1camera1mom: Let the Blind Lead

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Let the Blind Lead - Part 1

A special blend of coffee packaged
by the visually impaired.

I became a volunteer reader at Kaleidoscope, formerly known as the Blind Institute, in the beginning of 2010. For the past seven years I have been reading a variety of printed material (like exams, text books, and novels) in a sound room to provide audio aids for the visually impaired and dyslexic. Recently I was a guest at the end-of-the-year function. Every time I go, I am impressed with what they have accomplished in the year and the new things that they're doing.

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Here's a piece from the Kaleidoscope website:

Kaleidoscope is the central hub for blind progression in South Africa, and soon the world. If you’re reading this with your eyes, Kaleidoscope is here to change your perceptions and show you how the blind can become leaders in this world, integrating into the workforce, society and everything in-between.

If you’re reading this with your fingertips, Kaleidoscope is here to help you grow, tapping into limitless abilities and reaching every goal you’ve set. Kaleidoscope is a place of learning, development and progression. For those with sight and without.

We can change how the world sees the blind, and how the blind see the world.

All it takes is a change of perspective.

The Tactile Fossil Trail and Museum make it possible for the visually impaired to learn through touch.

Tactile Fossil Trail

Inside the Museum

The Art Gallery showcases works by the visually impaired and locally known artists.

The Art Gallery -
Ledivia was our tour guide

Art by the Visually Impaired

Outside along the wall are large works of art by artists with text in Afrikaans about Kaleidoscope.

Black and White Art

A new development at Kaleidoscope is the Coffee Department. They have their own special blend called Blindiana that the visually impaired weigh and package.

The New Coffee Department

The Weaving Department is still going strong. The visually impaired produce impressive mats and rugs by memorized patterns with counting and through feel.