Blinded Veterans Association

The Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) was established in 1945 by combat-blinded veterans returning from World War II. The BVA is a congressionally-chartered nonprofit Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representing approximately 158,000 legally blinded veterans. The US Congress and the Veteran Affairs (VA) has delegated to BVA the responsibility of representing blinded veterans and their families

The BVA’s Field Service Program travels throughout the US, finding and counseling blinded veterans and their families, helping them take the first steps in adjusting to blindness that eventually brings focus and direction to their lives. We have regional groups (BVA’s chapters) across the United States. In all, BVA’s Regional Chapters staff more than 40 volunteer offices offering timely mutual support and counseling to blinded veterans in the local community. Volunteers are always welcome and needed by regional groups. We also encourage the family and friends of members of the Association to join the BVA Auxiliary.

In 2006, the BVA launched its Operation Peer Support initiative. Operation Peer Support connects combat-blinded veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam with the newly blinded who have been wounded in Iraq or Afghanistan as a result of improvised explosive devices, sniper fire, mortar- or rocket-propelled grenades, or combinations of other firearms. Physical and emotional isolation is a common occurrence among those who have only recently lost their sight. Opportunities to learn about and interact with those who have already faced such obstacles can be a source of comfort and inspiration. These connections are facilitated at BVA national conventions and other planned events.