A P Real Oils and More
Logo description: Green circle with A P Real Oils and more! in the center
Websites:
https://www.facebook.com/APRealOilsAndMore
https://www.etsy.com/shop/aprealoilsandmore
April Branch is an entrepreneur who creates and promotes natural products. She makes her own shea butter blends, sells body oils, and sells natural soaps. She believes everything good for your skin and body is naturally made. She had eczema as a child and she believes that this was part of her personal testimony to help others discover that nature’s products, such as shea butter, are the only products our body naturally craves and needs. She sells quality fragrance body oils for men, women, and children. She promotes them because they are natural and do not have the alcohol found in perfume and cologne. Her mission is to naturally make AP Real Oils & More the one-stop destination for your body by responding to skincare and personal hygiene through providing all natural products to the heart of her company- YOU!
Contact Person: April Branch
Phone: 804-909-1901
Email: aprealoilsandmore@gmail.com
# #
Ability2Access (A2A)
Logo description: The words Ability 2 Access below a large A 2 A with right arrow
Website: https://ability2access.com/
Ability2Access (A2A) provides schools, government agencies and individuals with the highest quality low vision and blindness products, software and trainings.
A2A is the authorized dealer for Freedom Scientific, Optelec, LVI, Irie-AT, HIMS, HelpTech, eSight and more. We have showrooms in both Radford, VA and Ashland, VA (both by appointment only).
The President, Julie Akers, of Ability2Access has over 17 years of experience in the low vision and blindness industry and is dedicated to improving the outcomes and facilitating the independence of individuals with visual impairments or blindness.
A2A will come to your home, school, or workplace to provide a free, no obligation on-site demonstration of the products. We value our customers and want to ensure their satisfaction and appropriate usage of the products by offering on-site delivery, set-up and basic training (at the time of delivery) for all products $1000 or more.
Contact Person: Julie Akers or Kendall Akers
Phone: 540-392-0388 (c) or 540-639-9732 (office)
Email: julie@ability2access.com or kendall@ability2access.com or Products@ability2access.com
# #
Breeden Inspirations
Logo description: The words Breeden Inspirations, Handmade Stationery Products below the roots of a Tree of Life.
In 2018, Theresa Breeden lost her central vision to Macular Telangiectasia 2. She turned that challenge into inspiration, creating low-vision stationery—journals, planners, and notebooks with bold lines, large print, and wide spacing. Each cover is a unique piece of art, designed by Theresa herself. Her work proves that vision loss doesn’t stop creativity—it transforms it.
Contact Person: Theresa Breeden
Phone: 540-621-4843
Email: breedeninspirations@gmail.com
# #
disAbility Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area, Inc. (dRC)
Logo description: Shapes of different colors with d R C in the center
Website: https://www.cildrc.org/
The disAbility Resource Center (dRC) empowers people of all ages and all types of disabilities to live as independently as possible. We achieve this through the five core services of Independent Living: independent living skills training, peer mentoring, advocacy, information and referral, and transition services. These services work together to support individuals in gaining the skills, confidence, and resources needed to lead self-directed, fulfilling lives.
dRC is one of 17 Centers for Independent Living in Virginia and 403 around the country. We work together, and in our communities, to advocate for change to ensure people with disabilities have access to programs and services.
The dRC believes that people with disabilities should always be fully included and valued members of their communities—because inclusion, equality, and participation are not privileges; they are rights.
Mission Statement
To assist people with disabilities in achieving their highest potential and the full benefits of independent living by providing them—and those who support them—and the community with information, education, and resources.
Objectives
- Serve people with all disabilities and of all ages to live independently.
- Promote independent living and full community inclusion for all.
- Ensure access for people with disabilities in all areas of community life.
- Advance awareness and appreciation of the abilities and contributions of people with disabilities.
Contact Person: Debra Fults, Executive Director
Phone: 540-373-2559
Email: dfults@cildrc.org
# #
Enhanced Vision
Logo description: The word enhanced in green and vision in blue, a Vispero brand
Website: https://www.enhancedvision.com/
Enhanced Vision is a leading developer of assistive technology for the visually impaired including Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Cataracts, Retinitis Pigmentosa and Diabetic Retinopathy. Low vision assistive technology enables people to read, write and fully participate in life.
Enhanced Vision has been at the forefront of the low vision field since its inception in 1996. We have brought many of the industry’s most innovative assistive technologies to the market. With a strong management background in medical devices, the company furthered the assistive technology market with the development of one of the first headworn magnifiers called the V-Max, now called JORDY. Today our product portfolio is considered one of the most diverse and reliable on the market.
Dedicated to helping individuals maintain their independence, Enhanced Vision has developed leading assistive technology to create a full line of superior, easy-to-use low vision tools at affordable prices. We pride ourselves for listening to our customers in order to develop the best assistive technology possible. Our assistive technology is offered by low vision professionals and can be found in specialized low vision agencies throughout the world. We are located in Orange County, California.
The Quality Policy at Enhanced Vision is to exceed customer’s expectation in everything we do. Through our customer focus and continuous improvement philosophy, quality is evident in every low vision device we design, manufacture, test and deliver. Emphasis on innovative technology, quality, and reliability coupled with our extensive distribution network provides our customers with superior products and services. We at Enhanced Vision take every measure to ensure quality, excellence and industry-leading processes throughout every single operation.
Serving Northern Virginia
Atlantic Low Vision
Logo description: A stylized eye with the words Atlantic Low Vision, Low Vision Solutions
Website: https://atlanticlowvision.com/
Atlantic Low Vision provides assistive technology for those with impaired vision. We create a personal relationship with our clients establishing a direct connection. We create this by providing a no obligation demonstration. This allows the client to see, feel, and use the machines we offer. We offer demonstrations at home or office, so we both can get a feel for the best solution for you. Phil Linz is the rep for Enhanced Vision products for northern Virginia.
Contact Person: Phil Linz
Phone: 703-888-7134
Email: phil@atlanticlowvision.com
Serving Southern Virginia
Advanced Vision (no website)
Advanced Vision Provides assistive Technology to those who are in need. I pride myself for quick and accurate evaluations for products that will meet the needs of the individual. I review with you the things that you want from a product and then show it to you to see how you do. I come to you to demo products to create a stress-free environment with a no obligation demonstration. I have been a representative for Enhanced Vision low vision products for almost 25 years. I have over the past 6 years picked up some other products to include in my portfolio.
I look forward to meeting each of you.
Contact Person: Allen Bareford
Phone: 804-400-1151
Email: bareford@comcast.net
# #
Foundation Fighting Blindness
Logo description: The words Foundation Fighting Blindness in white letters on navy square with beam of light
Website: https://www.fightingblindness.org
The Foundation Fighting Blindness was established in 1971 by a passionate group of individuals determined to help find treatments and cures for blinding diseases affecting themselves or loved ones. At the time, very little was known about these devastating diseases that lead to blindness, and there were no clinical trials for potential treatments.
The Foundation’s goal was clear, and today the mission of the Foundation is to drive the research toward preventions, treatments, and cures for blinding diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, Usher syndrome, Stargardt disease, Leber congenital amaurosis, and more. Together, these conditions affect more than 10 million Americans and millions more worldwide.
An additional goal of the DC Metro chapter is to provide support, resource connections and helpful information to those with any vision issue. Both in-person and virtual meetings are scheduled a few times a year to help foster these connections.
At the convention Davida will have printed documents for sighted or low vision attendees. She will also provide materials electronically to anyone who would like them in that format. She may also have a flyer for an in-person event in November, program TBD.
Contact Person: Davida Luehrs
Phone: 703-819-8621
Email: davidaluehrs@gmail.com
# #
Guiding Eyes for the Blind
Logo Description: Man and guide dog sitting next to the words Guiding Eyes for the Blind
Guiding Eyes for the Blind provides guide dogs to people with vision loss. We are passionate about connecting exceptional dogs with individuals for greater independence.
Since 1954, Guiding Eyes has graduated more than 10,000 guide dog teams. We believe in the powerful, meaningful change that our beautiful dogs bring to the lives of people facing the daily challenges that blindness and vision loss present.
It can cost up to $50,000 annually to train and care for a guide dog throughout its working lifetime with a person who is blind. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we provide all services completely free of charge to people who are blind or with vision loss. At Guiding Eyes, we rely upon the contributions of our generous donors to fulfill our mission.
Contact Person :
Melissa Carney : mcarney@guidingeyes.org
Madeline Bruggeman: MBruggeman@guidingeyes.org
This is a network of affiliates of guide dog users across the United States.
Contact Person: Cindy Labon: cindylabon@gmail.com
# #
JW.org
Logo description: White letters JW.org on blue square
Website: https://www.jw.org/en/
Jehovah’s Witnesses are a global religious organization that can be found in 240 lands. We are Christians who believe in Jesus Christ and that he is God’s son. We base our beliefs solely on the Bible. While we primarily help our local communities with our bible-based education work, we also provide support in other ways. We invite you to explore this further using the link below:
Louis Braille—Bringing Light to Prisoners of Darkness
JW.ORG provides many free Bible study aides for those who are blind or visually impaired. These include Braille and large print publications. Also, audio publications can be accessed via JW.ORG, JW Library and Alexa. Additionally, screen reader (RTF) and notetaker (BRL) files as well as DAISY and MP3 formats are available. Videos with audio descriptions are also published on JW.ORG. These resources assist individuals, married couples as well as their teens and young children to have uplifting Bible-based information that assists them to face daily challenges successfully and provide answers to life’s big questions.
Contact Person: Kevin Burrus
Phone: 845-430-1408
Email: kwburrus@gmail.com
# #
Lions
Logo description: The words Lions International in blue and L in gold on shield with lion’s head on left and right
Website: https://e-district.org/sites/md24/
In 1917 Melvin Jones, a 38-year-old Chicago business leader, told members of his local business club they should reach beyond business issues and address the betterment of their communities and the world. Jones’ group, the Business Circle of Chicago, agreed.
The mission of the Lions is to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace, and promote international understanding through Lions Clubs.
Lions are constantly seeking civic minded citizens who are willing to donate some time and effort toward making our communities better places in which to live. If you are interested in visiting a Lions Club, please contact Davida Luehrs to receive an invitation to a local Lions Club. You can join us and learn more about what Lions really do to help their fellow man. Membership in a Lions Club is by invitation only; however, the only requirements are to be of legal age and good character. Through membership, Lions not only help people in need, but they have opportunities to develop personal friendships and gain valuable leadership skills which can be used in their work or in their personal lives.
At the convention Davida will be selling the 2025 White House Ornaments that the Reston Lions sell as well as the Virginia peanuts. She will provide the flyers electronically in advance and will take orders in advance of the convention. She will also certainly take orders at the convention.
Contact Person: Davida Luehrs
Phone: 703-819-8621
Email: davidaluehrs@gmail.com
# #
National Industries for the Blind (NIB)
Logo description: N I B and National Industries for the Blind in blue on white background
Website: https://nib.org/
NIB is the nation’s largest employment resource for people who are blind, and through its network of associated nonprofit agencies, is the largest employer of people who are blind in the country. We create opportunities for people who are blind to become wage earners and taxpayers, reducing their reliance on government support and increasing engagement with their communities.
NIB connects its associated agencies with manufacturing and service delivery opportunities with the federal government and commercial companies. Our customers get the business solutions that they need, and people who are blind are employed—it’s a win-win. We offer career training, which is crucial to getting Americans who are blind employed and keeping them employed. Today, thousands of people who are blind are using these skills in state-of-the-art manufacturing and professional services careers.
NIB’s impact is made possible through the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services produced and delivered by people who are blind. SKILCRAFT is a registered trademark owned and licensed by NIB. The SKILCRAFT line includes thousands of offerings — from office supplies and hardware to knowledge-based professional services — that meet or exceed exacting government standards, including the rigorous requirements of the U.S. military.
NIB’s vision is that blindness is not a barrier to employment.
NIB’s mission is to enhance the personal and economic independence of people who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining, and improving employment.
At the convention Kathy Gallagher will be talking about employment opportunities with NIB and their associated agencies and will collect resumes from anyone who has a resume with him/her.
Contact Person: Kathleen Gallagher, Learning and Development Manager
Phone: 703-310-0500
Email: Kgallagher@nib.org
# #
Patriot Vision Industries
Logo description: White words Patriot Vision Industries, LLC in white over an array of blue bordered red stars.
Website: https://patriotvisionindustries.com/
Family owned and operated by President and founder John D. Palmer, We specialize in and manufacture technology under the exclusive PATRIOT brand for all sorts of visual needs! We help you select the right technology to meet YOUR specific needs and to reach your functional goals. Matching technology to the person is what we do!!
PATRIOT VISION INDUSTRIES LLC, nestled in the rolling hills of central Florida, proudly designs, manufactures and distributes innovative assistive technology under our PATRIOT brand.
Pioneers in the industry, we continually strive to empower our customer’s lives with our award-winning products and improve the quality of life for those we serve.
Patriot is the brand you can trust. Please call today to schedule a demonstration with one of our authorized dealers in your area, worldwide, or to receive more information or place your order!
Patriot Industries has products that harvest AI which can do item descriptions, read barcodes, electric bills and count money. Patrio also provides portable CCTV’s with OCR reading, along with digital magnifies and a wearable that harvest the OCR reading and contrast color adjustment options.
Contact Person: Haley Lan, National Account Executive
Phone: 470-313-4116
Email: haley@patriotvision.com
# #
Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington
Logo description: the words Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington below a stylized eye.
Website: https://www.youreyes.org/
Founded in 1936, POB is dedicated to the improvement and preservation of sight and quality of life by providing services and education, and by championing healthy vision and innovation to everyone in our area.
Each year, POB impacts approximately 13,000 community members through our evidence-based programs — including vision acuity and glaucoma screenings, eyeglasses distributions and fittings, educational vision resources and events, low vision rehabilitation services and support group networks, and more. We remain committed to comprehensive vision health, ethical service within the community, deep respect for individuals and families in all circumstances, innovation in service delivery, and serving as a facilitator among our medical and social service peers.
Our organization serves the District of Columbia, Northern Virginia, and Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties of Maryland.
Contact Person: Tara Aziz, Senior Coordinator, Low Vision Programs
Phone: 202-234-1010
Email: taziz@youreyes.org
# #
Selvas BLV
Logo description: The words Selvas BLV
Website: https://selvasblv.com/
‘SELVAS’ translates to “rainforests” or “jungles,” and symbolizes growth, resilience, and interconnected ecosystems.
‘BLV’ stands for blind and low vision.
We launched our first Braille notetaker in 2001. Since then, we have refined our products to become top-of-the-line refreshable braille displays, braille tablets, multimedia players, and more.
Contact Person: Earl Harrison, National Account Manager
Phone: 512-914-1925
Email: earle@selvasblv.com
# #
Sportable Richmond Adaptive Sports and Recreation
Logo description: the word sportable in orange and navy next to stylized raised arms.
Website: https://sportable.org/
Founded in 2005, Sportable creates opportunities and transforms the lives of individuals with physical disabilities, visual impairments, and those requiring physical accommodations through sport, recreation, health, and wellness.
As Central Virginia’s premier adaptive sports club, Sportable provides sport and wellness opportunities to more than 400 athletes each year by offering a variety of competitive and recreational adaptive sports programs.
Our athletes are of all ages, come from different backgrounds, and have varying abilities.
By fostering a fun, inclusive, competitive, and accessible environment, we transform the lives of our athletes and free them to see beyond their disability, enhance their peer relationships, and help them to reach their personal finish line.
Contact Person: David Robbins, Community Outreach Manager
Phone: 804-340-2991
Email: david@sportable.org
# #
Vanda Pharmaceuticals
Logo description: VANDA over the word Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Website: https://www.vandapharma.com/
Vanda is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative therapies to address high unmet medical needs and improve the lives of patients.
Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder
Non-24 (Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder) is a circadian rhythm disorder that causes a person’s internal body clock to become out of sync with the 24-hour day. Non-24 has High Prevalence and Low Awareness in the Blindness Community. Up to 70% of people who are totally blind may have Non-24 and may not even know it. People living with Non-24 may experience trouble falling asleep and staying asleep, have a strong urge to sleep during the day, and have sleep patterns that are different from most people.
Contact Person: Magdalena Felton, Clinical Nurse Educator – Patient Outreach
Phone: 202-579-8035
Email: Maggie.felton@vandapharma.com
# #
Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired
Logo description: blue letters dbvi on gold. Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired. Education, employment, independence in black
Website: https://www.dbvi.virginia.gov/
The Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI) is a state agency that helps individuals in Virginia who are blind, vision impaired, or deafblind. DBVI provides people with the tools, support, and job opportunities they need to reach their desired levels of employment, education, and personal independence.
DBVI works with people of all ages across Virginia. The agency offers special programs and services to help people learn new skills, find jobs, and become more independent. With help from DBVI, people can feel more confident and ready to take part in their communities.
DBVI has a team of trained and committed staff who work with each person to create a plan that fits their needs. Services are offered in local communities and at the Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired in Richmond. Everything DBVI does is focused on supporting individuals to build the skills, confidence and positive attitude needed to achieve their goals.
To learn more about DBVI’s programs, services, and job opportunities, visit their website.
Contact Person: Rick Mitchell, Commissioner
Phone: 800-622-2155, or 804-371-3140.
Email: rick.mitchell@dbvi.virginia.gov
Contact Person: Becky Keller, PreETS Specialist
Phone: 804-845-0685
Email: becky.keller@dbvi.virginia.gov
# #
Exhibitor Registrations are closed due to capacity reached.
🛍️ Exhibitors – Saturday, October 18 (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)