Chicago Chapter

Chapter Contact

Jenni Isenhower

The Strength of the Foundation is Through Our Communities

The Foundation Fighting Blindness Chapter network brings people together across the country to join in fighting blinding retinal diseases. Our family of volunteers and leaders stand up for those impacted by blinding diseases. From day one, they share the latest research and advancements, and provide access to local resources to guide individuals through their personal journey. And together, they celebrate the Foundation’s mission.

We are winning thanks to the dedication of our Chapters focusing on three key areas: education, resources, and revenue. Through informative sessions, Foundation staff, community, and national experts provide research information, low vision resources, and outreach to our local retinal specialists and eye care professionals. To continue accelerating our mission, each community is invited to be a stakeholder by participating in our fundraising events.

Registration for the 2026 Vision Walk will open soon!

The Chicago Chapter is looking forward to hosting networking events to bring our community together. Check back here for more details. We look forward to gathering and getting to know you all in the future! If you would like to be added to our email list and be notified of upcoming chapter events, please contact your local community manager.

The Chapter Network has Three Areas of Focus

  • EDUCATION. Learn the latest in blinding retinal disease research.

  • RESOURCES. Get connected to local community resources and specialists.

  • REVENUE. Raise funds through VisionWalks, dinners, DIY fundraisers, and more.

Chapter Events

Chicago Night for Sight

  • Nov 6, 2025
  • 6:00 p.m. (CDT)
  • 12 E Ohio St #100, Chicago, IL 60611

You’re invited to join the Foundation Fighting Blindness for Chicago Night for Sight, an unforgettable evening of inspiration, connection, and impact in support of our mission to drive research toward treatments and cures for blinding diseases.

Community Event

Chicago Chapter Leadership

Name Role
Jamie Cutler Chapter President
Christie Martin Varga Chapter Vice President
Patricia Kosmerl Resource Chair
Jeanne Martin Education Chair
Dr. Nancy Martin Professional Outreach 
Marie Farhat Revenue Chair

Looking for a chance to make a real difference? The Chicago Chapter is searching for passionate individuals who want to drive research for treatments and cures for blinding diseases. If you're enthusiastic about our mission and eager to be a champion in the community, we'd love to have you on our Chapter Leadership Team! Please contact Jenni Isenhower to learn more.

Past Events

Chicago Chapter Speaker Series - 05.07.2022

This presentation features a panel of experts from the Chicago Lighthouse and our leadership team on a local level.

2025 Artistry of Wine

2025 Artistry of Wine

2025 Artistry of Wine

Additional Resources

  • Find a doctor who sees patients with inherited retinal diseases
  • Learn more about our Vision Warrior program and do-it-yourself events