The Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired (formerly Upshaw Institute for the Blind) was established in 1961 to develop and expand community resources minimizing the causes and impact of blindness and visual impairments.

Through teaching, training, and innovative technology, our comprehensive range of services enables blind and visually impaired individuals to cope with the daily challenges associated with blindness. In addition, GDABVI helps people develop and maintain self-confidence and independence.

We also act as a community liaison and consultant, coordinating services to satisfy the unique needs of our clients while helping to enhance their overall quality of life.

The Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired does not discriminate against any employee, applicant for employment, or recipient of service pursuant to the Federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act (P.A. 453 of 1976), the Michigan Handicappers Civil Rights Act (P.A. 220 of 1976), and section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

As a non-profit 501(c) (3) corporation and United Way agency, we serve seven Southeast Michigan counties including Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Monroe, Washtenaw, Livingston and St. Clair counties. The agency is accredited by the National Accreditation Council for Agencies Serving People with Blindness or Visual Impairment (NAC) and is certified to meet national standards for quality services, responsible management, and public accountability.

Our Mission Statement

The Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides quality, innovative services that increase self-reliance, productivity and dignity for persons who are blind or visually impaired.

The History of GDABVI

For more than 45 years, the Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired (GDABVI) has provided innovative services to thousands of men, women and children throughout southeast Michigan. Established in 1961 as the Metropolitan Society for the Blind, the organization provided direct assistance to people in the metropolitan Detroit area who were blind or visually impaired through consultation and staff training to health agencies and educational institutions.

The organization became Greater Detroit Society for the Blind when it merged with the Detroit Society for the Prevention of Blindness in 1970, and was once again renamed in 1993 to honor its founding director, McAllister Upshaw. In 2000, it was honored by Crain’s Detroit Business as the Best-Managed Nonprofit with a budget under $3 million.

In 2005, the organization sought out a more clearly recognizable identity, changing its name to the Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired. As it has since its conception, it continues to help those with visually impairments achieve and maintain independence. Read more about our history.

Board of Trustees

Trustees

GDABVI Staff Members