Our History.
The Lackawanna Blind Association (LBA) was founded in November 1912 by Dr. E. G. Frye and Col. L. A. Watres in Scranton, Pennsylvania, to support blind and visually impaired individuals in Lackawanna County.
The Lackawanna Blind Association incorporated as a non-profit entity in 1941, and is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. In 1945, Eugenie E. Shopland donated the building at 228 Adams Street in Scranton in memory of her husband Alfred and the Association's offices have been located there ever since. Governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, the LBA has an Executive Director, six employees, and numerous volunteers.
The Lackawanna Blind Association is part of the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind and is funded by various sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health and Human Services; United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike; foundations, fundraising events, and community donations.
- 1912: Founded as a local unit of the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind
- 1941: Incorporated as a non-profit
- 1945: Moved to current location at 228 Adams Avenue
- 1967: Introduced a mobility program
- 1968: Established the Prevention of Blindness program
- 1976: Built a Creative Craft Center
- 1980: Launched the Pell Radio Reading Service
- 2008: Opened a Visual Support Center and improved audio book library
- 2009: Started computer training classes
- 2010: Added Braille equipment
- 2011: Renovated the Creative Craft Center
The Lackawanna Blind Association offers comprehensive services designed to help clients maintain their independence and fully participate in society. Through a variety of programs—including life enrichment, daily living skills instruction, and social and recreational activities—the LBA ensures that visually impaired individuals receive the support they need to lead fulfilling lives.
The Association's mini-bus travels daily throughout Lackawanna County, transporting clients to meetings, classes, day trips, and seminars. Additionally, the LBA conducts various programs that provide opportunities for self-achievement and socialization, such as classes in meditation, sound bowl therapy, and seasonal crafts. Social clubs meet monthly at the agency, and regular activities include aerobics, field trips, and educational and health seminars. The LBA also hosts several social events each year, including holiday parties, bingo nights, and a summer picnic.
With the dedication of its staff, volunteers, and community partnerships, the Lackawanna Blind Association remains a vital resource for enhancing the quality of life for blind and visually impaired residents in Lackawanna and Susquehanna counties.