MORRIS PLAINS – The Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey (VLANJ) proudly celebrated the grand opening of its new home in Morris Plains on Thursday, February 27. The ribbon-cutting event marked an exciting new chapter for the nonprofit, which has been serving individuals with vision loss and blindness for over 81 years.
Morris Plains, known as a “Community of Caring,” has already welcomed VLANJ with open arms. This new facility will allow the organization to expand its programs and provide more opportunities for individuals to live independently and lead fulfilling lives.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Carl Augusto, VLANJ Board Chair, and Senator Anthony M. Bucco, a dedicated supporter of the organization, led the official ribbon-cutting.
Distinguished Guests and Supporters
VLANJ was honored to have many key figures and supporters attend the event, including:
- Dr. Bernice M. Davis & Bryan McClain – NJ Commission for the Blind & Visually Impaired
- Frank Cafasso – VLANJ Board of Trustees Member
- Carl Augusto & Sue Augusto – VLANJ Board of Trustees Chair
- Ming Wu – VLANJ Board of Trustees Vice Chair
- Lukas Franck & Chris Reichert – VLANJ Board of Trustees Members
- Senator Anthony Bucco – NJ Senator (25th District)
- Britni Orcutt & Meghan Hunscher – Morris County Chamber of Commerce
- Megan Waters – Representing Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill’s office
- Council President Sal Cortese – Representing Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr
- Nancy Verga – Morris Plains Council Member
- Michael M. Koroski – Morris Plains Chief of Police
Expanded Programs and Services
The new VLANJ facility is designed to support a growing range of life-enhancing programs, including:
- The Fellowship Program (in collaboration with NJCBVI)
- Mental Health & Wellness Programs
- Orientation & Mobility Training
- VLANJ @Home Program
Looking Ahead
VLANJ’s leadership emphasized that this move is just the beginning. The organization remains committed to developing more opportunities that promote independence, inclusion, and empowerment for individuals with vision loss.
For more information about VLANJ’s programs, contact Program Director Vicki Lowrie at (973) 627-0055, ext. 4, or email vlowrie@vlanj.org.
Click here to read more about the event and VLANJ’s vision for the future.
