Celebrating the Tool of Independence

Every year on October 15th, White Cane Safety Day is celebrated nationwide to celebrate the tool of independence, the Long White Cane, and honor the achievements of those who use it. This year, in the heart of Kansas City, White Cane Safety Day was celebrated a little differently from the past.  

Thanks to the dedication and creative minds of CCVI’s Orientation & Mobility Team, and the collaboration of our entire staff, CCVI hosted our first-ever White Cane Walk-A-Thon! Followed by a community celebration of crafts, food, face painting, and fun activities, there was no shortage of smiles, laughs, and lasting memories!  

“It was a beautiful fall day with children, families, friends, and staff joining in the celebration. Smiles and laughter were everywhere!” stated Danielle Schulte, CCVI Director of Therapy and Early Intervention Services.  

CCVI had the honor of having several special guests and community members join us in helping make this event go above and beyond! The women of Delta Gamma were all in providing face painting, handing out donated Happy Meals from McDonalds, and were sure to cheer on our students during the Walk-A-Thon. Thanks to Alphapointe, many of our students enjoyed playing Beep Kickball in between activities, and parents were provided with new resources!   

Amongst the celebration and festivities, special guest Mary Rose from the Spinrockers performed songs and even sang some originals from the band. As someone visually impaired, Mary Rose has used her passion for music to create empowering songs about using a cane and being independent. Alongside her, CCVI’s mascot, Owlbert, made a special appearance to greet students and families!  

“It was so heartwarming to see families, staff and volunteers cheering on all our students as they proudly walked at CCVI's WCSD Celebration. The CCVI community came together to empower our students while also creating awareness about accessibility and inclusion. It is so important for our students and families to embrace the potential for independence that a white cane can provide for people who have a visual impairment.” said Patty Bushland, CCVI Orientation & Mobility Specialist.

At the end of the day, students and families went home with a smile, resources, and a sense of community. It is CCVI’s mission to help children with visual impairments, including those with multiple disabilities, to reach their highest potential in the sighted world. But that mission goes even further. It’s also a part of CCVI’s mission to support the whole family, provide a sense of belonging, and empower and cultivate self-confidence in every student and family member we serve. White Cane Safety Day is just one of the many ways we can continue supporting our students and families and empowering our community as a whole.