History of Lions Vision Resource Network
Lions Clubs in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties have served blind and low vision individuals for many years. In 1940, the Lions Center for the Blind (LCB) was established and local Lions Clubs constructed a building on Opal Street in Oakland, California, with the goal of creating a place where blind and low vision persons could come for recreation. Funding for LCB came from the Lions of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties and District 4-C3 of Lions Clubs International. It was their dedication, funding and hard work that built the Opal Street center and provided early programming of services and support for the local blind or low vision community
During World War II, centers around the country serving blind and low vision individuals began making bandages for troops, thus changing their business model from recreation to providing services for payment from governmental agencies as “workshops.” Continued support from Local Lions Clubs was eventually supplemented with federally supported state funds, and these sources, plus donations from a variety of other community sources, allowed LCB to expand the nature and variety of programs.
Post-war, the model for assisting blind and low vision individuals changed again, to providing individuals the skills needed to fully engage in society. However, funding from governmental sources continued to only emphasize engagement in work outside the home, leaving basic ”quality of life” issues unaddressed and financially unsupported.
While LCB thrived for many years, funding issues ultimately forced the Lions to sell their beloved Opal Street building. The organization existed in rental spaces for a few years, but was forced to completely stop providing direct services in 2016. With some remaining funds, together with subsequent fortuitous bequests, LCB transitioned into the Lions Vision Resource Network (LVRN).
LVRN’s mission is to enhance the quality of life of individuals 21 years old or older who are blind or low vision in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties in California by providing them with equipment and services they need through financial grants-in-aid.
Our clients and others in the field have long recognized the value and exceptional nature of Lions Center programs. LCB was known not only for the expertise of its staff, but also for providing a level of personalized services that advanced people beyond where previous trainings had taken them in terms of mobility, independence and employment. Lions Vision Resource Network strives to be known for its philanthropy and resourcefulness in helping people who are blind or low vision achieve maximum quality of life.