Mission Statement
The BCAB Mission is to provide services to blind and visually impaired persons to promote independence, provide services to prevent blindness and provide employment opportunities to persons who are blind or disabled.
The original Association for the Blind in Beaver Falls began in late 1929 and operated into the 1930’s, but had to close its doors due to lack of funds. In 1947, under the guidance of Phillip Harrison from the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind, the Beaver County agency, located in Beaver Falls was re-established.
Originally located at 1803 7th Avenue, Beaver Falls, the organization moved to a new building, 616 4th Street in 1959, purchasing the facility from Bell Telephone the sum of one dollar. In 2024 BCAB moved to its current home at 400 9th Street in Conway, PA.
The first executive was McMichael, who was a proponent of industrial programs. At one point in history, the organization had as many as 300 blind and disabled persons providing sub-contract work, rug manufacturing, chair caning, sewing and the sale of blind made products.
The recession in the early 80’s resulted in the loss of subcontracts at the Beaver County Association. The market for rugs and caned chairs also ended those programs.
In 2006, Beaver County Association for the Blind became an affiliate of the Keystone Blind Association in Hermitage, PA resulting in the expansion of the services we offer to Beaver County residents today. The agency is administered by a board of directors, who serve without compensation.
BCAB’s clients include a growing number of seniors facing the trials of living safely and independently despite age-related vision loss. As a result of CBVI training programs, our clientele resume family responsibilities, re-enter the workforce, return to school, continue to live independently in their own homes, and lead quality, productive lives.