From being launched in 1945, representatives of Bucks County Association For The Blind And Visually Impaired just observed the nonprofit's 80th anniversary of servicing local community citizens.
"We assist eligible Bucks County residents who are experiencing low vision or blindness. Low vision is a significant visual impairment that interferes with the ability to function in daily life and cannot be corrected with traditional visual aids," explains Anne Marie Hyer, MPA, MS, BCABVI's executive director.
Anne Marie states the 501(c)(3) organization's professionals help clients navigate vision loss journeys by providing individualized rehabilitation and support services. "In partnership with our clients, we identify the right combination of services, vision evaluations, assistive technology, education, resources and support needed for personal success."
Rande Whitham, BCABVI board president, says the group also educates and raises public awareness about vision loss. "We offer presentations that explain causes, symptoms and impacts of eye diseases, implications and prevention of vision loss, and teach best practices to support people with visual impairments."
Residents may receive BCABVI services if they have a visual acuity of 20/70 or worse in their better eye, or a visual field of less than 20 degrees that cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medicine or surgery.
The organization got its start by assisting men who returned from World War II with blindness or visual impairments. To commemorate the nonprofit's 80th anniversary, the staff introduced a special ruby red logo, with ruby being the color that traditionally symbolizes passion and commitment.
This group now helps community residents in a variety of ways:
- At their Low Vision Clinic, comprehensive eye evaluations are offered that go beyond standard eye exams. Anne Marie says their optometrist takes the time to understand the daily challenges caused by one's vision loss, help identify personal goals and offer practical solutions that can help with daily living. "No one is refused service due to an inability to pay."
- Orientation and mobility training teaches skills and fosters confidence for safe and effective travel, including walking, crossing streets and navigating stairs; using technology-adapted devices; as well as creating home environments that promote independence and self-reliance.
- Specially trained doctors and therapists recommend and provide training on low vision devices and daily living aids to help clients perform everyday tasks more easily and improve quality of life. These adaptive devices include electronic magnifiers, proper lighting, closed-circuit televisions, smartphones and iPads.
- Resource assistance is provided through a technology lending library, plus basic and specialized eyeglasses at no or low cost for people who meet eligibility requirements. Anne Marie confirms they secure grants and work with other community groups.
- They provide group-based or individualized support through a vision services facilitator. Virtual and in-person programs connect clients and create a sense of community while sharing information and resources.
- Their Preschool Vision Screenings identify vision issues in children ages 3 to 6 years old. Additionally, BCABVI's Family Resource Guide shares helpful information about services, resources, technology and contacts throughout Bucks County.
Volunteer opportunities for those 18 years and older are offered to assist with projects throughout the agency, as well as in the group's Second Look Newtown Thrift Shop, located in Newtown at 400 Freedom Drive. Store hours are Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Fridays 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Second Look donation hours to the shop are Mondays through Saturdays only 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Items accepted at the shop span new and gently pre-loved clothing; high-end clothing; accessories; new and gently worn shoes; kids toys and games; jewelry; books (limited to three small boxes per donation); small, working electronics; housewares; and seasonal décor.
Judy Frank, BCABVI's client navigator, provides the agency's clients with a general overview of services and programs. She coordinates with clinic staffers and the vision services facilitator so clients can access available rehabilitation and support.
“People come to us in various emotional states, all acknowledging varying degrees of independence loss. Actively listening is essential in my role. People often just need to be heard to lower their anxiety or sadness. This helps them to feel hopeful. With hope, they're more inclined to genuinely want and participate in their rehabilitation and discover new ways to live a rich life,” Judy says.
"Imagine experiencing vision loss and you don't know where to turn," poses Anne Marie. "Our team understands that experiencing vision loss can be overwhelming. With the community working together, we change lives."
Throughout 2026, Anne Marie says one of their primary focus areas is assisting clients with successfully aging in place. "The senior population in Bucks County is projected to increase by 11% over the next five years. Our role in the aging in place process is continually evolving, and BCABVI is proactively evaluating our current services, resources and capacity to provide added support."
Main Number: 215.968.9400
Low Vision Clinic: 215.968.1035
BucksBlind.org
"As an independent nonprofit organization receiving less than 12% of funding from local, state or governmental funding sources, we rely on generous supporters to help fulfill our mission and create positive change for our clients."