black and white bed linen

Empowering Visually Impaired Kansans

Supporting independence and connection across Kansas with heart and dedication --all made possible through donations and volunteers.

Membership
Sponsorship

About Us

Who We Are

The Kansas Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (KABVI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, founded in 1920 and run entirely by volunteers. Our mission is to increase the independence, opportunity, and quality of life for blind and visually impaired Kansans, empowering us to take our place as equals among our sighted peers.

What We Do

KABVI provides advocacy, education, and support for individuals affected by blindness and visual impairment across Kansas. Our programs include:

  • Advocacy for accessible legislation and public policies

  • Rehabilitation training

  • Access to braille, large print, and digital materials

  • Support for guide dog users

  • Technology guidance and education

  • Annual conventions bringing together consumers, professionals, and advocates

Who We Serve

KABVI serves individuals who are blind or visually impaired throughout Kansas, their families, and professionals in the field. We also consult with agencies and schools to improve resources and opportunities for all visually impaired Kansans.

How We Do It

Through the dedication of our volunteers, contributions from donors, and active collaborations with local and state agencies, KABVI works to:

  • Raise awareness and advocate for the needs of blind and visually impaired persons

  • Organize events, resource fairs, and educational outreach

  • Provide direct support, information, and a sense of community

  • Monitor and support state and federal legislation benefitting our community

Brief History

Founded over a century ago, KABVI played a pioneering role in advocating for state services for blind adults, including historic legislative breakthroughs in the 1930s. In recent decades, we have championed improvements in library services, technology access, and legal rights for guide and service dog users.

National Affiliate

KABVI is proud to be an affiliate of the American Council of the Blind—connecting us to a nationwide advocacy network dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by blindness and visual impairment

Guide dog training for the visually impaired and blind and handing out white canes Kansas, KABVI
Guide dog training for the visually impaired and blind and handing out white canes Kansas, KABVI
Learn more- ACB
Close-up of a visually impaired person reading Braille with focused expression.
Close-up of a visually impaired person reading Braille with focused expression.
KABVI volunteers assisting a visually impaired individual with technology.
KABVI volunteers assisting a visually impaired individual with technology.

Our Mission

We empower visually impaired Kansans through resources, advocacy, and community.

Our Services

Supporting visually impaired Kansans with tailored programs and resources.

A group of visually impaired individuals engaging in a tactile learning workshop.
A group of visually impaired individuals engaging in a tactile learning workshop.
A friendly staff member assisting a visually impaired person with technology.
A friendly staff member assisting a visually impaired person with technology.
Programs

Hands-on training and community events designed to empower and connect.

Blindness related equipment recycling.

Resources

Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist

Advocacy

Peer Support

Gallery

A group of visually impaired Kansans smiling together at a community event hosted by KABVI.
A group of visually impaired Kansans smiling together at a community event hosted by KABVI.
A visually impaired individual using a braille device with assistance from a KABVI volunteer.
A visually impaired individual using a braille device with assistance from a KABVI volunteer.
KABVI staff and members participating in an outdoor awareness walk across Kansas.
KABVI staff and members participating in an outdoor awareness walk across Kansas.
Close-up of hands reading braille on a tactile book provided by KABVI.
Close-up of hands reading braille on a tactile book provided by KABVI.
A lively workshop session where KABVI members learn new adaptive technology skills.
A lively workshop session where KABVI members learn new adaptive technology skills.

Moments that highlight our community and mission

Contact Us

A friendly staff member assisting a visually impaired person with a digital device in a bright, accessible office.
A friendly staff member assisting a visually impaired person with a digital device in a bright, accessible office.

Reach out anytime—we’re here to support all visually impaired Kansans.