For over 90 years, the Vision Resource Center of Berks County has proudly provided services to prevent blindness and make it possible for visually impaired Berks County residents to lead independent and productive lives within their community. The agency serves over 600 blind and visually impaired Berks County residents. The Vision Resource Center of Berks County is a 501 (c) 3, non-profit social
service agency that was founded in 1929 by the Reading Lions Club. Our Vision is to provide an organization to help create an environment in Berks County in which all people who are blind or visually impaired can be a part of their communities with equal opportunities to lead fulfilling lives. Our Mission is to strive to prevent blindness and visual impairment, and to advocate and provide quality education, support services, and rehabilitation to enrich the lives of blind and visually impaired persons and their caregivers. FAST FACTS:
VRC is accredited by the National Accreditation Council for Blind and Low Vision Services. VRC works closely with the Bureau of Blind and Visual Services. VRC is a member of the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind. There are an estimated 21,000 visually impaired or blind people in Berks County. A counselor and a social worker have joined the staff and both are blind, providing inspiration to clients. The social worker is bilingual to better serve the Hispanic community in Berks County. Monthly support groups are open to both blind and visually impaired individuals. There is also a support group for caregivers. A workshop provides employment to over thirty blind, visually impaired and challenged individuals. Educational programs on eye health are tailored to the age of the students being served. Adult programs are also available on a wide variety of eye health issues. Vision screenings are provided annually to approximately 3,000 children in an effort to detect vision issues early. A “lunch bunch” group meets monthly for socialization. It’s open to blind and visually impaired individuals, their families, friends and caregivers. Socialization/recreational programs are also offered for client’s who want to be more active. These activities include, but are not limited to: bowling, miniature golf, concerts, etc. The VRC sponsors youth and adult day camps in the summer. A quarterly newsletter featuring activities and eye health information is published by the Reading Eagle newspaper. The VRC was founded in 1929 by the Reading Lions Club and was supported by the Welfare Federation, forerunner of the United Way. The current services center at 2020 Hampden Boulevard in Reading was built by the Lions club in 1957. Funding for VRC’s programs and services comes from individuals, foundations, trusts, corporations, Lions Clubs and workshop revenues.
