[VABS] VABS Bowl with the Blind Outcomes

[Robert Parsons]

VABS

 

Yesterday was a prime example of why strong, independent students can affect
change in the Federation. Being that this was the first meet the blind month
event that this division has ever done on its own, I did not know what the
outcome of this situation would be. I was not sure if we would have any
attendees, if we would have any students, or if we would make any money.
What I did know is that I promised students that we would have events in
different areas of Virginia, not just north of Fredericksburg. After looking
back at all that was accomplished yesterday, I can honestly say that you all
rose to the occasion and executed this event perfectly. 

 

Let's Talk Stats:

 

1.	VABS Bow with the Blind had a total of 31 participants including 13
blind students, chapter members of the river and bay chapters, and four NFBV
chapter Presidents on hand.
2.	The Amazon Tap fundraiser did very well. With combined effort of
presales from Richmond and northern Virginia chapters as well as sales done
by random bowlers and staff, we raised a total of $210, recouping our price
we paid for the speaker and bringing our account back over our $1000
baseline.
3.	Starting a precedent: there is an appreciation by both the host
chapter and the bowling alley for the energy we brought to the alley. They
are supportive of us using this location in the future, which may constitute
us making Bowl with the Blind our annual culminating event. 
4.	I have received a plethora of emails regarding new and more exciting
trips and programs for our division from some chapter members that were
present at the event. One of which I will be chatting with you guys about in
our business meeting. 

 

Again, none of this could have been made possible without all your hard work
and willingness to take a leap of faith to make this event happen. Remember,
we can make wonderful things happen if we want it. We pulled off a wonderful
event without having to break our budget or cut corners on things. Any time
you want to explain what VABS can do, refer to events like Bowl with the
Blind. I look forward to continued success with you all. Be sure to show the
same enthusiasm at your local Meet the Blind Month events and proudly talk
about the work you do with VABS.

 

Best Regards

 

Robert E. Parsons Jr.

President, Richmond Chapter

President, Virginia Association of Blind Students

National Federation of the Blind of Virginia

Randolph Macon College '18 

Phone: 804 801 7674

"Without struggle, there is no progress." -Frederick Douglass