Camp Independence is a residential camp for blind and visually impaired youth between the ages of 12 and 17. The camp has been running for 15 years and is held at Wheeling University. Campers reside in a college dormitory and get a taste of living away from home and on a college campus.

Campers are given the opportunity to try and succeed at new skills in a safe, secure, and positively shared atmosphere. The only cost involved with camp is a nominal registration fee of $25 dollars. If this is a financial hardship, sponsors will be found. All transportation, food, snacks, refreshments, and admissions are paid for by The Seeing Hand Association.

Camp Independence is directed by a certified VI (instructor of the visually impaired). This enables the Camp Director to bring his/her professional skills to bare in a relaxed summer camp setting.

Campers participate in activities designed to develop self-esteem, educational skills, healthy exercise, and social interaction. Camp activities vary from year-to-year, but have included: trips to Oglebay Park, Wheeling Park, Carnegie Museums, cooking, and arts and crafts.

The Seeing Hand Association provides school tours and actively participates in community schools in the Ohio Valley. Working with the youth, whether visually impaired or not, helps us grow the awareness and increase the support for our cause.