1 Low Vision Enhancement Center: The Low Vision Enhancement Center is the heart of our organization and the fastest‑growing service we provide. While it is not a clinical setting, it serves as a vital evaluation and resource hub for individuals learning to navigate life with limited vision. As the number of people living with low vision continues to rise, so does the need for compassionate, specialized support that helps them maintain the quality of life they deserve.
We are fortunate to have a dedicated eye doctor who donates their time to perform evaluations, supported by a highly trained staff committed to guiding each client with care and respect. Referrals come from ophthalmologists, optometrists, hospitals, and service agencies throughout the region—reflecting the trust our community places in us. And most importantly, no client is ever turned away.
The Low Vision Enhancement Center proudly serves by each person where they are and helping them move forward with confidence, dignity, and hope.
2 Letha Dangerfield Children’s Braille lending library: Volunteer workers assist with maintaining the library. The library consists of books and educational materials in Braille and for children, adults and their families.
3 Joplin Service Club of the Blind: The JAB facility also serves as a meeting place for the Joplin Service Club of the Blind. The Service Club has an average of 60 members and meets each Tuesday at the facility for lunch. Throughout the year the club attends various social activities, such as Camp and Missouri council of the Blind Convention. The number of members has increased with the addition of the Low Vision Center.
4 Transportation: Without transportation being provided, the majority of clients traveling to the Joplin Association for the Blind for needed services would find it to be cost prohibitive. Two mini busses and a van, operated by volunteer drivers, are available to help our clients attend activities and programs sponsored by JAB.
5 Referral Service: Early on the Joplin Association for the Blind established its role to provide more information for families and the community regarding blindness or low vision questions. JAB and the Low Vision Enhancement Center works closely with other agencies and eye care doctors in the community to provide quality referral services. Ongoing assistance is given to family members of our clients. Questions are answered in the community regarding services and assistance, and awareness to the needs of individuals with low vision or blindness through presentations given to other service agencies, organizations and clubs, to explain programs offered by the Joplin Association for the Blind and Low Vision Center as well as the services available through state rehabilitation centers, Prevention of Blindness, Wolfner Library, Lions Club, and area schools.