Michigan Parents of Children with Visual Impairments

MPVI unites parents of visually impaired children toward accomplishing common goals and resolving similar issues.

Organized in conjunction with the annual conference of the National Parents of the Visually Impaired (NAPVI) held in Detroit in late 1989, the Michigan Parents of Children with Visual Impairments includes parents and professionals from across the state.

While professionals play an important supporting partnership role, the most critical members are the parents of visually impaired children.

Parents working together enable MPVI to be a recognizable force advocating for visually impaired children in Michigan.

Monthly meetings allow parents to meet other parents, observe other visually impaired children, and share experiences.

Meetings are scheduled for the second Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by an optional social lunch (BYO or pizza).

During the meetings, parents engage in conversations that reflect their personal concerns about their child's educational and developmental needs. Parents respond from their own experience or knowledge of resources or strategies. Sometimes the observation of a parent-child interaction during the meeting offers a parent an example of how a situation can be handled. Activities with the children also provide role-modeling.

Many parents have never met another blind child. Sometimes interacting with another child allows parents to see their own child's future and possibilities. When adults who are blind participate, parents learn how challenges can be converted to successes.

Meeting formats range from social to educational, from formal presentations to planned leisure activities. For the date and site of the next meeting, call the Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired at (313) 272-3900.

The Annual Family Retreat Weekend not only provides a time for families to be together, but also lets parents know they are not alone in the struggle.

The annual family retreat weekend is the major project of MPVI.

The retreat focuses on issues identified by parents and planning takes place throughout the year.

Separate sessions are designed for parents, visually impaired children, sighted siblings, parents along with their visually impaired children, or families as an entire unit.

Field trips and recreational activities are used to broaden horizons; experiential programs help families realize the potential of each member.

Doctors, educators, and other vision professionals share expertise and support which contributes to the success of the retreat and the experiences of each family.