Listen beginning tomorrow as Visions of BVA host Steve Baskis sits down with guests Bill Graves, President of the New Jersey Regional Group; John O’Connell, Director of District 1; Dr. Jay McLeod, President of the Carolina Regional Group; and Irena Howard, Superstar Award Recipient at the 79th National Convention. Each of the guests is an Association member trained and experienced as a BVA Ambassador.

Bill and John share their inspiring journey of teamwork and leadership in driving impactful local initiatives such as the Toms River Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Clinic Sidewalk Project. Jay discusses his work supporting veterans in rehabilitation centers, collaborating with VA VIST Coordinators, and leading crisis intervention efforts. Irena shares her experience at the American Lake Blind Rehabilitation Center and the profound impact of receiving a guide dog via VA benefits.

Throughout the episode, the four passionate advocates highlight the power of community, leadership, and persistence in ensuring accessibility and resources for blind and low vision veterans. They discuss the critical role of peer advocacy, volunteerism, and direct action in shaping policies and improving services at both local and national levels.

Visions of BVA releases a new episode on the 1st and 15th days of each month. Dive deep into the Association’s inspiring stories, accounts of resilience, and the achievements of blind and low vision veterans. Each episode features interviews, discussions on life-changing technology, and glimpses into the BVA community. Included in the series is each issue of The Bulletin.

Visions of BVA can be located on all major podcast platforms. Subscribers are welcome and encouraged to leave their feedback and share their thoughts.