ABVI celebrates 90 years of empowering South Carolinians who are blind or low vision
October 12, 2026
The Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired SC (ABVI) is celebrating a milestone— 90 years of service to individuals who are blind or low vision in our community. Since 1936, ABVI has evolved to meet the changing needs of South Carolinians. Today, that commitment is stronger than ever.
Founded in Charleston in 1936 by a dedicated group of community volunteers led by Mrs. Fred G. Sahlmann, ABVI was established with a simple but powerful purpose: to help people with vision loss lead fuller, more independent lives. The organization’s first Board Chair, Harriott Ravenel Buist Smythe, helped lay the foundation for a mission that continues to transform lives today. From early job readiness and independent living programs to today’s highly specialized vision rehabilitation services, ABVI has remained committed to empowering individuals who are blind or low vision to live fulfilling, purpose-driven lives.
As the organization celebrates its 90th anniversary, it also celebrates a future of expanded impact, innovation, and statewide service. After merging with The Vision Institute in 2023, ABVI extended services beyond the Lowcountry and now serves individuals in all 46 counties across every region of the state. Today, ABVI is the only nonprofit organization in South Carolina providing comprehensive vision rehabilitation services for individuals of all ages who are blind or low vision.
With offices in the Lowcountry, Midlands, and Upstate and more than 20 certified vision professionals, ABVI delivers individualized training in clients’ homes, schools, workplaces, communities, virtually, and at its facilities. Services include early intervention for young children, educational support for school-aged students, transition services for teens and young adults, and rehabilitation programs that help adults maintain independence and quality of life.
“Celebrating 90 years is both humbling and inspiring,” said Courtney Plotner, Chief Executive Officer of ABVI. “I am in awe of the vision, dedication, and compassion of the Board members, staff, volunteers, and supporters who came before us and built ABVI into the organization it is today. Their commitment created opportunities for thousands of South Carolinians to live more independently. It is an incredible honor to be part of that legacy, and I am equally proud of our current Board and team as we continue building an even stronger future for people with vision loss across our state.”
Board Chair Sam Clawson added, “As we celebrate this milestone, we also celebrate the people whose lives have been changed through ABVI’s work. We are proud of our history, grateful for those who built this organization, and excited to continue advancing our mission for generations to come.”
As ABVI looks toward its next chapter, the organization remains focused on expanding opportunities for individuals who are blind or low vision to live, learn, and earn.
For more information about Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired SC, visit www.abvisc.org.
About ABVI
Founded in 1936, the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired South Carolina (ABVI) is the state’s only nonprofit organization providing comprehensive vision rehabilitation services for individuals of all ages who are blind or low vision. Through personalized instruction, education, advocacy, and rehabilitation, ABVI empowers South Carolinians to live independently and pursue fulfilling, purpose-driven lives.
