News  2022 Virtual Open House Recap

The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB) and its Regional Advisory Councils hosted a Virtual Open House on Friday, December 2, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in recognition of International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The theme was Self-Advocacy: Stay Strong. '

The purpose of the event was not only to increase public awareness and acceptance of individuals with disabilities, but also showcase MCB’s commitment since 1906 to provide uninterrupted quality services to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. MCB currently serves an estimated 26,000 consumers.

Presenters and speakers for the event included the following: 

Welcome Address

Thelma Williams, MCB Northeast Regional Director (Region 3)

Moderators

Jay Rufo, MCB MetroWest Regional Director (Region 4)

Mike Saccone, MCB Director of Communications

Commissioner’s Remarks

MCB Commissioner David D’Arcangelo

Regional Advisory Committee Remarks

Larry Raymond, MCB Regional Advisory Council Chair (Region 2)

Testimonials

Jason Allen

Kinski Duah

Desiree Eusebio

Maya & Layla

Michelle Murray

Kerry Ni

Jayden & Mary Nogueras 

Keri Svendsen 

Musical Selection

Claude Fournier

Panel Discussion

Moderator: Harry Duchesne, Audio Journal 

Panel:

Stuart Flom, Founder and President, AdaptiVision

Mary Otiato, Director of Community Supports & Operations, Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission

Bill Porter, Adjunct Professor, Lesley Art + Design

William Sanabria, Community Support Specialist, Northeast Independent Living Program

Laurie Werle, Manager of Low Vision Peer Support Groups Program, Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Closing Remarks

Amy Doherty, MCB Vocational Rehabilitation Councilor (Region 3)