by Belinda Collins
March 2024 celebrates an impressive four-year milestone of the ACB community. This is not just a commemoration of time, but a celebration of connections, camaraderie, shared experiences, and the formation of lasting friendships that have blossomed within its virtual walls. Over the past four years, the community has evolved into a space where we as blind and low vision individuals feel not only welcomed, but embraced for who we are.
Alison Smitherman, one of our wonderful volunteers that has truly blossomed over the past few years, shares her growth in community. "Since becoming a member of the ACB Community, I have met many wonderful people, and thus have gained some valuable friendships. Over these past four years this community has offered me the opportunity to host and facilitate community calls, which has helped me to overcome my fear of public speaking. Last but not least, through working with others and following their examples, I have learned a lot about how to treat people with kindness and respect. Community has definitely changed my life for the better."
Strong friendships have quickly become our cornerstone, offering the strength and understanding that comes from walking the same path. In an environment where challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, having friends who understand and empathize is invaluable.
From celebrating victories to providing a listening ear during moments of difficulty, these friendships are a testament to the strength that comes from mutual understanding and support.
Lucy Arguijo, an amazing singer who participates regularly in our Community karaoke events, attributes some changes in her life to lasting friendships made in the community. "Before I found community, I was in a much different place in my life than where I am now. Thanks in great part to the friendships I have made here. It is because of community that now I get out and socialize more. Gather with friends, both virtually and in person. I have developed deep lasting bonds with many of them. My life has definitely changed for the better."
Many of us have found a network of people from around the world who understand and empathize with our journey. So many of our connections are not just mere acquaintances. Our precious friend from Finland, Sirkku Hein?luoto shares these thoughts about how the Community has changed her life. "I found this community about three years ago. Since then, almost every day, I share my afternoon coffee with wonderful people who live far away from me but who are close to my heart, and are like family. They have taught me so much about the American lifestyle, also new skills like crafting techniques, accessible technology, etc. Sharing our gifts, supporting each other, and growing together has really been a blessing to me. America has become such a big part of my life. I really feel like a true Finnerican, and I am happy and proud that the ACB community treats me as one."
This unique and special bond that quickly forms among many in the community is often affectionately referred to as "Framily" (friends who are family).
From its inception, the ACB community, under the guidance of its creator Cindy Hollis, initially set out to create a space where we, as blind people, could connect, share experiences, and have a choice not to feel as isolated during the pandemic, when many of us were feeling alone in our homes.
Judy Wolgang, a very active participant and facilitator, explains how important this community was to her during the pandemic, and how it is still impacting her life today. "The Community gave me a sense of connection and belonging, which I desperately needed in the early days of the pandemic. Those feelings have continued to grow exponentially during these last four years."
Anthony Lewis, who has been a participant for quite some time now, shares about how warm and welcoming the community has been for him since the pandemic. "Community is something very special. When we were all very isolated, Cindy Hollis, who is like a cheerful cruise ship hostess that makes you feel welcome, came along and created a space for all of us to get together, even though we are all miles apart."
The amazing friendships have not only formed through moments of challenges but also celebrated in moments of triumph as well. Whether we're overcoming barriers in technology, advocating for accessibility, or achieving personal milestones, we come together as a community to applaud each other's victories, big and small.
Diane Scalzi, one of our many Zoom hosts that keeps our events safe, respectful, and welcoming, talks about her journey of growth within the community. "I have learned a lot more than I ever expected to know about Zoom. I have enjoyed sharing my knowledge with others. Learning and sharing are such important aspects of our community."
Every shared triumph, whether personal or communal, has been an opportunity for us to come together and celebrate, reinforcing the bonds of friendship that make the Community truly special.
Toni Burrell, who came to the community just after the 2021 ACB conference and convention, states: "I have made new friends, and I can only continue to grow."
The shared victories have not only uplifted us in our community, but strengthen the bonds of our friendships as well, creating a culture where achievements are collective, and every step forward is a win for us all.
Cheryl McNeil Fisher, who has had tremendous success with Writing Works Wonders, one of our community events that provides a space for the avid writer to share and collaborate with others, attributes the community for its start. "'Advancing Beyond Barriers' is the tagline for Writing Works Wonders, which came to fruition because of the support, strength, friendship, and love freely given to me within the ACB Community."
Others in the community have found a shared sense of purpose. Many of our friends have shared stories of how the community has not only provided a space for connection but has also sparked a sense of direction and meaning in their lives.
Darcy Burnard, who is one of our many valued volunteers, often gives of his time to assist others with various technical skills, setting them up for greater success and independence. "The community has given me a place where I feel like I belong, and a place where I feel useful," he explains.
We have found more than just friendship, but a lifeline -- a source of strength and encouragement in the face of daily challenges. Witnessing the achievements and resilience of fellow community members not only uplifts spirits but also instills a sense of hope and possibility.
Holly Anderson, who is a frequent attendee of the various crafting events, where she has been supported and has gained confidence in her creativity, acknowledges the community for her growth. ?This Community has given me the confidence to do and try things I would not have ordinarily done in my lifetime."
Rhonda Lang, who has become an active participant in our events over the past year, shares her feeling of belonging. "ACB Community has done a lot to make me feel like I belong. I have enjoyed learning so much information through the different community calls."
While the ACB Community thrives in the digital landscape of the Zoom platform, its impact also extends into the physical world. ACB state and national conferences and other social events provide a unique opportunity for us to change our virtual connections into tangible, real-life friendships. The laughter, the warmth of hugs, and the shared experiences during these events solidify the bonds that we have formed online, creating a sense of community that transcends the boundaries of computer screens, smart phones, and other devices.
Travis Butler, who is known for his witty sense of humor, but also his compassion for others, explains what the impact of community friendships has meant for him. "Due to the ACB Community and all it offers, I have more friendships and connections than ever before in my life. Also lots of hugs, both virtual and in person. I have become a proud and confident member of the American Council of the Blind as a result."
As we look to the future, this community is committed to reaching many others who are blind or low vision. We don?t want to be the best kept secret. The more people that know about us, the more we can provide support and a safe place to grow and flourish. Anyone interested in receiving our daily schedule of events via email can send a request to [email protected].
As we raise a toast to four years of this amazing platform, let's celebrate the close friendships that have transformed lives and the breaking down of barriers to inclusion, redefining the meaning of community. Here's to many more years of forging connections, building friendships, and empowering each other to reach new heights. Happy anniversary, ACB Community!