HISTORY

Metrolina Association for the Blind was formally organized on June 18, 1934.

Led by American Foundation for the Blind Field Director Charles B. Hayes of New York, a group of local interested citizens met to discuss the unmet needs of blind and visually impaired people in the greater Charlotte area. The group conducted a survey to determine the number of citizens in the community who needed services.

Elected to serve the newly organized Mecklenburg County Association for the Blind was Dr Edward Gammon, President; J. Marshall Parham, Executive Secretary; E.J. Hanson, Vice President; Mrs. Robert A. Moore, Secretary; and H.H. Everett, Treasure.

The stated purpose was "to further the interest of the blind and to open to them all possible avenues of independence and self-support through investigations, education and recreation."

In October 1935, with the assistance of the Charlotte Lions Club, the newly formed Association opened and operated the Charlotte Workshop for the Blind. The Association became a member agency for the Charlotte Community Chest in October 1937. The budget for that year was $4,060.

On April 30, 1938, the Association received its Charter of Incorporation and listed the names of W.W. Kale, Hunter, M. Jones, John H. Vickers, J.I. McDougle, W.N. Hovis, Guy O. Bagwell, E.J. Hanson, and Dr. L.C. Todd.

The Variety Club established an Eye Clinic in Charlotte in March 1942, and the Association agreed to handle the intake on the clinic cases. This service continued until 1945 when it transferred to the Department of Public Welfare.

In 1949, with assistance from area Lions, the Association began serving area children and their families. The Association moved to its current facility at 704 Louise Avenue in June 1967 and added the second floor in 1989.

In 1977, the Association acquired its current name to more adequately reflect its service area. In 1985, the first computer Braille embosser allowed the Association to produce bills and bank statements in Braille and large print to area corporations. These services quickly expanded to a national market during the next three years.

In 1978, the Personal Adjustment and Rehabilitation Services of the Association became community-based in nature and continue in this form today.

The mission of the Association continues to be to reduce or eliminate the daily living problems imposed upon people by blindness and severe visual impairment.