White Cane Awareness Day

Society’s Assets invites area residents to join us for the fifth annual celebration of White Cane Awareness Day on Sunday, October 15. This local event will be held from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the Civil War Museum, 5400 First Avenue in Kenosha. Similar events are being held on the same say nationwide.

In the 1960’s, the National Federation of the Blind became a leader in fighting for the rights of the blind and in pioneering innovative training programs using the white cane. At the Federation’s urging, the United States Congress adopted a joint resolution in 1964 designating October 1 of each year as White Cane Safety Day and recognizing that white canes enable people with vision impairments or blindness to travel safely and independently.
“We will be spreading the word about white canes, those who use them, traffic laws, and accessibility in our community,” said Tam Frentzel, event organizer and Lead Independent Living Coordinator at Society’s Assets. “We are grateful to the Kenosha Lions Foundation for financial support of this event. We are also pleased to announce that SouthEast Eye Physicians & Surgeons will be offering free vision screenings.” Note that the purpose of a vision screening is to identify vision problems in a treatable stage, provide education, and provide a referral to an eye care provider for a comprehensive eye exam (if needed). The screening is not an eye exam and should not be seen as replacing one.
The event begins with a short presentation and continues with a demonstration and personal stories. The vision screenings will be available from 1:30 – 20:30 pm. Refreshments will be available. This event is open to people of any age and disability, as well as those who want to show support. Register by October 6 with Tami Frentzel at 262-925-6097 or tfrentzel@societysassets.org

Society’s Assets: a resource for people with disabilities. Services include advocacy, supportive home care/personal care, home/vehicle modifications, a loan closet with assistive equipment and technology for a “Try Before You Buy” experience (partially supported by WisTech), technical assistance regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act, independent living skills training, peer support, benefits counseling, and transitions to life after high school or returning home from the nursing home. Call 800-378-9128.