Grocery shop & read mail man blind in Boston

Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI) offers a range of services, including one-to-one volunteer support, peer‑led support groups, and vision rehabilitation for elders with low vision.

Our Community Volunteer Program connects volunteers with visually impaired adults in their community to assist with tasks such as reading, shopping, and other daily activities. We have 35 peer‑led support groups where participants can share challenges and resources.

MABVI’s greatest need is for volunteers in the Boston region who are willing to travel within Boston and up to 10–15 miles. Volunteers can help participants with grocery shopping, reading mail, and other tasks; a car is required. Sessions may be weekly or bimonthly.

Do you enjoy making a connection with someone in your community? Do you want to make a positive impact in the life of a neighbor in need? Join a team of over 200 volunteers across the state that helps create a difference in the blind and low‑vision community.

The role is relationship‑building and task‑oriented. Volunteers may help with the following tasks:

• Reading mail
• Paying bills
• Internet use/technology
• Medical transportation
• Grocery shopping
• Running errands in the community
• Recreational activities such as being a running/walking sighted guide
• Other clerical tasks

Volunteers typically devote 1–2 hours per week or every other week, depending on the participant’s needs.

• Complete a MABVI volunteer application
• Complete the online modular volunteer training
• Schedule a Zoom chat with a member of the MABVI volunteer team, or submit a CORI
• Meet the MABVI volunteer team via Zoom or phone call
• MABVI matches you with a participant

Watch our video to learn more and join the MABVI volunteer team!