{"id":8218,"date":"2026-06-05T18:33:39","date_gmt":"2026-06-05T18:33:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ccbnational.net\/shaggy\/?p=8218"},"modified":"2026-06-05T18:33:41","modified_gmt":"2026-06-05T18:33:41","slug":"visions-june-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ccbnational.net\/shaggy\/visions-june-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Visions \u2013 June 2026","gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"text"}]},"content":{"rendered":"\n

From the President\u2019s Desk<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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Welcome to National Accessibility Week<\/strong> (May 31 through June 6).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While recently visiting Chapters and Members from British Columbia to Newfoundland, I witnessed the creativity evident in the ongoing efforts of all to continue to strengthen the scope of the Council.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We are indebted to the many Council leaders who continue to ensure members involve themselves with programs and events which may be unique to their geographical areas and continue to think of accessibility while offering these programs. It is evident through our National Membership Committee that members share programming ideas which improve our offerings to our membership across the Country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The landscape of the Council is also blessed with the many who continue to advocate, albeit at differing levels, Municipal, Provincial and Federal. All advocacy work is necessary, as we as members living with vision loss offer lived experience when advocating to these many forms of Government. A simple item such as an accessible crossing signal (ACS) within Communities, is so important, and the expertise we carry to educate and advocate for white canes and guide dogs, policy change and our presence on Government committees all weigh in on an accessible environment free of barriers, which is front and center to the safety of ourselves and our constituents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The CCB is also blessed with a strong unified National Advocacy Committee made up of membership and leadership from across Canada. The work of the advocacy committee has continued to stress the importance of the many barriers currently in place, which we as people with lived experience, must bring to the attention of elected officials within our communities. This is an example of self-advocacy, and I continue to hear from members who find barriers in their communities and urge them to bring it to the attention of their elected officials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We continue our work with our many partners and sponsors to move the National Eye Care Strategy forward. The Council officially launched the Right to Sight campaign at its recent National Vision Month gala.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I ask everyone to please read the reports included in the AGM packages recently distributed for our June 24th Annual General Meeting, and please join us for further updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Father\u2019s Day is on Sunday, June 21st, and we at the Council recognize and celebrate fathers, grandfathers, and father figures everywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On behalf of the National Board, staff team, sponsors, donors, and many volunteers, we thank everyone for their continued support. Please ensure you get your eyes checked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jim Tokos,
National President<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Wooden<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

(Description of image: Wooden scrabble pieces read \u201cHappy Father\u2019s Day\u201d against a wooden table.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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Mary Campbell: Athlete, Volunteer, Musician, and Community Leader:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mary Campbell of Sydney, Nova Scotia, is a vibrant, long\u2011time community member whose life reflects resilience, dedication, and a deep love of sport, music, and service. Born prematurely and exposed to too much oxygen at birth, Mary became blind early in life. She attended the Halifax School for the Blind, where she learned braille, how to use a white cane, and the independent living skills that helped shape her confidence and self\u2011reliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After graduating, Mary returned home and joined the Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB) in Sydney in 1992. More than 30 years later, she remains an active and valued member of the CCB Sydney Chapter. Through the CCB, she found community, purpose, and opportunities to stay active, something she prioritizes in every part of her life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Champion in Blind Curling<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Mary<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

(Description of image: Mary Campbell stands on the left holding a sign with the Nova Scotia flag. She is joined by Team Nova Scotia teammates Louise Gillis, Jim Simmons, Mike Vrooman, Amanda MacAulay, and Sidney Francis at the Granite Curling Club in Edmonton, Alberta. The group smiles for the camera, wearing matching navy, white, and yellow team jackets.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mary is a dedicated blind curler who has represented her region proudly at the Canadian Vision Impaired Curling Championship in Ottawa. Her team\u2019s achievements speak for themselves: In 2019, her team brought home the Gold Medal; in 2020, a Silver Medal and this past year in 2026 in Edmonton, they won a Bronze Medal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This past season, Mary curled twice a week, continuing to sharpen her skills and enjoy the camaraderie of the sport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Fixture of Atlantic Sports and Recreation Weekend<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mary has been involved with the Atlantic Sports and Recreation Weekend (ASRW) for many years, competing in multiple events and always bringing her enthusiasm with her. This year, she returned home with six ribbons and medals, including recognition for her singing in the CCB Blind Idol competition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Active in Many Sports and Hobbies<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beyond curling, Mary also participates in blind bowling and keeps herself active through walking and community events. Her hobbies reflect her creative and social spirit and include singing and playing guitar and piano, reading books, spending time on Facebook catching up with friends and enjoying walks outdoors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Music is a big part of her life\u2014she sings for fun and loves performing whenever she gets the chance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Dedicated Volunteer<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once a week, Mary volunteers at the Cape Breton SPCA, where she works with animals and finds the experience deeply rewarding. Her compassion and patience make her a natural fit for the role, and she looks forward to every visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Career Journey<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After joining the CCB in 1992, Mary worked hard to find employment, though opportunities were limited. She completed the Employment Development Program to build her skills and explore new possibilities. Despite the challenges, she has continued to stay active, engaged, and committed to contributing to her community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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ANNOUNCEMENTS<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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Atlantic Sports and Recreation Weekend Recap:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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The 2026 Atlantic Sports and Recreation Weekend (ASRW), hosted in St. John\u2019s, Newfoundland, and Labrador from May 15\u201317, brought together members of the blind and visually impaired community from across Atlantic Canada for a weekend filled with sports, recreation, friendship, and community spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hosted by the CCB and organized locally by the CCB St. John\u2019s Royles Chapter, the event proved to be a tremendous success and highlighted the dedication and teamwork that make gatherings such as ASRW so meaningful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Participants arrived throughout Friday afternoon and evening, gathering at the Capital Hotel for registration, a meet- and- greet, crafts display, CCB Idol, and an evening jam session that immediately set a warm and welcoming tone for the weekend. Attendees had the opportunity to reconnect with longtime friends while welcoming new participants into the ASRW family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Saturday featured a full day of athletic competition and recreational activities. Bowlers travelled to Paradise Bowl for two games of 5-pin bowling, including both regular and chute bowling. Following lunch, participants competed in track and field events at the Fortis Canada Games Complex before wrapping up the afternoon with swimming activities at the Aqua Arena. The Annual General Meeting was also held Saturday evening before participants gathered once again for a lively dance featuring music provided by local DJ Shane Cashin. The dance and social atmosphere throughout the weekend reflected the strong sense of friendship and inclusion that defines ASRW.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Close-up<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

(Description of image: Close-up of a navy blue bowling ball striking a set of pins, with another bowling ball visible on the right.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sunday\u2019s activities included table bowling, darts, and a cribbage tournament before the weekend concluded with the banquet and awards ceremony. The banquet provided an opportunity to recognize participants, volunteers, organizers, and supporters who helped make the weekend possible. The event was especially honoured by the attendance of Jim Tokos, whose presence underscored the importance of the ASRW within the broader CCB community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During the banquet festivities, the CCB St. John\u2019s Royles Chapter was also pleased to honour longtime club secretary Elena Giovanni with a Lifetime Membership in recognition of her years of dedication, service, and commitment to the chapter and its members. The presentation was a meaningful moment during the weekend and was warmly received by those in attendance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The success of ASRW 2026 was made possible through the hard work of the local Host Planning Committee, chaired by Lori Shea, and supported by committee members Karen Young, Chair of the CCB St. John\u2019s Royles Chapter, Glenda Brown, Shane Cashin, and Past District Governor Brad Moss representing the Portugal Cove- St. Philip\u2019s Lions Club. Countless volunteers also gave their time throughout the weekend assisting with transportation, registration, setup, guiding, food service, and event coordination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Special appreciation is extended to the many Lions Clubs, businesses, organizations, and individuals throughout the St. John\u2019s area whose generous community support helped ensure the success of the weekend. Their contributions demonstrated the tremendous community spirit that Newfoundland and Labrador are known for, and helped create an atmosphere where participants felt welcomed, supported, and celebrated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beyond the competitions and scheduled events, ASRW 2026 once again demonstrated the importance of recreation, inclusion, and social connection within the blind and visually impaired community. As participants departed for home following the final jam session Sunday evening, many were already looking forward to gathering again next year in beautiful Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, with friends who, through weekends like these, have become like family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2026 Annual General Meeting:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Canadian Council of the Blind Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. EDT<\/strong> via Zoom Webinar, with voting available online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

AGM notices, supporting documents, and ballot information were distributed to all eligible Class A members via electronic and postal mail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you require additional information or did not receive the official notice and documents, please contact the National Office at ccb@ccbnational.net<\/span><\/a>, or reach us by phone at 613-567-0311<\/strong> or our toll-free line 1-877-304-0968<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Vision Health Month Conference 2026 Pan-Canadian Voices<\/em>: Recording Available!:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Individuals<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

(Description of image: Individuals representing Specsavers smile and pose for a group photo, with CCB\u2019s Leslie Yee, Louise Gillis and her guide dog, Monk, Jim Tokos, and Leo Bissonnette in the center. Behind them is a banner displaying the CCB logo and the words \u201cVision Health Month Conference\u201d in blue on a white background.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The recording of the Canadian Council of the Blind’s 2026 Vision Health Month Conference, Pan-Canadian Voices<\/em>, is now available online. The conference brought together researchers, healthcare professionals, advocates, service providers, and community leaders from across Canada to discuss vision health, eye care access, rehabilitation services, accessibility, public awareness, and national advocacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the recording, you will hear from:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n