For a second year in a row, the Blind and Visually Impaired Center of Monterey County will host a barbecue event in Soledad, where clients from around the areas and supporters will be welcomed on Saturday, Aug. 1.
Though the event is aimed at creating awareness towards the visually impaired community, the barbecue is really about bringing the community together, said Steven Macias, the Executive Director of the Center. Some foods, hot dogs and the company of good friends are just what is needed for this Saturday, he adds.
“As a way to really bring our clients in South County together, as we all know there is that divide between the residents of Monterey, Salinas, and of course South County,” Macias says. “Having something centrally located in Soledad would allow our clients in King City and other cities from the surrounding areas to come together and enjoy the camaraderie, each other’s company.”
Macias says that the feel-good event will also be about learning regarding the center’s services, but mostly for “people to enjoy an event that’s actually catered towards the community.”
Last year the event was a hit, Macias says. This year a repeat was necessary, he adds.
“We had such great success with the first year that we had to do it again this year,” Macias says.
The barbecue will take place at Orchard Lane Park, Spot C, 1505 Metz Road, Soledad. It takes place from 11:30pm-1:30pm.
The event is part of the center’s “ongoing commitment to building community and supporting individuals living with vision loss throughout Monterey County,” Macias says.
“Since 1971, our mission has been to empower people who are blind or visually impaired to live more independently through free education, support services, and skills training,” Macias said in a statement.