Bestwork Industries for the Blind is hosting its Second Annual Dining in the Dark fundraiser on Sept. 24 at the Adventure Aquarium in Camden. The event raises money and awareness for a planned Blindness & Low Vision Services Center (BLVSC).
Guests eat while blindfolded and learn navigation tips from Bestwork staff and people who are blind or visually impaired. “Dining in the Dark is an enlightening experience and has a powerful effect on most attendees,” said Jon Katz, Bestwork’s president and CEO.
The night includes access to the Shark Realm, a cocktail reception, live music from Jimmy and the Parrots, a silent auction, raffles, and celebrity emcee Dave Spadoro. Tickets, sponsorships, and donations are available through Bestwork’s website.
Bestwork is working to expand low-vision services in South Jersey. The region lacks enough providers. Plans include free adult vision screenings, low-vision exams, assistive tech, and rehabilitation services.
Founded in 1981 as a nonprofit sewing operation, Bestwork grew to win federal contracts and expand services. Jon Katz took over in 2021 and pushed the group into a full-service social enterprise. Bestwork now uses Lean Manufacturing, holds ISO 9001:2015 certification, and offers more career and rehab pathways for people who are blind or visually impaired.
Headquartered in Cherry Hill, Bestwork is one of New Jersey’s largest employers of people with vision loss. They also manufacture military apparel and other textile products for government and commercial clients.
If you love live music and want to support a good cause, Dining in the Dark is a night to see good tunes and help expand services for the visually impaired.
