About Us

The Joplin Association for the Blind founded in 1923 and incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 1925, and is governed by a voluntary Board of Directors. Early on, JAB maintained a small office on Joplin Street and assistance was provided to individuals in cooperation with area church groups. Early services were mostly social activities and public awareness. In 1960, JAB moved to 17th and Pearl with support from local Lions Club as well as area church groups. In April of 1995 the Board of Directors approved a program to provide services to individuals with low vision, and to operate a Regional Low Vision Center. By 1996 it became evident The Joplin Association for the Blind needed a larger facility to accommodate its programs. A new building was constructed at 311 South Schifferdecker, Joplin, Missouri, 64801. In Spring 2005 the Joplin Association for the Blind expanded our facility to accommodate the growth of programs provided to our clients. Currently, JAB operates seven programs. Listed below are these programs with a brief description.

Adults: There are over 3400 adults with vision loss in a 100 mile radius in the regional area covered by our programs according to recent records. Until recently our programs had dealt primarily with the needs of senior citizens. With the expanded role of the Regional Low Vision Center, the Association has been able to reach more adults with visual impairments and assist in meeting their vast needs. At the Regional Low Vision Center we attempt to maximize a client’s remaining vision through the use of a wide variety of customized low vision devices, strategies or the use of current technology. We provide educational information for the client and their families.

Children: There are over 130 children with visual impairments, and their families, in a 100 mile radius of Joplin who benefit from having a place for activities to fulfill the specialized needs of children with low vision or blindness. These would be children and youth, birth to 18 years old. The Association has expanded its role to include a place for social activities, and to give support for these children and their families. Some of these activities include a Beeper Easter Egg Hunt, Harley Davidson Motorcycle Ride, horseback riding, Christmas Party, ropes course, educational workshops and field trips in the area. We provide educational information to assist families of these children.