VisionCorps is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026 and is asking the public for help in highlighting its work over the years. The organization is seeking donated photos and objects that highlight its history to include in an anniversary exhibit.

Over the years, VisionCorps has operated under several different names and expanded its footprint from Lancaster to surrounding counties. Today, it offers employment for the blind and vision impaired in Lancaster and York counties and Little Rock, Ark., as well as remote opportunities nationwide in its Professional Services Division.

After its founding in 1926 as an agency offering help to veterans who returned from WWI with impaired vision, the organization taught chair caning, basket weaving, and other tactile trades in its Lancaster location. VisionCorps also offered educational activities, including a speech and visit by Helen Keller in 1932. It operated a gift shop and a children's preschool on-site. Its social activities included outreach luncheons, special music programs and fundraisers, and recreational opportunities such as a bowling league.

Some donated objects that VisionCorps would like to include in its 100th anniversary exhibit include physical or digital versions of old photos of people at work or visiting the VisionCorps Lancaster office; caned items, including chairs or caning features; hand-woven baskets; Braille books, Bibles, or other items in Braille; old radios used to listen to programs; old canes used for mobility by people who were blind or vision impaired; older eyeglasses or objects used by blind or vision impaired people to improve their sight; children's toys or books designed for children who are blind or vision impaired; and other objects specifically used by people who were blind or vision impaired.

The yearlong celebration of the agency's 100th anniversary will include special displays and programs, along with a celebration gala on Friday, Oct. 2. In addition, VisionCorps' annual rappelling event, Eye Drop 2026, scheduled for Friday, June 5, will also have an anniversary theme, "Reeling Into the Future."

For more information about donating items or the anniversary commemorations, contact Carol Gifford, community relations manager, at 717-205-4149.