Valley Center for the Blind is a 501 (c)(3) organization, originally established in 1973 by Dr. Andrea Schwartz as “Friendship Center for the Blind,” and was intended as a place for seniors with vision loss to come together for support and bonding. Over time, the organization has grown to meet the significant need for specialized blindness services and transformed into what is now known as Valley Center for the Blind(VCB).

In Fresno, VCB organization has now grown into a 5,000 sq. ft. rehabilitation center in Fresno. Slowly expanding into surrounding counties of Madera, Kings, Tulare and Kern, VCB is proud to offer the same level of excellent rehabilitation services throughout the valley. VCB provides instruction for blind and visually impaired people to help with skills, confidence and independence. VCB also assists individuals with vision loss with reaching their goals of meaningful employment.

Through the specialized training provided at Valley Center for the Blind, clients are able to regain often high levels of independence. Those individuals who are visually impaired that come in for services often have issues with daily living skills such as getting dressed, making a meal or communicating over technology. With VCB’s help, clients reach incredible goals and are able to live independently, complete school and even hold steady employment. Anyone with vision loss is welcome to participate in the VCB programs, regardless of inability to pay.

 VCB believes that by providing individuals with customized service plans and collective goal setting, we can work towards giving all our clients a chance to truly succeed. Together, we can help those with vision loss build a brighter and more independent future.