Two of the World's Largest Vision Organizations Cross an Ocean to Connect People Who Are Blind

NEW YORK and LONDON, Aug. 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Lighthouse Guild, based in New York, and Royal National Institute of Blind People, are announcing a new collaboration that will provide information, education and discussion opportunities related to blindness and low vision.

The first project in this innovative international collaboration will allow the voices of young adults who are blind or visually impaired to be heard as they share a dialog on topics such as "Digital," "Work" and "Travel." 

To initiate this project, Lighthouse Guild and Royal National Institute of Blind People will establish a joint virtual panel discussion, including three panelists from each organization. The panel discussion will be made available as a short, 10-minute "discussion starter" and broadcast across social media from which feedback and comments will be solicited. This feedback will be collected and included in a longer one-hour program that will be made available as a broadcast, click-and-play online, as well as podcasts on the websites of Royal National Institute of Blind People and Lighthouse Guild.

Mark Ackermann, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Lighthouse Guild, said, "People of all ages who are blind or visually impaired can often feel voiceless in a world that is designed for those who are sighted. This international collaboration will not only help make their voices heard, but it will offer them the opportunity to share experiences, empower each other, and educate all of us."

Lesley-Anne Alexander, Chief Executive of Royal National Institute of Blind People, said, "Our goal is to create an exciting and valuable conversation between young blind and partially sighted people in the UK and USA that focuses on  topics relevant to them. This is a first step in a collaboration in which we and Lighthouse Guild bring blind and partially sighted people together across the Atlantic."

About Lighthouse Guild
Lighthouse Guild, based in New York City, is the leading not-for-profit vision and healthcare organization with a long history of addressing the needs of people who are blind or visually impaired, including those with multiple disabilities or chronic medical conditions. With more than 200 years of experience and service, Lighthouse Guild brings a level of understanding to vision care that is unmatched. By integrating vision and healthcare services and expanding access through its programs and education and awareness, we help people lead productive, dignified and fulfilling lives. For more information: http://www.lighthouseguild.org.

About Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)
Every 15 minutes, someone in the UK begins to lose their sight. We are the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and we're here for everyone affected by sight loss – that's over 2 million people in the UK. If you, or someone you know, has a sight problem, RNIB can help. In the UK call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk.

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SOURCE Lighthouse Guild