Opportunities Unlimited for the Blind was created for the exact purpose that is its name. To create and foster unlimited opportunities for blind and partially sighted people throughout Michigan and the world.  This organization, comprised mainly of blind adults who have a passion for blind youth, was created in 1994.  As the presence of the Michigan School for the Blind began to greatly diminish it became apparent that additional mentoring, leadership and education were vital to ensure that the blind youth of today would grow into successful competent blind adults.

Opportunities Unlimited for the Blind first worked as a sort of PTA or secondary voice at Camp Tuhsmeheta.  This organization provided some guidance and funds, however, as the School for the Blind became less and less interested in the camp, OUB began to have more and more influence.  The people who founded this organization knew the importance of camp and how much of a life changing experience it is.  They longed to see the youth of today experience and grow from the same experiences they had as children. 

It is said that we are truly alive when we do what we love and OUB’s love came alive at camp T.  In the summer of 2004, after the camp sat unused during the summer of 2003, OUB was finally allowed complete responsibility for the camp.  OUB gained the opportunity to implement longer camping sessions, hire a large number of blind role models as counselors and support staff and steer the camp program into a bright, determined and promising future.  

Today the possibilities and strength of OUB is immeasurable.  This organization, still comprised mostly of blind determined and passionate adults, hopes to extend the use of Camp T and build it into a nationally recognized program of excellence.  Though the organization has grown, the principles remain the same. OUB works to create opportunities in and outside of Camp Tuhsmeheta that will help build the blind youth of today into strong, self confident, successful leaders of tomorrow.

Goals:

Have fun while gaining skills and knowledge.

Educate and enhance current daily living skills such as proper table manners, tying shoes, making a sandwich/cooking, utilizing blind role models.

Teach campers to identify elements in natural environment (forests, fields, wetlands and waterfront). For example, learn to identify a tree by its bark and smell, a bird by its song or wing whirl, a type of fungus by its texture. Teach to associate the sounds, feel and scents of an area to identify its habitat.

Teach safe cane travel in natural environments and rough terrain. Improve skills of cane travel using a compass, sounds, wind direction, and route memorization.

Gain a sense of self to become more proactive, both independently and in group settings.

Teach arts and crafts to spark creativity, developing gross and fine motor skills and enhance campers existing talents.

Educate in ecology, conservation, and nature in general.

Teach campers to be able to adapt to sudden changes in the environment and people around them.

Encourage youth to participate in blindness organizations, broadening their boundaries and horizons.