Northwest Association for Blind Athletes

The Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to providing life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Founded in 2007 by Billy Henry, the organization has grown significantly since its inception, expanding its reach beyond Washington to include Oregon, Idaho, and Montana.

Mission and Vision

NWABA's mission is to empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired by fostering confidence, self-esteem, friendships, and a sense of community through sports and physical activity. The organization envisions itself as a national leader in improving the quality of life for these individuals.

Programs

NWABA offers several key programs designed to cater to the diverse needs of its constituents:

• Sports Outreach: Provides unlimited in-person sports and physical activity programs for all ages and abilities.
• Camp Spark: Comprehensive overnight summer and winter sports camps for children, youth, and young adults. These camps focus on developing leadership, independence, advocacy, and daily living skills.
• Virtual Programming: Offers live and pre-recorded audio-described virtual workouts to keep athletes active from home.
• Sports Adaptations: Includes an adaptive equipment lending program, instructional video library, and consultations to ensure inclusive participation at home and in schools.

Impact and Growth

Since its founding, NWABA has evolved from serving six students to engaging over 1,900 individuals across multiple states. The organization provides its services and programs at minimal to no cost to participants, ensuring accessibility for all. NWABA's commitment to inclusive sports participation has enabled individuals with visual impairments to lead more active and fulfilling lives.

Expansion and Relocation

As of 2024, NWABA is set to relocate to a larger, more accessible office in downtown Vancouver, facilitating better service delivery to its growing community. This move reflects the organization's continuous growth and dedication to enhancing its services.

Funding and Support

NWABA's operations are supported by donations and partnerships, allowing it to maintain a wide range of free and low-cost activities for its athletes. The organization often benefits from matching donations and fundraising events to amplify its impact.