New Jersey Blind Citizens Association, Inc.
18 Burlington Ave, Leonardo, NJ 07737
Tel: 732-291-0878
https://www.njbca.org
Sarah A. Thoma, Executive Director
District 16 L Chairperson – RC William Thonack
1910 was a time when the blind or visually impaired were held in disdain and often institutionalized just for being blind. It was at the same time; four courageous blind men defied the odds and established The NJ Blind Mens Club. They incorporated in 1917, and their efforts resulted in what has become the oldest nonprofit organization in New Jersey, that for the past 115 years, has been providing free services to the blind, visually impaired their families and
caregivers.
The work of the NJ Blind Men’s founders did not go unnoticed. It was celebrated by a visit from Helen Keller and a presentation of an autographed picture to the men in 1926. In 1929, the blind men created an innovative camp like environment in Leonardo where men came from all over the state and learned mobility and independent living skills. In the Spring and Fall, men would venture to Leonardo for two weeks and were also given the opportunity to
learn how to fish, swim, go boating, hike etc. It was named Camp Happiness by the men, as it was the first time they were allowed to forget, at least for a while, they were blind. Ms. Keller once again recognized the men in 1929 with a letter commending them on their outstanding achievement. In 1970’s they invited women to join Camp Happiness, and the name changed to NJ Blind
Citizens Association, Inc. to demonstrate inclusiveness.
Following its transition following COVID in 2021, NJBCA continues the legacy of its founders by providing free advocacy, resources, and referrals throughout New Jersey and serves as the overseer of Camp Happiness and its other programs, Blinds on the Go and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). Camp Happiness, now in its 95 th year, is the year-round day program of NJBCA which continues to provide free life-changing experiences for the blind and visually impaired. Sessions include creative programming in the arts, music, wellness, exercise, and educational forums with non-profit and government leaders providing them with valuable resources to live independent and
happier lives. On any given day, you can find a member participating in chair yoga, tai chi, meditation, mindfulness, nutrition, music, painting, sculpting, drumming, and more. Members have also been taught disaster preparedness and are enrolled in Register Ready with the local County Sheriff’s Office.
Blinds on the Go, is a program established in 2021 to provide the blind and visually impaired with inclusivity. Members of Camp Happiness go to restaurants, concerts, plays, parks, and other places of interest successfully breaking down barriers and bias associated with blindness.
NJBCA’s Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) share their life experiences to help others. They have been contributors to Monmouth University’s Doctoral Occupational Therapy students’ beach accessibility studies, braille trails, and working with software developers on the creation of smart tools for the blind and visually impaired. They also contributed to the development of a successful program that was taught to the leadership of a healthcare system on caring for the blind and visually impaired when they are hospitalized. With trained professional staff and caring volunteers, Camp Happiness also provides the members’ caregivers with peace of mind and respite from the stresses of caregiving.
NJBCA continues the founders mission which is to enhance the quality of life for the blind and visually impaired through education, socialization, and fostering an environment of hope and purpose. NJBCA does not receive any government funding. For the past 115 years, it has existed through the generosity of the community, grants, events, and invaluable support, financially and in spirit, from the New Jersey Lions Clubs and their Foundations.