‘Be My Eyes’ Connects Blind People with Volunteers for Quick Help

'Be My Eyes' Connects Blind People with Volunteers for Quick Help

The outlet of service has been a foundation for me. My mother, who was deaf, often would say, “To whom much is given, much is required.” That stuck.

In the world of the COVID-19 pandemic, I have struggled in a few areas. One space that has been difficult for me is the ability to be involved with the community.

One of my favorite people at work, Savannah, shared an app that allows you to provide sight help to blind and low vision people. I sat down to find out more, and the tears of joy flowed. The “Be My Eyes” free app is remarkable.

Both my parents were deaf. However, my father became legally blind in his later years due to macular degeneration. The struggle was real. Bud took it all in great stride. Thanks to Dr. Morris at the Retina Specialist of Alabama, we could save some of his eyesight. He would video our appointments for the Helen Keller Foundation for Research and Education.

The “Be My Eyes” app has been around for a while but new to me. So, I had to share it with you. “This app “connects blind and low-vision people with sighted volunteers and company representatives for visual assistance through a live video call.”

Imagine that. You can help someone determine if the milk is expired, select pink lipstick vs. red, and if the heat or ac is on. Every little bit helps to make the world a better place.

Let me tell you how easy it is to set up being a volunteer.
• Head to your app store and search for Be My Eyes, and install the app.
• Click on “I’d like to volunteer.”
• Sign up by clicking on “I am new.” You can create an account, sign up via Facebook or Google. (I did it through Facebook.)
• Pick your language, give microphone access, and receive emails. Done!
• Then make sure you do the “learn how to answer a call.” Follow the steps and become familiar with how to help out.

I haven’t had my first call yet, but I am anxiously awaiting the opportunity. I’ll be sure to report back with how it all went.

(Source) For more about Be My Eyes, click here.