New View Oklahoma partners with the Dean A. McGee Eye Institute to present an annual seminar on macular degeneration, low vision and glaucoma.  In 2009, the "Open Your Eyes to Vision Loss" seminar at the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics featured free glaucoma screenings, presentations by Institute physicians and NewView vision rehabilitation professionals, as well as hands-on demonstrations of adaptive devices and technology.

 

In 2009, an adaptive rowing program was created for clients and employees of NewView Oklahoma. The Chesapeake Boathouse provided three adaptive rowing machines and experienced rowers offered their training and expertise. The NewView Oklahoma rowing team, comprised of eight blind and visually impaired rowers, won third place in their first competition in June, 2010. A non-competitive rowing program utilizing dragon boats has also been formed to allow more people with vision impairments to experience the fun and health benefits of rowing.

The 11th annual OWL (Oklahomans Without Limits) Summer Camp for blind and visually impaired youth featured an arts theme, thanks to innovative partnerships developed with City Arts Center and the Oklahoma City Ballet. City Arts Center hosted sixty blind and visually impaired campers and volunteers who participated in dance, visual and performing arts classes led by Oklahoma City Ballet staff, and professional performing and visual artists. Plans are underway to develop an ongoing dance program at City Arts Center for visually impaired adults and children taught by Oklahoma City Ballet staff.

 

Out of Sight, an exhibit to raise awareness about living with visual impairment, featured artwork created by more than 40 talented Oklahoma artists. The ability to touch the art, listen to an audio description, and read the artists' statements in Braille made the exhibit fully accessible to blind and visually impaired individuals.