Dover Man to be Honored in Randolph by Vision Loss Alliance of NJ

Bruce Van Buskirk lost nearly all sight when he was 48 years old, the result of out-of-control Type 2 diabetes. “I hit rock bottom; I thought my life was over,” he said.

Once he got over the shock, he bounced back and built a life he could enjoy. Van Buskirk spent years retraining his brain to compensate for vision loss, and reset his goals. He’d planned to retire as a chemist at age 55 to travel the world and golf. Instead, he decided to use his money to help people — including others with vision loss.

Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey, one of the state’s longest-serving nonprofits for adults with vision loss, is honoring Van Buskirk at its 75th anniversary celebration, Dining in the Dark, on Oct. 25.

“Bruce is a kindhearted and dedicated individual,” Vision Loss Alliance Executive Director Kris Marino said. “He really enjoys contributing not only financially, but in an advisory role. He looks forward to seeing the impact his generosity is making.”

Van Buskirk became a sustaining donor more than a decade ago. He contributes the annual distribution from his retirement funds, and through estate planning, he will leave the principal to Vision Loss Alliance, he said. Van Buskirk also serves Vision Loss Alliance’s advisory board.

“I’ve always liked helping people, and I realized my financial situation would allow me to make a big impact,” said Van Buskirk, who lives in Dover. “I am impressed by how the organization helps people who suffer the trauma of losing their sight adjust to their situation, far quicker than they would on their own,” Van Buskirk said.

Van Buskirk also funds an annual scholarship at his alma mater, Hope College in Michigan, with preference given to a student with a visual impairment.

“Investing in worthy causes like Vision Loss Alliance feels very good!” he said.

To register for Dining in the Dark, visit http://dininginthedark.info/. Guests will enjoy a delicious meal with all their senses — except sight — at the Meadow Wood Manor in Randolph.

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ABOUT VISION LOSS ALLIANCE OF NEW JERSEY

Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey is a 501(c)(3) that provides practical training and emotional support to help those who have experienced profound vision loss regain self-esteem and self-reliance. Since its founding in 1943, Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey has used a holistic approach to empower those with profound vision loss to live engaged, productive and independent lives. Go to vlanj.org for more information.