New Jersey Blind Citizens Association, Inc. (Camp Happiness)

18 Burlington Avenue 
Leonardo, NJ 07737  

New Jersey Blind Citizens Association, Inc. (NJBCA) at Camp Happiness

Proud State Project of New Jersey Lions Multiple District 16.  Together, we’re changing lives!

For the past 100 years, the New Jersey Blind Citizens Association at Camp Happiness has worked to improve the lives of the blind and visually impaired.  Beginning as a free summer camp for blind men in 1910, the organization has evolved to include daily educational and social support programming for the blind and visually impaired.

For decades, Lions Clubs throughout NJ have generously contributed much needed funds, volunteer hours, and help sharing our story.  NJBCA are proud to partner with Lions Clubs to ensure that the following programs remain available for the blind and visually impaired:

Our Fine Arts Program allows participants to express themselves through drawing, painting, and sculpture.  Offering educational, creative, and socialization components, this program is in extremely high demand.

Our Medical Program helps overcome barriers causing disparities in healthcare for the blind, such as the lack of transportation & training on the use of in-home aides like medication dispensers and talking thermometers.  Participants receive routine screenings by a doctor, and take part in lecture and discussion sessions.

Through our Computer Program, our legally blind computer instructor teaches computer literacy, use of the Internet and email, and Microsoft Office using talking and zooming software.

Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTVs), which magnify printed materials, help clients on-site and across the state view photos, read novels, write checks, complete paperwork, and much more.

To cope with vision loss, clients share their experiences and feelings in a safe, nonjudgmental group setting in sessions of our Peer Support Group, a member group of the statewide Adjustment to Vision Loss Project.

No longer will physical fitness fall by the wayside for our clients.  With our very own on-site gym, and through a partnership with a local gym studio, our Fitness Program offers a safe and motivational environment for clients to exercise using equipment, free weights, and through guided classes.

Socially-based programs like our Crochet Club and Garden Club help clients gain a sense of accomplishment and pride while they learn new skills.  Some clients even donate Crochet Club creations for underprivileged and ill children, adding a sense of contribution to society.  Organically-grown Garden Club harvests are used in our kitchen to provide free, nutritious meals to our clients.

We are proud to partner with you to serve the blind and visually impaired!  To learn how your local Club can get involved, or to arrange for an NJBCA guest speaker at an upcoming meeting, please contact Marisa Medina at 732-291-0878 or marisa@njbca.org.