World Services for the Blind began in 1939 as a program to train and employ persons who are blind to operate vending stands in government buildings.
In 1946, the Lions Clubs of Arkansas provided funds to allow the facility to expand services and become a comprehensive rehabilitation center, and in 1947 the first client was admitted for training. Since that time, more than 9,300 people from all 50 states and 58 other countries have come to Little Rock for training.
LWSB has become the worlds largest, most comprehensive rehabilitation center of its kind, and it’s programs have beenemulated throughout the world.
The mission of World Services for the Blind is “to enable people who are blind or visually impaired to function independently and to live full, productive lives with dignity and self-respect, and to promote a positive public awareness of blindness.” The Center provides counseling services, personal adjustment training, pre-vocational training, and vocational training in 13 career areas ranging from computer programming to small engine repair.
Trainees are given guidance through the often traumatic and emotional adjustment to blindness, while being taught techniques for daily living, communication and mobility. They also learn valuable job skills that help them function efficiently and competitively in the work place.
The expenses for training, rooms and meals are sponsored by each trainee’s state rehabilitation agency for the blind, the Lions Club of Arkansas and neighboring states, and through personal contributions and bequests.
Presentations for your club about the services offered at Lions World Services for the Blind can be arranged by contacting LWSB.
2010-2011 WSB BOARD OFFICERS
President and CEO....................................... Dr. Larry R. Dickerson
COO.......................................................... Tony Woodell
Vice President. .................................................. Bob Williams, PCC
Secretary ........................................................................Bill Biggs, PIP
Treasurer .................................................................. Dr. Tom Dukes, PDG
Past Chairman...................................................................Mark Clifton
2011-2012 Tentative Schedule of events
2011-2012 Tentative Meeting Dates
Board Meeting................................... August 27, 2011
Board Meeting.................................. October 29, 2011
Board Meeting.............................. December 10, 2011
Board Meeting................................ February 25, 2012
Board Meeting....................................... April 28, 2012
Board Meeting....................................... June 23, 2012
All meeting will be held at WSB Auditorium.
Contact Us: 2811 Fair Park Boulevard Little Rock, AR 72204
501-664-7100
1-800-248-0734
Fax: 501-664-2743