2026 Goals
Program Development
Vocational Training: Further grow programs that help individuals who are blind gain skills for employment
Assistive Technology: Provide in-depth training on the latest assistive devices and software to foster independence
Community Engagement
Awareness Campaigns: Increase public understanding of visual impairments through a variety of events
Support Networks: Encourage and promote platforms for individuals to connect, share experiences, and reduce isolation
Accessibility Initiatives
Resource Distribution: Provide best and most recent essential tools to those in need
Advocacy: Provide essential tools and adaptive devices for those in need
Evaluation and Growth
Feedback Mechanisms: Further develop systems to gather input from those that utilize our services for improvement purposes
Sustainability Plans: Continue exploring and developing the current opportunities to increase long-term funding and resource management
Fundraising events/Opportunities
The Iris Network has its Annual White Cane Walk on the first Saturday of each October to advocate for individuals who use a white cane or a guide dog to navigate their communities, and the importance of drivers yielding the right-of-way to them. Businesses are able to be a sponsor of this event by contacting giving@theiris.org.
The agency will be holding the First Annual Charles E. Prinn, III Indoor Golf Tournament on April 1, 2026 at X-Golf in Portland. Businesses are able to be a sponsor of this event and/or sign up a foursome. Contact giving@theiris.org.
Giving Opportunities
The Iris Network has two annual campaigns each year; one in the Spring and one during the holiday season. The agency has wonderful donors who contribute to help provide services and programs to those in the State of Maine who are visually impaired or blind.
The Iris Network also has a Planned Giving program and information on this can be requested by emailing giving@theiris.org.
Donations of gently used equipment that would benefit an individual with vision loss are accepted by calling the agency at (207) 774-6273 and asking for the Development Department.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Iris Network has many volunteer opportunities for community members, including being a personal shopper/shopping driver for those who are visually impaired, or leading arts and crafts, game night, music night, dancing, yoga, exercise or other outdoor recreational activities for the residents of our Iris Park Apartments. Bring your passion and kind heart.
