About

Founded in 1936, the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired South Carolina (ABVI) provides specialized vision education and comprehensive vision rehabilitation to individuals of all ages across South Carolina and beyond. We work to improve the quality of life of our clients through empowerment, services, advocacy and enrichment.

About

Founded in 1936, the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired South Carolina (ABVI) provides specialized vision education and comprehensive vision rehabilitation to individuals of all ages across South Carolina and beyond. We work to improve the quality of life of our clients through empowerment, services, advocacy and enrichment.

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Our Mission

Empowering individuals who are blind or low vision to live fulfilling, purpose-driven lives.

Our Vision

Our vision is for all individuals who experience blindness or low vision to have the opportunity to live, learn, and earn.

Our History

The Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired South Carolina (ABVI) has served and supported adults with visual needs in the Charleston Tri-County area through independence skills training for close to 90 years. In 2023, ABVI merged with The Vision Institute to expand services to and empower people of all ages who are blind or low vision throughout South Carolina and beyond. 

Board of Directors

ABVI’s Strategic Direction is guided by an experienced, dynamic Board including corporate executives, professionals in our field and eye care providers.

Board Chair Kristen Gayeski Tinkler

Kristen Gayeski Tinkler

Chair

OD, Optometrist at MUSC Storm Eye Institute

Courtney P. Plotner

President & CEO of ABVI, CEO of the ABVI Foundation

Our Staff

With extensive knowledge and experience, ABVI staff come alongside clients to empower them with life-changing skills. It is our vision that individuals of all ages experiencing blindness or low vision have the opportunity to live, learn and earn!

Latest News

Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired SC (ABVI) Presents First-Ever Art Therapy Exhibit: Reflections

Artists with Vision Loss Showcase Self-Portraits in a Celebration of Courage and Community The Association...
January 21, 2026

Navigating Change: Brian’s Journey Forward

Client Spotlight: Brian Navigates New Opportunities After Vision Loss Four years ago, Brian lost his...
January 12, 2026

ABVI Empowers Beth to See the World

Client Spotlight: Beth Overcomes Vision Challenges to Pursue Global Travel with ABVI’s Support Beth’s vision...
January 12, 2026

Quarterly News Letter Summer 2025

Quarterly Newsletter Summer 2025  As summer vacations wind down, ABVI staff are gearing up for...
August 12, 2025

Become a Client

To learn more about our services and how ABVI can empower you to live a fulfilling, purpose-driven life, contact us today!


Donate Today!

You can invest in the lives of individuals who are blind or low vision today!