Longtime advocate for the blind, “Kitty” Kirsch retires after over two decades of service

The search for her successor is underway, apply today!

From the Allegany County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired,

This month Kathryn “Kitty” Kirsch began a much-deserved retirement from the Allegany County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired where she served as director for nearly 23 years.

Kitty assumed the directorship in 2002, taking over from departing director F.A. Felsen. As a registered nurse, Kitty was well suited for the role and quickly began working on the Low Vision Clinic with Dr. John Rundquist. Dr. Rundquist would see clients the first Monday of each month in the Wellsville office (26 Jefferson St.), allowing those with low vision to seek eye healthcare locally. This service continues to this day. Kitty also worked closely with Dr. VanDine, a local ophthalmologist, to bring healthcare to residents of Haiti on several trips.

In 2008, Kitty started the first “Hands on Workshop,” introducing the community to eye health services and technology. Over the years, this information fair has continued to grow and is now hosted annually at the American Legion, featuring vendors such as the WNY Center for the Visually Impaired, NYS Commission for the Blind, Guiding Eyes, The David A. Howe Public Library, The Office for the Aging, Jones Memorial Hospital and more.

Another program launched under her tenure was the Equipment on Loan Program. The program is still up and running and allows clients to borrow specialized equipment that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive. Kitty had a special knack for working with clients, which was evident in the amblyopia screenings held at area schools, the one-on-one sessions at the office, or the annual dinner for clients. 

Kitty, as well as her husband Michael, have given so much to the Blind Association over the years and are looking forward to spending time traveling and gardening together.

Now, the Board of Trustees of the Blind Association are seeking applicants to fill the director position. Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and list of professional references by mail to the Allegany County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 26 Jefferson St., Wellsville, NY, 14895, Attention: Nic Gunning, Search Committee Chair or via email at blindassociation0@gmail.com. Applications will be accepted through November 16, 2024 or until a qualified candidate has been selected. 

The purpose of the Allegany County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired is to (a) improve the social, economic and physical condition of blind and visually impaired citizens of Allegany County through educational, instructional and recreational programs so they may to achieve their highest level of independence in all aspects of their lives and (b) educate the local community about visual impairment through programs and events, publications and presentations.   

The Association is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Association Director.  The position is 4-8 hours per week with the hourly rate of $16.25-$17.00. Duties include working with clients and connecting them with the appropriate services and/or technologies. This may involve working directly with those in the medical and manufacturing fields as well as researching available state, federal and regional programs that may be available to clients. The director also oversees staff and volunteers and works with the board on outreach, budgeting, and fundraising initiatives.

Candidates must possess good leadership and organizational abilities, as well as strong interpersonal and communication skills. Education and/or experience in the medical field as well as prior experience in a leadership position or non-profit field is preferred. 

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter and list of professional references by mail to the Allegany County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 26 Jefferson St., Wellsville, NY, 14895, Attention: Nic Gunning, Search Committee Chair or via email at blindassociation0@gmail.com.  Applications will be accepted through November 16, 2024 or until a qualified candidate has been selected.