SENECA, Pa. — The Venango County Association for the Blind held their annual Awareness/Fundraiser at Seneca Lanes on Thursday bringing in a record number of participants.

(Pictured above: Association clients utilize sighted guides and ramps as aides to successful bowling.)

The event boasted 21 more bowlers than 2017 almost maxing out the alley.

The show of support from the Venango and Clarion County businesses allowed most participants to go home with a door prize. Other donations helped raise additional revenue. New sponsors and increased sponsorships help put the funds raised over the top as well.

In a friendly competition for the traveling trophy, Klapec Auto Body overturned two year champs the Jesse G. Greer VFW Post 1835. The VFW did take home the award for the highest score in the Vision Impaired game. The event is always considered a success as people don the simulator glasses mimicking common eye diseases such as Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma/Retinitis Pigmentosa and Cataracts and become aware of the need for regular eye exams and develop sensitivity towards individuals dealing with these diseases.

Left to right: Executive Director, Priscilla Earhart, and Cranberry Lions Club member Larry Snow share their excitement and enthusiasm for the cause.

Participants also have the opportunity to bowl alongside individuals who strive to overcome the obstacles presented by these impairments.

The Blind Association is already looking toward what Vision Bowl 2019 will bring.