Fresh Starts & New Routes — Spring 2026

Welcome to our Spring 2026 issue of Eyes on the Center. Browse the table of contents below, then read any story that catches your eye.

Events Calendar

The Center offers classes, support groups, Low Vision Clinics, and community events year-round. For the full, up-to-date lineup, visit our events calendar.

In This Issue


Meet Daria Ezhova, Assistive Technology Instructor and Youth Coordinator

Meet one of our newest team members — Daria Ezhova brings warmth, creativity, and a remarkable journey from West Siberia to the Center. Read more →

A Message from Jacque Olsen, Mat-Su Outreach Coordinator

Victoria Ackerman visited our Living Well with Vision Loss support group in Palmer to work with seniors on cane travel. Read more →

A Message from Pete McCall: Gulf Coast Easter Memories

Pete McCall remembers Easters along the Louisiana Gulf Coast — faith, family, food, football, fishing, and plenty of heat and mosquitoes. Read more →

A Message from Casey Duer, Program Director

On creating your own traditions — Casey shares the family’s joyful “Plants vs. Zombies Day” welcome to spring. Read more →

A Message from Victoria Ackerman: Finding Your Way This Spring

Whether you’re hunting eggs or learning a new route, it comes down to trust in your cane and your skills — a springtime reflection from Victoria Ackerman. Read more →

A Message from Tom Class: An Easter Reflection

Tom Class reflects on Easter, family, faith, and chocolate as its own food group — with a bunny joke to close. Read more →

Kevin Whitley: Adapting, Evolving, Thriving (as featured in The Senior Voice)

From Texas to Alaska, from mason to instructor — Kevin Whitley’s story of adapting, evolving, and thriving, as featured in The Senior Voice. Read more →

Meet Alex Ausel and Her Braille Passion Project

Twelve-year-old Alex Ausel taught herself Braille and is designing 3D-printed ADA-compliant signs — including some for the Center. Read more →

Thank You, TOTE Maritime!

We extend our heartfelt thanks to TOTE Maritime for their generous donation to the Center. Read more →

Save the Date: “Mask”querade — Seeing With Our Hearts 2026

Mark your calendar for our “Mask”querade gala at the Anchorage Museum, October 8, 2026. Read more →