The BSCB has four local area and two special interest chapters. The chapters sponsor social events and engage in advocacy efforts. If you would like to learn more, chapter president contact information also appears below.
Boston chapter
President: Jeanette Kutash
Phone: 617-335-8966
Email: kutash-jm@comcast.net
The Bay State Boston Chapter of BSCB is a growing, diverse group from Boston and the surrounding areas. You do not need to live in Boston to join our group. We strive to be ambassadors for all blind and visually impaired people, providing social and educational opportunities.
The chapter meets four times a year on the first Saturday of February, May, August, and November.
We welcome blind and visually impaired, and all sighted people who wish to join us. We also welcome ideas about issues to discuss, social opportunities we can pursue, and speakers you may wish to hear at our meetings. To learn more about us, and be placed on our mailing list, please contact President Jeanette Kutash
Central Massachusetts Chapter for the Worcester area
President: Sharon Strzalkowski
Phone: 508-363-3866
Email: strzal@charter.net
The Central Massachusetts Chapter (CMC) has been in existence since late 2017, and several activities and interests have emerged. A major focus of chapter conversation and advocacy has been on trying to preserve transportation through the Worcester Regional Transit Authority, both on fixed routes and the paratransit service. Working on audio description at local movie theaters is another concern of many members. Finally, technology and socializing grab our attention. We also enjoy occasional classes offered to us through community groups such as yoga and self-defense.
We are currently meeting on Zoom on the third Saturday generally every other month at 10 AM EST. To receive meeting invitations and follow other CMC activities, please subscribe to our announcement list.
Charles River Chapter for the west Boston suburbs
President: David Morrison
Phone: 617-924-8075
Email: dvm274@gmail.com
The Charles River Chapter (CRC) was established in the 1980s. The CRC meets at Perkins Library at 141 Riverside Street in Watertown. There is a meeting in the fall; a Holiday Party at a local restaurant in December; a February or March Meeting; a May or June Meeting, and a summer event such as a Pool Party.
CRC members are involved with technology and concerned about advocacy, and that the wider world be more accessible to the blind community. We always reserve time for snacks and fellowship between members, and this is enjoyed by all. We have raised funds for our Chapter by selling candy at the BSCB fall conference and spring convention.
South Shore Chapter
President: Chris Devin
Phone: 617-472-0308
Email: cfdevin@gmail.com
The South Shore chapter was founded in 1992 and has grown steadily since then. We now have 16 members. We meet quarterly either at a local restaurant or at one of our members’ homes. At the meetings we go over the recent happenings in BSCB, as well as any local issues that are of concern to us here on the South Shore, such as audible traffic signals.
We hope to hear from you, as we’re always interested in having new members. If you would like more information, you may contact President Chris Devin.
Guide Dog Users of Massachusetts (GDUM)
President: Carl Richardson
Phone: 617-877-1248
Email: carl@carl-richardson.com
Guide Dogs Users of Massachusetts (GDUM) is a Massachusetts based consumer-driven organization of guide dog handlers in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Our membership is comprised of guide dog teams from guide dog schools from all across North America. GDUM is an affiliate of both the Bay State Council of the Blind and Guide Dog Users, Inc. (GDUI).
We strive to promote civil rights and enhance the quality of life for working guide dog teams. Drawing on the experiences and varied knowledge of its members, GDUM provides peer support, advocacy and information to guide dog users. In addition, GDUM works with public entities, private businesses and individuals to ensure that guide dog users enjoy the same rights to travel, employment, housing, and participation in all aspects of life that people without disabilities enjoy.
GDUM also holds educational and social gatherings throughout the year. To learn more about GDUM please contact GDUM’s President Carl Richardson.