Celebrating Awareness, Belonging and Community Connection

October was a month of connection, celebration and purpose at Envision. Across Wichita and Dallas, hundreds came together to honor independence and strengthen community ties during two White Cane Day events—and later capped off the month with an inspiring evening at the Envision Gala: A Night for Vision. 

From community walks to a black-tie fundraiser, each moment reflected the same message: when people unite around a mission, awareness grows and a sense of belonging flourishes. 

Walking for Awareness 

White Cane Day is recognized nationally each October as a celebration of independence for people who are blind or visually impaired. This year, Envision hosted walks in both Wichita and Dallas—each designed to bring visibility to the tools, training, and confidence that make mobility possible. 

In Wichita, participants filled the Great Plains Nature Center for an awareness walk that celebrated the freedom and empowerment that come with mobility. The event sparked conversations among community members and helped deepen understanding of the experiences of individuals with vision loss. 

In Dallas, the inaugural White Cane Day Walk brought together supporters, employees, and community partners for a fundraiser benefiting programs and services at Envision Dallas. The day showcased the power of partnership—and how local engagement can build lasting community connections. 

Around 110 participants joined the Wichita walk, while 246 participated in Dallas, raising over $64,000. 

“White Cane Day gives people the chance to see how far we’ve come as a community,” said Abby Lautin, Envision Dallas Development Manager. “Every person who shows up helps break down barriers and strengthen our shared commitment to accessibility and independence.” 

 A Night for Vision 

Later in the month, Envision hosted one of its most anticipated annual events—the Envision Gala: A Night for Vision. Guests gathered to celebrate Envision’s mission and the lives transformed through its programs and partnerships. 

The evening featured stories of empowerment, moving testimonials, and opportunities to support Envision’s growing impact. The Gala raised a new record of nearly $550,000 and welcomed more than 250 attendees, all united by a shared belief in creating communities where everyone belongs. 

“The energy in the room was incredible,” said Molly Edwards-Workman, Senior Vice President, Foundation Mission Services. “You could feel the community’s passion for Envision’s mission—every conversation, every gift, every moment reflected genuine care for the people we serve.” 

Though each event had its own focus—awareness in Wichita, fundraising in Dallas, and celebration at the Gala—all shared a single purpose: to connect people through Envision’s mission. Together, they demonstrated how outreach can spark understanding, strengthen relationships, and foster a sense of belonging that extends far beyond each event. 

“These events show what can happen when people come together with heart and purpose,” said Michael Monteferrante, President and CEO of Envision. “Whether we’re walking beside one another or celebrating the impact of our mission, we’re building connections that create opportunity and hope.” 

Through awareness, celebration, and community connection, Envision continues to open doors and build brighter futures for people who are blind or low vision. 

Join us at an upcoming Envision event or learn how you can get involved at Envisionus.com.