The Lions Foundation of North Dakota administers a state-wide Video Magnifier Program to help citizens needing reading assistance. The project is a joint effort of the North Dakota Lions, North Dakota Association of the Blind, North Dakota Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and North Dakota Vision Services/School of the Blind. A committee, consisting of two members from each group, and a project manager oversee the program.
Video Magnifier Committee
ND Lions ND Assn. for the Blind
Dennis Friesz – Project Manager Allan Peterson
Helen Baumgartner – Treasurer Dianne Giessinger
ND Vision Svcs./School for Blind Office of Vocational Rehab.
Amy Oswald Betsy Hermanson
Tracy Wicken Aimee Volk
The committee spent significant time in research and determined the immediate need in North Dakota was about 120 machines. To meet this need in the quickest and most efficient manner, the goal was to initially purchase 60 new video magnifiers and 60 used magnifiers. The project negotiated a reduced cost to Lions of approximately $1857.00 for a new machine and $800.00 – $1250 for a used one.
This is a great opportunity for any North Dakota Lions club to help someone in its community have improved quality of life by helping to purchase a video magnifier which will enable that person to continue to use their limited vision. Plan now to start a new vision service project in your community and designate the funds raised for this project.
Helen Keller asked the Lions to help her bring light to others. We answered that call as no other organization could, and our light of service is more relevant today than ever before. To quote Lions Past International President Sid Scruggs III, “I want Lions to realize they are the ones that people look to for promise of a better tomorrow. They are the Beacon of Hope”.
Click here for the Video Magnifier Program Application
For more information contact
Dennis Friesz at dmfriesz@midco.net