Manitoba

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Mission and Values

Learn about our mission and the values that animate everything we do.

A young black man with sight loss and a middle-aged white woman sit at desk while having a conversation. There are boxed lunches on the table.

Who We Serve

At CNIB, we are committed to empowering Canadians who are blind, Deafblind, or who have low vision to live the lives they choose. Each year, we connect with individuals from all age groups and regions of the country, providing programs and services that cater to their unique needs. The following information gives an overview of who we reached during the 2023-2024 fiscal year.

A young man sits at a picnic table outdoors at Lake Joe and types on a Perkins Brailler. He is wearing sunglasses and his white cane rests along the picnic table bench. To the left of him is a large blue presentation board with information about braille.

Our Impact

From children and youth programs to employment workshops, recreational activities, peer support groups and technology training sessions, our innovative programs are designed to educate, engage, and support our participants across all areas of their lives.

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The Way Forward

Built on the direction and feedback of people who are blind, partially sighted, or Deafblind across Canada, The Way Forward is CNIB’s five-year strategic plan, which we believe will create lasting change for our community nationwide.

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Finer Things: Auction Items

Finer Thing: Auction Items

Connecting the Dots 2022 – Calgary Swag Bag

Here you'll find more information about the items included in your swag bag.

Connecting the Dots 2022 – Toronto Swag Bag

Here you'll find more information about the items included in your swag bag.

Connecting the Dots Toronto – Wayfinding Information

Our O&M colleagues at Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada have put together wayfinding information for those who are navigating from Union Station.

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CNIB Connects FAQs

Have questions? We’re here to answer them! Browse our FAQ.

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Angela Bonfanti, President and CEO

Since joining the CNIB team in 2011, Angela Bonfanti has been a driving force behind many of our organization’s most transformational achievements for Canada’s community of people impacted by blindness, and a vocal advocate for accessibility and inclusivity for all people living with disabilities.

CNIB Catch The Ace: Winning numbers and prize amounts

The winning numbers and prize amounts historical for Catch the Ace are here.

CNIB Catch The Ace: Winning numbers and prize amounts

The winning numbers and prize amounts historical for Catch the Ace are here.

Connecting the Dots 2022 – Experience Box

As one of the first 50 people to register for CNIB’s 2022 Connecting the Dots conference, you are receiving this exclusive experience box.

Other CNIB Support pages

Other important CNIB Support links are here.

What's a virtual booth?

A virtual booth is the digital space for exhibitor to reach attendees. The booths feature the exhibitor logo, link to their website, descriptions of their products and services, and a virtual chat room with the opportunity for visitors to connect one-on-one with the exhibitors.

Connecting the Dots – Networking Sponsor

Showcase your commitment to championing accessibility as an industry leader. Connecting the Dots is the ideal venue to demonstrate your achievements in accessibility and inclusion, and ensure attendees and influencers receive up-to-date information on your products and services.

Connecting the Dots – Venue Sponsor

Connecting the Dots – Employment Sponsor

Connecting the Dots – Technology Sponsor

Connecting the Dots – Education Sponsor

Connecting the Dots – National Media Partner

Connecting the Dots – National Sponsor

The Ross C. Purse Doctoral Fellowship

The Ross C. Purse Doctoral Fellowship encourages and supports theoretical and practical research and studies at the doctoral level in the field of vision loss in Canada.

Turned Eyes (Strabismus)

Strabismus is the medical term for misalignment of the eyes two eyes that are not straight. It occurs in at least 5% of the population.

Lazy Eye - Amblyopia

Amblyopia ('lazy eye') happens when the vision in one eye doesn't develop properly in early childhood.

Floaters and Flashing Lights

Floaters are dark specks in the form of dots, circles, lines, or cobwebs that seem to move across your field of vision. They are most noticeable when you are looking at a light-coloured background, such as a clear sky or a white wall.

Check Your Vision: the Amsler Grid

This simple screening tool is used for monitoring for early signs of wet AMD.

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Dry Eye

Dry eyes happens when your don't make enough tears. Learn more about dry eyes.

Braille displays and note takers

Learn how braille is going high-tech.

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Wearables

Learn about cutting-edge wearable devices that enhance accessibility at home, school, work and in the community.

Apps

Learn about mobile apps that help with all aspects of life with blindness.

Braille Transcription Services

The CNIB Brailleroom can braille just about anything for you!

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Cortical Visual Impairment

Cortical visual impairment (CVI) is sight loss caused by neurological damage. Learn more about CVI.

International Levels of Employment Study

CNIB Century of Change Award

Recognizing the leaders, volunteers, funders, community partners, advocates and champions who have worked with CNIB to change what it is to be blind.

Media

If you have a media request, please contact:

Mobile Phones and Tablets

Find out how mobile phones and tablets mean accessibility.

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Magnification

Learn about screen magnifiers, which enlarge and enhance text for people with low vision.

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Screen Readers

Learn about screen readers, software that enables people with sight loss to use computers.

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Manitoba Advisory Board

Our regional advisory boards help us deliver innovative programs and powerful advocacy in the communities we serve. Meet the advisory board driving the CNIB Foundation's work.

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Your Eye Care Team

Learn more about the key players on your eye care team.

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First Aid for Injuries

Getting the right treatment fast can help prevent sight loss. Learn more about first aid for eye injuries.

Two women sitting at a bench. The woman on the right has a white cane next to her, and the woman on the left has a golden labrador guide dog.

Eye Safety

It’s not just workplace injuries that case eye injuries. In fact, more than two thirds occur outside of a work setting. Learn more about eye safety.

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Eye Health

Learn more on how you can keep your eyes healthy.

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Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of sight loss among Canadians over 50. Learn more about AMD.

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CNIB Card

Your CNIB card gives you benefits like discounts and services from governments, businesses, and community partners.

A woman sits at a desk with her laptop open and her collapsed white cane next to it.

Workplace Accommodations

Creating an accessible workplace is easy and will have a positive impact on your entire workforce. Learn how technology can help you accommodate blind or partially sighted employees.

A woman in yellow guides a man in a black t-shirt. The man is holding on to her elbow. Both are smiling.

Guiding Someone

How to be a sighted guide for a person who’s blind.

Young woman standing in front of a body of water with boats behind her, smiling at the camera holding her white cane in front of her.

Be Natural! 4 Common Courtesies to Offer People Who Are Blind

Young woman walking with her white cane on a sidewalk passing by three parked bicycles.

Getting around

Learn how people who are blind navigate the world.

Two women sit on a couch. The woman on the left is holding an infant while the other woman is holding a storybook.

Blindness Myths and Facts

There are many misconceptions about blindness and people who are blind. Learn more about blindness myths and facts.

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Blindness in Canada

Sight loss affects people from coast to coast. Learn more about blindness in Canada.

Two women are standing in front of a counter with a potato, cutting board and two bowls. The woman on the left in pink is peeling the potato, while the woman on the right, wearing green, if overseeing.

What is Blindness?

Blindness is a spectrum, with different levels of sight loss. Learn more about blindness.

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Congenital Eye Conditions

Congenital eye conditions are present at birth and can affect your eyes or sight. Learn more about congenital eye conditions.

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Retinal Diseases

Retinal diseases are a group of eye conditions that affect the retina. Learn more about retinal diseases.

Man in a red plaid shirt is holding his white cane to his side while reaching for the microwave.

Refractive Conditions

Refractive condition can result in blurred vision and are very common. Learn more about refractive conditions.

A young boy and his mother, both wearing glasses, interact as the little boy plays with a magnifier.

Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma, while rare, is the most common form of cancer affecting the eye in children. Learn more about retinoblastoma.

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Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) refers to a group of diseases which tend to run in families and cause slow, but progressive loss of vision. Learn more about RP.

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Cataracts

Cataracts are the most common correctible cause of vision loss among Canadians. Learn more about cataracts.

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Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the second most common cause of sight loss in seniors in Canada. Learn more about glaucoma.

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Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy, an eye condition caused by diabetes, is the leading cause of blindness in Canadians under 50. Learn more about diabetic retinopathy.

Careers

Learn about why you should work at CNIB.

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Creating an Inclusive Workplace

The next step after hiring someone who is blind is making them feel comfortable and included in the workplace. It’s easy. All it takes is a little flexibility and consideration.

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Hiring Someone with Sight Loss

The biggest misconception about hiring a candidate who is blind or partially is that the process will be difficult or expensive. The truth is, it's neither. Learn how you can hire someone with sight loss.

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Chanchlani Global Vision Research Award

Recognizing international achievement in the area of vision science or rehabilitation research.

Winston Gordon Award of Excellence in Accessible Technology

Recognizing significant technological innovations for people who are blind or partially sighted.

Dr. Dayton M. Forman Memorial Award

Recognizing outstanding leadership in the advancement of library and information services for Canadians with sight loss.

Arthur Napier Magill Distinguished Service Award

Honouring an outstanding CNIB volunteer for enhancing the lives of people who are blind or partially sighted.

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Growing Up with Holly

Since she was a little girl, Holly has been a part of the CNIB Foundation family.

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CNIB Honour Roll

Recognizing exceptional people who’ve given time, expertise and enthusiasm to CNIB since 1918.

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CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Coffee Break

Join us for conversation, laughter, and a chance to reminisce about your favourite CNIB Lake Joe memories. Pour yourself a coffee, tea, or beverage of choice, login and connect with your friends from Lake Joe. Coffee Break meets every Tuesday from 9 to 10 a.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.

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LOBBY Seated Dance Fitness

A social group for those who want to keep connect after Seated Dance Fitness has ended. We invite participants to stay and socialize with each other. You can talk about the session, get to know one and other and socialize with the community across Canada.

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Story Corner

Sit back and enjoy several stories from the well-known Chicken Soup books! A volunteer will be reading a selection of interesting and enjoyable short stories. First Monday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.

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Chair Yoga

Chair yoga is a good option for anyone with injuries or with mobility issues. You will need comfortable clothing and a sturdy chair without arms or armrests for this class. Techniques include breath work, gentle movement with repetition, postures, sitting meditation and relaxation. No experience required. Chair Yoga meets every Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

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Virtual Coffee Group

Join us every Friday for a virtual meet up in the prairies with a friendly bunch of people looking to connect with others across the country! Make new connections and find friendships and enjoyable conversation. The focus is on a positive, inclusive, and safe support network of people who have experienced sight loss. Everyone is welcome. Virtual Coffee Group meets every Friday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Central Time on Zoom.

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Tech Connect

Tech Connect is an interactive, engaging and educational program where participants discuss different technologies/apps that can help make life a bit easier! Participants will learn about technologies other participants use and you are then able to ask questions to get help with your own technology/apps. Second Tuesday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.

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Western Social Meet Up

Join us for our weekly social meet up group. We’ll get to know each other, share some good news stories, and socialize. Every Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. Mountain Time on Zoom.

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Old Time Radio – A blast from the past!

Join host Kelly MacDonald as he shares a blast from the past! Listen to all the old radio shows that made the genre so popular. Everything from mystery, comedy, westerns and holiday specific shows. Sit back and enjoy! First and third Sunday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

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Brandon Connects

This Peer Group is for individuals in the Brandon area that would like to come together to learn from others who have sight loss. This program allows for individuals to support one another in a safe social environment. Brandon Connects meets on the last Tuesday of every month from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Brandon & District United Way.

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Tech Talk Tuesday

Come join us, your hosts Kevin, Brian and Pierre, as we resume the widely popular – Tech Talk Tuesday. In these hour-long, weekly Zoom sessions we will discuss accessible technology as well as its practical application in everyday life. You don’t need to know a lot about technology: you can just listen if you like. The group consists of beginners as well as advanced users of accessible technology. All questions and ideas are welcomed. Every Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.

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Read Aloud to Me: Stories for Children

Children of all ages across the country are welcome to participate in our live reading series Read Aloud to Me. Join us every Wednesday as experienced volunteers give life to picture books, chapter books and short stories. While stories chosen are geared to participants between the ages of 7 to 12, anyone who would enjoy listening is welcome. Every Wednesday from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

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Zoom Room for Kids

The Zoom Zoom Room is growing up, and is now called the Zoom Room for Kids! Children ages 6-10 and older, non-verbal participants are invited to join us as we use music to build our social skills. Each session will be all about the special things going on that month. Make sure to come regularly, because each session you will work as a team to create your own special song. Certified music therapist Melissa Murphy will also have lots of songs and stories to share that are perfect for singing and dancing along. Every Wednesday from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

An illustration of a Treble clef and other musical notes.

Music Social

The music social is a themed radio-style night of music appreciation, where participants give song requests to the hosts and we listen to music, chat, and answer trivia questions together! Join us for a night of music, fun, and games! Music Social meets on the fourth Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

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Manitoba Community Engagement Volunteers

Community Engagement Volunteers provide public awareness and education, and advocate to break down barriers faced by people who are blind or partially sighted. Together, this dynamic group of individuals will work to Change attitudes about the lived experience of blindness, engage with policymakers to address the need for safe and accessible travel, and actively support our youth, so they can thrive. Connect with other passionate individuals, build your confidence, and learn the skills to effectively advocate. Last Thursday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Zoom.

A woman kneels on a yoga mat and stretches in a downward dog pose.

Accessible Yoga

Accessible yoga for most skill levels from the comfort of your home. Check out accessible yoga if you are looking for a classic yoga class with descriptive prompts. Designed for people with vision loss, the instructor will verbally walk you through all the poses and movements. Please bring a yoga mat, a bottle of water, and your breath! Accessible Yoga meets every Monday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Tuesday Zoom Coffee and Chat

The informal coffee chat group is a chance to socialize and meet new people. It is a very warm and welcoming group of regulars and newcomers. Every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.

Tech Drop-In

Are you having challenges with using your technology or do you simply have questions about something new? Join this discussion group with others with sight loss where we share ideas and experiences that might be helpful. Many heads are better than one! First and third Tuesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Music for Kids – Tuesday Session

Music Therapist Erin Koop hosts weekly sessions on Zoom for children and youth participants across the country. These interactive sessions are filled with songs, stories, and more!  Get ready to make some music!  This group runs on Zoom, every Tuesday from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m. Pacific Time.

Keyboard in all the colors of the rainbow.

Music and Friends

Come together to discuss different types of music you have to listen to. Depending on if you are getting started for the day or if you are looking to boost your spirit, talk about what song helps you during these times and learn about songs that help your peers! First Wednesday of every month from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.

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The Bookends Book Club

If you love books, this group is for you! This group features guest authors as well as weeks where a different genre or theme are picked. People read their choice of book on the theme and come ready to discuss. It's a great way to build your reading list and learn about what others are reading and the technology they use to access their books. Every Wednesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Two Indigenous participants sit at a table in CNIB Thunder Bay smiling. During a holiday program, they create decorations out of fresh cedar bows, dried orange slices, homemade gingerbread cookies, ribbons, bells, cinnamon sticks, and jute twine.

Saskatchewan and Manitoba Indigenous Peer Support Group

This program is designed for blind or partially sighted indigenous individuals who are wanting to connect with others who are experiencing similar circumstances in a safe and comfortable setting. Participants will have the opportunity to help choose various topics this group would like to discuss each session as well as have the option to share ideas, suggestions, stories, worries, etc. with the group. This Saskatchewan and Manitoba Indigenous Peer Support Group meet on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. CST on Zoom.

Gentle Yoga

This class is designed for all level yogis. Relaxed pace to release anxiety and calm the body. Students will be guided into meditation, breathing techniques, yoga poses and relaxation. Please bring a yoga mat, a blanket, a big towel and an open mind to learn something new! Gentle Yoga runs every Wednesday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Seated Dance Fitness Zoom

Adaptive Dance instructor, Tiffany Tjosvold, will be leading a Zoom-based, high energy, seated dance class for participants ages 19+. This class is suitable for all fitness levels. Every Thursday from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.

Coffee Time

This is a virtual group that gets together every Thursday morning for a general group conversation. There is no planned topic of conversation but it is kept positive and light! Every Thursday from 10:30 to 12:30 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.

Thursday Games

Everyone loves games. This games group meets to socialize playing 2 to 3 different lively word games for the hour. Sessions are led by our own professional game hosts (aka CNIB staff and volunteers). We embrace a safe fun time to exercise your mind. Every Thursday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

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Tween Zoom Hangout

Join us to play games, chat, and make new friends. Please note that this program is for individuals between 10-14 years of age. Every Thursday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Community Engagement Forum

Guide Dog Handlers Chat Group

This is a safe and supportive place for guide dog handlers from across the country to get together and chat. Share the joys and challenges of being a guide dog handler as well as tips to keep our guide dogs happy and engaged. Biweekly on Friday from 1 to 2 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

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Let's Get Gardening

If you have a green thumb (or you'd like to have one), then this gardening discussion group is for you! We swap success stories, talk about our favorite plants, and generally 'dish the dirt' on all things horticultural. For all levels of garden enthusiasts. Whether you patio or container garden, or have lots of gardening space, the time in this group will just buzz by. Every Monday from 1 to 2 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Music for Kids – Monday Session

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Manitoba Book Club

Whether you enjoy classics, bestsellers, biographies, or fiction, share your passion with other blind and partially sighted readers. A new book is chosen each month and each participant will be registered for library services. This program is offered both virtually on Zoom and in person at CNIB Winnipeg on the second Tuesday of the month from 1 to 3 p.m.

An iPhone and iPad sit side-by-side on a table top.

Wireless Wednesday

Are you new to assistive technology? Want to get more out of your smart device or computer? This Zoom workshop is a 2 for 1! The first hour is devoted to structured learning – focusing on basics and beginner topics. Later on, we'll have a volunteer-led, tech-focused Q&A discussion group dealing with a wide range of questions. Come prepared to swap tips and tricks, share about your favorite apps, help one another and strengthen your own skills in the process. Join us while we figure it out – together! This technology group is hosted on Zoom on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Pacific Time.

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Yarnivores

Designed for knitters/advanced knitters to work on projects, learn from peers, and enjoy knitting fellowship. Every Friday from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Three people sit with iPhones in hand and white canes sitting on the table in front of them.

Tech it Out

Hosted by Steve MacInnes, Tech It Out is a monthly series that demos accessible and mainstream tech. Third Tuesday of every month from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.

Pride Connection

Intended for adults who are blind or partially sighted and are members of the LGBTQ2S+ community. Participants from across the country meet monthly to share experiences, listen to guest speakers, and discuss topics chosen by the group. Third Wednesday of every month from 12 to 1 p.m. Eastern Time.

Pit Crew Garage

Meet a group people who are passionate about their love of motorized/electronic machines! Third Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.

Beyond Sight Series

The Beyond Sight Series feature monthly virtual presentations from various services, businesses and organizations in our community. Each month, we will offer a different topic and speaker will join us to discuss a variety of topics. Examples include: RDSP’s, wills, budgeting, nutrition and lots more. Fourth Monday of every month from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.

A carton of eggs. A whisk sits on a recipe book

Cooking with Linda

Come and join Linda monthly to prepare different dishes you can eat yourself or share with family and friends. For a truly interactive experience, Linda welcomes you to cook and bake along with her in the comfort of your own kitchen! With an ILS often in attendance, bring along your questions as you might just learn a new trick to help you out. Fourth Tuesday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Trivia

Come together once a month for a trivia night! There will be a variety of different trivia games played. Fourth Tuesday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom

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CNIB SmartLife: Android Accessibility Series (Evening)

Want to get the most out of your android device? Smart devices utilizing the android operating system are becoming more and more accessible, with supports such as screen enhancements, magnification and screen reading to name a few! CNIB SmartLife is hosting a series where we show you what you can do with your device and customize it for your unique needs. We’ll explain what the different parts of smartphone or tablet do, introduce you to the interface, showcase accessibility features to empower you, and teach you about Google assistant, your voice-controlled helper! Each week, we’ll take on a different topic.

sighted guide walking with a woman using a white cane

Winnipeg Walking Group

The Walking Group provides a chance for individuals who are blind or partially sighted to exercise and practice their mobility and travel skills. Every Monday (Tuesday when there is a long weekend) from 10 to 11 a.m.

A stack of pancakes with maple syrup and raspberries.

Breakfast Club (Winnipeg)

Come out and enjoy the camaraderie of your peers while experiencing a variety of restaurants within Winnipeg for brunch. A different restaurant will be chosen each month.

A person sits in a group circle. Their hands are clasped in their lap.

Thompson Connects

A community-based virtual peer support group for Thompson area residents that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. Family and friends are also welcome to attend.

Friday Morning Coffee Group

The in-person Friday Coffee Group is back! Rekindle old friendships while making new ones, meet new people and have enjoyable conversations. This group offers a safe, positive social network for those that are blind or partially sighted. This group meets in-person at CNIB Winnipeg every Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Central Time. Every Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Central Time at CNIB Winnipeg .

Bible Study Group

Make new friends, or deepen existing friendships, find support from your peers, and develop more theological insight about biblical understanding. The Bible Study group meets every Thursday (September to June) from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Central Time on Zoom.

A support group of eight people sit in chairs in a circle and engage in lively conversation.

Portage La Prairie Connects

Connect with others who are living with sight loss and in your community. This peer support group is for people in the Portage La Prairie area who want to engage and support others in a safe, friendly environment. Portage La Prairie Connects meets on the fourth Thursday of every month (unless notified) from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Herman Prior Activity Centre.

Community Voices

CNIB Learning Academy invites youth who are blind or have low vision, parents, and educators to join us for Community Voices, an opportunity to learn from adults living with blindness. Each month we will hear from a different guest speaker living with blindness who will share their lived experience in high school, post-secondary education, building a career, and social aspects of sight loss. Following the presentations, attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions. Last Thursday of each month from 5 to 7 p.m. Eastern on Zoom.

Scribes and Sorcerers Youth Fantasy Book Club

Youth ages 10 to 16 who enjoy reading from the wealth of fantasy authors, past and present who have entertained us with tales of wizards, warriors, magic, and mystery are encouraged to join this monthly group. First Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom

Youth Job Club

Start your journey seeking a part-time or summer job with CNIB Learning Academy’s Youth Job Club! There is no time like the present to begin your work experiences. Having a part-time or summer job will put some money in your pocket, and you give valuable skills that employers are looking for. Facilitated by staff with sight loss, this program will help participants prepare for their first summer or part-time job Virtual sessions are hosted biweekly on Tuesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Curiosity Club – Virtual

If you have a lively mind, learning is something you never stop doing. History, geography, science, travel, social trends, there’s no end to what we can know. Expand your horizons in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Presenters will offer a range of content, and invite lively conversation. Second Tuesday of every month from 2 to 3 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Brandon Lunch Club

Come out and enjoy the comradery of your peers while experiencing a variety of restaurants for lunch. A different restaurant will be chosen each month. The Brandon Lunch Club meets on the second Tuesday of every month (unless notified) from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

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Intro to Assistive Technology Info Session

Like it or not, technology is becoming a big part of modern life. Nowadays, people rely on computers and smartphones for work, school, entertainment and connection. For people with vision loss, assistive technology offers all of this as well as increased confidence and independence. Join us over Zoom for Intro to Assistive Technology - find out what is possible and how we at CNIB can help you harness the power of assistive technology. This group meets on the second Tuesday of every month from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.

Parent and Tot Support Group

This is a space for parents and children that are blind or have low vision ages 0-6 to come and find support and resources from each other.

Young woman wearing headphones singing into a microphone

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Talent Show

Who's got talent? You do! Join us on alternating Tuesdays, 7-8 p.m. Eastern Time to perform (if you wish) and/or enjoy the talents of fellow attendees.

Life Coaching

Are you interested in personal development? Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow and connect with others with CNIB Winnipeg's monthly interactive life coaching series. Third Thursday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Winnipeg.

5 people in a group on a dark stage interacting with each other

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Drama Club

Get in on the act with CNIB Lake Joe's virtual Drama Club! This program allows you to explore the arts and let your creative side shine through drama and improv activities. Join us on alternating Tuesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.

KnitWits

The CNIB KnitWits are a group of people who meet biweekly to discuss and share knitting related topics. We share patterns, chat about life in general, and support each other with tips and tricks to enhance our knitting and life skills with vision loss. Biweekly on Thursday from 1 to 2 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Two women sit at a table in an office environment, engaged in a conversation. The women on the left is wearing a purple blouse. She is holding a smartphone in her hand and wears earbud headphones. The woman on the right has long braided hair and is wearing a red blazer. Both have laptops in front of them on the table. In the background are computers and different workstations.

CNIB Advocacy Mentorship Network

Advocacy is a powerful tool to dismantle systemic barriers, challenge discrimination and create change by raising awareness, influencing policies, and mobilizing community members to get involved. But finding your voice and learning how to become an advocate can sometimes feel intimidating or overwhelming. CNIB’s new advocacy peer mentorship program, CNIB Advocacy Mentorship Network, aims to change that. Discover the tools and techniques you need to channel your frustrations and concerns into constructive advocacy efforts by enrolling in the CNIB Advocacy Mentorship Network!

Manitoba Youth Adventure Club

This program offers a fun, safe engaging place for blind or partially sighted youth ages 13-18 (Grades 8-12) to connect and find a sense of community with each other. Programming will be guided by the interest of the participants, and activities may consist of movie and game nights, quest speakers, and excursions to local attractions. At each event, focus will be placed on fostering self-esteem and enhancing socialization skills. The Manitoba Youth Adventure Club meets on the second Wednesday of every month from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Photo of a number of microphones lined up with a group of women in black dresses in the background.

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Lake Joe Choir

Lift your voice and connect with others through the joy of singing. Join our vibrant online choir community on Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

A young woman stands in front of a Hobie catamaran. She is up to her ankles in the water with a number of people sitting on the catamaran. She is waving to the camera.

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: All Things Lake Joe

In this new program, we will be covering a different topic relating to CNIB Lake Joe! Whether you're new to Lake Joe or a seasoned camper, join us for videos, special guests, and updates the third Monday of each month, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Eastern.

bird's eye view of wrapped gifts on a table with people handing boxes to each other

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Curiosity Corner: CNIB SmartLife

Shop 'til you drop! With Black Friday bonanzas and holiday shopping sales, now is the time to shop and save. CNIB Smartlife is a perfect resource for accessibility products that will impress anyone on your gift list. Join us Monday, 3 to 4 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.

VocalEye Almost Live Zoom events

VocalEye is the first dedicated live description service for blind and partially sighted people in Canada. Since its inception, VocalEye has described over 300 live events including theatre performances, dance, opera, parades, fireworks and public art tours for people who are blind and partially sighted. VocalEye Almost Live Zoom events are hosted by members of the blind community with special guest artists most Wednesday evenings.

A woman is writing a message inside a card. There are gifts and ornaments and ribbons on the table.

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Holiday Card Workshop

In this session, we will be writing messages for holiday cards that will be sent out to community members! Join us Thursday, December 5 from 11am to 12 noon Eastern Time.

I Can...But How?

This youth peer group is a new, exciting, solutions-focused nationwide meetup. The program is open to youth (Grades 8-12) who are interested in a fun, positive and productive group that can help tackle everyday questions and problems that you may face on your vision loss journey. As a group we will turn every "I can't" into an "I can!" First Thursday of every month from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Zoom.

Two bingo balls imprinted with numbers and letters used in the selection process of a bingo game.

Spot the Win CNIB Bingo

Join the fun with Spot the Win: CNIB Bingo! Get ready to test your luck and strategy in this unique twist on a classic game! Third Thursday of the month from 6 to 7 p.m. on Zoom.

An illustration of a braille book outlined in a black paintbrush style design with yellow accents.

Braille Quest – a fun braille literacy program!

Braille Quest – a fun braille literacy program (with prizes!) Use your braille skills at home or school to complete fun challenges including crafts and creative writing! Do a few Braille Quest activities, or do them all! Do as many activities as you like from January 15 – March 15, 2025.

Brandon Yoga

Keep fit, stretch your muscles and relax the mind with this in person Yoga class. This will be in person and facilitated by an instructor and assisted by volunteers.

Three women standing in front of a row of bookshelves each reading a book.

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Audiobook Alley

If you like being read to or listening to audiobooks, then this program is for you! Each week, we will be listening to multiple chapters of a community-selected, family-friendly audiobook and chat about it! Join us Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. Eastern Time.

CNIB SmartLife: Tech Hotline

Exciting news – every Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. this January, we’re running a special tech hotline to offer expert help for all your tech issues! When we say all, we mean it: we’ll offer assistance for whatever you have, whether it’s that braille display you bought from SmartLife or the phone you got at the mall. If we can’t figure things out, we’ll put you in touch with someone who can.

A black woman is standing in front of the climbing tower, smiling and waving with one hand. She is wearing a blue helmet and a yellow CNIB tshirt with a smiley face.

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: CNIB Lake Joe 2025 Season Info Session #1

Join this afternoon info session to learn everything you need to know about attending CNIB Lake Joe 2025 season! Join us Monday, January 6 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Coffee Break

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Drama Club

A woman is sitting in a kayak holding a paddle. There are two black guide dogs with her in the boat.

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: CNIB Lake Joe 2025 Season Info Session #2

Join this evening info session to learn everything you need to know about attending CNIB Lake Joe 2025 season! Perfect for parents and folks at work during the day, we invite you to join us Tuesday, January 7 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Talent Show

Who's got talent? You do! Join us on alternating Tuesdays, 7-8 p.m. Eastern Time to perform (if you wish) and/or enjoy the talents of fellow attendees.

The Flip Side

The Flip Side is a virtual group where participants experiencing vision loss can meet other members of the community and hear directly from them about their accomplishments and the barriers they have overcome in order to make those accomplishments. The Flip Side meets on the second Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.

CNIB SmartLife: VoiceOver for Beginners (Daytime)

The iPhone and iPad have a great screen reader built in: VoiceOver. It can read you everything on your phone and let you control your device without needing to find a specific spot on the screen. VoiceOver can be intimidating for new users, which is why we’re running this special session to teach the basics of Apple’s screen reader. Wednesday, January 8 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and 7 to 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Board game with two colourful game pieces on a blue circle with the word "START"

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Afternoon Games

Book some time to play today! Join us on Wednesdays from 2 to 3 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.

Wellness Wednesdays

Join us for "Wellness Wednesdays" where we'll discuss a variety of topics focused on wellness. Presentations will be presented by the Canadian Mental Health Association of NB. Sessions are delivered virtually over Zoom on the first Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. Atlantic Time.

Wellness Wednesdays

CNIB SmartLife: VoiceOver for Beginners (Evening)

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Campfire

Join us every Wednesday evening for a cozy night of campfire-themed songs, stories and activities. There will also be an opportunity to showcase your musical talent so be ready to perform your favorite camp songs!

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Lake Joe Choir

Lift your voice and connect with others through the joy of singing. Join our vibrant online choir community on Thursdays, 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

CNIB Mobile Hub: Sudbury, Ontario

The CNIB Mobile Hub visits Sudbury on Friday, January 10 at the CNIB Sudbury Community Hub (1545 Regent Street, Suite 104, Sudbury) from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

A person is sitting with their legs stretched out reading from an iPad

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Reading Room - "Let's Go: CNIB Lake Joe" e-newsletter

Get all the news you can use about CNIB Lake Joe as we read the October issue of the "Let's Go: CNIB Lake Joe" e-newsletter. This group is in addition to our regular Reading Room session and will be held Friday, January 10th from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time.

Coffee-Talks

A call-in social group. Each session will have a topic of discussion. This program is designed for participants 19+. Biweekly on Friday from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.

CNIB Mobile Hub: Oakville, Ontario

The CNIB Mobile Hub visits Oakville on Monday, January 13, 2025 at the Oakville Public Library – Glen Abbey Branch (1415 Third Line, Oakville) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A toothbrush covered in toothpaste, a glass of water, and a tube of toothpaste are displayed on top of a bathroom sink.

Canadian Dental Care Plan Presentation

Dental care is essential to overall health and well-being. Join the London-based Outreach Team from the Citizen Services and Program Delivery Branch at Service Canada for an informative session on the Canadian Dental Care Plan! Participants across Canada are invited to attend and learn more about this valuable new program that is helping make the cost of dental care more affordable for eligible Canadian residents. Monday, January 13 from 3 to 4 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Let's Talk Cooking – Winter Session

Love cooking or would love to know more about cooking? Join this group to share ideas, tips, tricks and the joy of cooking and baking! Every Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

CNIB SmartLife: Digital Treasure Chest, Fun at the Movies with Described Video (Daytime)

In the first Digital Treasure Chest of 2025, we’re taking a look at the state of described video on streaming services like Netflix and Prime Video. Join us to learn how described video works, how to turn it on, and to discover some of our favourite movies and TV shows! Wednesday, January 15 from 1 to 2 p.m. and 7 to 8 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Charles Bonnet Syndrome Group

This group is specifically for those who are experiencing symptoms/have had a diagnosis of CBS. Participants meet monthly for this conversational support group. Third Wednesday of every month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

CNIB SmartLife: Digital Treasure Chest, Fun at the Movies with Described Video (Evening)

CNIB SmartLife: Windows 11 – What Your Need to Know (Evening)

Bad news for PC users: Windows 10 is being discontinued this October. Good news: Windows 11 is here, and is guaranteed to keep getting updates and security fixes for years to come! If you’re still on Windows 10, you probably have a lot of questions about its successor, and we have the answers! We’ll talk about how to get Windows 11 and do a deep dive into what’s new and different, and show off the latest accessibility features from Microsoft. Be sure to join us and make your transition to the latest Windows smooth! Tuesday, January 21 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Eastern.

CNIB SmartLife: New Features in iOS 18 for iPhone Users who are Deafblind

In 2024, Apple released the latest version of the program that runs the iPhone: iOS 18. iOS 18 makes a lot of changes to the iPhone and adds many new features that will interest users who are Deafblind. CNIB SmartLife is holding a special session to discuss iOS 18 where we'll talk about improvements to the VoiceOver screen reader, braille screen input, braille display support, and the Siri voice assistant. Wednesday, January 22 at 1 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

CNIB SmartLife: Windows 11 – What Your Need to Know (Daytime)

CNIB SmartLife: Windows 11 – What Your Need to Know (Evening Repeat)

CNIB SmartLife: Advanced VoiceOver (Daytime)

iPhone users: do you know all the VoiceOver gestures by heart? Can you use the rotor to navigate and change settings? If so, you’ll love this session! The default VoiceOver settings are excellent, but they just scratch the surface of what your screen reader can do. You can adjust the voices, customize how talkative VoiceOver is, add extra commands to the rotor, and even create custom gestures. Wednesday, January 29 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and 7 to 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom

CNIB SmartLife: Advanced VoiceOver (Evening)

Young Adult Social Club

This program offers a fun, safe engaging place for youth ages 18-29 to connect and find a sense of community with each other. Programming will be guided by the interest of the participants, and activities may consist of movie and game nights, karaoke battles, dining out at restaurants and monthly excursions to local attractions. At each event, focus will be placed on fostering self-esteem and enhancing socialization skills. Last Wednesday of every month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at CNIB Winnipeg (unless otherwise specified).

Men and women sit on a sofa with trays of food on a coffee table. They are smiling.

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: The Lounge (ages 20+)

Friday nights are fun...and easy! We're hosting a special monthly get-together for adults ages 20+ who simply want to hangout and chat. Zoom information will be provided after registering.

Photo of the top part of a woman's face with an illustration of question marks floating above her head.

CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Curiosity Corner

Keep curious and engaged with lifelong learning. In this monthly session we will be inviting special guests and experts to inform and inspire us on a variety of interesting topics! Join us the first Monday of the month from 3 to 4 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.

A peer support group. Four people engage in conversation around a table.

Winnipeg Adjusting To Vision Loss – Winter Session

This four-week program offers a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals adjusting to vision loss. Participants will have the chance to share practical strategies, fostering confidence, independence, happiness, and hope while redefining the experience of sight loss. Every Tuesday (beginning February 4, 2025) from 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Winnipeg.

Youth Employment Empowerment Series

Join CNIB Alberta’s Children and Youth & Come to Work departments for the new Youth Employment Empowerment Series! Learn about all aspects of employment over this 5-part interactive workshop series, like: self-advocacy, accommodations, the application process, resume building, and much more!

CNIB Mobile Hub: Parksville, British Columbia

The CNIB Mobile Hub visits Parksville on Wednesday, February 5 at the Parksville Community Centre (223 Mills Street, Parksville) from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

CNIB Mobile Hub: Campbell River, British Columbia

The CNIB Mobile Hub visits Campbell River on Thursday, February 6 at the Campbell River Senior's Centre (1426 Ironwood St, Campbell River) from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

CNIB Mobile Hub: Ajax, Ontario

The CNIB Mobile Hub visits Ajax on Monday, February 10 at the Ajax Public Library – Rotary Room A (55 Harwood Ave. S, Ajax) from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Dollars Seen Differently Podcast Series: Debt and Taxes

CNIB's Dollars Seen Differently podcast breaks down financial topics to make them more accessible for people who are blind, Deafblind or have low vision. Hosted by Ryan Hooey, each episode features a down-to-earth conversation with financial experts, offering practical tips and resources on topics like accessing government benefits, smart saving strategies, managing debt, taxes, financial aid for education, and more. Join us on March 5 where we'll discuss Episode 8: Debt and Taxes – The Basics. This is a hybrid program available virtually via Zoom or in-person at the CNIB London Community Hub on Wednesday, March 5 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

The Writing Room – Spring Session

Step into The Writing Room, a dynamic virtual space where creativity flourishes. Over eight weeks, you’ll collaborate in this peer writing group, in an inspiring environment designed to ignite your imagination and hone your writing skills. Through exciting exercises, spirited discussions, and interactive games, you’ll explore the craft of writing in fresh, unexpected ways. The Writing Room meets every Wednesday from 2 to 3 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Let's Talk Cooking – Spring Session

Love cooking or would love to know more about cooking? Join this group to share ideas, tips, tricks and the joy of cooking and baking! Every Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

A young man is standing outside on a hill with mountains in the background. He is wearing black sunglasses, a blue jacket with a backpack and has a cane attached to a belt.

Back to the Future with Jack McCormick

Ten years ago, Jack McCormick spent his summer working at CNIB Lake Joe as a camp counsellor. While many of his fellow camp staff were scrambling to quickly learn what was where and focusing on awareness training about blindness etiquette and accessibility, Jack was already way ahead of the pack. This wasn’t his first time at Lake Joe.

Un jeune garçon portant des lunettes et tenant une canne blanche s'appuie contre une balustrade en bois. Derrière lui, un lac entouré d’arbres à l'horizon.

Westminster College Foundation : Un don de 20 000 $ permet à des enfants ayant une limitation visuelle de participer à un camp de vacances

Chaque été, les Canadiens partent en famille pour profiter de tout ce que la nature a à offrir. Coby Schleihauf et sa famille ne font pas exception à la règle. Chaque été, ils font leurs valises et se dirigent vers le nord à partir de leur domicile de St. Thomas, en Ontario, pour profiter de leurs vacances d'été annuelles en famille. Mais au lieu de se rendre dans un chalet ou un terrain de camping, ils font du centre Lake Joe d'INCA leur maison secondaire, et ce, chaque été depuis 2016.

A young black man wearing a white karate uniform with a black belt is kicking a pad that a man is holding in front of him.

Eitel’s Kickin’ it at CNIB Lake Joe

Sometimes you want to get away from it all…together.

Eitel describes himself as a digital accessibility expert by day, judo champ by dusk, and committed member of the National Youth Council (NYC) around the clock. On top of that he’s a long-time CNIB Lake Joe camper and an awesome ambassador.

A boy is being projected into the air on top of a circular canvas that is being held by at least 25 children.

Children & Youth Programs 2025

We can’t wait to welcome our younger guests to CNIB Lake Joe for lots of summer fun in the sun. Many of our programs are also open to sighted siblings and friends too. Registration fees for all CNIB Lake Joe Children and Youth programs are just $155/week. Book your space now!

CNIB Advocacy Mentorship Network

Matt and Miriam are sitting side-by-side in a canoe in the water. They are wearing shorts and yellow life jackets, holding wooden paddles. There is a tree-lined horizon and blue sky.

CNIB Lake Joe Camper Profile: Miriam & Matt Hesselbart

Life can bring on sudden change and times of uncertainty. We have the power to decide how we move forward. When life threw Miriam Hesselbart a curveball, she decided to jump into the world of blind sports and found her way to CNIB Lake Joe.

Adian stands in-front of a home office/computer workstation. He is smiling and standing with his hands clasped together. Aidan has platinum white hair, wears glasses and a brown t-shirt with jeans.

Empowered by technology: Meet Aidan

“My biggest expense going into university was for assistive technology, something that other scholarships do not prioritize as they tend to focus primarily on direct educational costs, like tuition,” says Aidan. “I knew CNIB would understand this need, and their scholarship application process was quite straightforward. I just had to upload documents online and answer a few questions.”

A silhouette/selfie style photograph of Kaitlynn. Kaitlynn has dark brown hair and is wearing grey t-shirt.

Scholarship Success: Meet Kaitlynn

In 2023, Kaitlynn was awarded a $3,000 CNIB scholarship and used the funds to purchase accessible technology and software, including a Victor Reader Stream – a handheld digital audio player (with a $595 price tag) that she uses to read books, course materials, and other online resources. “It's because of the CNIB scholarship that I'm able to have the technology and software that I need to thrive as a student,” says Kaitlynn.

A selfie-style photograph of Acacia. Acacia has long platinum white hair and is wearing headphones over he ears and a long grey sweatshirt.

Scholarship recipient spotlight: Acacia

While adjusting to university life was “a big change,” the $3,000 scholarship she received from CNIB enabled Acacia to concentrate on her studies. She used the funds to pay for residence and living expenses, like groceries. The financial support also allowed her to dedicate her first semester entirely to adjusting to university life without having to work part-time.

The Knipp Family wearing matching CNIB Lake Joe Sweaters

‘Home away from home’ This family spends summers at a camp that’s a haven for their kids with low vision

Every summer, at the start of her family’s vacation, Sarah Knip stops to take a photograph of the large welcome sign that arches over the laneway leading to CNIB Lake Joe. That moment is the first in a string of Knip family traditions at the fully accessible camp located on the northwest corner of Lake Joseph in Muskoka.

Meet Bree: CNIB Lake Joe’s Camp Program Manager

CNIB Lake Joe is thrilled to introduce Bree Leblanc, our new Camp Program Manager. With her vibrant personality, love of puns, and a passion for camp, Bree is already making a positive impact on our community.

An Accessible Pedestrian Signal (APS) mounted on a metallic pole at a crosswalk in Ottawa. The surrounding area shows an urban environment with a brick-paved sidewalk, a red car in the background, and modern buildings under a clear blue sky.

Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS)

This summer, CNIB ran an advocacy campaign calling for the proper installation and maintenance of Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS). Our community came out in force, resulting in 641 letters submitted to municipal mayors and councillors across the country, calling on them to prioritize the proper installation and maintenance of APS devices in their municipalities.

A person’s hand holds a red bicycle bell. The bell is mounted on the bicycle handlebar.

Don’t forget to ring! A public awareness initiative for safer cycling on The Confederation Trail

Ringing your bicycle bell is a small gesture of respect that makes shared outdoor spaces more enjoyable for everyone. A bell ring alerts pedestrians of a rider’s presence and serves as a courteous heads-up, preventing sudden surprises, collisions, and injuries. Always ring your bicycle bell when passing pedestrians along The Confederation Trail!

A smiling Sam Smadella in the mountains in the backgound

Sam Smadella: Bringing Music to the Ears of CNIB Lake Joe’s Virtual Campers

Sam Smadella is a recreational therapist who has always had a passion for helping others. Whether it's in palliative care, child care, or diverse communities, Sam always finds herself making an incredible impact wherever she goes.

A collage of two photographs featuring two graduating partnerships. Left: Cheri smiles and sits on a bench, and her guide dog, Sassy, sits on the pavement to her right. Sassy is a black dog in harness. It’s lightly snowing, and Cheri is wearing a red winter jacket and gloves. Right: Maxine and her guide dog, Symba, a yellow dog, pose for a photo together. Symba is in harness.

Class of 2024

At local celebrations across the country, 23 new partnerships (15 guide dogs, seven buddy dogs, and one ambassador dog) graduated as part of the CNIB Guide Dog Class of 2024.

Jane Casey, Board member, CNIB Lake Joe Advisory Board

Jane Casey invites you to “Get on Board”

The CNIB Lake Joe Advisory Board (LJAB) is currently recruiting new members. Jane Casey, LJAB member and long-time CNIB Lake Joe alumnus shares why she joined the Board and why you should consider this opportunity too.

Anne Lindsay and Colin Cripps (part of the Jim Cuddy Trio), David Throssell and his wife Cassidy, and Jim Cuddy at CNIB Lake Joe.

Meet David Throssell

David Throssell, Executive Consultant at IG Private Wealth Management – Throssell Group, has a long-time history with CNIB and played a special role as the presenting sponsor of CNIB Lake Joe’s 2023 Cookout With Cuddy fundraising event. Thrilled that David will be our presenting sponsor again for the 2024 Cookout With Cuddy encore event, we wanted you to learn more about him and why he couldn’t resist the chance to support CNIB Lake Joe.

Vivian playing her ukelele on the lawn at CNIB Lake Joe.

Volunteer Profile: Vivian Chong

It has been said that in order to truly grow, we must be willing to stretch. Vivian Chong, past CNIB Lake Joe guest, long-time CNIB Lake Joe volunteer and yoga practitioner has been stretching her whole life and encourages everyone to “expand yourself!”

Khrisstina sitting in the front of a canoe holding a paddle in her hand. She is turning around to smile at the camera. The water is sparkling and there are green trees on her left.

Khrisstina Engel: Live, laugh, love at CNIB Lake Joe

In 2014, at the age of 38, Khrisstina's world was forever changed when a stroke caused her to lose her sight. The following two years were a tremendous struggle, marked by a profound loss of direction and the challenge of navigating life without sight. In 2016, she took a pivotal step by attending CNIB Lake Joe, a decision that would redefine her perspective on her ‘second life’ after losing her sight.

From left to right: (L-R) Emilee Schevers, Tavish Gillan, Taylor Gaudon and Jade Ondrik by the outdoor pizza oven at CNIB Lake Joe. They are wearing blue t-shirts with the word “Fearless” in print and braille.

“This is where we met our people.” CNIB Lake Joe online and onsite

The COVID-19 pandemic was all about keeping everyone safe at home, but for the Gillan family – and hundreds like them – it was the start of a whole new way to connect with others sharing a sight loss journey.

Stopped at traffic lights, a pile of improperly cleared snow blocks half of the pedestrian crosswalk.

"SnoWay" Snow Removal Campaign

For people who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision, navigating outdoor spaces can become difficult or impossible during the winter months due to environmental barriers caused by improper snow removal practices. As snow blankets our streets and sidewalks, CNIB’s annual “SnoWay” advocacy campaign is back to highlight the barriers that snow and ice create and remind municipalities, businesses, snow removal contractors, and homeowners about their responsibility to clear snow and ice from paths of travel.

Connecting the Dots. Education, Technology and Employment Conference. Conference Information Hub.

Connecting the Dots - Conference Information

Access important day-of details including the conference program, bios of speakers and presenters, venue and travel info and more!

Matt Simonot (seated) with his friends, setting up for the CNIB Lake Joe Cookout with Cuddy event. Matt’s sister, Lara is beside Matt, second from the right.

Meet Matt Simonot: Volunteer with a Vision

When Matt first arrived at CNIB Lake Joe in his role as a volunteer counsellor, he was a teenager with a humble goal of completing volunteer hours for school. He jumped at the chance to get involved with CNIB Lake Joe as it was a stone’s throw from his family’s cottage. It didn’t take long before he began to understand the magic of CNIB Lake Joe.

The interior of a city bus with passengers seated. The image is taken from the back of the bus.

Get on board with accessible public transit

This fall, we’re excited to launch phase three of the “Get on Board!” campaign, this time targeting 10 new municipalities in Canada. We hope you’ll join us in advocating for accessible public transit by participating in an undercover mission to improve public transit systems!

a group of men and women sitting at a table with their laptops talking

7 Challenges Entrepreneurs Face and How to Conquer Them

What are some challenges of being an entrepreneur? While entrepreneurship can help you build your ideal lifestyle, starting a new business is by no means a simple journey.

CNIB Partners in Vision - Frequently Asked Questions

Browse the questions below to find out more about your monthly donations as a CNIB Partner in Vision. If you can't find the information you're looking for here, call us toll-free at 1-800-563-2642 or email monthly.giving@cnib.ca. One of our specialists will be happy to assist you.

Laurie sits on her living room floor with her guide dog, Bridget, a yellow Labrador retriever-golden retriever cross. Bridget wears a graduation cap and sits in Laurie’s lap. Laurie affectionately presses her face against the Bridget’s fluffly face.

Class of 2023

After completing intensive training, it’s finally graduation day for the CNIB Guide Dogs class of 2023! CNIB Guide Dogs is celebrating 15 new partnerships, including nine guide dog graduates, five buddy dog graduates, and one ambassador dog graduate.

Celebrating CNIB Volunteers: Meet Salim

Local Calgary resident Salim Kassam loves to give back to his community. In 2014 Salim was diagnosed with Ushers Syndrome, a genetic disease that affects both hearing and sight. It was then that he originally connected with CNIB for support – and quickly fell in love with the community and cause.

Celebrating CNIB Volunteers: Meet Alan

As a Tech-Mate, Alan volunteers his time to work one-on-one with participants in the British Columbia area who are interested in brushing up on their assistive and accessible technology skills.

Jessica Bailey, poses at the Lake Joe waterfront. She does the American Sign Language sign for "I Love you". An icon of a hand with a heart floating above it appears in the top right hand corner.

Celebrating CNIB Volunteers: Meet Jessica

CNIB Lake Joe is lucky to have long-time volunteers, but not many are like Jess Bailey. She has been volunteering at CNIB Lake Joe for most of her life!

Celebrating CNIB Volunteers: The National Youth Council

Le Conseil national des jeunes d'INCA (CNJ) offre à ses membres la possibilité d'influencer le changement et d'accroître la sensibilisation aux questions auxquelles sont confrontés les jeunes Canadiens vivant avec une perte de vision.

My scholarship experience – Niko Bauer

By: Niko Bauer

University is a massive obligation, and you’re stressed at the outset because you don’t know how you’ll pay for it on top of hours of studying and learning. The support of a scholarship goes so far beyond a dollar amount. It’s so relieving to know you have that kickstart to get going. It’s super beneficial. I’m paying for my school with a mixture of working and taking a gap year, but it’s not quite enough. I applied for scholarships all over and figured this [CNIB scholarship] was an area where I’d have more access and opportunity to receive a scholarship.

CNIB Lake Joe’s Got Talent: Introducing Jade Ondrik

Jade Ondrik, Virtual Music Specialist at CNIB Lake Joe, has been singing her heart out for as long as she can remember. The 19-year-old GTA resident was enrolled in vocal classes when she was just four years old and has been singing, dancing, and acting her whole life.

Alessia Tuilli with guide dog in a kayak on the water at CNIB Lake Joe.

CNIB Lake Joe for Beginners: Alessia’s Story

Alessia Trulli’s life changed at 22 when she woke up one day and couldn’t see. Diagnosed with cone-rod dystrophy, Alessia was going to school and supply teaching as an Early Childhood Educator as she started to adjust to her sight loss.

A young woman reads a newspaper to an older woman.

Vision Mate Program

The Vision Mate program is CNIB's flagship initiative for one-on-one support. The program matches people who are blind or partially sighted with sighted volunteers who provide companionship and assistance with everyday tasks and errands.

Kathy and her son Clayton stand on a waterfront balcony at their cottage.

All in the Family: Kathy gives back to CNIB Lake Joe by volunteering

Kathy McCormick and her family have a long history with CNIB Lake Joe. Their first time at camp was in 2002 with their oldest son Jack, and since then, someone in the family has either volunteered or worked at the camp.

Munashe Nya gives the thumbs up on the deck near the Welcome Centre at CNIB Lake Joe.

Meet Munashe

In July, Munashe Nyenya visited CNIB Lake Joe with three other youth from Alberta for the Canadian Leadership Development Program (CLDP). This program offers youth who are blind or partially sighted an opportunity to come together for learning, skills development, social interaction and good fun. We caught up with Munashe to hear what he had to say about his time at CNIB Lake Joe.

A selfie of Laura Mason. She sits outdoors in the sunshine with a lush green plant behind her.

An intervener’s experience at CNIB Lake Joe

Every year during Adult Week programming, CNIB Lake Joe welcomes guests who are Deafblind and their intervenors. Laura Mason is an intervenor with CNIB Deafblind Community Services in Hamilton, Ont. And we spoke with her about her experiences at CNIB Lake Joe.

A selfie of Harjinder Saran at CNIB Lake Joe.

Meet Harjinder Saran

In July, Harjinder Saran visited CNIB Lake Joe with two other youth from British Columbia for the Canadian Leadership Development Program (CLDP). We spoke with Harjinder about her experience.

A puck drop. Hockey players, Brayden, Mathew and Eli during practice on the rink.

CNIB Lake Joe’s New Blind Hockey Program featuring Luca DeMontis

This summer, CNIB Lake Joe was extremely fortunate to have Luca DeMontis, Program Director at Canadian Blind Hockey and General Manager of the Canadian National Blind Hockey Team, coach the first-ever Blind Hockey Camp during Camp Abilities Week.

A white wallpaper featuring an abstract design of 4 dots. Text: Toronto In-Person Exhibit Hall & Networking

Connecting the Dots – Toronto Program

Connecting the Dots Toronto In-Person Exhibit Hall & Networking: Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at Deloitte Canada (8 Adelaide St W #200, Toronto, ON). Explore the Toronto agenda.

Daniel Kisielewski, guest at CNIB Lake Joe Adult Week 2022, playing the black grand piano in the CNIB Lake Joe lounge.

An interview with Daniel Kisielewski

This interview is based on a “Guestimonial” Llonella Gilbert, our CNIB Lake Joe Communications Intern, had with Daniel during his stay at CNIB Lake Joe.

A graphic art illustration of three people walking down a city sidewalk. One icon has a white cane and is accompanied by a person who is providing sighted guide. To the right of them is an icon of a woman pushing a shopping cart. The woman is entering a storefront.

Accessible Communities

The ability to access and enjoy your own community is essential for everyone. Engaging in the many things that our local neighbourhoods offer is vital for the overall wellbeing of all community members, including people who are blind or partially sighted. When places are inaccessible and lack a sense of inclusiveness, everyone misses out.

Meet Shawn Johnson

Born in Peterborough, Shawn now lives with his family in Hiawatha First Nations, Ontario. He is First Nations Mississauga Ojibwe and is a Sun Dancer. Shawn lost his sight in 2010 at the age of 50. His first visit to CNIB Lake Joe was in 2013, and he hadn’t missed a year until the pandemic closed in-person camp in 2020.

Education Handbook – Manitoba

Know your legal rights related to education.

About the Know Your Rights – Manitoba project

Through Know Your Rights – Manitoba, CNIB has developed plain language legal information handbooks to empower Manitobans who are blind, partially sighted or Deafblind to better understand their rights, navigate the Manitoba legal system and self-advocate to challenge discrimination.

A black and white photograph of Ben walking in a forest. He holds his white cane up in the air near his waist.

Bernard’s White Cane Story

For many years, Bernard was reluctant to use the cane or be connected with the sight loss community because he was afraid of being stigmatized. Now his cane is a source of pride and as a Ghanian Canadian he uses it to advocate for other causes like Black Lives Matter.

Julia smiles and poses for a photo. She is sitting in a wheelchair and wearing a green shirt and black pants,

Julia’s White Cane Story

Julia shares with us her experiences as an active person who uses a wheelchair as well a cane, and what drives her passion for educating younger people on what her white cane means.

Ramla smiles and poses for a photo against a white background. She is wearing a grey dress and a hijab.

Ramla’s White Cane Story

Ramla was born in Somalia and began her white cane journey in Canada. She realized that if she wanted to live an independent life, she would need to use a cane. Now as an avid cane user she brings awareness to others.

A selfie of Jason. He has a goatee and is wearing a blue shirt.

Jason’s White Cane Story

Jason was a long-haul truck driver in Manitoba before he lost his sight suddenly. He spoke to us about how he learned to use a cane virtually and adjusted to life as a cane user during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A white cane with a rolling ball tip scans tactile paving on a sidewalk.

About the White Cane

There are different types of white canes used by Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Learn more about what they are and how they are used.

A guide dog and its handler at a graduation ceremony. The handler pets his golden retriever guide dog. The dog is wearing a graduation cap.

Class of 2022

As part of CNIB Guide Dogs' class of 2022, 16 Canadians who are blind or partially sighted are graduating with their guide dogs on International Guide Dog Day (April 27) after completing intensive training.

Via Rail Canada

Founded in 1977, VIA Rail Canada connects and unites cities and people by offering passenger rail services from coast to coast to coast. Every day, VIA Rail Canada strives to provide a safe, accessible, efficient, reliable, and sustainable travel experience that meets the needs of Canadian passengers.

Lynn Kennedy poses for a photo in front of a book shelf. A yellow graphic of hands holding a white heart outlined in black in the bottom left corner

Meet Lynn – Book Club Facilitator

Everyone loves a good page turner, including Lynn Kennedy, who wanted to share her love of reading with others. In 2020, she started volunteering as a book club facilitator.

“CNIB has been a great source of support for my son, and I’m very grateful,” says Lynn. “I’ve taken a keen interest in learning how CNIB helps people with sight loss and the various programs that are available.”

A photograph of Louise Burley smiling and holding a microphone in her left hand. A yellow graphic of hands holding a white heart outlined in black in the top right corner.

Meet Louise – Coffee Chat Facilitator

Louise became a CNIB volunteer in March 2020 to provide support for people who are blind or partially sighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was a time of great need and total isolation for all of us. I wanted to give back to my community as someone with sight loss,” says Louise. “Using the Zoom platform regularly provided us with a feeling of connection. It also boosted our confidence with using the technology.”

A picture of Louis Levesque standing in front The Château Frontenac. A yellow graphic of hands holding a white heart outlined in black in the bottom left corner.

Meet Louis – Peer Support Group Facilitator

After losing his vision suddenly in 2011, Quebec City’s Louis Levesque began to volunteer as a peer support group facilitator.

“When I lost my vision, I could no longer do my job,” says Louis. “At 55, I was too young to be idle, so it seemed like a natural fit to help those who were facing the same challenges as me.”

With an incredible amount of empathy, Louis is committed to creating safe spaces that welcome the most difficult conversations related to sight loss.

A photo of Emer Ferguson smiling. A yellow graphic of hands holding a white heart outlined in black in the top right corner.

Meet Emer – Cooking Club Facilitator

Kitchener-Waterloo's Emer Ferguson volunteers as a cooking club facilitator. As someone with sight, she has learned a lot from people who are blind or partially sighted.

“Whether it’s using an Instant Pot, a slow cooker or setting aside more time for cooking, they’ve taught me that anything is possible in the kitchen,” says Emer.

Photo of Betty Nobel smiling. A yellow graphic of hands holding a white heart outlined in black in the top right corner.

Meet Betty – CNIB Tech Mate

As a CNIB Tech Mate, Vancouver’s Betty Nobel volunteers to help put the latest tech knowledge at people’s fingertips.

“People need to have hope that they can carry on living independent lives after losing their vision,” says Betty. “CNIB has played a big part in my journey to independence since birth, so I have always wanted to give back.”

Peter and his wife Denise pose for a photograph at the bus entrance. Both are wearing t-shirts that say, "If they can't get there, they can't benefit."

Lion Peter Best: Smashing Transportation Barriers

For many campers, transportation poses a significant barrier to visiting CNIB Lake Joe. With the support of Lions Clubs and dedicated Lion Peter Best, campers from southwestern Ontario have travelled safely and comfortably to Lake Joe on "Peter’s Bus" since 1989.

Jason Mitschele and Dwayne King are standing together at a CIBC Run for the Cure event.

What’s YOUR Mountain? Team Limitless encourages kids to live without limits

Jason Mitschele always wanted to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. He used to live in Africa and knew others who had made the assent. Blind from birth, Jason thought climbing was a lofty dream, but he is not the kind of guy to hold back.

A photograph of Mark wearing a Mount Royal University hoodie.

How CNIB Scholarships helped support my post-secondary education

By: Mark Rawleigh

Throughout my post-secondary studies at Mount Royal University, I was the lucky recipient of three scholarships from CNIB – totalling nearly $5,000 over five and a half years.

Cerenna-tee Racey standing in front of the Wellness Centre wearing a grey CNIB Lake Joe sweater, smiling.

Creating a Sensation: Cerenna-tee Racey

“It was overwhelming but in a good way,” says Cerenna-tee Racey when reflecting on her first visit to CNIB Lake Joe at the age of nine.

Randall Oliphant is driving a boat with a dog on his lap.

Meet “Super Six” challenger Randall Oliphant

“I’d like to say to anyone thinking about getting involved with CNIB Lake Joe, ‘What would you do if one of your family members was living with sight loss? How would you hope your friends and neighbours would respond to a request for help?’”

Meet Randall Oliphant, a remarkable donor, volunteer, and member of the CNIB Lake Joe Vision Team since its inception in 2016.

Corey Braun at a CNIB Night Steps event.

Believe You Can Achieve: Corey Braun

CNIB Lake Joe volunteers like Corey Braun play a vital role in crafting enriching camp experiences.

“Being a volunteer at CNIB Lake Joe will change your life in a positive and remarkable way,” says Corey.

About CNIB Connects

Learn more about the membership program, how it works, and why we created it.

A Moneris Core payment terminal with accessibility mode enabled on the device.

Accessible Payment Terminals

CNIB has worked together with Moneris Solutions Corporation (‘Moneris’), with support from the Government of Canada to create an inclusive and accessible shopping experience for everyone through the development of this new accessible terminal.

Roy Klementti smiling, wearing a red golf shirt

Volunteer profile: Roy & Mark Klementti

In the last two years, the CNIB Lake Joe property has undergone a makeover with the additions of a multi-sport court, a 5-a-side soccer pitch, a mini-golf course, and a fully resurfaced shuffleboard court. These accessible features will keep campers busy learning new skills and building friendships with teammates and competitors alike. None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of Roy and Mark Klementti – a dynamic father/son volunteer duo.

Taylor Gaudot is smiling for a photo wearing her hair in braids and a green top.

I learned so much about my community: staff member Taylor Gaudon

by Martha Uniacke Breen for Cayman Marshall International Luxury & Lifestyle

“As I grew older, I needed a job, but I wasn’t comfortable in the typical teen jobs like fast food or retail. So my mum applied to CNIB for ideas. They suggested becoming a program facilitator, which is a kind of counsellor, at CNIB Lake Joe."

CNIB Mobile Hub – Tour Schedule

We’re bringing the CNIB Mobile Hub in communities across Canada. To see where we’re headed next, check out our tour schedule.

Julia scales the climbing tower at CNIB Lake Joe. She is wearing a harness and helmet.

Dare to Dream – Meet Julia Stevenson

CNIB Lake Joe has been a “second home” for 49-year-old Julia Stevenson from Bowmanville, Ontario. When she recalled her most recent visit during the new Holiday Week program, she gushes that “It was the best experience…just phenomenal.”

An illustration of a sailboat outlined in a black paintbrush style design. A dash of white paint appears on the boat sail. Text: CNIB Lake Joe. Enriching Lives, Making Memories, Building Independence.

Let’s Go! CNIB Lake Joe e-newsletter

Welcome to Let’s Go! CNIB Lake Joe e-newsletter! This quarterly e-newsletter will provide all the news you can use about CNIB Lake Joe: new and exciting programs, fabulous events, staff and volunteer opportunities, and fun facts about life at CNIB Lake Joe.

David accompagné d'employés et de personnes aveugles défonce une barrière de papier symbolique.

Know Your Rights: A Step in the Right Direction

David Demers, Executive Director CNIB Quebec, thanks about the Know your Rights project.

Shawn Dale, Bill Vastis and Derek Thompson sit together on a bench and pose for a group photo on the shoreline of Lake Joe. Their smiles are wide and radiate joy!

Growing up with CNIB Lake Joe – meet Derek Thompson

“My parents say that Lake Joe saved me because I was angry and miserable when my vision changed," says Derek Thompson. "But once I was at Lake Joe, those feelings dissipated, and my maturity started to develop.”

Nearly 35 years later, Derek Thompson still remembers his first visit to CNIB Lake Joe.

Stela sitting on a leather ottoman in front of a fireplace with her German Shepherd guide dog in front of her.

Meet Stela

An advocate, student, teacher, and music specialist, Stela Trudeau started volunteering with CNIB summer camps when her eye condition was formally diagnosed in 2015.

Mason (left) and Ollie (right) and Buddy Dog Hope pose for a picture at Lake Joe. They are wearing face masks and holding their white canes.

When Ollie met Mason

Ollie has a compromised immune system, and to keep him safe during the pandemic, he has not been able to spend time with friends. But that changed when Ollie arrived at CNIB Lake Joe with his sister and parents as part of Holiday Week, a new offering at CNIB Lake Joe. Ollie met Mason, an 11-year-old boy, and as Ollie’s mum puts it, “The two became fast friends, inspiring each other to try new things.” When Mason told Ollie he was going to try kayaking all by himself – without a parent, Ollie wanted to try, too.

Fred Arbour, District Governor A2, holding the District of the Year Award, 2020-21

CNIB Honours Lions’ Top Contributors

“I was totally surprised when I got the award. It never even crossed my mind,” says Fred. “I’m very thankful. I’ve been a Lion for over 50 years, and CNIB Lake Joe is one of the areas that I’ve most enjoyed in all my years of being in Lions.”

Fred says that the love of CNIB Lake Joe runs in the family.

The Knip family posing for the camera on the lakeshore at CNIB Lake Joe.

Summers at CNIB Lake Joe with the Knip Family

CNIB Lake Joe has become a family vacation destination for the Knip family: Sarah, Josh and their children Caleb, Keagan, Avery, Hudson, and Nora.

Three of their children live with sight loss. After learning about the camp from an Early Childhood Intervention Specialist in 2015, the family now visits every summer.

Six colourful stuffed animal Llamas, created by Jaclyn. The llamas have tactile elements like button eyes.

Sewing in the Dark with Jaclyn Pope

Jaclyn Pope is determined to not let COVID-19 railroad her education and professional ambitions as she expands her online business, Sewing in the Dark. When a sewing course at Durham College was cancelled due to the pandemic, Jaclyn, 39, viewed it as an opportunity to reconsider her educational plans.

“I started to think about other things that I could learn that would ultimately help my business and help me achieve my goals,” says Jaclyn. “I realized one of the ways I can promote my business is to have a website, but I didn't want to pay someone to create a website for me. Because I like to have control, I decided to learn how to build my own.”

Congratulating Tait

“I knew CNIB Scholarships existed, but I never really thought of myself as someone who could get a scholarship because, frankly, my grades are not stellar,” says Tait. “But the scholarship application said they were looking for someone who likes to do things outside the box. It wasn't just about academics and grades, so I took a chance and applied.”

Meet Susan

Susan Creasy and her family have been part of the Lake Joe journey since the beginning. Her grandfather and great aunt, Wilfred C. James and Elsinore C. Burns, were both members of the Lake Joseph Planning Committee in the early stages of development in the 1960s.

Lion Barb Ennis: Kindness and Service in Action

Lion Barb Ennis grew up in Toronto close to CNIB's head office, and every day she saw people with white canes and guide dogs travelling to and from CNIB. And every summer, her family went to their cottage in Muskoka where her mom, a relief nurse at CNIB Lake Joe, would take her along.

Rob Froom (left) standing waterside at Lake Joe with his brother David Froom. Rob is holding his brother's hand.

Robert & David Froom: Renewing Relationships at CNIB Lake Joe

Everyone has their own reason for volunteering. I volunteer to repay, in some small way, the enormous debt of gratitude I feel for CNIB: for the services it has provided to my brother David and for the life-changing experiences I have shared with him at CNIB Lake Joe.

Bruce Roulston posing with a caught fish on a dock beside Eugene Chong at CNIB Lake Joe. They are both wearing life jackets and a ballcap.

Meet Bruce Roulston

Lion Bruce Roulston from Hagersville, Ontario, was a farmer for practically his entire life until he lost his vision to Retinitis Pigmentosa.

“I was 53 when I got off the farm because it was too dangerous for me to work. I realized I needed support and that’s when CNIB became a big part of my life,” says Bruce.

Alicia smiles and sits outdoors on a large rock. Behind her are trees. She is wearing a summer floral dress. Her white cane rests on the rock to the right of her.

How CNIB Lake Joe Inspired a Young Advocate

When Alicia Chenier arrived at CNIB Lake Joe as a 12-year-old, she didn’t have to “hide being blind."

“I used to pretend I wasn’t blind because I was bullied for it. School was tough,” says Alicia.

Nancy Simonot wearing a pink cowboy hat and speaking into a microphone at a Lake Joe fundraising event.

Volunteer with a Vision – Nancy Simonot

For Nancy Simonot, volunteering with CNIB Lake Joe is a family affair. Her journey with CNIB began when her son, Matthew, had a transformational experience as a volunteer counsellor.

Jim (and his megawatt smile) sits in a Muskoka chair near the shores of CNIB Lake Joe.

Special thanks: Volunteer Jim Tokos, 23+ years of service

Do you remember what you were doing 23 years ago? Were you sitting in a packed movie theatre breathlessly watching Titanic? Humming along to Elton John’s Candle in the Wind? Enjoying the warm winter compliments of El Nino? For Jim Tokos, 1997 was the beginning of a prolific volunteer career at CNIB Lake Joe.

Emma (left) and Michelle (right) smile and pose for a photo in front of a beautiful green tree.

Meet the Van Dyk family

It was five years ago, right here at CNIB Lake Joe, that my daughter said to me, ‘Mom, I have found my people.' At that moment, I knew that we were going to be okay.

Joshua Cook and two other people sit in a sail boat on the water. They are at the World Blind Sailing Championships in Scotland.

Meet Joshua

The moment Joshua Cook arrived at CNIB Lake Joe, he knew it was the beginning of a beautiful, lifelong bond.

"Before I went to camp, I felt isolated. I was the only person I knew with a visual impairment," says Joshua. "I wanted to be around other people with sight loss. Lake Joe really put things into perspective for me."

Two Community Engagement Volunteers deliver a presentation in front of a large group of school-aged children sitting in a gymnasium.

Community Engagement Volunteer – Program Overview

Community Engagement Volunteers are people who are blind or partially sighted, their friends or family, or anyone who has a connection to the mission and wants to make a difference in their community. They are self-starters who can bring together community and drive local grassroots campaigns as well as support national advocacy issues in their region through collaborating with others.

Meet the President

Meet Diane Bergeron, President of CNIB Guide Dogs. If you are a certified guide dog trainer or a certified guide dog mobility instructor, we are looking for you to come and join our fabulous team working together to make the lives of people who are blind or partially sighted in Canada better every day.

A thumbnail for a video of a virtual tour through CNIB's Canine Campus. The image shows John Rafferty greeting the viewer, and introducing the Canine Campus.

Canine Campus Virtual Tour

Join John Rafferty, President & CEO of CNIB, for a tour of CNIB's Canine Campus, a state-of-the-art facility training amazing dogs to do incredible work in communities across the country.

Sandra, wearing a pink shirt, smiling for the camera in a group photo with other CNIB Lake Joe volunteers. A graphic of arms hugging a cartoon yellow heart can be seen in the top-right corner of the photo.

Meet Sandra

Sandra started volunteering with CNIB as a Vision Mate, a program that connects volunteers with participants for friendly conversations. The first time she heard about CNIB Lake Joe was during a peer support group in her hometown of Newmarket.

Kevin, looking down at the camera with a smile while wearing a straw hat. A graphic of arms hugging a yellow cartoon heart can be seen in the top-left corner of the photo.

Meet Kevin

Diagnosed with Stargardt's disease when he was a teenager, Kevin’s passion for self-advocacy was sparked at university. While engaging with an assistive technologist on campus, he met a friend who was a disability advocate.

Warren, standing outside wearing a yellow shirt, smiling for the camera. A graphic of arms hugging a yellow cartoon heart can be seen in the top-right corner of the photo.

Meet Warren

As an assistant captain for his hockey team, Edmonton's Warren Wong knew what it meant to be a leader. He would also coach his brother and his friends, showing them drills to improve their skills. Due to the pandemic, Warren stepped into a different coaching role; a CNIB Tech Mate volunteer.

Rositsa standing outside holding a railing. A graphic of arms hugging a cartoon heart can be seen in the top left corner of the photo.

Meet Rositsa

For Rositsa Ivanova of Toronto, volunteering with CNIB has been an incredible opportunity to learn new skills and make a difference in the lives of Canadians living with sight loss.

A yellow Labrador-retriever CNIB Guide Dog attending his graduation, wearing a harness and mortarboard graduation cap. His handler’s hand is in the frame holding his leash.

Class of 2021

Twenty Canadians who are blind or partially sighted graduated with their guide dogs on April 28, 2021. At the graduation ceremony, seven buddy dog partnerships and two ambassador dog partnerships also graduated, alongside the guide dog partnerships.

CNIB Learning Academy

Canadian youth with sight loss are invited to join CNIB Learning Academy for engaging virtual and in-person programs offered throughout the year! Our programs challenge youth from grades six to first year of post-secondary studies to develop pre-employment, leadership, independence and social skills.

Carl walking down a sidewalk with a CNIB Guide Dog in training.

Guide Dog Trainers (GDT) and Guide Dog Mobility Instructors (GDMI)

CNIB Guide Dogs is looking for Guide Dog Trainers and Guide Dog Mobility Instructors. See what’s involved in a typical day.

An archival photo from Bill 309, an Act to amend the Dominion Elections Act first reading May 27, 1930.

CNIB’s Advocacy from 1930 – Present

The Dominion Elections Act of 1874 outlined the voting processes in Canada, especially concerning voter’s rights. The Act establishes that voters shall have privacy when casting their ballot and have the right to have their ballot remain private, especially from the Deputy Returning Officer. For voters who were blind, this was not an option.

CNIB Manitoba Chase the Ace Online Raffle

CNIB Chase the Ace Manitoba - will you be our next winner?

An iPhone 11 screen displays magnified text.

iPhone/iPad: Low Vision Features Series

Your iPhone/iPad has many low vision features built right in. You can magnify, zoom in and out, change colors and turn on the speak screen feature. Learn how to adjust your device to better meet your needs in this series of workshops.

A stack of books beside a laptop on a wooden table.

Accessible Textbooks and Course Materials

Having problems getting your textbooks and course material in an accessible format? Find our how we can help.

A group of panelists sits on stage at Connecting the Dots. Behind them is a slideshow screen which displays "Bold Dreams - Entrepreneur Panel."

What to expect

At Connecting the Dots, you’ll learn from the best! The conference attracts an incredible lineup of keynote speakers, panellists, educators, and vendors who impart their knowledge, ideas and products to ignite conversations and provide valuable insights on education, technology, and employment.

Some members of the CNIB National Youth Council at CNIB Lake Joe. The group poses for a photo in the lounge, standing in front of a window. From Left to right: Taylor, Alicia, Oceanne, Rilind, Caleb, Caelin, Abby, Eitel, Will and Emilee.

Meet the CNIB National Youth Council

The CNIB National Youth Council provides council members with the opportunity to influence change and increase awareness of issues facing young Canadians living with sight loss. The council also ensures CNIB initiatives, programs, and policies reflect and respond to the needs of young people with sight loss. Meet the young leaders who are driven to change what it is to be blind today!

Celine Garneau, reading from a book in one of CNIB’s recording studios.

Meet Céline

For Céline Garneau, volunteering at the CNIB Foundation isn't a job; it's a pleasure. The retired philosophy teacher joined our volunteer team in 2002, helping to create accessible audio books for people with sight loss in our recording studios

Puppy Raiser Yuko Imai, kneeling next to Potter, a future CNIB Guide Dog

Meet Yuko

When Yuko first saw a posting to become a puppy raiser more than two years ago, she was intrigued. She had only just moved to Halifax and was looking for a way to engage with her new community.

Russell Enns, Brian Malcolm, Noemi Stroda and Sierra Sanger, smiling for the camera in front of a CNIB office.

Meet the UBCO Nursing Students

In the summer of 2019, four nursing students from the University of British Columbia’s (UBC) Okanagan campus enhanced the lives of individuals living with sight loss.

Meet Nancy

For Nancy Simonot, volunteering with CNIB Lake Joe, a life-changing camp that provides enriching experiences for Canadians with sight loss, is a family affair. Her journey with CNIB began when her son, Matthew, had a transformational experience as a volunteer counsellor.

Lloyd Buckler, sitting down at a table helping someone learn how to navigate their iPhone.

Meet Lloyd

Lloyd facilitated group technology sessions, but he also recognized the need for more personalized training for those new to technology, so he also began volunteering as a Tech Mate.

Kimberly Blain, leaning against a tree in a forest during the Autumn season.

Meet Kimberly

In her volunteer facilitator role, Kimberly runs programs designed by CNIB Foundation staff to teach youth participants life skills, like leadership, and resume writing.

Julie Morneault sitting in a red truck with a blue motorcycle helmet on her lap.

Meet Julie

Julie Morneault has volunteered with the CNIB Foundation since 2013. Since then, she has worked in several roles with the organization. While she volunteers at her local CNIB office, she also goes into the community to tell her story, and to talk about the importance of accessibility and inclusion.

Gary Peasgood, standing outdoors against a wood patio wall with his guide dog.

Meet Gary

Thanks to volunteers like Gary, a whole new generation of kids will grow up asking how they can help make a more accessible Canada!

Brittany Farrell, smiling for the camera, standing in front of a window that overlooks the city of St. John’s, Newfoundland. A heart graphic can be seen against the window.

Meet Brittany

Brittany Farrell, from St. John’s, Newfoundland, has been involved with the CNIB Foundation for longer than she can remember. From volunteering at events to helping around her local office, Brittany is passionate about staying involved with her community.

Airport Relief Areas in Canada

Locate pet relief areas in Canadian airports.

Guide Dog Handler Advocacy Resources

Through education and awareness, we are committed to ensuring social attitudes shift to universal acceptance and appreciation for guide dogs. We have many advocacy resources available, including a Guide Dog Handler Advocacy Toolkit and CNIB’s standard advocacy letter.

A close up of a yellow Golden Retriever.

Our Program

People with sight loss often say having a guide dog is a transformational experience. Being part of a guide dog team provides mobility, safety and confidence, leading to increased independence and a sense of connection with the world. We believe everyone who would like to have a guide dog should have that opportunity.

Photo of a black lab puppy wearing a CNIB Guide Dogs yellow vest.

Sponsor CNIB Guide Dogs

Every year, more than 50,000 Canadians lose their sight. When you sponsor a CNIB “puppy with purpose,” you're giving a life-changing gift: freedom, independence and safety for a Canadian with sight loss.

Three staff members stand in front of the accessible climbing tower.

Employment opportunities at CNIB Lake Joe

Laughter, fun, empowering activities – essential ingredients for the perfect camp experience. Do you want to be part of the fantastic CNIB Lake Joe staff team that helps make it all possible?

Tracy with Marion, black Labrador Retriever and Autumn, Tracy’s pet dog.

Tracy & Marion

After an accident, Tracy knew he needed some help for his safety and independence. He applied to CNIB Guide Dogs. A few months later, he was matched with Marion, a black Labrador Retriever.

“Marion licked my face as soon as she met me," says Tracy. "I just knew that she was going to be a great fit – she has a kind, gentle soul.”

A smiling boy in glasses with his arm around a Golden Retriever in a yellow vest.

Austin & Dickson

For Austin and his family, adjusting to have a dog in the house and caring for Dickson, a Buddy Dog, has been an educational experience.

"Dickson is helping Austin get over his apprehension about dogs and helping him build a bond," says Julianna, Austin's mother. "It's a learning curve, but it's definitely worth it."

A woman in a purple jacket and her black Lab/Golden Retriever cross guide dog.

Sandy & Keller

When Sandy Benoit's guide dog passed away, she found herself in limbo.

"I went four months without a guide dog and was chomping at the bit," says Sandy. "When I lost my dog, it was a jolting reality that I had to adjust to. There was no pitter-patter in the house. But, when Keller arrived, everything changed."

A woman walks crosses the street with a black Lab in a yellow harness.

Ashley & Danson

Ashley Nemeth's sense of confidence and independence was stripped away from her when her guide dog, Rick, was hit by a cyclist on a sidewalk in downtown Regina in 2018.

She was eager to regain the freedom that a guide dog partnership promises, so she applied to CNIB Guide Dogs.

A young boy kneels on the grass and reaches towards a Golden Retriever.

Zach & Elsie

Zach, a 12-year-old boy with sight loss, has been practicing his orientation and mobility skills for many years with the goal of partnering with a guide dog someday. So, when CNIB Guide Dogs approached his family with an opportunity to partner with Elsie, a Golden Retriever who has been trained as a Buddy Dog, it seemed like the perfect opportunity.

A black Lab/Golden Retriever sitting between a woman's legs.

Cindy & Barney

When CNIB Guide Dogs officially matched her with Barney, a black Labrador/Golden Retriever cross, she was immediately overcome with feelings of gratitude and joy.

A woman and her Golden Retriever guide dog sitting in the passenger seat of a car.

Kelly & Maple

Kelly Picco used to dream about having her own guide dog. When she first met Maple, a two-year-old Golden Retriever, she was overjoyed that her dream had come true.

A Golden Retriever sitting on the grass in front of the Lake Joe dining hall.

Meet Willow, a CNIB Ambassador Dog

As an Ambassador Dog, Willow's role is to help raise awareness about guide dogs, introduce people to the benefits of guide dogs, and ensure societal acceptance and appreciation for guide dogs.

A dog in a CNIB Guide Dogs yellow vest walking with a boy using a white cane.

Mason & Queenie

Mason, a 9-year-old boy with sight loss, couldn't wait to meet his Buddy Dog, a Golden Retriever named Queenie. The night before she arrived, he was so restless with anticipation that he could hardly sleep.

The bond was immediate. After spending five minutes together at his home in London, he exclaimed: “I love Queenie!"

Larissa & Piper

"I'm a fast walker and I was finding that I had to slow down to avoid obstacles," says Larissa. "Places I wasn't familiar with would cause me a lot of anxiety and I thought that a guide dog would help ease some of that."

Danika hugging a Lab/Golden Retriever cross in a yellow harness.

Danika & Ulysses

When Danika Blackstock met her guide dog, Ulysses, she knew CNIB Guide Dogs made the perfect match.

The University of Waterloo student needed a guide dog that would excel at navigating a busy campus and be ready to sleep during lectures.

A young boy and a Golden Retriever in a yellow vest.

Marco & Baker

Marco didn’t know what to expect when CNIB Guide Dogs came to his home with Baker, a 2-year-old golden retriever. He was uncomfortable with dogs.

But, after Marco petted Baker with his bare foot, he decided it was time to take his new Buddy Dog for a walk.

Clover Thursday holds up a comic character she created named Cutie Cthulu.

Designing Your Own Path: Clover Thursday

Clover Thursday designs accessories and sells them on her Etsy shop, Bae & Boba. Read about her journey being an artist with sight loss!

Download our new app, the Venture Zone Game!

The new Venture Zone Game is out now! Download the app to learn about being an entrepreneur and have fun doing it.

A CNIB Guide Dog in harness looks over its shoulder at the camera. The dog is a yellow Labrador Retriever.

Apply for a CNIB Guide Dog

Learn more about the CNIB Guide Dog application process and apply today!

Photo of a Victor Stream displaying a reader’s bookshelf, next to DAISY books on CD.

What is the CNIB Unbound Book Club?

CNIB Unbound is a virtual book club for readers with print disabilities and anyone interested in accessible literacy.

Wendy, holding her white cane, stands in front of a brick wall with a colourful mural.

Meet Wendy

Wendy Schilka volunteers at the CNIB Foundation in Abbotsford as a facilitator for the Peer Support Group twice a month. This experience has inspired her – at the age of 64 – to go back to university to get her degree in counseling.

Teenage boy with sight loss playing keyboard for audience at talent show

National Corporate and Foundation Partners

CNIB's community partners are vital leaders in the creation of a better tomorrow for all Canadians impacted by sight loss.

close up of group of hands stacked together

Manitoba's corporate partners

CNIB Manitoba's corporate partners play a key role in changing the lives of Canadians who are blind or partially sighted, in your community.

CNIB Amateur Radio Program

Established in 1967, CNIB’s Amateur Radio Program has grown to include nearly 500 members across Canada, from teens to professionals, parents and retirees.

Phone It Forward

CNIB wants to ensure that anyone who is blind or partially sighted can benefit from safety, independence, and enablement that a smartphone, along with the proper training, can provide. If you have sight loss, live in Canada and are registered with the CNIB Foundation, you are eligible for a free smartphone through Phone It Forward.

Two older women pose for a photo together. They are sitting outside near a water fountain.

National Donors and Partners

Every year, we are astounded by the incredible support of our donors. Some of you attended or organized fundraising events while others signed up to be monthly donors, made gifts in your wills, or gave in memory of loved ones.

Braille Transcription Services

The CNIB Beyond Print Braille Portal can braille just about anything for you!

Why Braille = Literacy

This section explains the relevance, usage and importance of braille for people with sight loss and the braille services available for CNIB participants. Learn about our braille services and the importance of braille.

CNIB Post-Secondary Scholarships & Bursaries

Multiple CNIB post-secondary scholarships are available to students who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision and pursuing diploma or degree, skilled trades certificate, apprenticeship, continuing education program, or post-graduate degree. Learn more about the application requirements and submission process.

Two women shake hands over a table of six business people.

What is an Entrepreneur?

Have you ever wanted to open your own business, but feel overwhelmed by all the business jargon?
We'll break down some basic business terms for you to get you started.

an overhead view of six people sitting around a table working on some research documents which include graphs and tables.

About CNIB Research and Project Submission

Learn more about our research team and how to get involved.

The ABCs of IOS Manual

This free manual provides parents and educators with the age-appropriate information they need to teach a child how to interact with an iPad using VoiceOver. To put the latest knowledge at children's fingertips, it incorporates accessible apps with educational content.

A young boy poses for a photo on a picturesque mountain hillside.

About the Contest

Show off your creative writing talents for a chance to win cash prizes!

Library Services for People who are Blind

Access a world of books and information through specialized library services in your community.

Gift Matching

As an employee, you may be able to double or triple your donation and impact if your company has a gift-matching program.

Angela Bonfanti, CNIB President and CEO, and Robert J. Fenton KC, Board Chair, standing together in front of CNIB iconography. Angela is holding a sledgehammer that signifies breaking barriers - both are smiling.

Executive Leadership Team

CNIB's team of senior leaders across the country are passionate about changing what it is to be blind today. Learn more about our executive leadership team.

Gift in your will

Leaving the CNIB Foundation a gift in your will is a wonderful way to build your legacy, while making a difference to future generations of people impacted by blindness.

Venture Zone: Vision and Mission

The work world has changed. Entrepreneurship and self-employment are a growing part of our work culture. Maybe you want to start your own business or work as a freelancer or consultant. The Venture Zone is here to give you the resources and inspiration to succeed.

CNIB proudly presents the 2025 Manitoba Arts & Entertainment Auction

Announcing the 2025 Arts & Entertainment Auction !

A woman kneels down beside her golden retriever guide dog.

Interviews with our advocates

CNIB interviewed five of our advocates across the country to capture their experience as voters who are blind or partially sighted. Watch the video below to get their take on what works during federal elections in Canada, what still needs to be changed, and get some tips and tricks on advocating at the polls!

Accessible voting around the world

Voting around the world can look very different to what we are used to in Canada, where steps to reduce barriers to the electoral process have been underway for decades. Some countries have begun to reduce barriers to voting more recently, while others have already implemented popular solutions for electors with sight loss.

A black and white photograph of a woman.

From the Archives

The following archival materials were provided to CNIB by Elections Canada. Elections Canada is celebrating their 100th anniversary as Canada’s independent electoral agency.

A group of 18 adult campers rowing a boat on the beautiful lake Joseph.

Adult Programs (ages 19+) (2025)

CNIB Lake Joe is a beautiful place to indulge in everything that Muskoka has to offer. Join us and meet wonderful friends, enjoy the beauty of nature, treat yourself to new experiences, and have fun in a safe, fully accessible setting.

An illustration of a braille book icon outlined in a black paintbrush style design with yellow accents.

Contest Judging

Each contest entry is given a mark out of 50 for braille accuracy and a mark out of 50 for creativity. The combined score (out of 100) determines the first, second and third place winners for each group and category.

CNIB Lake Joe On The Go! Podcast

Discover the magic of CNIB Lake Joe with your host, Taylor Gaudon. Hear from passionate guests, volunteers, and staff as they explore a new topic in every episode. Tune in to hear about Lake Joe memories, stories of love and friendship, a day in the life, and more!

Employment Handbook – Manitoba

Know your legal rights related to employment.

Two men take a walk along a paved path in a grassy area. One man navigates with a white cane.

White Cane Advocacy Resources

Today there is still stigma and misunderstanding about what the white cane means. We have created education and awareness resources that provide practical information and tips.

Lenovo

Lenovo powers businesses of all kinds with the smart devices, infrastructure, solutions, and services they need to accelerate their intelligent transformation! Lenovo is proud to leverage the diversity of their talented employees to redefine and stretch the limits of what technology can do.

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Become a member

Get access to exclusive deals, experiences, and opportunities with CNIB Connects! Become a member today.

An old black and white photograph of people at CNIB Lake Joe running into the lake.

CNIB Lake Joe History

For over 60 years, CNIB Lake Joseph Centre (Lake Joe) has been providing a unique blend of recreation and skills development in a safe, inclusive environment. CNIB Lake Joe has been enriching lives, making memories, and building independence since 1961!

Two young boys run and splash in a lake. They are wearing life jackets. Text: CNIB Lake Joe Wish List

Help us bring the magic of summer camp to life for people living with sight loss!

Enriching lives, making memories and building independence on the shores of Lake Joseph since 1961.

The upper torso of a woman as she sits on a couch and types on a laptop.

National Youth Council Blog Series

Here you'll find a collection of blog posts we've written about issues, people, and topics that we're passionate about!

A black & white photograph of two hands extended and shaking.

CNIB Participant Agreement

CNIB strives to offer a safe, respectful, and open environment for all its participants, volunteers and employees.

A virtual booth. 3-D graphic illustration of a man wearing a suit standing in front of an AMI display. AMI banner in the background.

Become an exhibitor

Become a Connecting the Dots exhibitor and reach hundreds of people impacted by sight loss around the world!

Connecting the Dots 2020 virtual conference homepage hosted on the vFairs platform.

Become a sponsor

Discover sponsorship opportunities to link your brand to one of Canada's leaders in accessibility and inclusion.

A woman wearing grey pants and a pink shirt looks in a mirror with an insulin pump on her hip.

Accessible Insulin Pumps

Diabetes and sight loss are closely connected, with diabetic retinopathy being a common related condition for people living with diabetes. Over the last few years, CNIB has heard from Canadians living with diabetes and sight loss who are having difficulties managing their diabetes because their insulin pump is not accessible. End users are unable to independently or safely use their insulin pump because often the device must be navigated solely using visual features on a display screen.

Two beautiful CNIB Guide Dog Golden Retriever pups in training.

Guide Dog Monthly Donor FAQ

Whether you’re thinking about supporting CNIB Guide Dogs or you’re a long-term monthly supporter, we have answers to your most frequently asked questions.

Class of 2019

Twenty-five partnerships across Canada graduated on November 22, 2019. Graduation ceremonies were held in St. John's, Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg and Vancouver.

Three CNIB Guide Dogs sitting in the grass staring at the camera.

CNIB Guide Dogs apprenticeship program

Learn about what’s involved in becoming an apprentice for CNIB Guide Dogs.

The closing of a presentation: Three women and two men stand around a table. A man and woman shake hands.

Partners and Opportunities

Our partners are committed to engaging talent with different perspectives to create a culture of collaboration and innovation.

A large group of 50+ CNIB staff hold up yellow branded umbrellas on the shores of CNIB Lake Joe.

CNIB Operations Management Team

CNIB's Operations Management Team is passionate about changing what it is to be blind today. Meet the leaders driving CNIB's work.

A cool teenager stands outside her house with her white cane in hand. She has pink hair and is wearing a leather jacket.

Meet the Contest Winners

The power of literacy at your fingertips! The CNIB Braille Creative Writing Contest celebrates braille literacy and encourages young people to flex their creative muscles while practicing their braille skills. Meet the winners of each contest category!

A hand holds an iPhone to a woman's ear.

Listen with VoiceOver Series

Discover VoiceOver, a feature built into your iPhone or iPad that lets you listen to instead of read text on the screen. Learn to navigate through and use all the tools and apps on your device by listening and tapping on the screen in the series of workshops.

Humans with CNIB Guide Dogs

Humans with CNIB Guide Dogs is a special look into the relationship between a guide dog and their handler. Inspired by the popular Humans of New York series, each story is told through a personal lens that’s unique to the handler’s lived experiences. Come and meet the extraordinary people whose lives have been changed by CNIB Guide Dogs.

In Guatemala, a young girl crouches down next to a girl in a wheelchair. They have their arms around one another.

CNIB National Youth Council Leadership Award

The CNIB National Youth Council Leadership Award recognizes and celebrates youth who are blind are partially sighted that are reaching above and beyond to make a difference in their community, province, or country.

A black guide dog and its handler enter a building.

Guide dog access to public places and services

CNIB Guide Dogs is committed to advocating with guide dog users to increase public awareness and breakdown of physical and attitudinal barriers. To aid in this, we have created a series of Tip Sheets.

A volunteer puppy raiser sits beside a Golden Retriver puppy at a professional photoshoot.

Volunteer with CNIB Guide Dogs

Do you love dogs? Could you see yourself welcoming a future guide dog puppy into your life? Do you have time during your day to introduce a pup to the world around them and help them take their first steps toward becoming a future guide dog? CNIB Guide Dogs is growing our team of volunteer Puppy Raisers and Boarders.

Donor Spotlight

We are grateful to our donors, who make it possible for us to do our life-changing work.

Photo of a Book Launch event with Terry Fallis speaking with group of CNIB participants.

CNIB Unbound Facebook Group

The CNIB Unbound Facebook group is a place where members can meet, get to know each other and talk about all things books!

Meet Darlene

Darlene MacMillan volunteers as a vision mate for the CNIB Foundation with Stacie, a Moncton resident who has sight loss. The pair go on walks two to three times a week – even walking an indoor track during the winter months. They set fitness goals and work toward them together.

a group of campers in a canoe. one high fives a camp lead.

Volunteer opportunities at CNIB Lake Joe

We're always looking for volunteers to assist at CNIB Lake Joe in bringing the magic of camp to life for people with sight loss! We promise you'll have an enriching experience at camp, full of laughter, fun and awesome activities.

Say Hello to Denise Justin

Denise Justin wants you to ask her about her braille logo. She owns Say Hello 2 Blindness Accessories, a product line that she hopes will raise awareness about sight loss. Watch the video for her story!

Frontier Computing owner Chris Chamberlin smiles while sitting at a desk in the CNIB Bayview office.

Meet Chris Chamberlin of Frontier Computing

Chris Chamberlin owns an assistive tech company called Frontier Computing.

Information About Braille Courses

CNIB offers braille courses for print and braille readers.

Information about braille courses

CNIB offers Braille courses for print and braille readers.

A young man studies in a library. He is sitting at a table and reading a braille book.

CNIB Master’s Scholarships

CNIB Master’s Scholarships encourage and support students who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision to undertake post-graduate studies. Learn more about the application requirements and submission process.

Government Relations

The CNIB Voice team monitors the activity of the federal government and regularly provides feedback on new legislation, policies, and programs to add a sight loss lens to everything the federal government does.

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Our Current Projects

Get more information on CNIB's current and future research projects.

Sponsorship

 CNIB Foundation is driven to change what it is to be blind today, but we wouldn’t be able to accomplish our mission without the support of caring partners like you.

Braille

Braille is a system of raised dots that people who are blind can read with their fingers. Learn more about braille.

Hands putting two puzzle pieces together

Marketing with a Message

Engage your customers and help Canadians who are blind or partially sighted by working with CNIB to develop a cause-related marketing campaign.

Guide Dog Legislation

Get informed about Canadian legislation pertaining to guide dogs.

smiling grandfather posing with smiling grandchildren

Gift of life insurance

Create your legacy and make a lasting impact with a gift of life insurance. It can provide you with tax benefits while making a difference for generations.

Children with CNIB Buddy Dogs

Children with CNIB Buddy Dogs is a special look into the relationship between a buddy dog and their partner. Inspired by the popular Humans of New York series, each story is told through a personal lens that’s unique to either the child or their parent's lived experiences. Come and meet the extraordinary children whose lives have been changed by CNIB Buddy Dogs.

Raising CNIB Guide Dogs

Raising CNIB Guide Dogs is a special look into the relationship between a future guide dog and their volunteer puppy raiser. Inspired by the popular Humans of New York series, each story is told through a personal lens that’s unique to the puppy raiser's experience. Come and meet the extraordinary people who are helping change the lives of Canadians with sight loss by raising future CNIB Guide Dogs.

A group of smiling CNIB Lake Joes campers on a pontoon boat near the boathouse.

Family Programs (all ages) (2025)

Our family programs give people with sight loss and their families an opportunity to enjoy the splendour of Muskoka on beautiful Lake Joseph in a safe and inclusive environment. Activities are available for all ages and there are also events just for adults, youth and kids.

Dollars Seen Differently

The Dollars Seen Differently podcast breaks down financial topics to make them more accessible for people who are blind, Deafblind or have low vision. Hosted by Ryan Hooey, each episode features a down-to-earth conversation with financial experts, offering practical tips and resources on topics like accessing government benefits, smart saving strategies, managing debt, taxes, financial aid for education, and more.

Advocacy Resources

We have created these resources to support community members when engaging in advocacy in their local communities, whether as a formal CNIB Community Engagement Volunteer, a person living with sight loss, or an ally who wants to help bring about change.

The backside of a pair of denim jeans. Three $20 bills are stuffed in the right hand pocket,

Money Matters with the Wealthsimple Foundation

In this ongoing money series, CNIB National Youth Council Member, Danica Frappier, and Scheherazade Hasan from the Wealthsimple Foundation, examine banking fundamentals and accounts, financial support available to people pursuing post-secondary education in Canada, and more.

Blast from the Past

CNIB Lake Joe is pleased to offer unique opportunities for guests from near and far (in person and virtually) to explore the magic of CNIB Lake Joe for themselves. Take a look at the ways we've welcomed everyone in our "camp community" to explore CNIB Lake Joe and contribute to a cause that changes the lives of people with sight loss.

Healthcare Handbook – Manitoba

Know your legal rights related to healthcare.

A white cane scans a sidewalk. In the background, mens shoes trail behind the tip of the cane.

White Cane Legislation

Due to the tireless advocacy of people who are blind or partially sighted over the years, most provinces have formally recognized the cane as a symbol of sight loss. Learn more about the legislation where you live.

Paws en route

Paws en route is a full-service transportation company specializing in ground and air transportation for service dogs and pets, designed to ensure stress-free transport of pets and service animals, including ground and air travel.

Two desktop computers with photoshopped pictures of hands coming out the monitors. On the left computer monitor, a hand is extended holding a credit card. On the right computer, a hand is extended holding a shopping bag.

Exclusive Member Benefits

Learn more about offers and discounts on products and services exclusively available to CNIB Connects members from our participating partners.

The top of the guide dog's head against a yellow background. The dog is a black lab, and its head appears halfway down the page.

Guide Dog Champions

Guide dogs and their handlers are allowed access to any premises to which the public would normally have access. It’s the law. Show your support for guide dog teams in your community and become a Guide Dog Champion!

Seven Colourful CNIB Lake Joe staff t-shirts from over the years.

CNIB Lake Joe Staff & Volunteer Alumni

We invite all CNIB Lake Joe staff and volunteers – past and present – to join the CNIB Lake Joe Alumni. Since our doors opened in 1961, each of you has made a real difference in the lives of people impacted by sight loss. Help us continue this great work with your fellow camp colleagues and friends.

E-Scooters

With the introduction e-scooter pilot projects becoming more common across the country, CNIB is concerned about how the deployment of e-scooters is impacting people who are blind or partially sighted.

Project or Casting Opportunities

Here you'll find a list of third-party opportunities with external groups, casting agencies and organizations. Be sure to check back often as this page is updated with new opportunities as they become available.

Why choose CNIB?

Find out what it’s like to work for CNIB and meet some of the guide dog team members.

Calls, Texts and Emails Series

Explore how to place a call, check a voicemail or send a text or email with your iPhone and its built-in screen reader. Learn to call, text and email on your iPhone in the series of workshops.

CNIB Unbound Podcast

The CNIB Unbound podcast is an audio experience that takes readers beyond the book itself.

Men with canes crossing at a cross walk.

Clearing Our Path

The CNIB Foundation developed the first edition of Clearing Our Path in 1998 to address the need for information on creating accessible environments for people who are blind.

Cindy sits with two Dining in the Dark guests, who are wearing blindfolds.

Meet Cindy

Cindy Antle drove past CNIB on The Boulevard every evening on her way home from work for 13 years, before retiring as a registered nurse. She knew about the CNIB but never gave the charity much thought after passing it on her daily commute. This changed after she lost her sight.

Brett Devloo smiles, wearing sunglasses and a headband.

Skateboards, Sight Loss and Speaking Out with Brett Devloo

Check out our podcast with Brett Devloo, a skateboarder and entrepreneur who makes YouTube videos, a clothing line and runs a non-profit!

CNIB SmartLife

Home to a myriad of accessible technologies and devices, CNIB SmartLife is an interactive retail and lifestyle experience like no other. CNIB SmartLife is committed to emboldening people with sight loss to lead independent, active lives and helping them gain access to life-changing technology.

Three men and a women gathered around a table looking over research documents.

Completed Projects

Check out the results of our recent Research projects.

Community Partner Programs

CNIB participants can enjoy these culture, sports and recreation programs offered through our partner agencies.

Make a Gift

Even a small donation makes a big impact on the people we serve.

Reading

Discover different ways to read when you’re blind or partially sighted.

A person holds two golden retriever puppies side-by-side on the floor.

From Puppies to Partners

Learn about the journey as a puppy becomes a guide dog.

An electronic tablet shows website business statistics.

Your nine-step business plan

Use the business model canvas to create your business plan.

Learn more by downloading our “nine-step business plan” resource, originally from alexandercowan.com.

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National Board of Directors

CNIB is governed by a National Board of Directors. Learn more about our National Board.

An illustration of a pink piggy bank, wearing a black graduation cap, on a yellow background. A diploma sits at the foot of the piggy bank. Text: Congratulations!]

2023/24 CNIB Scholarship Recipients

CNIB received many remarkable scholarship applications this year and awarded $142,000 in funding to people who are blind or partially sighted in recognition of their educational and professional aspirations and achievements.

Strategic Leadership Council Manitoba

Active in every province, CNIB Strategic Leadership Councils play a pivotal role in bringing The Way Forward to life in our communities. Together, we are fostering an understanding of blindness and dispelling misconceptions about people who are blind, partially sighted, or Deafblind; removing barriers to create safe, accessible door-to-door journeys for all; and giving parents and children the support they need to excel in and out of the classroom.

A young boy plays on a tablet. He is sitting on the ground and the tablet is in his lap is in a protective green rubber case. The picture is an overhead view of the child tapping the tablet screen and interacting with the educational app.

CNIB Early Years Digital Literacy Project

CNIB is currently seeking children (ages 2-6) who are blind or low vision to participate in an exciting new research project focused on building digital literacy skills and technology competencies. As a part of the project, participants will receive an iPad at no cost, which they can keep once the project concludes. Learn more about the project and how to get involved!

Housing Handbook – Manitoba

Know your legal rights related to housing.

Champions for Change self-advocacy video series

This four-part video series is designed to provide people who are blind, partially sighted, or Deafblind with the knowledge and skills to effectively advocate in their communities. Whether you’re new to advocacy or a seasoned advocate, you’ll find tips for making a positive change for yourself and others.

CNIB Lake Joe staff members pose for a group photo outside with the lake behind them. They are all wearing green t-shirts and sweatshirts.

Meet our CNIB Lake Joe Team

Our dedicated and experienced team share their gifts to make a difference in the lives of campers and ensure that participants have a fantastic experience at Lake Joe.

Let's Talk Money Series

The CNIB National Youth Council presents: Let’s Talk Money! In this 5-part series, our guest speakers break down complex topics related to personal finance. Join us as we dive into banking basics, registered disability savings plan, investing, provincial support programs, and first-time home buying!

An iPhone 11 screen displays magnified text that reads "What I can I help you with?"

Siri Series

Learn how to use your voice, and your iPhone's built-in assistant Siri, to make calls, send texts, set reminders, check the weather, and more. Check out how to get the most out of Siri in this series of workshops.

Genevieve assists a man using a brailler.

Meet Genevieve

Genevieve began volunteering with CNIB in April 2011, starting as a vision mate and event volunteer. Three years later she was asked to begin teaching a person with sight loss who wanted to improve their braille. She accepted and has been volunteering as a braille teacher ever since.

The CNIB Foundation’s Donate a Car Program

Your car donation holds monetary and sentimental value. Learn more about how you can donate your car today through a simple and easy process.

A white car drives along an asphalt road.

Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (self driving cars)

Connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) have the potential to be life-changing for people who are blind or partially sighted. CAVs may allow someone living with sight loss to operate and travel independently by car for the first time, receive navigation information via apps as a pedestrian by using connected traffic infrastructure, and increase pedestrian safety when interacting with vehicles.

Ashley Nemeth smiles and sits in a restaurant, wearing sunglasses.

How Blogging Turned Ashley Nemeth into an Entrepreneur 

What happened when a cyclist hit Ashley Nemeth's guide dog? She blogged about it. She has over 4,000 followers on her blog about living with sight loss. Read her story for more!

Young man starts walking up an outdoor staircase with his white cane. A young woman assists him to find the railing.

Rehabilitation Services

Learn more about vision loss rehabilitation.

A smiling woman sitting on a bench with her CNIB Guide Dog, outside a CNIB building with yellow branded CNIB signs and posters.

Gift of Securities

By donating securities, you can feel good knowing you are helping the CNIB Foundation enable Canadians impacted by blindness to live the lives they choose for years to come.

Hands stacked on top of each other in a circle.

CNIB National Youth Council Leadership Award

The CNIB National Youth Council Leadership Award recognizes and celebrates youth who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision that are reaching above and beyond to make a difference in their community, province, or country.

Corporate Gift

Making a corporate gift is not only a powerful way to support Canadians who are blind or partially sighted, it also has tax benefits.

Making a Cashflow Statement

Learn how to make a simple cashflow statement based on Futurpreneur's template. Futurpreneur gives loans to Canadian startups. Use the template to model your monthly finances over the next 12 to 24 months.

Charles Bonnet Syndrome

Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) is a common condition among people with significant sight loss.

Two people sit at a desk with a braille machine

Leading the Future

Through their “Stronger Together” partnership, CNIB is proud to work cooperatively with its partner organizations, Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC) and CNIB Deafblind Community Services (DBCS), as we band together to level the playing field for Canadians who are blind, partially sighted, and Deafblind.

Transportation Handbook – Manitoba

Know your legal rights related to transportation.

CNIB SmartLife

CNIB SmartLife is Canada’s largest retailer of assistive products for people with sight loss, serving over 20,000 people a year. The social enterprise is committed to emboldening people with sight loss to lead independent, active lives, and helping them gain access to life-changing technology.

A yellow wallpaper with a stacked illustration of a three circular abstract designs and stars, like a three-tier rating system. The first line has a field with 3 stars, the second line has 2 stars, the third line has 1 star.

Share your accessibility feedback

CNIB Connects members have the opportunity to share feedback about their accessible and inaccessible customer experiences, whether in store or online, with CNIB Connects partners.

The words "Camp Day" written on a calendar with yellow streaks to make it look like sunshine

Everything you need to know to get ready for camp

This page is dedicated to everything you need to know as you get ready for your stay at CNIB Lake Joe: sample camp schedules (daily and weekly), packing lists, site maps, photo galleries and videos, and more!

An iPhone 11 screen displays the Hadley webpage.

Web Browsing Series

Learn how to browse and search the web and bookmark frequently visited websites. These workshops use Safari browser and the VoiceOver screen reader built in to iPhones/iPads. Learn more in the series of workshops.

Michael using the phone at his desk at the Hub.

Meet Michael

Michael Warren provides administrative support at the Toronto Community Hub. Always with a smile on his face, he's often the first point of contact for visitors. He says he felt like he was part of something from the beginning.

Joshua Simmonds sits in a chair in his office, wearing a suit. There are certificates on the wall behind him, and a coffee table and plants on the left side.

Joshua Simmonds: Passion and Purpose

Joshua Simmonds is a clinical psychologist in Montreal. For him, sight loss is an asset in business. Read about his journey and advice.

A cell phone displays various social media apps.

Creating Your Social Media Presence

Social media is a popular tool for marketing and reaching customers.
Accessibility can be tricky with some sites, and you might wonder how to use them properly to gain customers. Learn how to use Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn for business.

Couple consulting with their financial advisor

Endowment

Build your legacy by creating an endowment, invested funds where the accrued interest goes toward funding life-changing programs in perpetuity.

Gift in Kind

Making a gift in kind, including donations of your company’s products or services, can be a cost-effective opportunity that transforms lives.

Information for Donors

Learn more about your rights and how we raise money.

Two suitcases sit in an airport terminal near a departure gate.

Travel tips for people who are blind or have low vision

Planning a vacation and travelling can seem daunting and overwhelming, but with the right amount of planning and preparation, it doesn't have to be! Are We There Yet? – The Ultimate Guide for Travellers Series examines everything you need to consider when planning your next adventure!

CNIB Reconciliation Icon. A graphic art illustration featuring a stylized eye within a ring or circle. The bottom part of the design features an eye and yellow waves with a double-curve mosaic. Above the eye, there is a yellow 8-point star with a white eagle head in the centre of the design. Text: CNIB Reconciliation The Way Forward.

Reconciliation – The Way Forward

At CNIB, we are committed to changing what it is to be blind for Indigenous Peoples through collaboration and engagement with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities across the country.

An illustration of a dialogue bubble outlined in a black paintbrush style design. Inside the bubble is a question mark icon. To the right of the icon is the text: Frequently Asked Questions.

FAQ: CNIB Scholarships and Bursaries

Have questions about applying for a CNIB Scholarship or Bursary? We’re here to answer them! Browse our FAQ.

Built Environment Handbook – Manitoba

Know your legal rights related to the built environment.

An iPhone screen displays the Accessibility menu.

Writing Series

Learn how to use writing tools on your iPhone or iPad: type, use the notes app, edit text, and use the dictation speech-to-text feature. These videos use iPhone's built-in screen reader. Explore the writing tools series of workshops.

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Research Awards

Learn about our Research Awards

Braille activities for sighted children

A series of four mini-lessons to help you introduce braille to sighted children.

About Accessible Media Inc.

AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted.

Meet Ales

Ales Janosik had never known someone who is blind, but now he can’t imagine life without his good friend, Roger. Since 2014, Ales has been a Vision Mate volunteer to Roger – a Charlottetown man who is blind.

A woman smiles as she shakes a male colleague's hand across a table.

Choosing the Legal Structure of Your Business

Do you want to own a business by yourself? With a partner or many shareholders? Find out your options for structuring your business and who gets the profits.

Marie Claire Bilyk smiles, standing in front of a garden outside.

Business in Bloom: Marie Claire Bilyk

When Marie Claire received a business grant from Goodwill, she became determined to grow and succeed. Find out how she started Blossom Fitness and rose above the competition.

mother and son reading a book in braille

Reading contracted braille

Learn to read contracted braille.

Fundraise or Volunteer

Fundraising or volunteering for an issue you care about is a great way to bring your team together, while providing life-changing support to people in your community impacted by blindness.

Gift of property

A gift of property minimizes your estate's taxes while maximizing your ability to change the lives of future generations of people impacted by blindness.

A yellow guide dog in harness and the torso of its handler. They are in motion and crossing an intersection.

Guide dog etiquette

Guide dogs aren’t pets. They’re partners in mobility for people who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision. By learning and following proper etiquette, you can help make your community more welcoming for guide dog teams.

Donor FAQs

If you have questions about making a donation to the CNIB Foundation, we have the answers.

Government & Consumer Services Handbook – Manitoba

Know your legal rights related to government and consumer services.

An iPhone 11 screen displays the Seeing AI app.

Seeing AI App Series

"Seeing AI" is a free app for iPhones/iPads that audibly describes what’s in front of the camera. Learn how to use it to read text, identify money, colours, pictures and more in the series of workshops.

Equalize

As a trusted member of our advocacy community, Equalize aims to update you on CNIB’s advocacy campaigns, initiatives and programs from coast to coast to coast. We’ll highlight some of our work, profile local advocates, discuss regional and national advocacy issues, and more!

A diverse group of people in a circle fist bump on another in collaboration

Our Accountability

We’re committed to handling all feedback with care and to resolving issues in a timely, respectful and fair way.

Bob Huber stands outside of the Saskatchewan legislative building with his two dogs, smiling with his sunglasses on and green Roughrider ball cap.

Meet Bob

Because of the help he received from peer group, Bob no longer puts limits on what he can or can’t do and he hopes the group is doing the same for others with vision loss. “Thanks to them I have more confidence when I leave my home and the world is not such a scary place anymore. I want others that are struggling with vision loss to know it gets better.”

A woman's hand is shown signing a contract.

The Elements of a Contract

Check out this beginner's guide to writing business contracts and when you'll need them.

Meet Innovator Hillary Scanlon

Hillary Scanlon is developing tactile indicators to make waste disposal more accessible.

Reading uncontracted braille

Learn to read uncontracted braille.

Charitable remainder trust

For those 75 and up, donating a charitable remainder trust can create a lasting legacy of giving, while providing an immediate tax benefit.

Self-Advocacy & Essential Legal Information Handbook – Manitoba

Know your legal rights related to self-advocacy and essential legal information.

Nailing the Pitch: Preparing

You've crunched the numbers and done the research, and now you need investors to help you grow your business. How will you get them on board? Pitching can be intimidating, but with these tips, you'll be ready for success.

Here, we break down the pitching process from planning to presenting.

Reading and writing uncontracted braille

Learn to read and write uncontracted braille.

Close up of Neena's hands painting in blue on her sketch pad.

Meet Neena Avery

Neena Avery loves painting and crafting, but she used to give away her wares. Then, she decided to sell them on Etsy and have her own business.

Meet Shruti

“My primary job was to train volunteers on how to interact with, and what to expect from their blind and partially sighted “mates”. Through sharing my own story and experiences I was able to help put them at ease with regards to their vision mate role.”

A group of men in suits sitting in a room with a dining table in from of them.

Our History

Learn about the CNIB Foundation’s impact over a century of change.

A Black Lab wearing a yellow "Future CNIB Guide Dog" training vest.

Guide Dog Assistance Fund

Find out about financial assistance for extraordinary veterinary expenses. This fund is available to guide dog handlers from any guide dog school.

COVID-19 Pandemic Handbook – Manitoba

Learn about the protections you have against discrimination during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A yellow Lab guide dog wearing a harness.

Guide Dog Programs in Canada

CNIB Guide Dogs recommends keeping your options open by applying to multiple guide dog programs. Here’s a list of other programs in Canada for your consideration.

Emilee giving Hannah a piggy back and laughing while Hannah kisses her cheek.

Best Face Forward: How sisters Emilee and Hannah Schevers are creating community for people with disabilities

Emilee and Hannah Schevers know the importance of feeling included. That's why they created Tru Faces, an online community for people with disabilities and other identified differences to share their experiences. Read the story of these two teenage sisters and their mission to build a more open world.

Man in black baseball cap looking through red magnifier

Accessibility at CNIB

Learn about CNIB’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

CNIB's Kevin Shaw gives a presentation at the Vancouver office.

Nailing the Pitch: Presenting

If you've read how to prepare for your sales pitch, here are some tips on presenting it.

DJ Shane Cashin laughs while wearing headphones.

Meet DJ Shane Cashin

Shane Cashin is a DJ who is partially sighted. He runs a successful business in St. John's, Newfoundland.

Meet Dorothy

Dorothy raises funds that make new programs possible!
Dining and Wine-ing in the Dark, Night Steps to Bakesales! “If I can help raise funds and raise awareness of how CNIB has helped me and can help others, it is worthwhile”

Robert Fenton KC, Chair, Board of Directors

Robert Fenton KC is an esteemed member of Canada’s legal community, currently holding the role of Director of Legal Services for the Calgary Police Service. His three-decade legal career is marked with many highlights, including acting as legal counsel for Team Canada during the 2018 Winter Paralympic Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

A man sits outside holding an iPad and smiles at what he sees on the screen.

10 Tips for Building Your Website

Not sure where to start with creating your website? Read these tips from digital marketing expert Trista DeVries on building a great site for your business.

Image shows a podcast microphone in a recording studio.

Where Talk Meets Tech: Nelson Régo

Nelson Régo wasn't a tech guy. That is, until he lost his sight and decided to take over a website on technology. Now he owns Cool Blind Tech and makes podcasts. Read his story to find out how he got here.

A man using a white cane walks with a sighted volunteer along a boardwalk on a sunny day.

Publications

Find our strategic plans, annual reports and more.

Meet Carol

Vision Mates like Carol directly help individuals in their community!
Barely a month into my new role, I can’t imagine post-employment life without Verna and Buster.

Couple consulting with financial advisor

Gifts of RRSP, RRIF, or TFSA

Enjoy your savings and build a meaningful legacy so the CNIB Foundation can continue to enable Canadians impacted by blindness to live the lives they choose in years to come.

Shayden's Star Shines Bright

Shayden, who was born blind, has the support he needs for a bright future.

Group of Diverse Business People Discussing About World Issues

International Affairs

We are an active participant on the international stage, working with government and other non-profit organizations and to share expertise and professional resources with people experiencing sight loss.

The Power of Voice: Speebly Founder Chris Maley

Chris Maley was always passionate about voice technology, so he decided to create his own voice assistant. Read about his new startup and journey as an entrepreneur.

10 Tech Tools Every Entrepreneur Needs

You need a good set of tools to make your business run smoothly. From smartphone apps to digital devices, these 10 things can help you get organized and ready for success.

A woman holding a Yellow Lab, who is wearing a yellow vest, in her arms.

Guide Dog Gazette

Want to know what's happening with CNIB Guide Dogs? Find out with the Guide Dog Gazette. Check out past issues and sign up to have the Gazette delivered right to your inbox!

Say Hello 2 Blindness founder Denise Justin smiles and waves while wearing her company-branded shirt and toque.

10 Things to Consider When Branding Your Business

Wondering how to create your personal brand? Use this checklist for info to help you create a logo, social media accounts, and more.

CNIB's Jacklyn Gilmor and entrepreneur Pina D'Intino laugh as they record a podcast in the CNIB studio.

Venture Zone Podcast

Check out CNIB's Venture Zone podcast! We profile dynamic self-starters who are blind or partially sighted. Listen to their stories and get inspired.

Meet Alexa

I’m a recent graduate of the University of Windsor’s biological sciences and psychology program. It’s been seven months since I started volunteering and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my experience and the relationship we’ve developed. For more of Alex's story

Two schoolchildren in a classroom laughing. One is holding a small blue ball.

Financial Statements

Get information on our funding practices and how your donation makes a difference.

CNIB participants, staff and volunteers sporting white t-shirts, baseball caps and smiles at the Toronto Pride parade

Diversity & Inclusion: We are CNIB

The communities we serve are diverse and rich in culture and history. There are many factors that overlap with one’s sight loss journey. How these factors work together to form a person’s lived experience is essential in shaping their identity. Here, we will explore the many faces and facets of intersectionality with being blind, partially sighted or Deafblind.

Meet Charlene

Giving Back – Charlene Young's Story
For Charlene Young giving back is more than just a passion, it has given her life more meaning.

Three canvassers working on behalf of CNIB smile for the camera while standing on a sidewalk in a residential neighbourhood. Each canvasser is wearing a yellow CNIB baseball cap, vest, and lanyard with photo identification.

Have you seen us in your neighbourhood?

Yes, we are fundraising! CNIB has partnered with fundraising organization Globalfaces Direct, TNI and Public Outreach to fundraise safely for monthly donations in B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and other regions across Canada.

A person's hands type on a typewriter with a mug of tea beside them on the table.

Becoming an Independent Author

If you want to self-publish your writing, here's a how-to from writing to publishing and marketing. Also check out our list of writer's grants and discover how two writers with sight loss published their stories.

Meet Veronika

Group facilitators like Veronika change lives!
"It helped me make sense and find a purpose for my pain by knowing I was able to help others going through the same experience”