PHILOSOPHY

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TEAM BAT is a project, concept, think tank, springboard, and fraternity/sorority for individuals with visual impairments looking to break through the traditional limits and barriers of the blind. Approximately 90% of blind children won't find long term, gainful employment when they grow up. The problem arises not from the reduced vision, but from the reduced standards of performance and expectation of achievement for the blind. These standards and expectations in our society just aren't the same for the blind as for the sighted. Blind children are continually told that they "can't" or "shouldn't", to protect them from harm. These words are imposed with the best of intentions, but as a result, the children are denied avenues for growth and success. They are effectively set aside as lesser beings, and barred from full participation with the rest of the world.

The TEAM BAT project upholds the belief that there are no limits to the capabilities and potentials of blind people. With the sense of vision reduced, or absent, the individual can improve the remaining senses to optimize functioning. It is through this integration that anyone, regardless of their strengths or disabilities, can lead a life equal to others.

We believe that the improvement of perceptions and skills is facilitated best through recreation, because the process is enhanced by enjoyment and friendly competition. Sighted children hone their perceptual/motor skills through engaging in a variety of recreational activities throughout childhood. They develop an awareness of their bodies, and how to relate their bodies actively and dynamically with the environment. Such activities develop good sportsmanship, team playing and a positive sense of self and personal achievement. We find that this approach will develop a blind individual's confidence and raise the capacity to perform daily functions to a higher level. As the visually impaired individuals reach greater and greater heights through this TEAM BAT project, they will become testaments to the world of the great potentials within everyone.