Build Community Connections
We believe thriving means more than simply improving your skills—it also means opportunities to enjoy yourself in all that life has to offer.
At VisionLink, we partner with some of the region’s leading organizations to help you explore new interests and reconnect with activities you’ve enjoyed in the past. We work alongside medical providers and organizations that support housing, employment, healthcare, and social services, as well as arts and cultural institutions throughout Philadelphia. This collaboration is a key part of helping you define and pursue your goals for independent living.
The VisionLink community also provides ways to form meaningful connections, whether through support groups with others facing similar experiences, informal peer gatherings, or social outings and activities.
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"Feeling supported by a community of people who understand my challenges and how to cope with them has been vital for my mental health. All these factors combined have greatly improved my quality of life over what it was earlier this year, and l am grateful."
-VisionLink Client
Collaborative Partnerships
At VisionLink, we work closely with a network of local organizations, healthcare providers, and community resources to expand opportunities for individuals with vision loss. These partnerships allow us to connect people with the support, services, and programs they need — whether for independent living, employment, healthcare, or social and cultural engagement. Through these collaborations, we help each person access the tools and experiences that support their goals and enhance everyday life.
Community Organizations
VisionLink partners with local community organizations to support social, cultural, and recreational engagement for people with vision loss. Through collaborations with organizations like Art‑Reach, Twelve Gates, Opera Philadelphia, Court 16 Tennis, and Free Library of Philadelphia, we help individuals explore new interests, participate in arts and cultural experiences, and build meaningful connections.
Health Partners
We work closely with trusted health partners to support access to medical care, wellness services, and vision‑related care. Our collaborations include Penn Medicine, The Eye Institute at Drexel University, and Wills Eye Hospital — all helping to ensure coordinated support and resources that complement your health goals.
Legal Services
To support rights, advocacy, and legal guidance, VisionLink collaborates with agencies such as the Legal Clinic for the Disabled (LCD), which provides free legal assistance and educational workshops on topics like credit recovery, advance directives, and other important documents.
Services for Older Adults
VisionLink partners with organizations that support older adults in staying independent, active, and connected. Through collaborations with Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA), senior centers, PA Link, and other community programs, we help individuals access resources, wellness activities, and social opportunities tailored to their needs.
Social Services
We connect with a variety of social service organizations to broaden access to critical resources related to housing, benefits, transportation, and community wellbeing. Partners include, but are not limited to, Library for Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians (LAMP), Hadley School, Drexel University’s Dornsife Center, and TechOwl PA, each helping individuals navigate services that support everyday life.
Is your organization interested in partnering with VisionLink?
Join our network of more than 50 collaborative partners!
Community-Led Programming and Special Events
VisionLink offers a variety of programs and special events designed to help individuals with vision loss connect with peers, explore new interests, and enjoy activities they love. By partnering with local organizations, cultural institutions, and community groups, these programs create opportunities for social connection, personal growth, and meaningful engagement in everyday life.
Peer Support Groups and Connections
VisionLink provides facilitated spaces where individuals with vision loss can share experiences, receive guidance, and build supportive relationships. These groups create meaningful opportunities for connection, participation, and social engagement, helping individuals feel part of a community and supported in pursuing their personal goals.
Monthly Speaker Series
VisionLink hosts a monthly speaker series that offers opportunities to learn, explore new ideas, and engage with experts on a wide range of topics, including vision loss, accessibility, independent living, and more. These sessions provide a welcoming space to gain practical knowledge, ask questions, and connect with others who share similar experiences and interests.
Check out our upcoming events and programs!
Visit our Highlights page for the latest news.
Resources Beyond VisionLink
Information on local, regional, and national programs and organizations that support individuals who are blind or have low vision is available below.
Local and Regional Resources
Bureau of Blindness & Visual Services (BBVS)
BBVS supports Pennsylvanians who are blind or visually impaired by providing services and training that promote independence, employment, and community participation.
Feinbloom Vision Rehabilitation Center
Located at The Eye Institute at Salus University, the Feinbloom Vision Rehabilitation Center provides individuals with low vision access to information, instruction, and specialized magnification devices.
Foundation Fighting Blindness – Philly Phorum
The Philly Phorum offers a virtual platform for professionals serving the blind and low vision community in Philadelphia and the surrounding region to share services, research updates, and resources.
Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians (LAMP)
LAMP is a free, statewide accessible library program that provides books and other media in alternative formats for individuals who cannot use standard print.
Philadelphia Corporation for the Aging (PCA)
PCA works to improve the quality of life for older Philadelphians and individuals with disabilities by supporting health, independence, and access to essential services, with particular focus on those with the greatest need.
The Scheie Eye Institute of Penn Medicine
The Scheie Eye Institute of Penn Medicine offers complete diagnostic and treatment services in comprehensive ophthalmology, as well as all subspecialty areas. Services range from routine eye examinations to advanced ocular surgery.
SEPTA
SEPTA offers reduced fare programs for individuals with disabilities through the SEPTA Key Reduced Fare Card. SEPTA’s Customized Community Transportation (CCT) program provides paratransit services for eligible individuals. All transit information is available on SEPTA’s screen reader–accessible website.
Technology for Our Whole Lives (TechOwl)
TechOwl, part of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, provides access to an assistive technology lending library, device demonstrations, used equipment exchanges, and educational presentations.
National Programs and Organizations
American Council of the Blind (ACB)
ACB works to increase independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for people who are blind or visually impaired through advocacy, education, and community engagement.
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB)
AFB’s mission is to create a world with no limits for people who are blind or visually impaired by advancing research, promoting inclusive practices, and influencing policy.
Hadley
Hadley is a nonprofit organization that provides free distance education for people who are blind or visually impaired, as well as their families, caregivers, and professionals. Courses focus on skill-building, independence, and quality of life.
National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
Founded in 1940, the NFB is the largest nationwide organization of blind Americans, with affiliates and chapters in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. The organization focuses on advocacy, education, and community empowerment.
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS)
NLS provides free Braille and talking book library services for individuals with blindness, low vision, or physical disabilities that prevent them from reading standard print. Materials are available by mail or digital download through a national library network.
Pennsylvania Council for the Blind (PCB)
PCB advocates for employment opportunities and legislation that improves access to information and services for individuals with vision loss throughout Pennsylvania.
Veteran Affairs (VA) Blind and Low Vision Rehabilitation Services
The VA offers comprehensive vision care and rehabilitation services for eligible veterans and active-duty service members who are blind or have low vision, supporting independence and daily living skills.
Discover new interests and make personal connections.
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