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Local organizations supply Youngstown woman with tools to learn and write Braille

By Kelcey Norris Mahoning Matters
Patty Poorman sits and tests out her new Perkins Brailler thanks to donations from the Melvin Jones Foundation, Canfield and Boardman Lions Clubs, and Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries, Inc. Sitting with her is Ted Filmer, Canfield Lions Club member. Standing are, from left, Andy Dzuracky, Melvin Jones Foundation promoter, Joy Mistovich, Boardman Lions Club and Goodwill board member, Mike Muder, Youngstown Radio Reading Service Manager, and Mike Bosela, former Director of YRRS.
Patty Poorman sits and tests out her new Perkins Brailler thanks to donations from the Melvin Jones Foundation, Canfield and Boardman Lions Clubs, and Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries, Inc. Sitting with her is Ted Filmer, Canfield Lions Club member. Standing are, from left, Andy Dzuracky, Melvin Jones Foundation promoter, Joy Mistovich, Boardman Lions Club and Goodwill board member, Mike Muder, Youngstown Radio Reading Service Manager, and Mike Bosela, former Director of YRRS. Photo provided

Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries and some Youngstown organizations pitched in to give a special gift to a longtime volunteer known for helping others in the community.

Patty Poorman received a mechanical Braille typewriter and paper to help her learn braille.

She’s been an active listener at Youngstown Radio Reading Services since 2016, also a part of Goodwill.

The YRRS broadcasts readings of local newspapers and media for people who are blind or visually impaired.

She also regularly attends the Visually Impaired Persons Support Group Meetings.

“We are excited to be able to partner with the Canfield and Boardman Lions Clubs through the Melvin Jones Foundation to donate these items to Patty Poorman,” said Mike Muder, manager for YRRS. “This will help Patty to become more independent by learning and utilizing Braille. Patty has dedicated herself and is working hard to learn, and we are thrilled to be able to help her with this endeavor.”

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This story was originally published June 9, 2024 at 6:00 AM.