Vision Forward Association completes capital campaign

Vision Forward Association has announced the completion of its $1.4 million capital campaign which will help the organization expand programming, facilities, and services to benefit people of all ages who are blind and visually impaired.  The Unified Vision Campaign began in June 2010 and exceeded its goal with a total of $1,492,939.
"It is extremely gratifying for everybody connected to Vision Forward Association to see our Unified Vision Campaign not only reach such a successful conclusion but surpass our goals ahead of schedule," said Patrick Brown, executive director, Vision Forward Association. "The results are a fitting tribute to all of the dedication and hard work from our staff, volunteers and so many generous organizations in our community."
The funds raised during the campaign will support facility renovations, organizational integration, new program development and community outreach.
In January 2010, the Badger Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired merged with the Center for Blind & Visually Impaired Children, forming Vision Forward Association.  The merger enables the Association to provide a complete continuum of services for children, adolescents, adults and seniors all in one central location.
"It was very rewarding to see the reaction of people as they toured Vision Forward," said community volunteer, Les Weil, Les Weil Consulting, LLC.  "They immediately wanted to know how they could help make the campaign a success."
In the Greater Milwaukee area, it is estimated that there are as many as 60,000 people with vision loss, yet only one-third of these individuals have ever received services from any of the local blindness organizations.