SILO Holds Dinner in the Dark Event to Help Recognize The Challenges Encountered by the Visually Impaired

By Patrick Mitchell/SILO Board Member

On September 27 the Suffolk Independent Living Organization held their First Annual Dinner in the Dark Fundraising Event at the Sea Basin Restaurant in Rocky Point. The goal was to allow attendees to participate in a firsthand journey to appreciate the challenges encountered by the visually impaired as they strive to become more independent. As each person entered the restaurant they were led to a table and promptly blindfolded which would lead to a unique sensory experience.

Each table included a visually impaired person that helped each blindfolded individual go through the steps necessary to successfully complete their meal in the same manner that would be utilized by a visually impaired person. One strategy that was used was the clock method to locate the food on the plate, in that the potatoes were located at 3`oclock therefore allowing the person to successfully locate their food. The evening was a huge success with significant positive feedback from those in attendance at this unique event. SILO will be holding this event again next fall and we will be publicizing this event in the future.

SILO is the New York State Designated Center for Independent Living Services. It is a non-for-profit Human Services Agency dedicated to working with people with disabilities, elderly individuals and their families. SILO provides over 27 programs and services throughout the Long Island Region. The ultimate goal is to provide the necessary support for people with disabilities and the elderly to live independently within their communities. If interested in more information regarding SILO Programs and Services please call (631) 880-7929 and ask for Executive Director Joe Delgado

(Pictured L-R) Patrick Mitchell SILO Board Vice President; Donald Gomez SILO Board Member with Service Dog Laria; Paula Ryan Event Chairperson; Felicia Fiano SILO Executive Assistant; Bernie Ferracane SILO Board Member; Marilyn Tucci SILO Community Outreach Specialist with Service Dog Anna; Joe Delgado SILO Executive Director and Roger Smith SILO Board Member