July 2026
Marlynn Vision Beyond Sight — Grand Rapids, Michigan
"Independence isn't a destination — it's how you live every day."
Happy July from the Marlynn Vision team! This month we're celebrating independence in every sense — the freedom to navigate your world, connect with your community, and live fully on your own terms. We've packed this issue with summer tips, events, and resources to help you do exactly that.
— The Marlynn Vision Team
A Note From Our Founder
Dear Community,
July 4th is a reminder of what independence truly means — and for our community, that word carries extra weight. Every day, the people we serve are working toward greater independence: learning new assistive technology, navigating new spaces, building new routines after a diagnosis. That kind of independence takes courage, and we see it in you every single day.
This month we're especially excited about our Takeout & Take Out Assistive Tech Show on July 12th. Come try the latest tools, enjoy some great food, and spend time with people who get it. It's one of our favorite events of the year — casual, welcoming, and genuinely fun.
We're also sharing some practical summer tips in this issue — staying safe in the heat, making the most of accessible outdoor spaces, and using voice assistants to stay on top of your health routines. Small things that make a big difference.
As always, we're here for you. Don't hesitate to reach out — whether you have a question, need a resource, or just want to connect.
With gratitude,
Marlynn Vision Beyond Sight
Upcoming Events
12
July
Takeout & Take Out Assistive Tech Show
In-Person11:00 AM – 2:00 PM ET
Marlynn Vision Center, Grand Rapids MI
19
July
Vision Loss 101: What to Expect & How to Cope
Workshop10:00 AM – 11:30 AM ET
Grand Rapids Public Library, 111 Library St NE
26
July
Family Support Circle — Monthly Meetup
Support Group6:00 PM – 7:30 PM ET
Marlynn Vision Center, Grand Rapids MI
Summer Independence Tips
Practical advice for staying safe, active, and independent all summer long.
Stay Cool & Safe Outdoors
Summer heat can be harder to navigate with vision loss. Carry a white cane or use a guide when in unfamiliar outdoor spaces. Wear UV-protective sunglasses to shield remaining vision from sun damage.
Hydration & Medication Reminders
Use a talking alarm or smartphone assistant to set hydration and medication reminders throughout the day. Apps like Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa work hands-free.
Accessible Summer Activities
Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation offers accessible programming all summer. Call (616) 456-3696 to ask about adaptive activities near you — many are free for residents.
Community Spotlight
"The Family Support Circle has been a lifeline for us. My husband lost most of his vision last year and we didn't know where to turn. Marlynn Vision connected us with resources we didn't know existed and introduced us to other families going through the same thing. We don't feel alone anymore."
— Family Member, Grand Rapids MI
Want to share your story? Email us at info@marlynnvisionbeyondsight.org
Local Resources in Grand Rapids
Organizations in West Michigan ready to help you right now.
Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired (ABVI)
Grand Rapids-based nonprofit offering vision rehabilitation, assistive technology training, and low vision services for West Michigan residents.
(616) 458-1187Disability Advocates of Kent County
Peer-led advocacy, independent living skills, and community integration services for people with disabilities in Kent County.
(616) 949-1100Vantage Rehabilitation
Comprehensive vision rehabilitation and low vision therapy services in Grand Rapids, helping individuals maximize their remaining vision.
(616) 949-0040Did You Know?
July 26
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed on July 26, 1990 — a landmark civil rights law protecting people with disabilities, including those with vision loss.
Free
Leader Dogs for the Blind provides guide dog training and orientation & mobility services at no cost to qualifying individuals anywhere in Michigan.
500+
Apps in the App Store and Google Play are specifically designed for blind and low vision users — from navigation to reading to daily living.
100%
All Marlynn Vision Beyond Sight community events are free and open to blind individuals, low vision individuals, and their families.
Support Our Mission This July
Every dollar funds free workshops, resources, and community events for people navigating vision loss in Grand Rapids and beyond.
Marlynn Vision Beyond Sight
Grand Rapids, Michigan
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