was and continue to be the brotherhood and sisterhood of the BVA that helped me to change my life and get back to living and being independent I will never forget one of the members in our local chapter shared with me to ask myself if I wanted to be independent or dependent of course I had a desire to be independent and that helped me to get back to living and thanks to this great organization that is what I do on a daily basis thank you BVA for helping me and others learn that we can continue to live and be happy rather than lonely and depressed

My husband was blind never did know about BVA until my Dad told him about Larry Love from S.C.. Dale got in touch
with local BVA Chapter in Columbus, Ga. It was the best thing he ever did. It gave him freedom to do things he never could do before.

He got a guide dog and was able to get out and walk to the park. They taught him how to take of himself while I was at work. Thank you BVA for all you did for Ronald Larry Lee.

The Blinded Veterans Association has helped me in so many ways. I feel more confident in my ability to reach out and interact with others. The feeling of belonging and purpose could not have happened without the support and encouragement of this association.

The BVA serves as a voice for blinded veterans. They recognize our unique situation(s) and strive to ensure that it is not overlooked and our voice is heard. They continuously strive to empower us through various programs and assist us in the claims process, which can be heavily cumbersome.

From the time i learned i was legally blind in 2013, BLinded Veterans Association has been a critical and essential part of my recovery, rehabilitation and engagement in a new world with sight loss. While my eyesight has continued to deteriorate, my inner vision has continued to expand. One of the key missions of BVA has been Operation Peer Support. Blind members reached out to me to introduce themselves and the friendships and bonds have been life-enriching. My first event was being invited to join other blind veterans to travel to the UK to spend a week with blind veterans from the US, UK and South Africa for a week of fun, fellowship, exploring Wales and Northern England and building memories and making new friends. Two friendships i built in 2016 have resulted into close friendship.
BVA has been through some very tough times in my personal life, losing my wife to breast cancer earlier this year. The outpouring of support and love from so many members has been a source of healing during my grief.
Mentorship has been a big part of this experience as well, I have served
As a VP of a regional group for two years as now volunteer my time on a national level to support the mission of BVA; blind veterans helping blind veterans.

The Austin, TX Chapter of the Blinded Veterans Association provides companionship, information and resources to our Blinded Veterans as well as their family members and Caregivers. Setting goals, the Blinded Veteran has created allows all of our members to share with the Blinded Veteran their learning experiences.
We, along with the Blinded Veterans and their family member and or Caregiver, have reached out to various federal, state and city government offices in an effort to provide the best and up to date information on the resources that are available to aid the Blinded Veteran.
Helping Blinded Veterans is what our Blinded Veterans Association is all about.

My name is Doie Langston. I served in the United States Army until 1997. I am legally blind and have faced many challenges in my transition from a sighted world to the unsighted one. The Blind Veteran’s Association has been profoundly instrumental in helping me adjust to the unsighted world. The BVA has given me access to numerous resources such as connection with other blinded veterans as well as many community resources that provide assistance and services that support the visually impaired. I am truly grateful for the support of this wonderful organization.

I was the first blind person I ever knew. After being diagnosed with a degenerative eye disease and leaving the army, I tried to focus on getting and keeping a job (hard to do when you can't drive and all your work experience is in combat arms). It was difficult losing my independence and the support system that was the army. Four years after leaving the army I found BVA and it changed my life. Finally, I had true peers; people who understood my struggle and would be there for me when I just needed to talk to someone who I knew would understand. They have introduced me to opportunities to not only grow personally and professionally, but have shown me how to give back to my fellow blinded veterans. To say "they saved my life" sounds cliché' and probably corny, but I'm not sure its not true. I had never been more depressed than I was before I went to my first BVA convention. Since then, I've been to the VA Blind Rehab Center in Tucson, went with a delegation to the BVA United Kingdom in Wales, snowboarded for the first time in 16 years, learned to kayak in white water and hiked 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail with other blinded vets and a dozen of the best volunteer warriors a man could be around. Best of all, I applied for and received my guide dog from Guide Dogs for the Blind; Dervish...he's the best! I currently serve as the BVA National Sergeant-at-Arms and the Chairman for Operation Peer Support. I can only hope to give back half as much as they've given me.

I was looking for a volunteer opportunity while in college. I found out about the Blinded Veterans Association and reached out to inquire as to opportunities to serve this awesome community. They went above and beyond arranging a great experience for me as a volunteer. it's amazing how much their members can do after being blinded. I remain inspired by their accomplishments and hope to attend their national convention next year as a volunteer. Our college is also hoping to arrange a fundraiser for them too. I also learned that they offer scholarships for the family members of blinded veterans, which our college is now posting and advising students of. Thank you BVA, you ROCK!

As the wife of a blinded veteran I can't say enough good things about the Blinded Veterans Association. BVA is always there for our family whenever we need them. My husband gets to do things we never imagined possible after his blindness (sports, travel, home repairs, cooking, and being a great father to our son). Initially he was severely depressed and remained isolated, scared of the world outside. BVA encouraged him to attend a blind rehabilitation center where he learned orientation and mobility, manual skills, computer and technology, cooking, and so much more. He was provided all kinds of adaptive euipment that allows him to lead a fully independent life. All of this was made possible by BVA's caring staff and members. We will forever be grateful for their guidance and support, as well as the awesome donors that make all of this possible.

Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) goes above and beyond for all those they serve. I was blinded during combat operations in Iraq and representatives of BVA visited me at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. They introduced me to the various programs available within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Blind Rehabilitation Services and helped me process all of the forms necessary to receive my VA benefits. This took a tremendous burden off of my family and I as I struggled to transition from military service to the civilian sector as a severely disabled veteran. BVA has remained a constant presence in our lives ever since. They've offered opportunities to participate in adaptive sports, connect with fellow blinded veterans, advocate for blinded veterans, and travel to England as part of Project Gemini (a program connecting US blinded veterans with UK blinded veterans). The organization provides hope to those experiencing devastating disabilities, all FREE of charge. BVA continues to be a blessing for the more than 130,000 blinded veterans in the US, and others across the globe. I hope those that are able will continue to fund this organization as they are totally dependent on donations (receiving no government funding). Thank you BVA for allowing me to be a part of your great organization!

The Blinded Veterans Association (BVA)is the only organization that works for all of our blinded veterans and their families, works with the Veterans Association to have the services needed for the blinded veterans, and embraces their Auxiliary (BVAA) as the blinded veterans' caregivers and loved ones.

They have identified many needs of the blinded veterans, have worked to get their needs taken care of by the Veterans Association. This has been done by letters and appearances in the "Halls of Congress," working with doctors and VA staff to learn more, working with the veterans to make sure the services and veterans are brought together for the individual's benefit and that of all blinded veterans. BVA never stops! 2020 brought a change in the laws so that family caregivers of eligible veterans (the blind and others), whose help and assistance was previously only recognized for our post-9/11 veterans, can now receive expanded assistance and in two years should cover the family caregivers of all eligible veterans with serious, service connected injury or illness. This was a great achievement for the BVA , as well as the veterans and family caregivers.

Fear of the unknown was high prior to attending my first BVA Convention. That lasted for about fifteen minutes after we walked in the front door. We were swept into the world - or rather the family - of blinded veterans and their spouses and families. We watched as some struggled in transition for acceptance and others were comfortable in their own skin. We were accepted quickly and easily into the fold of the BVA and found ourselves working with others to grow the BVA family and expand it to the younger generation coming home from Iraq, Afghanistan, and other corners of the middle east. We have made new lifetime friends, learned much, and contributed our work and much of our lives to the BVA because we believe in them and they believe in us. "Blinded Veterans Helping Blinded Veterans" is not just a motto or a saying, it's what we - the Blinded Veterans Association - do.

As a member of the Blinded Veterans Association, I have regained my confidence in myself. I became active with individuals experiencing the lost of their sight. The Association centers on providing guidance, leadership, advocacy and overall comaraderie. We have never loss our sight for helping others blind individuals.
There are many benefits in joining. Committees are formed in various areas to ensure all members concerns are addressed and developed. In Operation Peer Support, I attended a Turkey Shoot in Sullivan Indiana. Never before would I have ventured out to hunt and shoot a turkey. I did! It was awesome experience. Yes, I have fired weapons while on active duty but the experience to fire a weapon with limited vision is fulfilling. I had the privileged to attend a Soccer Camp at Clemson University and upon completion I achieved a Coaching License (E & F)to coach children under the age of 12. Women Veterans Group focuses on the awareness of woman's health issues. This is one area commonly untouched. The term veteran depicts the male gender. Women veterans exist and have health issues not experienced by men.
Through the Blind Rehabilitation Center, we learn to adapt in mobility, daily living skills, computers and other activities we thought we could not handle anymore. The Association promotes training and seeks to provide us with devices to enable us to a better way of life. Life is good once confidence is restored within oneself.
Currently I hold 3 leadership positions and seek to recruit/advocate and promote blind awareness to our community. We are no different than anyone else, we learned to adjust our life accordingly. Every year we walk to support the March of Dimes. We hold luncheons/dinner functions at local restaurants to be seen as a normal person.
The Blinded Veteran Association has broaden my perspective on a new way of living. I highly recommend to a blinded veteran to join for a new adventure in life. Everything is possible. The only thing holding you back is yourself.
Thank you
Elizabeth Holmes

As a member of the BVA we are constantly striving to improve the quality of life of blinded veterans. We work closely with the VA, individual Regional Groups and outside organizations. During the past year the Eagles lodge 4535 helped promotee a Mardi Gras float for the blinded veterans attending the Gulf Coast Health Care Systems Blind Rehabilitation Center. This was an opportunity that the veterans may never had the chance to experience other than previously watching on television. The BVA pulled it off and many veterans had one of the best days of their lives. Many have asked to return in following years at the same time to do it all over again.

In December of 1980 while on active duty Navy I suffered a traumatic brain injury blindness and hearing loss due to a violent assault. Upon my discharge there were no services or programs in place for women. For seventeen years I suffered in pain and silence. It was not until my childhood friend asked me to move to Milwaukee Wisconsin that I was able to receive the proper services for my disability. I join the BVA in 1999 at the encouraging of my Vist at Clement Zablocki VA. I was also able to address my mental health. I also trained and received the proper technology for a better quality of living. I went back to college and received my masters degree in social work. The cold weather became a bit to much for my chronic pain. So we moved to mid south to Arkansas. I remained under the umbrella where I have been blessed to get involved with the many aspects of Blind Veteran Association. Operation Peer Support in my opinion saves lives. For most of us who deal with blindness and other disabilities some days are much harder than others. OPS is the missing piece for a lot of us whom have struggled from day to day. Today I can climb mountains, kayak rivers, and advocate before senators. Because of Blind Veteran Association I am able to assist others like my self. Grateful and Blessed

The Blinded Veteran Association has been instrumental in working with the VIST Coordinator and Blind Recreation Specialist to get special guest speakers to come and address our questions and needs. I have met people like me and learned so much! I don’t feel so alone and isolated anymore!!!

I needed help and fast. These folks delivered extraordinary service and support on both counts. I was looking for assistance with filing a VA claim. The response came quickly. The person with whom I worked on my claim was the consummate professional and very knowledgeable. When I was anxious about the details of the claim her calm demeanor helped to reassure me I was in good hands. Indeed, I was.

I was a heavy equipment mechanic and truck driver when I started having real bad eye problems that was preventing me from working and as a result lost my job and career without a formal education I didn't have insurance that covered extensive ophthalmology and retina specialist visits and testing . As a result I lost everything including my home . The BVA joined with the Lions club and I was able to get a diagnosis of an inherited retinal disease known as Retinitis Pigmentosa and the BVA's part of solving the problem was to get me enrolled and attending a blind rehab clinic and while I was attending one of the field service officers, after finding out I was homeless cut me a check for $300.00 to assist me in finding a place to stay when I was scheduled to complete the training . Due to the Generosity of the BVA I was able to focus on new career training skills like going back to school and getting employment . I would hate to think where I may have ended being un-employed and rapidly losing my eyesight and with the disease that has no known cure

My experience with BVA was life changing. Start to finish my VA Compensation Claim case was completed in less than four months. Big KUDOS to Ms. Claudia Perry and Ms. Cecilia Montenegro from BVA. They were kind, very helpful, sharp, professional, understanding, and well in-depth knowledge of VA and RP.

As the Founder and President of the Global Campaign Against Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) I can state without hesitation that BVA is perhaps the finest organization we've worked with in support of veterans and their families.

BVA's unfaltering support to our veterans, active duty and their families has been manifest in their unqualified support not only whenever we needed it, but when others called for assistance. This extends beyond the military to their help in facilitating critical information sharing of blast trauma related data and research with the private sector and first responders especially in the make of the Boston Marathon attack.

At every opportunity and without hesitation on continually point to BVA as THE benchmark for what a a Veterans Service Organization should be and how it should operate. They literally set the standard.

As a recently retired representative of the American Optometric Association (AOA), the professional society representing doctors of optometry in both the private sector and those practicing in the federal sector (military, VA PHS), I would like to voice my opinion of the Blinded Veterans Association. I have had a long-standing working relationship with BVA officials that goes back for decades and over that time I witnessed an admirable arc of maturation and growth in BVA's representation product. My experience with BVA was not centered on direct member service but rather on BVA's advocacy efforts and I can report enthusiastically on the solid reputation that BVA enjoys with Members of Congress. It is my opinion that, year in and year out, BVA has been an exemplar for Veterans Service Organizations in their advocacy efforts before Congress and the administrative agencies. BVA has led the way in securing greatly improved services for blin rehabilitation, low vision, and, more recently, in polytrauma, traumatic brain injury and its effects on vision.
Writing from the perspective of a former representative for an individual membership association, I am most sensitive to individual members' assessment of their membership association. From an association staff perspective, its our sensitivity to members' charge of:"what have you done for us recently"; and, from the association member perspective it's "we pay our dues (etc) yet we wonder about the value..." This refrain from both the staff and member perspective has always been thus; it's the vdery nature of association representation no matter the endeavor. But rest assured, there is QUANTIFIABLE evidence BVA takes a backseat to no VSO when it comes to their committment to steadfast - and sometimes even aggressive - representation for BVA's agenda. Just ask to see the record of "points on the board" BVA has compiled for its members.

David S Danielson
American Optometric Association 1975-2013

My name is Paul Davidson and I am the Federal Program Manager for Deque Systems Inc. Deque Systems is a Prime Contractor to the Veterans Administration where we test and partially remediate html content that is in the public domain as well as behind the VA firewall. Our goal is to significantly improve web accessibility for blind and disabled veterans who are dependent upon screen reader technology to interact with the agency content such as Insurance, Benefits and Career sites. Deque has had the good fortune to work with the Blinded Veterans Association as we identify use cases for these web sites. We have worked closely with BVA field staff to understand some of the challenges that blinded veterans face. BVA has outstanding staff and management that are committed to the cause and greatly benefit the disabled community and specifically our nation’s veterans.

The organization, which is one of a kind in its support of blinded veterans, has many positive aspects. Firstly, the FSP Program and the Legislative Affairs Department and their advocacy for the rights of blinded veterans are outstanding. Where the organization lacks is in the areas of funding and leadership. It is unfortunate that many of the members do not "step up to the plate" and get involved, and this includes many within the ranks of the elected Board members. It is a “Good Ole Boy network and is highly nepotistic, to put it mildly. The Board members, by the By-Laws of the organization, have to come from the ranks of the membership. Although this may be a great idea since the Officers of the organization have a firm commitment to the goals and mission of the organization, this severely limits those who can serve in leadership positions. This has resulted in a limitation of those with sound business or non-profit experience serving in key decision making positions within the organization. Additionally, the key funding source for the organization remains Direct Mail solicitations. This is a financial resource drain and the Return on Investment (ROI) for this type of funding source is less than optimal. On another note, the membership will soon be facing a major crisis, since the majority of members are from the WWII era, and the lack of recruitment of “younger” members to keep the organization a relevant voice for blinded veterans will be in jeopardy when the membership “dies out”. Lastly, when you look at the IRS I-990 reporting form, the majority of funds do not go to direct veteran services. It can be argued that the reporting is skewed and that some of the funds are not counted correctly in the direct service area, but it is still the fact that this needs to change in order to be considered or ranked higher as an organization that people want to donate to in order to provide services to blinded veterans. It is quite difficult to give to an organization with a 0 or 1 star rating when it comes to non-profits. Although the BVA is a BBB accredited organization their non-profit ranking by all of those organizations who rate non-profits, such as Great Non-profits and Charity Navigator, have the BVA ranked in the 0 or 1 star rating category. So when you look for an organization to donate to, Caveat Emptor should be the final word on where your money should go.

By far the best nonprofit organization for blind veterans. Big kudos to Ms. Claudia Perry and her staff.

To Whom It May Concern:
I would like to acknowledge how helpful and supportive the Blinded Veterans Association has been to me as a blinded veteran. They have helped me directly to get training and helped me deal with the emotional issues surrounding blindness and put me in contact with other veterans in similar situations. They have been instrumental in the training that the VA provides at their various blind centers throughout the country. The support they have provided in understanding my benefits has improved my ability to deal with my blindness. Their local chapters provide an avenue of meeting other veterans in the community in which I live with similar conditions. I would strongly recommend that if you are a blinded veteran that you contact the BVA regarding benefits that you may be qualified to receive.
Best Regards,
James P. Huber

What can I say about the BVA? First I would like to say thank you to Claudia Perry and her staff @ the DC VA. They are a tremendous help to me in answering any questions I may have about my benefits and rights as a veteran. I use to be a member if another organization and every time I called for help with my claim itvwas always something and it would take forever to get a call back. It got to the point where I was all ready to give up about filling my claim. The day I meet Claudia and her staff was a blessing. For the first time I truly felt like I had someone in my corner helping me through the VA process. Again THANK YOU BVA!!!! My life is alittle bit more manageable because of your staff @ the DC VA.

MT

Evidently the last reviewer was unaware of the way this organization is run. It is completely top heavy. Unless things change this organization is heading for a downfall !

I have had extensive experience with the BVA not only in projects but observing first hand their work to support Veterans. I believe your rating is completely inaccurate and does not address the fine work the BVA is doing. This is a small organization of dedicated professionals who works hard for veterans. I have seen first hand how they were able to get funding for veteran's research and other benefits as well as raise awareness of the vision problems encountered by active duty and veterans that was being neglected. They are the driving force for DoD establishing a Vision Center of Excellence at Water Reed. I suggest before you do such severe damage to the reputation of fine organizations such as this by looking at statistics you compile that are not connected to actual performance you exercise due diligence.

I have no direct connection with this organization and have never worked for them, but I do know first hand the fine work they do.

I am a longtime donor to veteran's charities for many years and am a Vietnam Vet. I am deeply troubled by the Charity Navigator's profile on BVA. I will not be donating any longer to BVA unless and until this charity conducts it's business in a more positive manner than is laid out in it's scores. BVA's comparisons to 5-10 of the leading charities in this consumer watch organization, are dismal to say the least.

After reading comments posted, I feel compelled to comment that the individual posting the negative comment about the Executive Director position knows little or nothing about the BVA HR procedures and or policies. It is important to know that the BVA National Board of Directors made a genuine effort to attract as many qualified applicants for the position of Executive Director as possible. Contrary to the posted negative comments BVA announced the position in a vast array of methods and mediums to insure reading the greatest number of potential applicants; the position was announced; mailed to all members, posted on the BVA website, email to all members (for whom we have valid email addresses), distributed via list serves ( BVA and both VA Visual Impairment Services Team and Blind Rehabilitation Outpatient Services list serves) and in the BVA News Letter a.k.a. the “BVA Bulletin.” Over Ten applicants submitted requested applications and were carefully reviewed by a Search Committee and three individuals were determined to meet basic qualification and scheduled for interviews. The notion that an applicant needed to be a "Member" is incorrect. The Executive Director does need to be a blinded veteran and Member but there is no requirement in the By-laws he/she is required to be a Member at the time of submitting the application. The individual who ultimately was selected had been an Annual Member in the past but let the membership lapse. Subsequent to submitting the Application and prior to his interview, he did indeed join a as a Life Members. BVA has functioned for nearly sixty-eight (68) years adhering to the highest integrity pertaining to hiring practices. The organization has earned respect and credibility with the Congress of the United States and the Executive Branch of Government. The National Board of Directors and Staff would never do anything to jeopardize that reputation. Clearly, the individual who posted the negative comments did not have all the facts and lacked a true understanding of the organization and the integrity of its National Board of Directors and Headquarters staff.

BVA has had, and continues to make a major impact on my life. As millions of blinded Americans stay at home and out of the way of the sighted community, the BVA encourages and promotes independence and awareness of those blinded in military service. The organization has deep roots to the post-WWII renaissance and the GI Bill to send returning veterans to college. The national advocacy is amazing and can be felt at the lowest levels in my own community out west in Tucson. A good example: flip a $20 bill over and look at the large, high contrast "20" there. BVA is the only organization I know of who was smart enough to understand that the current leadership running it will have a difficult time handing it over the the youngest generation when they can no longer get out of their houses, due to age and poor health. In that same breath, the current generation doesn't want to merely evolve. So, the BVA created a separate track for the young blinded veterans to assimilate and associate, learn the traditions of the organization, and do things that are relevant to this generation's needs, while respecting the older generation's work. BVA is definitely an extended family that has been there whenever I've needed them, and I've been able to contribute to those who are very new to their injuries.

I am a gulf war and OIF/OEF vet. The Blinded Veterans Associations, BVA . as done more for me that all the others combined.. WWP, VA ect.. I cant say enough about them GREAT. they have been a main source of info , support , training, ect. the OPS group the BVA set up is a huge help, interaction with fellow blind vets is best. what can i say... Thank you BVA. your the best.

Losing ones' vision ranks as one of the hardest disabilities to overcome. Reasons for this includes isolation due to ones ability to independently travel, difficulties finding peers coping with similar issues, and a multitude of other issues.

Now imagine your are a twenty something year old Soldier with a wife and family back at home. Your day to day activities while deployed involves conducting patrols and other combat operations in Iraq. Additionally, you possess a general idea and some personal and professional goals for you and your family for when you return. Now imagine that you just sustained an injury that renders you visually impaired. Who can you turn to for peer support... Where can you turn to for help...

Well This is a story that I and others in the Blinded Veterans Association were ffaced with and lived through. In my particular story, I continued to serve in the Army for seven years following my injury. While this alone may be an awesome accomplishment, those seven years were very difficult, as I would not be introduced to the Blinded Veterans Association until my final year in. For those six other years, my wife and I felt very isolated, as we did not have anyone to turn to that would understand many of the issues visual impairments present. I struggled with depression and anger, as I tried my hardest to live life as I intended to prior to my injury. Many kind hearted people expressed their sympathies, but what we really needed was a peer support group living with similar issues.

My adventures with the Blinded Veterans Association started in 2011, when my wife and I attended their national convention. For the first time, my wife and I were surrounded by other visually impaired Service Members, Veterans, and their families. We learned for the first time that we were not alone in our daily struggles, and even how to overcome many of them.

Since attending the convention, I participate with a faction of the BVA known as Operation Peer Support. This group comprises of Service Members and Veterans who sustained a visual impairment as the result of actions in Iraq or Afghanistan. I also assist other visually impaired Veterans in my community through the local regional group. Additionally, I recently received the opportunity to travel with the BVA to meet with visually impaired Veterans from the UK, through Project Gemini.

My family and I cannot express our gratitude towards the BVA enough for showing us that hope is out there. The BVA made my transition process from the Army to the civilian world very easy, along with assisting with creating my new set of personal and professional goals.For the first time in a long time, my family and I are comfortable with who we are and what we desire to become.

The Blinded Veterans Administration have done so much for so many and I'm so thankful and honored to be part of this great organized family and support group.I have been places and done things with the BVA / Operation Peer Support group that has diffidently changed my life.This great Organization and family has helped me and so many other blinded vets to see there are no limits in the things I can do.So I give my up most love and support to my fellow blind veterans and the support team, of the US and the UK (Project Gemini).

I am a female veteran who served honorably from 1974-77. In 1990 I was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa. Over the years, my vision has worsened and I have been declared legally blind. Even though we have a wonderful VA Hospital where I live, I didn’t understand that I could utilize their services. I didn’t know that I could submit claim(s) for service connection. Through a friend who works there, I found out that I could use the VA’s low vision clinic. I called and met with the staff. While talking to their social worker, I found out about the BVA. Since then, I have contacted the BVA office a number of times and have come away Very pleased. My calls & emails have always been returned promptly and respectfully. It is obvious that the staff cares and is willing to help in any way. I have no doubt that I will stay in touch with this organization who do so much for those of us who didn’t know we had a voice.

I'm a blinded/visually impaired Navy Corpsman who was injured in 2005 At Haditha Iraq. BVA was given my name and contacted me. Since then I've testified for BVA at 2 seperate Senate Hearings. This group has been a life saver to me.

I am a soldier who return from Iraq, blinded and afraid of the hopeless life that I thought only existed for a blind person.
Two years after my injury I got a phone call that changed my life. The BVA had found me and wanted to invite me to a program that gathered new blinded vets together with older blinded vets.
At no cost I flew from the seclusion of the Appalachian mountains to a convention in New Mexico where I met others like me, learned about financial and educational benefits, and about access technology!
I have since moved to California where I am studying Computer Science so that I can help contribute to the access technology that I discovered there!

Thehorrible review below disturbed me so I have performed some research.
The numbers that the annonomous reviewer posted below are no where to be found in the 990 !
http://www.bva.org/form990.pdf

This organization is an organization of Blinded Veterans helping other Blinded Veterans for over 65 years. It is not likely that such numbers could exist when a group of voting board members, all blinded vets, cycles annually and votes on such matters.
In addition to other programs, the BVA payes, at the moment, 8 Blinded Veterans to provide services for Blinded Veterans in their region. The pay of one of these employees alone dramatically contradicts "abcdef's" suggestion that only $15,000 goes to service programs.
This organization has provided me inspiration, guidance, friends, and so much more!

Check out this group's IRS form 990: With over four million dollars in contributions, they spent less that $15,000 on program services. If you want to help our blinded veterans, find a reputable charity. This organization is a scam

I first became aware of Blinded Veterans Association and its goals through a friend who works there. She explained to me the gap in official veterans' benefits that BVA works hard to fill, as well as the sudden increase in blinded veterans.
Through my friend, I have found an organization that I feel comfortable donating to and volunteering for. Unlike so many non-profit organizations based in DC, BVA works on an extremely limited internal budget, because they use most of their donations for actually helping our veterans.
I've met several of the employees of BVA, and each one has a compassionate heart dedicated to the mission of the BVA, and so I encourage my friends and family to donate and volunteer with this group.

I requested information due to the fact that I am a legally blind veteran discharged under Honorable conditions who is just about homeless. I requested information about obtaining assistance but received no answer, now winter is coming and there's an excellent possibility that I may have to survive in the elements. Two thumbs down. I feel as if I have no one watching my back like I did with others when I was active military. Thanks for nothing guys....William

I have volunteered at a Veterans' Hospital and I know about the wonderful work being done by th Blinded Veterans' Association. Members visit veterans, participate in their recovery from trauma and illnesses; and, they help other veterans adjust to a variety of disabilities. They provid emotional support fo their fellow veterans and their families. Blinded Veterans have frquently exhibited courage in combat; but, they also exhibit courage in their adjustmnts to the loss of their sight. They model good adjustment to critical life events. The National Organization is instrumental in educating Legislative and Executive Branches of government abut issues relating to the rehabilitation of visually impaired veterans. In the process, the organization helps to educate the entire country; maybe even the world. This is a great oganization!

I have been a member of BVA for approximately 15 years, seerving as both an assistant director and a regional director. During this time the BVA did a great deal for me, espctilly assisting me to become a student at a Blind Rehabilitation Center for training. This training really greatly helped me overcome the immediate problem of "lost confidence." The computer courses were invaluable as was the use of the white cane. Also the items I was given to assist me were greatly appreciated. But, I think, most important was the comradeship of fellow veterans who were in the same situation and learning from their life experiences. I have made many good friends by attending the meetings and conventions. Our motto is "Blinded Veterans Helping Blinded Veterans" and this is a real true fact as I have found out. I do my best to reciprocate when ever possible. John S. Thomas Assistant Director Southwest Florida Regiional Group Blinded Veterans Associaiton

My name is Cristela Torres, member and volunteer of the Puerto Rico Regional Group of the Blinded Veterans Association. I have been legally blind for the past 18 years and through the Field Service Program and a dedicated, loyal and wonderful Officer, I was able to receive Compensation, service-connected -100%. I will be forever grateful to this Organization which gives services and support to all our Blinded or Visually impaired Veterans.

I am a volunteer who for the past two years has experienced in person how BVA has helped and assisted many Veterans who are blind or visually impaired here in Puerto Rico, Veterans Hospital. I consider this organization to be of great help and support for our veterans. I support this organization 100% and I am only 18 years old. This experienced as a volunteer has change my life completely. Thank you BVA.

BVA is a wonderful organization, the staff truly care about what they do. Its rare to find people motivated and concerned about the welfare of others, with BVA, they do. Thanks for doing all you guys do.

My father is a Korean War Veteran who became blind and thanks to BVA in Puerto Rico he was able to receive all the support possible and the process was very smooth. He received training from Blind Rehabilitation Center in Puerto Rico Veteran Hospital which has the best staff in the world. Come and visit and experience for yourself. Without the help from this excellent organization my father would still be in depression and no quality of life.

My name is Retired Staff Sergeant Cabrera from Puerto Rico. Since 2008 when I became legally blind this great organization of BVA staff and members assisted me with identifying my needs through Blind Rehab at the Veterans Hospital in Puerto Rico. Also, assisted with my current federal job to continue serving our nation and be employed. Furthermore, because of BVA I dod not walk alone, I have a great companion name Eleanor. Yellow Lab who is my everything. I do not have room enough to write all that BVA has done for me and others. Please Support our BVA Organization, It is our duties as Americans! From the bottom of my heart, once again BVA thank you for your support and your excellent job! Sincerely, SSG/E-6 Ret Cabrera Puerto Rico BVA member

IN MEMORY OF HANK BLOOMBURG!! I left the service after Desert Shield and Storm in the early 90's with a photophobia. By 2001, I was blind. I left my job as a retail store manager and did not work for seven years because I felt there was nothing out there for a blind person. In 2006, I met a fellow blinded veteran, Hank. Hank being a blind veteran himself understood what I was going through and was passionate about The Blinded Veterans Association. As a volunteer, he showed me what being a blinded veteran meant, and how important it is for blinded veterans to help other blinded veterans. Hank inspired me and continued to help blinded veterans until the day he passed on in 2008. Hank inspired me to go to blind rehab and showed me life does not end with blindness. Today I am a strong advocate of The Blinded Veterans Association and a veteran service officer helping other blinded veterans like myself get the help and benefits to succeed. THANKS HANK, YOU GAVE YOUR LIFE WHILE SAVING MINE!

My personal experience with the BVA If I could sum it all up in one word that word would be fenominal. As a lifetime member and a totally blind Vet, the BVA have gone above and beyond the call of duty and i will forever be in their debt. May the father in heaven bless america and the BVA. Breckenridge

Out of all of the Blinded Veterans Associations, BVA was the first. It came out of the first several groups of blinded veterans needing rehabilitation before I was born. They decided that they, could help in three ways. One was to be an advocate for the needs of Blinded Veterans. The second was to ensure that the needs of blinded veterans didn't get lost in the Veterans Affairs "maze of issues", hence they testify before Congress each year. The third is to support individual needs of Blinded Veterans by providing guidance and information through the process of VIST, BROS, Blind Rehabiloitation Centers and their own Field Directors. The BVA doesn't just support individuals. They also support the regional and local organizations for Blinded Veterans in many ways. No other Blinded Veterans Organization has the tenure that they have nor can do what they accomplish each year for Blinded Veterans.

I have known about the BVA for about 9 months now and I Need to give Ed Eckroth alot of credit he had a claim of mins moved from the pittsburgh va to the BVA in Phildelphia and it has moved quite well untill it comes time to get the check out but Ed has helped me file for service connected disability as well the BVA is a wonderful orgnazation

I have never seen an organization that provides veterans with what is needed for our blind veterans. My friend has been helped by Edward Eckroth and Dot Dunn so much you can not imagine. I myself am a veteran and I never felt that I was given enough information to help me with my disability case. My friend got everything that he was entitled too. The Blinded veterans organization is the best I have ever seen. Jim Kelley and Edmund G. Page

Blinded Veterans Associations help me in getting benefits that I was unaware of, and getting gainful employment. Blinded Veteran Association also inspired me to not let my blindness by a barrier in accomplishing my goals.

Blinded veteran association provided me with knowledge and skills to help the life of other veterans and their family. The Organization also helped me understand what blinded individuals can accomplish in life.