Connect, Learn,
& Grow Together
Free workshops, webinars, support groups, and community events — designed for people with vision loss and the families who love them.
See All Events50+
Events Per Year
Free
Most Events
Online & In-Person
Formats
All Welcome
No Experience Needed
Upcoming Events
All events are free unless noted. Register early — spots fill fast!
Assistive Technology Demo Day
Hands-on demos of the latest screen readers, magnification tools, smart devices, and AI-powered apps — including JAWS 2026, Be My AI, and Apple iOS 19 accessibility features.
Takeout & Take Out — Assistive Tech Show
Grab your favorite takeout and join us for a casual outdoor assistive technology showcase. See the latest tools, apps, and devices that help people with vision loss live independently — in a relaxed, no-pressure setting.
Vision Loss 101
A beginner-friendly workshop for individuals newly diagnosed with vision loss, their families, and caregivers. Topics include understanding your diagnosis, navigating the rehabilitation system, available resources in Grand Rapids, and practical next steps toward independence.
Back to School: Resources for Students with Vision Loss
Preparing students and families for the 2026–27 school year — covering IEPs, assistive technology in the classroom, GRCC disability support, and Bookshare enrollment.
Fall Vision Summit 2026
Our flagship annual event — keynote speakers, breakout sessions, exhibitor hall featuring the latest assistive technology, and a community luncheon. Registration opens August 1.
Friends With Abilities — 2026 Events
We are proud to partner with Friends With Abilities (FWA) — a Grand Rapids organization empowering individuals with physical disabilities through community, connection, and accessible fun.
All FWA events are FREE. No barriers. All abilities welcome. Events subject to change.
National Mental Health Month Activities
FWA joins the national Mental Health Month movement with community activities focused on wellness, connection, and joy for individuals with disabilities.
Mental Health Community Fair
A free outdoor community fair at Garfield Park featuring food, games, and mental health resources. Open to all — come connect, learn, and celebrate wellness.
Bowling
A fun afternoon of bowling open to all abilities — no experience needed. Come roll a few frames and meet new friends!
Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
A group outing to one of Michigan's most beautiful accessible gardens and sculpture parks. Enjoy nature, art, and great company.
West Michigan Whitecaps Baseball Game
Cheer on the West Michigan Whitecaps with the FWA community! Accessible seating available. A great summer outing for all.
Grand Lady River Boat Cruise
A relaxing riverboat cruise with the FWA family — enjoy the scenery, fresh air, and community connection on the water.
Millennium Park — Concerts, Swimming & Hiking
A full day at Grand Rapids' largest park — live concerts, swimming, accessible trails, and picnic areas. All abilities welcome.
Chicago Navy Pier Trip
A group day trip to Chicago's iconic Navy Pier — rides, dining, lakefront views, and accessible attractions for everyone.
Archery & Golfing
Adaptive archery and golf in partnership with Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation. A unique, empowering experience for all skill levels.
Resource Fair & Luncheon
Connect with local disability resources, service providers, and community organizations over a free luncheon. A great networking opportunity.
Petting Zoo & Farm Visit
A fun, accessible farm outing with animals, fresh air, and community. Perfect for individuals and families of all abilities.
Movie Night
A community movie night at an accessible theater. Relax, enjoy a film, and connect with fellow FWA members.
West Michigan Whitecaps Baseball Game
Catch the fall season finale with the FWA crew! Accessible seating, great atmosphere, and community fun.
Farmers & Orchard Event
Corn maze, pumpkin picking, and hayrides in the heart of West Michigan fall. A beloved FWA autumn tradition.
Grand Rapids Symphony
An accessible evening of live orchestral music at the beautiful DeVos Performance Hall with the FWA community.
Giving Back — Community Service
FWA members give back to the broader Grand Rapids community through a group volunteer and service event.
Holiday Celebration
FWA's annual holiday celebration — food, music, community, and joy. A festive end-of-year gathering for the whole FWA family.
Ski for Light
An adaptive skiing experience for individuals with visual and mobility disabilities. Grant-funded — based on available funding. Contact FWA for details.
Past Highlights
200+
Spring Vision Summit 2026
Annual conference bringing together advocates, professionals, and community members from across West Michigan.
120+
Assistive Tech Expo — March 2026
Hands-on technology showcase featuring the latest tools for blind and low-vision users.
175+
White Cane Awareness Day — October 2025
Community celebration and walk along the Grand River raising awareness and funds for our programs.
Want to Host or Sponsor an Event?
Partner with us to bring education and community to more people affected by vision loss.