October is World Blindness Awareness Month, initiated by The Little Rock Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children who are blind or visually impaired.

This month of recognition is now supported by 64 organizations in 40 states including Central Pennsylvania’s Tri-County Association for the Blind, which joins these groups to provide awareness and a better understanding of the challenges facing the blind.

A report from Prevent Blindness America shows a sharp increase in eye disease prevalence.According to the 2012 study released by PBA and the National Eye Institute, the number of those ages 40 and older with vision impairment and blindness has increased 23 percent since the year 2000.

“It’s no surprise that the numbers of those affected by eye disease are continuing to climb, especially due to the aging Baby Boomer population,” according to Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of PBA.

What is especially concerning is the dramatic spike in diabetic retinopathy cases, an 89 percent increase; a consequence of the diabetes epidemic that this country is experiencing with no end in sight. This disease occurs when diabetes damages the tiny blood cells in the retina. It can cause blind spots, blurring, and vision loss. Early detection, appropriate and ongoing treatment, and the availability of specialized low-vision and vision rehabilitation services can help those with diabetic retinopathy live productive and satisfying lives.

Tri-County, at 1130 S. 19^th St. in Harrisburg, is a local non-profit with a 91-year history of service. Our mission, to support and promote the interests of people who are blind, visually impaired and otherwise disabled, and to provide blindness prevention services, has remained constant. The organization remains vibrant by adapting to change and meeting needs of our customers. The most recent example is the new Vision Rehab Center opened in June, providing professional comprehensive low vision care for all ages.

The organizational vision is to be the premiere resource for blindness prevention services, and to maximize opportunities for individuals who are blind and visually impaired to maintain independence.

Tri-County remains a vital community asset thanks to the support of generous donors, corporate contributions, foundation grants, and, in large part, because of the revenue generated by our Business to Business Division. In the last fiscal year these funding sources helped to provide Radio Reading Services, Tri-County’s eye clinic, computer training, Braille production, case workers with one-on-one support, prevention services that conducted more than 3,500 pre-school vision screenings and employment opportunities for persons of all disabilities. Tri-County serves more than 19,600 people in the community.

Chances are you know a friend or family member that is either blind or suffers from a visual impairment. You can raise the quality of life for these individuals by promoting awareness, contributing to Tri-County or volunteering. All acts of kindness are appreciated.

For more information and to support Tri-County Association for the Blind please call 717-238-2531 or visit at www.tricountyblind.org, or see us on Facebook.

Paul Zavinsky, Director of Development, Tri-County Association for the Blind