Our Blogs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Link Vision?
We’re an Australian not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting people with low or no vision. We were established in 1968, and our mission has stayed the same ever since: to enhance the lives of people with low or no vision. We do this through independent living accommodation, our Brisbane-based Op Shops, and our annual Blind Australian of the Year Awards.
What kind of content will I find on your blog?
We use the blog to share our news, the stories behind who we are, and updates on things like Op Shop donations and our growing network of shops. Recent posts include a tribute to our founder, Rev Elsie Dodd, an update on doubling our number of Op Shops, and some guidance on donating goods responsibly.
Who founded Link Vision?
We were founded by Reverend Elsie Dodd and her husband Gordon Dodd in 1968, originally as Aid for the Blind. On our blog, you’ll find a tribute post, “In loving memory of Rev Elsie Dodd, founder of Link Vision,” where we share her legacy and the impact of her work building our organisation.
How can I donate items to Link Vision?
We welcome donated goods through our Op Shops, including clothing, homewares, bric-a-brac and furniture. Pre-loved furniture is very much appreciated, though it needs to be in good, resalable condition, and we have a collection request form for bulky items. Our blog post “Donate it, don’t dump it” walks through how to donate responsibly and why choosing to donate rather than discard unwanted goods helps both the environment and our community.
How many Op Shops do you run?
In 2020, we doubled our number of Op Shops, growing from four locations to eight, and we’ve kept expanding since. Today we run shops across Brisbane suburbs including Cannon Hill, Capalaba, Coorparoo, Deception Bay, Geebung, Lawnton, Mitchelton, Wynnum and Zillmere. Our Op Shops page has the full, current list along with addresses and phone numbers.
How do Op Shop purchases and donations support your work?
Every purchase and donation helps fund our operations, including our independent living units and computer club, and helps nominees attend our annual Blind Australian of the Year Awards. We don’t receive additional government funding for these programs, so the support of our Op Shop customers and donors makes a real difference to people with low or no vision.
Do you offer accommodation support?
Yes. We provide independent living units for people with low or no vision. Units are set in small blocks, which gives residents privacy along with plenty of outdoor space, including room for guide dogs. You’ll find more detail on our dedicated Accommodation page.
How can I get involved or help Link Vision?
There are plenty of ways to help us out: donating goods to an Op Shop, shopping with us, making a tax-deductible financial donation (donations over $2 qualify), supporting or nominating someone for the Blind Australian of the Year Awards, leaving a bequest, or volunteering your time, including work experience placements. Our “How to Help” page runs through all these options in more detail.
How often do you update the blog?
We update the blog as news, stories and milestones come up, covering everything from organisational updates to community stories and practical tips like how to donate well. Checking back now and then, or following us on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube, is a great way to keep up with what we’re doing.
How can I get in touch with you?
You can reach us through our Contact page, by email at office@linkvision.org.au, or through our social channels on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. These are the best ways to ask us about donations, Op Shop locations, accommodation support or volunteering.
Where can I find your Op Shop locations?
Our Op Shops page lists all our current locations, including addresses and phone numbers for each store. Since our network has grown a fair bit since 2020, it’s worth checking that page directly for the most up-to-date list.