For 75 years, NewView Oklahoma has been a cornerstone of vision care and advocacy in our state, championing independence, accessibility and quality of life for those with visual impairments. From its state-of-the-art clinic and diverse service offerings to a cutting-edge manufacturing warehouse, NewView continues to redefine what it means to see beyond limitations.
Empowering Through Employment
A thriving manufacturing and distribution warehouse is at the core of NewView Oklahoma’s operations. This facility creates high-quality products for government and commercial contracts and serves as an employment hub for individuals with visual impairments. The warehouse provides meaningful work, fostering a sense of purpose, self-reliance and economic independence among its employees.
“There are high unemployment rates for many who are blind,” said President and CEO Lauren Branch.
Every task, from assembly to distribution, reflects NewView’s commitment to growth and inclusion, with adaptable technologies showcasing how accessible processes empower both individuals and the organization. It produces a diverse array of high-quality products, including:
- Fire Hoses
- Sanitation Products
- Shower Curtains
- Survival and First Aid Kits
- Wooden and Composite Chocks for the aerospace industry
A Clinic Built for Vision and Beyond
NewView Oklahoma’s clinic aids individuals with visual impairments through specialized rehabilitation, mobility training, assistive technology and personalized care to foster independence.
“Approximately 95% of most people who are ‘blind’ can actually see something,” said Development Manager Mark Ivy. “I was going to play baseball, but I lost my sight by 22, and was using a cane by 27. Embarrassment is the first component. I couldn’t drive. I was missing handshakes. I was bumping into people. How do I convince everyone I am not blind? Adapting to not being able to take my daughter places is a current hurdle. And how do I be a husband? NewView is connecting people with the tools for independence.”
“I was a CAN [Certified Nursing Assistant],” said Rehab Assistant Mellisa Vega. “I had no family history of vision loss. I stopped driving and had to learn to use a cane. There are hurdles and emotions you go through, and coming to NewView has made things a lot easier. Every time something changes with your vision, it is easy to go back to square one, so that is why a support system is necessary, and there is a support group here at NewView.”
Patients also receive personalized care from certified therapists focused on maximizing sight and providing practical solutions, with adaptive skills and technologies helping individuals with vision loss lead active, fulfilling lives.
75 Years of Unwavering Commitment
NewView Oklahoma invites guests to attend its 75th Anniversary Gala on March 28, and embrace the 1940s Big Band Swing era with a special performance by jazz musician Matthew Whitaker, who has appeared on “Showtime at the Apollo” and CBS’s “60 Minutes.” The Honorable George and Donna Nigh will receive the Durward K. McDaniel Award for their dedication to empowering individuals with disabilities. Guests can also savor a Blind Bourbon, Wine and Mocktail Tasting.
“The organization has evolved over the years,” Branch said. “NewView was started in 1949 by six blind individuals, and we want to honor the founders and everyone over the years who have contributed.”
Looking Ahead
As NewView Oklahoma celebrates its 75th year, the focus remains on building a future where those with visual impairments are empowered.
“Vision rehabilitation is completely left out of any health care coverage,” Branch said. “The vast majority of people will never receive any care because of a lack of coverage, and we rely heavily on donations.”
“It is hard not to think about that future, and that is where I need to rely on my support system,” Vega said. “I try to stay as independent as I can. I am learning new things like Korean, and I am leaning to dance. I am living a little bit more than before.”
To learn more about how you can support NewView and its 75th anniversary, visit nvoklahoma.org.
Interested in learning more about Oklahoma’s community? Check out our story on Creating a Culture.
