Welcome to Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired

MISSION

To promote the dignity and empowerment of the people of Wisconsin who are blind or low vision through advocacy, education and vision services.

Advocacy

Advocating for Wisconsin residents who are blind or visually impaired on local, state and federal issues

Education

Teaching about the causes of vision loss, available medications and visual aids

Vision Services

One-on-one and group support for people who are newly diagnosed, including low vision evaluations, in-home visits and assistive technology

Over 30 million Americans have diabetes, with someone being diagnosed every 26 seconds. Diabetes is now the leading cause of new cases of blindness and vision loss among working-age adults. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that around 90% of vision loss from diabetes can be prevented! November is Diabetic Eye… Continue Reading Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month Highlights Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Student Spotlight: Jasmine Bertschy is Taking Her Education to the Next Degree

Earlier this spring, Council Scholarship recipient Jasmine Bertschy of Valders reached a big milestone in her educational career, earning her associate degree at UW-Whitewater’s Rock County campus. Her efforts were so successful that she was named the student speaker at her commencement ceremony. “I was sitting at work when I got the email that said… Continue Reading Student Spotlight: Jasmine Bertschy is Taking Her Education to the Next Degree

Denise Jess speaking into a microphone in a legislative hearing room

Denise Jess’ Reflections on Dismantling Ableism

Throughout my life, I’ve encountered people who have perceptions about me as a blind person—what I can, can’t, should or shouldn’t do. These perceptions can be frustrating, confusing and sometimes painful. I’ve had situations where I felt others were putting parameters on my life that didn’t make sense and weren’t in my best interest. Over… Continue Reading Denise Jess’ Reflections on Dismantling Ableism

Advocacy Discussion Group

November 18
Online via Zoom

This group will focus on advocacy, including legislative updates and community engagement.

Closed for Thanksgiving

November 26 & 27

Council offices and the Sharper Vision Store will be closed on November 26 and 27 to enable staff to spend Thanksgiving with family and friends.

Access Technology Class: Accessible Television – an Overview of Apple TV

December 10
Online via Zoom

This class will explore what Apple TV has to offer, demonstrate how it works, and highlight the accessibility features that make finding, navigating and enjoying your favorite entertainment easier.