Visually Impaired Persons of Charlotte County, Inc.Educating and Assiting the Visually Impaired to Regain Control after Severe Loss of Vision

About Visually Impaired Persons of Charlotte County, Inc.

Our History

In 1987 concerned citizens of Charlotte County saw a need to assist the visually impaired community. Together they formed a 501.c3 non-profit corporation titled Visually Impaired Persons of Charlotte County, Inc. (VIP). At that time the main goal was to establish a center for rehabilitation services for visually impaired residents of Charlotte County.

Within a year, the first VIP office was opened in Punta Gorda and rehabilitation classes were held at the new location. In 1991, the Peer support group was organized for the visually impaired and their caregivers. By 1992, services for the blind and visually impaired extended to the Englewood area of Charlotte County. VIP applied and received a State grant from the Florida Division of Blind Services. Teacher's aides were hired to assist with Independent Living classes.

In 1996, VIP added the name of Mary H. William’s to the facility in memory of and to honor a founding member. As the years progressed more classes covering various aspects of independent living were added. Classes ranged from computer, cooking, sewing, mobility, home management, communication and personal skills.

In 2010, VIP moved its headquarters to its current location at 3459 Depew Avenue. However, due to changes within state guidelines requiring certification for provision of blind and visually impaired rehabilitative services VIP reached a stumbling block. Unable to meet the stringent demands for certified staff VIP lost its state contract.

Despite rumors that VIP is closing its doors we are pleased to announce the VIP Board of Directors voted to remain open. A new Executive Director was hired and the board of directors was expanded. Despite loss of funding we are continuing agency operations supported by fundraising, donations and a small budget. While we have had to curtail Independent Living classes at the facility we do provide Visual Aides Instruction, Computer Training, Peer Support Group, Talking Books, Information and Referral to blind services.

We are also using this time as a recovery period focusing on securing state funds lost in previous years. Your help is greatly needed. Please tour our website and learn more on how you can help. We invite you to join us in restoring VIP as the leader for enhancing the lives of people with vision loss in Charlotte County.

Our Mission

The mission of our center is to educate the Visually Impaired to regain control of his/her life that severe loss of vision seems to take away.