Independence for the Blind hosts Eye Ball gala to benefit the blind and visually impaired

Independence for the Blind is hosting their annual Eye Ball gala to positively impact the lives of the blind and visually impaired.
Independence for the Blind is hosting their annual Eye Ball gala to positively impact the lives of the blind and visually impaired.

Independence for the Blind is hosting their annual Eye Ball to positively impact the lives of the blind and visually impaired at 6 p.m. March 11 at the Hilton Pensacola Beach, 12 Via De Luna Drive.

Independence for the Blind teaches individuals how to use a cane, walking stick, cook safely in their own kitchen, organize their home, clothing, accessories, and use assistive technology like an iPhone, iPad, jaws, computer and magnifier. Its services include children’s programs, teen transition, vocational, rehabilitation, adult and older blind programming.

The organization provides needs assessments, counseling, orientation and mobility, and technology training at no cost to the client. Funds raised at the gala will cover costs such as assistive technology, vehicles for transportation and classroom supplies.

Independence for the Blind is the only nonprofit entirely devoted to educating the blind and visually impaired in West Florida. From Escambia County to the Apalachicola River, the agency serves 10 counties.

Visit ibwest.org for details.

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District 1 and Gonzalez United Methodist Church host food distribution event

Rep. Michelle Salzman and the Gonzalez United Methodist Church in partnership with Farm Share and other community partners are sponsoring a food distribution event starting at 8 a.m. March 11 and going until supplies last (minimum of 300 families) at the Gonzalez United Methodist Church, 2026 Pauline St., Cantonment.

The food distribution will help those who may be struggling and going through a hard time to supplement for their families.  Organizers would like to thank community members that are helping to make the event happen with actions that includes the donation of boxes, forklifts, time, volunteering, and spreading the word.

Call 850-324-2744 or email jennifer@gcpromo.com for details.

Join the fight against Alzheimer’s and child abuse

The Axles For Alzheimer's & The Kids Open Car Show will take place at 11 a.m. March 11 at Ashley Outlet, 1220 Airport Blvd.

The fourth annual event will feature vendors, food, drinks, door prizes and a raffle. Cars should arrive between 8 to 10 a.m. The public is welcome at 11 a.m. and awards will be given out at 2 p.m. There will be door prizes throughout the show. Open to all makes, models and years.

There is a $25 pre-registration fee and a $15 display-only fee. All proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer's Association and Gulf Coast Kid's House.

Call 850-554-1978 or email chassfl@yahoo.com for details.

SHERO Warrior Conference celebrates women making a difference

The Monument to Women Veterans will be hosting its annual SHERO Warrior Conference on March 10 at the Andrews Institute for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, 1040 Gulf Breeze Parkway.

The Warrior Conference celebrates the “SHERO,” the woman hero that makes a difference in the community.

This year, organizers have invited three amazing women as their guest speakers: Dr. Joanna Johannes, CEO/superintendent and founder of Lighthouse Private Christian Academy; Deborah Atchison, vice president of Magdalene's Inc.; and Col. Tracey Sapp, Commander, 1st Special Operations Medical Group, Hurlburt Field. Each of the women will tell their stories of how they started in their careers, the challenges they faced and overcame, and how they made an impact and became who they are today.

The event is free and lunch will be included. Visit https://bit.ly/SHEROWarrior to register.

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Baptist Health Care offers support groups in March

Baptist Health Care will offer the following support group meetings in March to help enhance quality of life throughout the Pensacola community. More information, including location details, is available by calling the phone number provided for each meeting.

  • Prostate Cancer Support: 5 to 6 p.m. March 9. Register in advance by calling Cancer Support Services at 850-469-2224.

  • Weight-Loss Surgery Support: Noon to 1 p.m. March 14. Register in advance by calling Weight-Loss Support at 850-437-8746.

  • Stroke Recovery: Noon to 1 p.m. March 14 at Baptist Medical Park – Navarre and noon to 1 p.m. March 28 at Baptist Hospital. Visit ebaptisthealthcare.org/stroke/events for details.

  • Patient and Family Cancer Support: 4 to 5 p.m. March 14. Register in advance by calling Cancer Support Services at 850-469-2224.

  • Grief Support Group: 1:30 to 3 p.m. Wednesdays, March 15 through April 19. Baptist Hospital is offering a grief support group for anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one. Call Sally Kapusciak, LCSW, at 850-908-7197 for details.

Volunteer sought for Escambia County Planning Board

The Escambia County Board of County Commissioners is seeking Escambia County residents interested in volunteering to be considered for an at-large appointment to the Escambia County Planning Board.

At-large members serve a two-year term of office and attend one meeting per month. Meetings are generally from 8:30 a.m. to no later than noon; however, occasionally may go beyond noon depending upon the agenda. No travel is involved unless the planning board members decide to view a particular property for informational purposes. Financial disclosure is required.

Residents interested in being considered are asked to submit a resume and letter indicating their desire to serve by close of business March 13 to Rachel Whitmire; 3363 W. Park Place; Pensacola, FL 32505; or emailed to rwhitmire@myescambia.com. The term for this vacancy is March 23, 2023 until March 22, 2025.

Take part: To make a Causes submission, email giving@pnj.com.

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This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Independence for the Blind hosts Eye Ball gala to benefit the blind