Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation is pleased to announce four continuation grants supporting programs that help individuals who are blind or visually impaired build independence, access educational and employment opportunities, and strengthen connections within their communities. These awards reflect the Foundation’s continued commitment to organizations making a meaningful difference in the lives of people experiencing vision loss.
The Carroll Center for the Blind
RDPFS has awarded a $50,000 continuation grant for 2027 to The Carroll Center for the Blind in support of its Workforce Development Program. The program prepares individuals who are blind or visually impaired for meaningful, competitive employment through a structured pathway encompassing workplace readiness, workplace computing, and job market preparation.
Through individualized instruction in assistive technology, screen readers, Microsoft Office applications, and emerging AI-powered accessibility tools, participants develop the technical and professional skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce. The program also connects participants with internship opportunities and employer partnerships, helping them gain valuable workplace experience and build professional networks. With continued RDPFS support, the Carroll Center anticipates serving approximately 70 individuals, strengthening their confidence, financial independence, and long-term employment prospects.
Hadley
RDPFS has awarded a two-year continuation grant totaling $100,000 to Hadley in support of its Peer-to-Peer Program. Hadley’s counselors and social workers connect adults experiencing vision loss with others navigating similar challenges, offering opportunities for meaningful conversation, shared experiences, and mutual encouragement.
Building on the program’s success, Hadley is expanding eligibility to adults ages 18 and older and strengthening its outreach and follow-up efforts to foster lasting peer connections. The program aims to create 400 peer matches annually, helping participants reduce isolation, build confidence, and discover practical strategies for adapting to vision loss. By connecting individuals who understand one another’s experiences, Hadley’s Peer-to-Peer Program provides valuable emotional support and promotes greater independence and well-being.
Kidpower
RDPFS has awarded a two-year continuation grant totaling $50,000 to Kidpower in support of its Protecting Blind and Visually Impaired People’s Physical and Emotional Health & Safety program. The initiative equips individuals who are blind or visually impaired with practical skills to recognize, prevent, and respond to bullying, harassment, abuse, and other threats to their physical and emotional safety.
Through interactive workshops, professional training, and caregiver education, participants develop essential skills in personal boundaries, consent, self-advocacy, and interpersonal safety. Building on its work in California, Kidpower is expanding access to live online training nationwide, with plans to reach at least 200 individuals, caregivers, and professionals annually. By empowering participants and the people who support them, the program strengthens confidence, independence, and long-term safety within the blind and visually impaired community.
FY2027 Track 1 Grant Recipients
Clovernook Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired
RDPFS has awarded a $75,000 grant for 2027 to Clovernook Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired in support of its Pediatric Low Vision Clinic and support services. The program provides comprehensive low vision evaluations, specialized assistive devices, and individualized recommendations to help children and young adults with visual impairments maximize their remaining vision and participate more fully in school, home, and community life.
Serving children and youth ages 3–21, the program staff works closely with families, educators, and other professionals to ensure participants have the tools and support needed to succeed. With RDPFS funding, Clovernook anticipates serving approximately 400 children, providing 100 low vision devices, and conducting 200 consultations with families and educators. By improving access to specialized low vision care, the program promotes greater independence, confidence, and educational success for young people with vision loss.
Perkins School for the Blind
RDPFS has also awarded a $75,000 grant for 2027 to Perkins School for the Blind in support of its Infant-Toddler Program. The program staff provides specialized early intervention services to infants and toddlers who are blind, visually impaired, or deafblind, helping children develop foundational skills during their earliest and most critical years of development.
Through individualized home visits, functional vision assessments, developmental support, and parent coaching, Perkins helps families understand their children’s unique needs and build the skills to support their growth. The program also includes access to telepractice services, group therapy opportunities, and assistance transitioning into preschool. Serving approximately 600 children across Massachusetts annually, fostering early learning, family confidence, and long-term independence.