In Episode 4 of Blind Abilities – The Musical, Lori, Christina, Pete, and Jeff explore the strength and diversity found within the blind and low vision community by highlighting two major national organizations serving people who are blind or visually impaired.

Inspired by the spirit of Thomas Paine's Revolutionary War pamphlets—written to encourage and unite—we imagined what it might be like to discover each organization through words meant to inform, inspire, and invite participation. Through music and storytelling, this episode reflects on the opportunities, advocacy, community, and shared purpose these organizations provide.

Featuring three original songs, the journey begins by exploring ideas and perspectives, allowing each voice to be heard before bringing everything together in a powerful final number.

Because in the end, what matters most is that we move forward—together.

Be sure to listen through to the end to learn more about each organization and to hear upcoming national convention dates.

We hope you enjoy the show.

Thanks for listening!

In this episode, Jeff travels to the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington to meet CEO Caren Forsten and Dr. Suleiman Alibhai, the organization's low vision clinical director—and the conversation leaves him feeling something that can be hard to come by after years of appointments: real hope. Dr. Alibhai isn't focused only on charts, drops, or procedures. He starts with the person—what daily life feels like right now, what has become harder, what's been lost, and where someone is emotionally before anyone starts talking about solutions.

Caren shares how POB's "Seeing Hope" programs wrap support around that medical care: local and virtual support groups, tech talks, town halls, and resource centers where people can explore tools and strategies alongside staff who bring lived experience to the table. Together, they frame low vision as a continuum, not a label—and rehabilitation as a steady, human process made up of small, practical wins, encouragement, and the kind of family support that empowers instead of takes over. What comes through most is simple but powerful: you're not alone, and you're not done.

Links and contact info:

Prevention of Blindness Society web site - YourEyes.org

Give them a call at 202-234-1010

Full Transcript

Thanks for listening!

Josh Subhan shares a real-world look at how internships can open doors from college to career. As a University of Minnesota grad who is turning his internship at Metro Transit into a full-time job, Josh breaks down what internships are, when to start applying, and how the process actually works. He walks through finding opportunities on company career pages and sites like Indeed, preparing resumes and interviews, and using campus career centers and State Services for the Blind for mock interviews and connections. Josh also talks honestly about disclosure, accessibility tools, and finding your niche in a changing job market. Most of all, he reminds students not to get discouraged—applications can be tough, but persistence, preparation, and using your network can make the difference between waiting for an opportunity and landing one.

Link to the Internship episode:

Internships for Students: Real Work, Real Experience, Real Opportunities

To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at shane.desantis@state.mn.us or call Shane at 651-385-5205.

Full Transcript

Thanks for listening!