The Summit County Society of the Blind was founded in 1913 by individuals who were blind to give support to those who were basically shut-ins. The Society began its primary mission to meet the needs of persons with vision loss.

We became incorporated in 1948 as the Akron Blind Center and Workshop, later becoming the Akron Blind Center, Inc. The Akron Blind Center was established to promote education, outreach, social and recreational activities, as well as to support the independence of people who are blind and legally blind in Summit and adjoining counties.

Membership is now over 100 members, and we are seeking to expand our reach and serve more amazing people, all the while educating the public of these champions of overcoming adversity. Classes are offered the three middle days each week (Wednesdays only in January and February) with a social day each Wednesday.

We are excited to offer mentor programs for younger or recently transitioning sight loss adults. We partner you with an “experienced” individual who can offer valuable insights and information, as well as encouragement to a scary and lonely experience.

Within the Akron Blind Center is a small store that offers aids and devices to both members and the public. These items include magnifiers, talking products such as watches, alarm clocks, etc. as well as a wide variety of other items too numerous to mention which help the visually impaired with everyday activities.

The Center is not state or federally funded and operates almost entirely by trusts and donations from individuals and the foundations. Should you wish to donate to our organization, we thank you in advance for your kind and generous consideration, and assure you your donation will be put directly to local programming.

We are very proud of our members and their continued dedication to the goals of this Center. It takes courage and commitment to do what these incredible people do, and welcome you to join us.

Classes

Braille Instruction: Learn the basics or polish your skills together

Card Making Class: Learn how to make high-quality textured greeting/holiday cards

Sewing Class: Instructors guide participants to make totes, blankets, cell carriers and more

Beading: Make necklaces, bracelets, decorations and more

Technology Assistance: Learn how to use cell phones, apps and other devices

Computer Training: Learn how to keyboard and navigate computer use using an audible program

Book Club: Audibly share and discuss books

History: Learn about history and historical events that shaped us and our country

Hat Knitting: Get assistance in making hats on a circular loom  

Crafting (Copper Tooling): make frameable thin metal sheet impressions which are tactile

Singing Class: Improve your singing together, or just make joyous noise

Leather Crafting: Make wallets, purses, keychains and other crafts from leather

Music/ Bell Choir: Learn the art of bell-ringing music. Our class has performed at events in the past

Self-guided Meditation/ Yoga: a focused guided control and relaxation program

Sitter-cize (Seated Exercise) Gentle seated exercises are a great way to increase range, endurance, strength and reduce tension

Kicking It (Talking About It): an informal unscripted opportunity to chat about what comes to mind 

Words to Live by (Inspiration/ Spirituality): The Scriptures are discussed, and thoughts shared

Wellness Topics: Health, well-being and improvement topics are discussed

Focus/ Support Group: Take an emotional and spiritual journey in a safe group setting

Candle Making Class: Learn how to make scented candles that you can give as gifts or keep for
your home.

INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTANCE
Cooking Class:
Learn basic kitchen and kitchen utensil safety, including how to successfully navigate
your kitchen and cook basic items with having a visual challenge. Instructor was a
Master Chef and will also introduce you to simple but delicious 3 ingredient
recipes you can easily make on your own.

Canes and Canines:
Learn basic white cane tips and use and how a white cane can help you navigate the world
around you. Also in this class, learn the benefits of having a guide dog and basic guide dog training tips. This class is also for sighted individuals to teach proper etiquette when interacting with a person who has visual challenges and a person who uses a guide dog.