I have been a participant for the Nevada Blind Children’s Foundation (“NBCF”) since 2014 (this is my fourth year).  As of 2016, I started learning how to become a Counselor for the younger participants through the NBCF Counselor In Training (CIT) program.  Throughout the last four years, I have been involved in almost every program offered at NBCF such as STEAM, Lego Robotics, What’s Cooking?, Horsin’ Around and Fun Friday.  I truly enjoy Spring Break Camp and the Discovery Days Summer Camp as well as the family events like Beep Baseball, Beepin’ Egg Hunt and the annual Holiday Party.

During my years as a participant, I enjoyed every second of it!  There was always something exciting to do: whether it be crafts, games, or educational activities, each week was entertaining.  NBCF was and is a place I could go to knowing I would have fun and get the chance to make friends and learn new tasks.  I have created so many new and amazing relationships through NBCF and I am extremely grateful for that opportunity!  It is a place for me to come and be around others who experience the same daily challenges as I do in life.

Since I grew more mature and began to be a more frequent participant at NBCF, I was given the chance to learn to become a CIT for the younger students.  I was really excited about this because I absolutely adore little kids and love working with them.  I was even more thrilled because I have become so close with each and every child so I knew it would make the experience even more fulfilling.  As a CIT, I assist the younger participants with crafts and activities.  I also help explain games and set things up for programs.  Being a CIT has taught me so much about leadership and responsibility.  When I am older I want to be a primary school teacher so the mentoring of these children definitely prepares me for my future goals.  My favorite part about being a CIT is seeing the kids thrive in daily activities that they previously struggled with in the past.  Watching their faces light up with excitement when they accomplish something warms my heart!  As a Counselor In Training I am also a role model for the students.  I want them to see that anything is possible despite the limitations they may possess.

As a kid it was hard being the only one in class (and sometimes in the whole school) who had a visual impairment.  No one really understood what I went through or the challenges I encountered on a daily basis.  This immediately changed when I started attending the programs at NBCF.  All the kids understand what I go through and could relate to certain situations.  It’s an amazing feeling to be able to come here and just be myself around the kids.  I do not have to worry about being judged or impressing them; they love me for who I am and that means the world to me!  Many of the other participants have become my dearest friends and I’m so proud of each and every one of them!  I know that they can accomplish anything they set their minds on now and in the future.  There are no limits to what they can achieve!

Additionally, I also have grown close to the staff members.  They continually put a smile on my face and never fail to make me laugh, while teaching me new skills as well.  I am so incredibly thankful to be a part of such an amazing organization.  NBCF is honestly like my second home!  I have created memories here that I will cherish forever!

One final note: I wish to thank the donors that help keep NBCF thriving and I appreciate that so much!  Without your contributions, my confidence levels would not be as strong as they are today.