Last year, the pandemic forced us to rethink how we develop and deliver programming. Since we could no longer deliver community-based programs in person, we had to work quickly and effectively to transition our programs to virtual platforms. While we were hopeful that we would be able to support as many Canadians with sight loss as possible, we could never have anticipated such an incredible response from the community.
Participation rates skyrocketed all across the country – and because of that, we knew that the way we delivered our programs would never be the same.
In response to the evolution of these programs, the McConnell Foundation has donated $100,000 to help CNIB transition community-based, in-person programs to a hybrid model – which uses a blend of online and in-person programs, workshops and events – and evaluate the social impact of virtual programs in the lives of participants with sight loss.
Specifically, this support has allowed us to hire a professional evaluation consultant to help us redesign the way we develop, deliver and evaluate online programs – meaning we can continue to reach and empower more people than ever before.
“We are incredibly grateful to the McConnell Foundation for this truly transformational gift,” says John M. Rafferty, President and CEO of CNIB. “Together, we will continue to work to tear down barriers to inclusion and create more opportunities for Canadians with sight loss to connect, and benefit from our programs – no matter where they reside.”
From all of us at CNIB, thank you, McConnell Foundation, for your incredible support!