Join us in celebration of our 15th year anniversary!
2021 marks the 15th anniversary of NWABA. Since our first program event back in June 2017, we have been working hard to foster independence in those who are blind and visually impaired through sports and physical activity. And now, it is time to celebrate! Everyone played a crucial role in the enduring history of NWABA and we encourage you to participate in the storytelling and celebration this coming year.
Northwest Association for Blind Athletes is a national leader dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, youth, and adults through participation in sports and physical activity in communities across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana.
Who We Serve
NWABA’s programs and services serve individuals of all ages and abilities with visual impairments. Our programs offer opportunities from teaching children to swim for the first time to providing competitive team-based sports such as Goalball and Dragonboating. Opportunities are available to everyone with a visual impairment regardless of age or ability level.
Our Impact
Individuals Served
Our programs have grown from serving 6 individuals in our first year in 2007 to nearly 1,900 in 2020.
Program Hours
More than 438 program hours were given to visually impaired youth in 2019-2020.
Volunteers
An extraordinary team of 450+ volunteers provided more than 1,000 hours in 2019-2020 during unprecedented times.
90% of participants said NWABA has encouraged them to be more independent in their everyday life.
89% of participants said NWABA has inspired them to advocate for themselves in their home, school and community.
93% of participants said NWABA has encouraged them to try new things out of their comfort zone.
96% of participants said NWABA has helped them build new friendships.
Reaching Our Regions the Last 15 Years
Northwest Association for Blind Athletes programs and services span the region to serve individuals with visual impairments and their families in communities of all sizes across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana.
NWABA Thanks Our Dedicated Leadership for Making the Last 15 Years Possible
Northwest Association for Blind Athletes is led by an incredible group of staff, volunteers, and program partners who work tirelessly to enhance current programs and develop new innovative approaches to ensure every individual who needs our help has the opportunity to participate. Learn more by checking out our Team, Board of Directors, and Founder, President/CEO’s message.
Investing Our Resources Wisely
As a rapidly growing nonprofit organization that relies almost exclusively on generous community support, we are dedicated to utilizing community resources effectively and are honored that over 70% goes directly to support individuals with visual impairments.