Innovation for the Blind (previously Institute for the Blind), situated in the care capital town of South Africa, Worcester, is a non-profit organisation that has been catering for the all-inclusive, specialised needs of visually impaired persons since 1881. Our mission is to empower persons who are blind, partially sighted, or deafblind, including visually impaired persons with additional disabilities towards improved quality of life and reaching maximum levels of independence.

EMPOWERING THROUGH INNOVATION

Caring for and offering vital services to our target audience is costly but adding Small Business Ventures to our portfolio enables us to be more resilient. Carrying out our vision and all its supporting activities is a significant challenge and doing so in a sustainable way requires us to partner with those who are brave enough to make a difference.

We are extremely proud to have several new projects that offer skills training, therapy and sheltered employment opportunities to 178 visually impaired and multi-disabled persons that cannot be accommodated in the open labour market.

These projects empower them to become independent, economically viable citizens who participate in activities that improve their quality of life, give them a sense of dignity, provides joy and fulfillment at work, and improves their independence and social skills.

LIGHTING THE WAY

Our unique services include residential, care, supported living services, therapeutic and rehabilitation services to adults and elderly persons with visual and other impairments. We are privileged to be the only organisation in South Africa that offers this vulnerable group of citizens the full spectrum of care and skills development they require to lead a fulfilling life.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER

The fact that 97% of persons who are visually impaired are unemployed, places a huge responsibility on Innovation for the Blind to provide in the unique needs of visually impaired persons. This is not a burden we bear, but a privilege we carry. However, we cannot carry it alone, and we, therefore, thank our friends, donors, and partners for their loyal contributions and indispensable involvement over the years.

Infographic - since 1881; 350+ persons in our care; 97% unemployment of visually impaired persons in South Africa; 50 deafblind persons in our care
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VISION

Our vision is to measurably improve quality of life for the visually impaired.

MISSION

Our mission is to empower persons who are blind, partially sighted or deafblind, including visually impaired persons with additional disabilities towards improved quality of life and reaching maximum levels of independence.

OUR VALUES

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INTEGRITY

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PROFESSIONALISM

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POSITIVITY

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RESPECT

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WISDOM

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EXCELLENCE