About the community group/organisation/individual

Blind & Low Vision NZ, Invercargill provides a range of services to support visually impaired people in the city.

At present, the organisation has about 155 members.

What the grant went towards

The ILT Foundation provided a grant of $5000 to Blind & Low Vision NZ, Invercargill to assist with supporting the salary of the new recreation volunteer co-ordinator Robyn Bye for a 12-month period.

Robyn ‘s role involves ensuring people who are blind or with low vision have the practical and emotional support they need to enjoy recreational activities, to maintain their social lives and to keep their connection with community.

What the grant means to the community group/organisation

“With support from the ILT Foundation we are creating opportunities that prevent isolation and build peer support networks,” Blind & Low Vision NZ regional leader (South) and recreation and community practice leader Heather McGill said.

“Funding [the recreation and volunteer co-ordinator] position means we can provide fun and challenging activities for those who are blind or have low vision, complementing the work rehabilitation instructors do with clients.

“Being out and about in the community means we can be proactive in spreading the message of accessibility for all, towards achieving our vision for people who are blind or who have low vision to live a life without limits.”