WHO WE ARE
Since 1939, the Vision Resource Center has proudly served Cumberland County by empowering individuals who are blind or visually impaired through programs, transportation, advocacy, wellness activities, arts and crafts, educational sessions, volunteer opportunities, social events, and community connections, all designed to reduce isolation and encourage independence.
OUR STORY
The Vision Resource Center began in 1939 as the Cumberland County Association of the Blind, serving the needs of this special population in conjunction with the Cumberland County Department of Social Services. We are proud to be one of the first four agencies of the United Way of Cumberland County.
1936
1939
1976
2000
2019
The visually impaired citizens of Cumberland County were taken care of by Social Services and the Association of the Blind.
Located on Cool Spring Street, the Association of the Blind was among the first four agencies of United Way of Cumberland County, working to address the needs of this community.
A small group of church members decided to incorporate the Center for the Blind and relocate it to Robeson Street. There, the Center opened a preschool for blind children and offered services for adults.
With support from the NC Lions Foundation, the Center acquired a transportation van.
The preschool operated for 15 years.
The Center for the Blind changed its name to the Vision Resource Center and relocated to Bragg Boulevard. During this period, the Center received a three-year grant to support yoga, exercise, and healthy cooking programs, launching its socialization and recreation activities. With the use of its van, the Center transported members to participate in these programs.
In May 2019, thanks to the support of our incredible donors, the Vision Resource Center moved into its own facility at 2736 Cedar Creek Road, Fayetteville, NC 28312.
Our programming continues to offer a wide range of activities, including bingo, bowling, crochet, a walking trail, a sensory garden, among others.
Mission
Vision
The Vision Resource Center (VRC) supports individuals who are blind or visually impaired by providing programs and services that promote independence, personal growth, and community connection. Through educational, recreational, and social activities, VRC creates a welcoming environment where members can lead fulfilling lives.
The Vision Resource Center seeks to build a community where vision loss does not limit opportunity, and where all community members contribute to accessibility and inclusion.
MEET THE TEAM
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Maureen Pacheco
Community Outreach and Engagement Specialist
(910) 847-5886
Donald Watts (DJ)
Operations and Data Manager
(910) 635-1395 OR (910) 483-2719 Ext. 15
James Johnson
Fleet Manager
By Phone Only
(910) 987-5389
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dr. Robin Peace - UNC Health Primary Care at the Oaks in Lumberton
CHAIR
Candice Kirtz - PWC, Director Supply Chain
VICE CHAIR
Stephanie Gregory-Coutee
TREASURER
Janene Ackles Dublin
Grantastic Consulting Inc
Fred Baker
DF Marketing Inc.
Chrysoula Bantsolas (Soula)
JNB Commercial Properties
Toni Dixon-Cooper
Community Volunteer
Reshma Patel Beal
Cumberland County School System
Chandan Shankar
Shankar Law Firm
Mark Wilderman
Saams Party Tents
Janet Williams
Womack Family Advocacy
ADVISORY BOARD
Suzanne Shankar
Shankar Law Firm PLLC
Jacqueline Smith
Systel Business Equipment
Rick Foster
Retired, Cumberland County Schools
Steve Goodson - Past Chair
Retired, Highway Patrol
Melvin Lindsay
Retired, City of Fayetteville
Cara Spencer
Systel Business Equipment
Carol Foster
Community Volunteer