Cincinnati Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired (CABVI)

The Cincinnati Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired (CABVI) is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Founded in 1911, CABVI's mission is to provide opportunities for these individuals to seek independence.

Overview

CABVI offers comprehensive services to more than 4,000 people annually in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. The organization focuses on assisting individuals of all ages with vision loss, providing services such as low vision, daily living, access technology, early childhood and youth programs, information services, and safe travel training. A significant portion of those served—about 63%—are over the age of 65, dealing with vision loss primarily due to age-related conditions.

Employment and Social Enterprises

CABVI operates various social enterprises to provide employment opportunities for individuals with vision loss. These include:

• Industries Program: Offers job training and employment in light industrial manufacturing settings, producing over 200 different products for government and commercial markets.
• Base Supply Center – Office Runway: An office supply store on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
• Contract Management Support: Provides services for federal government contracting offices.
• Signage: A full-service sign production center offering indoor and outdoor signs for commercial use.
• VIE Ability: An e-commerce site selling office products, providing job opportunities for those with vision loss.

Programs and Services

CABVI's services are designed to promote independence and community inclusion. The organization also supports individuals through counseling, rehabilitation, and information services. One of its key programs is the Ability One program, which helps provide employment opportunities in manufacturing. Additionally, CABVI has been assembling various products, such as kitchen gadgets and batteries, for decades.

Strategic Focus and Impact

CABVI's strategic plan emphasizes increasing community impact, enhancing services for individuals with visual impairments, improving employment opportunities, optimizing operational efficiencies, and ensuring financial stability. Nearly 42% of CABVI's team members are blind or visually impaired, highlighting the organization's commitment to hiring within the community it serves. CABVI's efforts have been crucial in addressing the high unemployment rate among people with severe vision loss.

Recent Developments

In recent years, CABVI aimed to expand its reach by acquiring new businesses and establishing mobile services. This includes plans for a Mobile Low Vision Services Van to serve individuals in areas beyond public transportation, particularly focusing on urban communities and senior populations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

CABVI continues to evolve, addressing the changing needs of its community while fostering independence and inclusion for those with vision loss.