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Vision Loss Support Groups

Caregiver Support Group​
Virtual monthly meetings hosted (via phone or online)  where caregivers, staff and team members can learn, ask questions, and share ideas.  Group is held virtually every month January-September. Topic changes monthly. We look forward to connecting with you!​

​2026 Meeting Dates
  • January
    • Tuesday, January 13 - 10:00am-11:00am OR Wednesday, January 14 - 4:00pm-5:00pm
    • Topic: Assistive Technology for Vision Loss with Melissa Pepin, MS, ATP,  Director of Assistive Technology and Therapy Services, Lifestream, Inc
  • February
  • March
    • Tuesday, March 10 - 10:00am-11:00am OR Wednesday, March 11 - 4:00pm-5:00pm
    • Topic: White Cane Law and Awareness with Michela Meaney, COMS, MA Commission for the Blind Region 2
  • April
    • Tuesday, April 14 - 10:00am-11:00am OR Wednesday, April 15 - 4:00pm-5:00pm
    • Topic: Visual Arts Without Vision – Creating accessible art-based opportunities for individuals with Vision Loss with Melanie Rose-Zagwyn, Artist Educator and Art Director, New England Villages, Inc. 
    • April Flyer PDF   /   April Flyer RTF
  • May
    • Tuesday, May 12 - 10:00am-11:00am OR Wednesday, May 13 - 4:00pm-5:00pm
  • June
    • Tuesday, June 2 - 10:00am-11:00am OR Wednesday, June 3 - 4:00pm-5:00pm (Please note this month, the meeting is the first week of the month.)
    • Topic: DCR Universal Access Program with Teri Koopman, Outreach Specialist, MA Department of Conservation and Recreation
  • July
    • Tuesday, July 14 - 10:00am-11:00am OR Wednesday, July 15 - 4:00pm-5:00pm
    • Topic: Fall into "Focus"- Learn about "Focus" Conference with Georgia Wattendorf-Guiney, M.Ed., COMS, DDS Southeast Region
  • August:
    • No meeting - Happy Summer!
  • September
    • Tuesday, September 8 - 10:00am-11:00am OR Wednesday, September 9 - 4:00pm-5:00pm
  • October:
  • November and December: No meeting. Happy Holidays!
Interested to join a Caregiver Support Group?
​Please complete the registration form, and send to [email protected]​ Additional details:
For Individuals
Online/Phone Support Groups
  • Hadley Discussion Groups​ - Free of charge; open to all. Connect with others who share your passion! Several different options to choose from each month. ​
  • APH Connect Center - Directory of Services that allows you to find local support groups and organizations. 

See Also:

For more information please contact: 
Lisa DiBonaventura,  M.A.,  COMS
Statewide Director Vision & Vision Loss Services
Department of Developmental Services  (DDS)
131 Emerald Street, Wrentham, MA 02093
Email: [email protected]
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"Focus" on Vision and Vision Loss: Meeting the Needs of Individuals with Intellectual Disability