Hearts, Warmth & Returning Light — Valentine’s 2026

Welcome to our Valentine’s 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


A Message from CB Brady, Executive Director

Warmer days, the returning sun, and a bustling Center — CB Brady shares a Valentine’s greeting and a few updates. Read more →

A Message from Pete McCall: Finding Redemption and Love in Alaska

At 52, facing divorce and unemployment, Pete McCall took a leap to a remote Alaska village — and found redemption and love. His story. Read more →

A Message from Victoria Ackerman: The White Cane (a Valentine’s Poem)

A playful Valentine’s ode to good cane technique, from Orientation and Mobility Specialist Victoria Ackerman. Read more →

From the ADL Kitchen with Tom Class: Nutella-Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

From the Activities of Daily Living kitchen, Tom Class shares a recipe for Nutella-stuffed chocolate chip cookies. Read more →

A Message from Nate Kile, Program Director

Through one of Anchorage’s longest cold snaps, the Center’s doors stayed open and the coffee kept flowing — a reflection on steady warmth and welcome. Read more →

A Message from Jacque Olsen, Mat-Su Outreach Coordinator

Mat-Su outreach is now full-time thanks to the Mat-Su Health Foundation — home visits, support groups, and Low Vision Clinics across the valley. Read more →

A Message from Casey Duerr: The Circle of Our Hearts (a Poem)

A Valentine’s poem celebrating the friendship, love, and community woven through the Center, from Casey Duerr. Read more →

The 13th Annual Great Big HeART Show

Middle Way Cafe’s biggest fundraiser of the year benefits the Center — heart-inspired art on display February 7 to April 4. Read more →

A Message from Kevin Whitley, Manual Skills Instructor: Get Outdoors

Enjoy the season outdoors — Challenge Alaska’s Adaptive Ski and Ride School in Girdwood. Read more →

Spring Break Adventure: Work & Volunteer Skills Youth Camp

Youth 14 and older with vision challenges: join our Work & Volunteer Skills Youth Camp, March 9–13. Volunteers welcome too. Read more →

Save the Date & Pick.Click.Give

Mark your calendar for our “Mask”querade gala, and remember to Pick.Click.Give. to the Center with your PFD. Read more →