Because of BALANCE 2024

When you support the Because of BALANCE Campaign, you change lives! Due largely to this campaign, this year we have launched the expansion of 2 of our services to the entire province of Ontario. This ability, to provide instruction and support to people who live outside Toronto, will bring our incredible services to so many more people!

Proceeds from the campaign have also supported our Sharing Space Support Group for 6 years. These funds help with purchasing supplies and equipment for AT apprentices and our staff. With more funds we have been able to expand our fitness and arts programming like boxing, self defense, vocal coaching, creative writing and drama.

This year, I’m raising funds in memory of my mother-in-law, Hykie Ballett, who passed away on September 2, at the remarkable age of 90. She was a long-time enthusiastic and committed donor to BALANCE. In the last few years of her life, Hykie lived with low vision due to AMD (Age-related macular degeneration). She helped me understand better the struggles related to adjusting to sight loss, and ideas about programs, information and advocacy that might benefit others

When you support my story, or any of the wonderful stories in this Campaign, you give to a small, nimble organization that is mighty in the change we create in people’s lives. Your gift has a real and direct impact on the lives of so many. At BALANCE, your donation makes a DIFFERENCE.

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Hello, it’s Bob here.  I’m an 87-year-old who has been dealing with progressive legal blindness for 50 years.  As total blindness is on the horizon, I will be needing even more support.

Over the years, I took what other organizations offered, as well as services provided by smaller organizations which had formed but eventually failed or became small specialty services due to ever difficult funding.

BALANCE was one of these smaller groups which managed to survive and slowly became what it is today, a vibrant organization providing a variety of services and opportunities, not only in technology, but in psycho-social areas, physical fitness, employment, entertainment, etc.

Because of BALANCE, I’ve had the confidence to be fully active, taking college and university courses, making presentations, doing regular fitness classes and even the Yoga and self-defense programs.

Thank you, BALANCE, and may your expansion in Ontario and Canada continue.

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My name is Corinne, and I came to BALANCE about 6 years ago. The team at BALANCE took a holistic approach to service delivery, connecting me with various health and wellness programs in addition to navigation and mobility training. One of my favorite experiences at BALANCE has been with the Sharing Space Support Group, which I looked forward to attending each week without fail. The individuals in our session had wonderful chemistry and offered a sense of connection and belonging that lasted beyond the group’s conclusion – we are now planning get-togethers all the time!

Because of BALANCE I feel recognized and valued as a whole, well-rounded individual. Without asking anything in return, BALANCE has been an enormous support in many aspects of my life.

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BALANCE has taught me how to use the computer independently and because of BALANCE, I am able to read my emails and use MS Word app efficiently. They also taught me how to travel independently and because of BALANCE I can now navigate across GTA confidently.

Currently I’m benefitting from one of the most fantastic programs BALANCE has to offer, which is Assistive Technology Apprenticeship. Because of BALANCE, I’m not only earning an income but also learning new computer skills and gaining the necessary experience to get my future job. This program is a great opportunity not only to become more efficient user of assistive technology, but also to help others become more independent and because of BALANCE I’m feeling more beneficial and helpful to the community.

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BALANCE has always been there for me whenever I encountered obstacles that I couldn’t navigate on my own. In these very high-tech times in which we live, BALANCE has provided me with the tools and skills that have enabled me to communicate and organize my thoughts and words with people in all areas of my life and in many formats!

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Hi my name is Hussein, I lost my sight last 2010. It was only over a year ago when I became a part of BALANCE.

BALANCE has taught me how to use the iPhone independently. Because of BALANCE, I am now able to send text messages, check emails, and read/sign important document. My BALANCE AT instructor has been very understanding with me. She designs the lesson/learning materials based on what my goals are and what would benefit me.

BALANCE did not only offer one-to-one program, but also groups that really benefited me. One of the most popular programs I joined was the Stay Safe! Self-Defense In- Person class. Self-defense has taught me how to control myself during emergency. Because of this program, I became more aware and vigilant of my surroundings. Because of BALANCE, I am now more confident and more courageous in facing difficulties in life.

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Hi! My name is Lindsay! Because of BALANCE I have learned to get around independently. I am able to move through my building comfortably – going to reception and then the games room is easy now. I can also go for walks around my neighbourhood. Getting to the store, library, and subway is easy! This is new for me and HUGE!

I am also never afraid to ask for help, even though I almost never need it anymore – Because of BALANCE.

All you need to do is ask.

Please consider sharing my story, or making a donation so BALANCE can continue to help other people just like me!

Thank you!

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There are many things that people take for granted about me.  The fact that I’m independent, lead a fulfilling life and am confident in the things that I do.  I could say that I arrived here all on my own, but that would be stretching it.  It’s because of organizations like Balance for Blind Adults that I am where I am. 

When I first moved to Toronto, I needed mobility lessons in order to tackle such things as subways (they were scary at first).  I called Balance and a representative showed up within days and she oriented me in how to navigate our transit system.  Balance has many services that are tailored to the individual and their current needs.  I think that’s the thing I like the most about Balance.  Just knowing that you’re not alone and help is just a phone call or email away, that’s pretty cool.  

I was even on the board while we were in lock-down and I witnessed firsthand how Balance took many of their services online via Zoom meetings.  It was really neat as to how easily they embraced new ways of doing things.  At any rate, I have waxed on enough about Balance. 🙂  I hope to reach my goal of $5000.00 and perhaps you can help me in this goal.  Thank you in advance for any donation.

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Because of BALANCE, I learned how to live independently, using chores to make practical life easier as a blind person. These include searching for dropped objects, and vacuuming in a grid pattern, cooking nutritionally, and using assistive technology toward employment. Taking BALANCE’s programming has given me confidence to become, happier by starting my own business. Learning cane and guide dog travel with BALANCES’s intensive approach has helped me find new ways of problem solving.

Having you join me in supporting BALANCE through this fund raiser would brighten up your and my day. BALANCE will use your funds to benefit lives of blind people in ways you can see tangibly. Thanks for supporting Because of BALANCE in BALANCE’s 40 years of life.

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Hello family and friends, I would like to thank you for your support in my previous campaign. Once again, I would appreciate you supporting me in this year’s Because of BALANCE Campaign, as it is the 40^th anniversary of BALANCE for Blind Adults.

BALANCE is an organization that helps people with visual disabilities, and the help that I have received from them has been amazing. They have enabled me to make easier use of technology, and this has made the quality of my life a lot better. Because of BALANCE, I have overcome barriers to communication and feel even more connected with friends and family since learning these skills. Your wonderful and generous support will make a big contribution to help people with visual disabilities!

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My name is Robin, I’m a Professional Engineer working in the Public Sector. I have been a client of BALANCE for Blind Adults since 2019. This year I am participating in their annual fundraising campaign “Because of BALANCE”, therefore:

• Because of BALANCE I continue to receive one-on one training on how to use accessible technologies such as; voice over, Jaws and Magic Keyboard which in turn provides me the ability to carry out my professional and personal responsibilities.
• Because of BALANCE and the training I receive on the Magic Keyboard, I now have the ability to participate more interactively on Teams and Zoom applications.
• Because of BALANCE, I continuously strive to become more independent working with regular and accessible technologies.
• Because of BALANCE, I am striving to continue training on how to navigate with my white cane.
• Because of BALANCE, I have had the opportunity to access a myriad of Community services which have positively impacted my daily life.

A simple training on these applications may sound for a sighted person, this training can be challenging and stressful while being life altering for a blind or for a low vision person. It can be key in being employed, in pursuing an education, in participating in daily life, in communicating, etc. For me personally, being hearing impaired and now also being blind, transitioning from a visual centric memory to an audio centric memory has been a struggle.

Because of BALANCE, BALANCE for Blind Adults has been a life line for me.

I appreciate the dedication of the tremendous leadership Team and their amazing and patient, technology trainers, resourceful administrative and support personnel in delivering priceless services to the blind and low vision community. This is a very impactful and dedicated organization that relies on donations to meet their objectives and provide services to which I have listed but a few.

Hence, because BALANCE for Blind Adults has and continues to enrich my life, I am participating in this year’s Fundraising Campaign, which runs from October 15, 2024 to November 25, 2024. My goal is to raise $1,000.

If you can, please support me and the BALANCE community.

With gratitude🙏

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Hi all! Please help me in recognizing the incredible and amazing work that this wonderful organization, BALANCE for Blind Adults do. When I arrived in Toronto from California in April of 2011, I tried looking for an Orientation and Mobility instructor to help me get familiar to my surroundings. One agency told me it would take 6 to 8 weeks to schedule my first meeting. My husband Chris told me of BALANCE and after contacting them I had an appointment the very next week! 🙂 so amazing!

Over the years I have updated my computer skills through training that I got from BALANCE. I have improved my flexibility and strength by taking part in the yoga, Movement to Music, and the Strength and Stability classes. Please help me in ensuring that they can continue doing the fabulous work that they do by donating any amount that you are able to give. Thank you SO much! Here’s to you BALANCE! Cheers!

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Because of BALANCE I learned to use JAWS, Microsoft Word, and other Assistive Technology with BALANCE’s help. I was confident using my iPhone and iOS, but my volunteer roles as a social media coordinator required more. I gained courage through the AT program and the Pre- Employment Program (PEP). The PEP is awesome! It has given me confidence in my skills and helped me secure a job. I recommend this program to everyone I can.

Because of BALANCE I was able to access mental health support programs. As a single parent living with sight loss these programs have help me find my independence, and allow my children to release some obligations as care taker, which allow me to be more supportive of my daughter in her daily life. This allowed her worries to be less and she doesn’t feel as isolated.

I really appreciate all BALANCE does for people with visual disabilities. I hope you will consider making a donation so these programs can continue to help people that really need them, like me!
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My story would not be possible without Balance. Because of Balance I didn’t give up on myself, because of Balance I took those really hard steps to learn how to use a white cane, how to read braille, how to navigate screen reading software.

Because of Balance I have counselling support and community support.

If you are looking to donate to an organization where you know your money is going to make a difference, you’ve found the right place. Truly truly your donation to Balance will change lives. They’ve changed mine.

Thank you for listening and thank you for donating.

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I am honoured to join this year’s Because of BALANCE campaign as we celebrate our 40th year! I have been at BALANCE for more than 10 years as an Orientation and Mobility Specialist. I am grateful to be able to work with amazing colleagues everyday that share my passion of making a positive impact on the lives of people experiencing vision loss.

Please consider donating to our Because of BALANCE campaign and sharing our story. Your support and contributions make a huge difference and are greatly appreciated.

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I am thrilled to be joining this year‘s because of BALANCE campaign as we celebrate our 40th year! I have been working with BALANCE for Blind Adults for five years now in many different capacities but most of you know me as the Community Engagement Service Specialist, and Program Coordinator of direct services. Because of BALANCE, I have had the opportunity to work with amazing artists and organizations throughout the community in improving the quality of services and ensuring an inclusive environment for members of the blind and sight loss community.

Because of BALANCE, I have been able to bring new group programming to this community, opportunities that promote health and wellness and decrease feelings of isolation. As we continue to provide these services and opportunities I invite you to join us in supporting this incredible cause. Your contribution opens the world of possibilities for those experiencing vision loss.

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I am excited to be participating in the Because of BALANCE Campaign (BoB) again this year, as we celebrate BALANCE for Blind Adults 40th Anniversary. BALANCE staff and clients have made me the volunteer that I am today, simply by regularly showing their appreciation for my time and efforts.

I love this campaign, as it is fueled by BALANCE clients, staff and volunteers who are giving back to an organization whose services have improved the quality of their lives. I have seen firsthand that every penny raised has a huge and positive impact on BALANCE’s programs and services.

This year I am crocheting for the Canadian Premature Babies Foundation to support families of babies born too soon while raising awareness on World Prematurity Day, November 17 2024.

So, this year, you donate $20, I crochet one baby bootie (or $40 for one pair). The foundation would love 70 pairs in support of seven Ontario hospitals and the babies born too soon

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We, as a dedicated team at BALANCE for Blind Adults, are thrilled to rally behind the ‘Because of BALANCE’ campaign this year. Our mission encompasses a wide range of vital services, including Orientation and Mobility, Independent Living support, Community Engagement, Assistive Technology, Pre-Employment services, Mental Health support, enriching Group Classes, and more. Together, we operate harmoniously as a team, striving to empower our clients, enabling them to surpass their goals. Your support is genuinely invaluable and deeply appreciated.
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Because of BALANCE I was able to master the use of an iPhone and iPad & learned to manage and edit documents with confidence. These skills allowed me to accept two new job opportunities that would have otherwise been impossible to manage. I am a visually impaired psychiatrist. As part of my practice, I see people who are struggling emotionally with vision loss. In fact, I have sent many of my patients to BALANCE. BALANCE has played a pivotal role in turning their lives around. They have all found BALANCE as helpful as I did.

Unemployment is a substantial problem in the blind and visually impaired community. For those of my patients who were lucky enough to be employed, BALANCE has helped them to maintain their employment. I have been so impressed with the organization’s contribution to the lives of those of us who are blind and visually impaired, that I have joined their Board of Directors. BALANCE is a small but mighty organization that has a lifelong positive impact. 

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My name is Joseph and I’ve been a client of BALANCE since 2005. Over the years, I’ve received support and training for Independent Living Skills and Assistive Technology Instruction such as how to utilize phone navigation apps.

I am currently working with BALANCE as an AT Apprentice and I am loving it and learning a lot. I enjoy learning the different skills needed to become an excellent teacher myself.

Because of BALANCE I am learning a lot, and helping other people too.

Please consider a donation to BALANCE or sharing my page with friends. Thank you! 

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Because of BALANCE, we’ve made a difference in how people who are blind or partially sighted managed to overcome the worst impacts of the pandemic. BALANCE staff were there when our clients needed them, helping them access vaccinations, various services, and even groceries.

Since the pandemic, BALANCE has grown in major areas. We’ve increased the reach of our Assistive Technology program and introduced a major Pre-Employment program. Because of BALANCE, people are learning skills that help them access technology and get employment.

There’s so much more to BALANCE, and because of BALANCE, our clients can better participate in life. Please support BALANCE in this fundraising campaign—support me or one of the other wonderful videos you’ll see on the BALANCE website.

Thank you very much.
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I’m proud to be part of this year’s “Because of BALANCE” campaign as we celebrate our 40th year! I’ve been working at BALANCE for almost two years as an Orientation and Mobility Instructor, and in that time, I’ve witnessed how life-changing our support can be for individuals experiencing vision loss.

It’s not just about teaching skills or guiding people through challenges, it’s about helping them build confidence, regain independence, and feel a true sense of belonging. Every day, I’m inspired by the resilience and growth of our clients, which reminds me of the importance of the work we do.

As we continue this important mission, I invite you to join us in supporting this incredible cause. Your donation, no matter the size, helps provide essential services that can profoundly impact someone’s life. Thank you for being part of our journey and making a difference!

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For My Child and Others: Because of Balance
As a mother to a child with vision loss and an occupational therapist who has worked closely with individuals navigating similar challenges, I’ve seen firsthand the life-changing impact of support and resources tailored for people with vision loss. This personal journey has led me to join the board of BALANCE for Blind Adults, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with vision loss to live independently and confidently.

When my child was first diagnosed, I felt an overwhelming mix of concern and uncertainty about what his future might hold. Through my professional experience, I have had the privilege of helping others overcome similar challenges, witnessing how the right support can transform lives. BALANCE for Blind Adults offers exactly this kind of support—programs that build resilience, foster independence, and create a sense of belonging within the community.

Fundraising for the “Because of BALANCE” campaign is my way of giving back to an organization that embodies my personal and professional values. I am passionate about ensuring that BALANCE can continue to provide vital services for individuals with sight loss, helping them lead fulfilling lives. Your support will directly contribute to sustaining and expanding these programs, enabling people like my child to overcome obstacles and thrive. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many who rely on BALANCE for Blind Adults.

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This small but mighty team can adapt to even the most unstable times and always puts clients and their needs first.The organization that started by providing housing to a handful of blind Torontonians now offers several services to hundreds, many beyond city limits. Over the years I’ve seen clients find places to live and learn how to turn them into homes, tackle new hobbies, master new technologies, land jobs and, most importantly, lead life on their own terms. This is work I wholeheartedly support, and if you do too, there’s a way. As Balance turns 40, please consider donating to help empower Blind people. They’re better off Because of Balance, and Balance is better off because of you.

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for me, this means getting support to have items labeled, working on orientation and mobility and getting support with technology. Because of BALANCE and this encouragement, I am going to appl for another guide dog. Staff support my learning even if it takes time. They are very considerate to accommodate my schedule, since I am working full time and raising a teenager.
Recently I have been given an opportunity to be a facilitator for BALANCE. Being able to be a facilitator gives me an opportunity to give back to my community. I can share my lived experiences with those that have been newly visually impaired. Peer to peer support is so vital in our community especially where mental health is concerned. I am a facilitator for the Evening Sharing Space support group and this is an honour to give back to community and to share knowledge. As a facilitator, I am able to support people where they are in their journey. This is also something that BALANCE staff do.

We can’t do this work alone! I can’t wait to see what the next 5 to 10 years can bring for BALANCE

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My journey with BALANCE began in 2015 with a presentation by BALANCE staff Doug Poirier and Tricia Morley where I learned about the vital work that BALANCE does for individuals with vision loss. One point that deeply resonated with me was that many of us will face vision loss as we age. This hit home because at that time my mother-in-law, “Nana,” was grappling with significant sight loss following heart surgery.

Nana, a kind and generous former elementary school teacher, had always led an active life filled with family, community service, and cultural pursuits. However, her vision loss turned her world upside down, making everyday activities difficult and isolating her from the vibrant life she once knew. Witnessing her struggles inspired me to look for an way to to get involved.

Over the past eight ​years, I have been fortunate to serve on the BALANCE board, and collaborate with fellow directors, the CEO, and the dedicated staff to serve those in need of support. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience to be part of an organization so committed to those facing vision challenges.

In today’s uncertain world, I find great fulfillment in playing a small role toward achieving BALANCE’s mission to help individuals navigate their complex circumstances. As past Chair Michelle McQuigge wisely said, “people are living happier, healthier, and more dignified lives BECAUSE OF BALANCE!

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I have been working with BALANCE for over 2 years now. Because of BALANCE, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact this small organization has on its clients. By providing essential resources and support, BALANCE empowers individuals who are blind or living with sight loss to navigate daily challenges and build independence. My role as a Communications Coordinator allows me to facilitate communication, organize programs, and assist in creating an open world for persons who are blind or living with sight loss.

By making a donation, you too can make a BIG impact!

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Because of BALANCE and their incredible work in helping blind persons integrate into society, the workforce and their communities, I now understand some of the challenges faced by people with sight loss and how I can help by doing things differently. I now appreciate the need to make a document accessible before sending it out to make the contents easier to read on the screen reader. I also understand the importance of not patting a guide dog or offering treats because the dog is on duty and needs to stay focused—little things like these matter. Because of BALANCE, I am more self-aware of the blind community around me, and I am inspired to lend a hand, raise my voice, donate, and do my part to make a better world for them.  

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Hello! My name is Victoria, I have been working with BALANCE for Blind Adults for over a year as an Assistive Technology Apprentice and Pre-Employment Program Assistant. Because of BALANCE, I have been able to experience both personal and professional growth and I have been able to see the impact BALANCE and its employees have on the individuals in the blind and partially sighted community.

BALANCE is more than just an organization; we take a holistic approach. We not only teach clients valuable skills for their independence, such as orientation and mobility, adaptive living skills, and training on assistive technology, but we also emphasize the importance of mental health, self-advocacy, confidence, communication, and transferable skills and knowledge.

Being partially sighted myself and working for BALANCE I have learned a lot more about resources and the blind and partially sighted community and because of BALANCE, I am able to be a better, more knowledgeable employee who is dedicated to providing the best experiences and resources to my clients so they may live a confident and independent life.

Thank you for your contribution, we appreciate you!

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This year, I am privileged to join the BECAUSE of Balance campaign. Balance is celebrating our 40th year! This marks an important milestone in the community. As a past client of BALANCE, I received various services and truly felt supported. The mission, vision, and values of the organization aligned with my needs.

Why is this important? Because not only did I receive support from BALANCE, but the organization also empowered me to give back by delivering tailored assistive technologies, assisting in events, sharing my experience as a public speaker, and much more. I feel honored to be part of this inclusive community, which not only provides valuable services but also raises awareness.

Please consider donating to this year’s campaign. Your contribution will open doors for those experiencing vision loss.

To know more about my story, check out the Balance Living Blind podcast HERE

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