No Limits Celebration: An Evening with Lachi

The image shows an advertisement for an event. The background is a vibrant orange with a photo of a smiling woman in a sparkly blue dress, holding a white cane. The text on the screen reads: "ibcf Indiana Blind Children's Foundation no limits arts series NO LIMITS CELEBRATION AN EVENING WITH LACHI" The word "LACHI" is written in large, bold, multicolored letters.

The Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation, in partnership with Butler University Arts and Events Center, is excited to host the 2025 No Limits Celebration and welcome Lachi to the Schrott Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

All tickets include the following:

Guests will enjoy a pre-concert reception from 6PM-7:30PM featuring heavy appetizers catered by the Jazz Kitchen and cash bar provided by Butler University.
A one-hour keynote concert from Lachi at 8PM featuring narrative storytelling, high-energy piano performance, and insight on current disability culture and inclusion practices. Seating for the performance begins at 7:15PM. Program to start at 7:45PM with a welcome from emcee Kathy Nimmer.
Post-concert desserts and coffee from 9PM-9:30PM
A half-hour conversation and Q&A with Lachi and emcee Kathy Nimmer from 9:30PM-10PM

Patrons who need wheelchair seating, companion seats, and ASL interpretation (stage right) should pick those seats when purchasing their tickets.

ASL interpreters will be provided throughout the No Limits Celebration and featured stage right during the performance and Q&A in Schrott Center for the Arts. Access services such as audio description, open captioning, and assistive listening devices are available to all patrons, no matter the seat.

Please note that doors open at 6:00PM. Click here for more information on the venue.

About Lachi

Named one of USA Today’s “Women of the Year” in 2024, Lachi is a globally touring recording artist, award-winning social entrepreneur, GRAMMYs Chapter Board Governor, and host of PBS’ American Masters series Renegades. Born legally blind, she uses her platform in music, storytelling and fashion to amplify identity pride and Disability Culture. Her U.N.-recognized organization RAMPD (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities) has collaborated on disability-inclusive solutions with the GRAMMYs, Netflix, Tidal, SONY Pictures Entertainment and more.

About Emcee and Host Kathy Nimmer

Kathy Nimmer is the 2015 Indiana Teacher of the Year and finalist for 2015 National Teacher of the Year. She most recently directed a mentorship program for new teachers in the Lafayette area, following three decades as a high school English teacher. Kathy is also an author and avid motivational speaker. After graduating from ISBVI in 1987, Kathy earned her B.A. in English Education from Trinity Christian College in 1991 and her M.A. from Purdue University in 1992.

About the No Limits Arts Series

ISBVI's move due to construction on a renovated campus has sparked new IBCF partnerships and inspired creative adaptability. Starting in 2025, IBCF will partner with Butler University Arts and Events Center to host annual No Limits Celebrations at the Schrott Center for the Arts. Support from Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation will help IBCF transition and grow No Limits programming over the next year.

Thank You to Our 2025 No Limits Sponsors!

2024 Through the Looking Glass Gala

A black and white graphic features a flowing checkered flag with text that reads - THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS PRESENTED BY EYE SURGEONS OF INDIANA-.

IBCF is proud to present the 2024 Through the Looking Glass Gala, presented by Eye Surgeons of Indiana, on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024!

This year's event will take place at the private residence of Forrest and Charlotte Lucas in Carmel, IN. IBCF has been granted exclusive access to this historic estate.

An exterior view of the Lucas Estate. Photo credit: Kristin Hornberger Photography Alt Text: The picture displays a large house with a grey roof and white walls with multiple windows. There is a driveway in front of the house with a circular area and a large “L” painted on the ground. There are green hedges and red flowers lining the driveway. The sky is blue with some clouds.

Tickets to the 2024 Through the Looking Glass Gala are now available!

Attendees will enjoy the red carpet treatment, complimentary valet parking, live and silent auction bidding using electronic online bidding software via their cellphone, complimentary select beer and wine throughout the night, a three-course dinner, chances to win exclusive prizes, casino tables, wine and bourbon tasting, a unique program, and an after party-style lounge with local entertainment.

With this year's Gala taking place at a new, exclusive location, we're excited to work with several new corporate partners to give the event even more flair! These partners will include Dick's Sporting Goods, Dirty Dough, Prime 47, and West Fork Whiskey Co.

Glamorously dressed guests are invited to wear black, white, and/or splash of gold to this year's elegant racing-themed event.

This year's Fund-A-Need will support low vision assistive devices to be recommended to students through the new IU Low Vision Clinic at the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

2024 TTLG Keynote Speaker

The picture shows a man standing to the left of a red Corvette race car. He is holding a white cane in his left hand and a racing helmet in his right hand. Behind him is a large garage door with horizontal windows.

Dan Parker is more than just the world’s fastest blind racecar driver; he’s a testament to human resilience and the power of possibility. After losing his sight in a racing accident, Dan refused to let his dreams be sidelined. He defied limitations, pioneering a custom audio guidance system and returning to the racetrack, eventually claiming the Guinness World Record title at a blistering 211 mph.

Dan’s story isn’t just about speed; it’s about defying expectations and redefining what’s possible. He ignites audiences with his passion, humor, and unwavering determination, inspiring them to overcome their own obstacles and chase their dreams, no matter how audacious they may seem. As a motivational speaker, Dan’s impact transcends the racetrack, leaving audiences empowered, motivated, and ready to take on the world.

Kendra Scott Gives Back

Two Ways to Shop for Good

Join us at Kendra Scott at the Fashion Mall on Keystone in Indianapolis on Saturday, February 10^th from Noon-2PM for a lovely shopping experience. Sip on refreshments while you shop in the store. Mention the Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation or show the flyer at check-out to ensure 20% of your purchase price is donated to the Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation. Those who shop in store have an added bonus! Spend over $100 in store and be entered into a drawing to win one of six custom made jewelry pieces made by Leadership Club students from the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ISBVI).

Shop online anytime on February 10^th & 11^th at kendrascott.com and Kendra Scott will donate 20% of your purchase price to the Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation when you enter the code GIVEBACK-FSPBX in your cart.

Financial support raised through the Kendra Scott Give Back event will support the 2024 ISBVI Prom and mission of the Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation.

Click here to download a Shop for Good Event Flyer

2023 Holiday Tree Sale and Family Event

Saturday, December 2nd
8:00AM - 3:00PM

IBCF Made-To-Order Breakfast in Churchman Cafeteria

8:00AM - 11:00AM
Adult Admission $10 & Kids Admission $5
Pancakes, Omelets and Biscuits and Gravy

Additional Churchman Cafeteria Events

9:00AM - 10:30AM
Visit with Santa Claus
Children may share their wish-list on Santa’s lap while parents take photos.

9:00AM - 11:00AM
Horticulture Program Sale
Purchase Magic Reindeer Food and holiday decorations made by students in the Greenhouse.

10:00AM - 10:45AM
Enjoy the Butler University Student Ensemble performing holiday and jazz music.

Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale at the ISBVI Tree Farm & Shed

9:00AM - 3:00PM
Firs, Pine, and Spruce Trees Available for Purchase- $15 & Up
Hand-Made, Fresh Wreaths - $20 & Up

Additional Tree Farm & Shed Activities

11:30AM - 12:00PM
Caroling with ISBVI Choir Teacher Ms. Pivec and ISBVI Students

11:00AM - 1:00PM
Visit with Santa Claus at the Tree Farm

1:00PM - 2:00PM
Rudolph Ryan and a Real Live Reindeer at the Tree Farm

2023 Through the Looking Glass Gala

Click on a link below to review the official event photographs.

2023 Through the Looking Glass Gala

The Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation is proud to present the Through the Looking Glass Gala, presented by Eye Surgeons of Indiana, on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at the Renaissance Indianapolis Hotel in Carmel, Indiana.

Attendees will enjoy the red-carpet treatment, live and silent auction bidding using electronic online bidding software via their cell phone, three-course dinner, TTLG keynote speaker Christine Ha- MasterChef with Gordon Ramsay Season 3 winner, DJ FLyTy, auctioneer- Mark Bisch, and casino gaming using tickets to redeem for prizes at the end of the evening.

Glamorously dressed guests are invited to this elegant masquerade party theme and encouraged to don elaborate Venetian masks. Don't forget to wear a splash of teal to embody this year's signature color.

This year's Fund-A-Need will support an adaptive culinary arts program for youth who are blind or have low vision.

About Christine Ha

Christine Ha smiles for a photo in a kitchen with a knife in her hand and vegetables on the cutting board in front of her. Christine has chin-length black hair and is wearing a yellow top.

Christine Ha is the “blind cook” who won MasterChef Season 3 with Gordon Ramsay. Her first cookbook, Recipes from My Home Kitchen, was a New York Times best-seller. She has spoken about disability advocacy at the United Nations, served as a culinary envoy overseas for the American Embassy, was a co-host on the Canadian cooking show Four Senses, and a judge on MasterChef Vietnam. Ha holds a Master of Fine Arts from the Creative Writing Program at University of Houston, where she served as Fiction Editor for Gulf Coast literary journal, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from The University of Texas at Austin. Ha’s first restaurant in Houston, The Blind Goat, was named a semi-finalist for 2020 Best New Restaurant in America by the James Beard Foundation. She opened her second restaurant, Xin Chào, in September 2020 with Chef Tony Nguyen, and the James Beard Foundation named them as finalists for the Best Chef, Texas region, in 2022, and again as semi-finalists for Outstanding Chef in 2023. Ha’s third concept, Stuffed Belly, opened this spring.

Join us for An Evening with A.J. Croce!

The Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation, in partnership with the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ISBVI), is excited to host the 2023 No Limits Celebration and welcome A.J. Croce to the ISBVI auditorium on Saturday, July 22, 2023.

All tickets include the following:

Guests to enjoy a pre-concert reception from 6PM- 7:15PM featuring local jazz artist, Reggie Bishop, and a meal catered by The Jazz Kitchen with select complimentary beverages and desserts.
A one-hour concert in the ISBVI Auditorium at 8PM featuring A.J. Croce. Seating for the concert begins at 7:15PM. Program to start at 7:45PM.
A half-hour conversation and Q & A with A.J. Croce and Emcee Kathy Nimmer.

Patrons who need wheelchair seating, ASL interpretation (stage right), or designated aisle seats with a retractable arm should pick those seats when purchasing their tickets. IBCF will reserve accessible seating under the ticket buyer's name to ensure guests have appropriate seating.

ASL interpreters will be provided throughout the No Limits Celebration and featured stage right during the performance and Q and A in the ISBVI auditorium. Access services such as audio description, open captioning, and assistive listening devices are available to all patrons, no matter the seat.

Please note that doors open at 6:00PM. Click here to purchase tickets or click here for more information about this venue.

About A.J. Croce

A portrait of A.J. Croce, who has short brown hair, sunglasses, and a closed-mouth smile. Over his 10 studio albums, it’s clear that A.J. Croce holds an abiding love for all types of musical genres, from blues to soul to rock ‘n’ roll. A virtuosic piano player, Croce toured with B.B. King and Ray Charles before reaching the age of 21, and over his career, he has performed with a wide range of musicians, from Willie Nelson to the Neville Brothers; Béla Fleck to Ry Cooder. His albums have all charted and done so on an impressive array of charts, including Top 40, Blues, Americana, Jazz, College, and Radio 1.

A.J.’s deep love for music is understandable considering that his mother, Ingrid, was a singer/songwriter, as was his father, the late Jim Croce. A.J., who started playing piano at a young age, purposely avoided his father’s music to establish his own identity as a musician. Around 15 years ago, however, A.J.’s relationship with Jim Croce’s music started to change, which has now led to him periodically performing his dad’s songs live in concert.

While he may come from a storied musical family, though, A.J. is best summed up by the late, great New Orleans piano player Allen Toussaint: “In such a crowded music universe it is a pleasure to witness triple uniqueness: pianist, songwriter, singer and at such a level, and who does he sound like? The answer is himself…A.J. Croce.”

About Emcee and Host Kathy Nimmer

Kathy Nimmer is pictured sitting on playground equipment as she poses for a photo with her guide dog Tate. Positioned on a platform behind Kathy, Tate is a black dog with big, droopy ears and a friendly face. Kathy Nimmer is the 2015 Indiana Teacher of the Year and a finalist for 2015 National Teacher of the Year. She received the Dollywood Foundation’s Chasing Rainbows award, the NFB’s Blind Educator of the Year Award, and the Hasbrook Award, a lifetime achievement honor sponsored by Bosma Industries. Among other previous honors, she was named Sagamore of the Wabash in 2014, the highest civilian honor in Indiana, and delivered a TED Talk that same year. Kathy has authored two books: an anthology called Two Plus Four Equals One: Celebrating the Partnership of People with Disabilities and Their Assistance Dogs, and a book of poetry called Minutes in the Dark, Eternity in the Light. Kathy taught English at Harrison High School in West Lafayette for 29 years and currently directs a mentorship program for new educators in Tippecanoe School Corporation. She is also a frequent motivational speaker at local, state, and national events. Kathy earned her B.A. in English Education from Trinity Christian College in 1991 and her M.A. from Purdue University in 1992. Her life is grounded in faith, family, friendship, and creativity.

About the No Limits Art Series

The No Limits Arts Series aims to strengthen inclusiveness and remove social barriers in the arts for individuals with disabilities. In keeping with the goals of No Limits: An Arts Series Focused on Access for All, made possible by the Strengthening Indianapolis Through Arts and Cultural Innovation grant from Lilly Endowment, IBCF in partnership with ISBVI, brings artists of all abilities to the stage that mirror the strengths and abilities of students at ISBVI. The public is invited onto the school grounds to not only experience internationally known artists and musicians but learn about the programs at ISBVI helping students succeed academically and socially.

Patrons who need wheelchair seating, ASL interpretation (stage right), or designated aisle seats with a retractable arm should pick those seats when purchasing their tickets. IBCF will reserve specific seats under the ticket buyer's name to ensure guests have appropriate seating.

ISBVI Holiday Tree Sale and Family Event

A photo of the tree farm and shed at ISBVI. Green wreaths with bright red ribbons hang from the front of a dark wooden shed. A sign on the shed reads, "All proceeds go to the students' recreation fund." A bright yellow wheelbarrow sits in front of the shed while people in winter coats are standing and scattered near the shed, a fire-pit, and an outdoor white tent. Join us for the 2022 ISBVI Holiday Tree Sale and Family Event on Saturday, December 3rd from 8am-4pm on the grounds of the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired! This holiday tradition began with a fifth-grade science class over 20 years ago and has grown into a popular fundraiser for the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ISBVI). Led by retired ISBVI science teacher, David Schneiders, and dedicated ISBVI staff and retired teachers, Elizabeth Garvey, Lynn Baize, and Becky Heck, this event has grown tremendously in size and scope in recent years.

IBCF Board Member, Walter Burtner, is featured in the ISBVI Churchman Cafeteria in front of a long rectangular table covered with a dark green tablecloth and table-top grills. Two young children are standing on the other side of the table ordering breakfast. The Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation long-time board member, Walter Burtner, and his family started the made-to-order breakfast back in 2017 which has become an integral part of the event in recent years.

Families and community members have made this an annual tradition, kicking off the holiday season with this festive event. This year, attendees can expect to find over 1000 trees available for purchase. 900 pines, firs, and spruce trees of all different sizes line the 2-acre ISBVI tree farm, while another 100 pre-cut firs are brought in and available. Tree prices will range from $15-$60. Volunteers are available to help cut and load the trees onto vehicles. Wreaths are hand-made by numerous volunteers the week of the event and start at $20. This is a cash or check only event, but this year an ATM will be located inside ISBVI near the Churchman Cafeteria.

Check out the schedule below for the complete list of activities taking place on December 3rd.

2022 Holiday Tree Sale and Family Event:

(Cash or Check Only)

IBCF Made-To-Order Breakfast in Churchman Cafeteria

8:00AM - 11:00AM
$10 Adults & $5 Kids

Pancakes, Omelets and Biscuits and Gravy

Additional Churchman Cafeteria Events

9:00AM - 10:00AM - Visit with Santa Claus

Children may share their wish-list on Santa’s lap while parents take photos.

10:15AM - 11:00AM - Performance by classical guitarist, John Alvarado

Enjoy some of your favorite holiday music while enjoying a delicious breakfast.

Holiday Plant Sale at the ISBVI Greenhouse

9:00AM - 4:00PM

Holiday Plants, Poinsettias and Fresh Greenery Arrangements

Additional Greenhouse Activities

10:15AM - 11:15AM - Visit with Santa Claus at the Greenhouse

Enjoy the holiday plants grown and cared for by ISBVI students while visiting with Santa.

Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale at the ISBVI Tree Farm & Shed

9:00AM - 3:00PM

Firs, Pine, and Spruce Trees Available for Purchase- $15 & Up
Hand-Made, Fresh Wreaths- $20 & Up

Additional Tree Farm & Shed Activities

10:00AM - 10:45AM

Enjoy the Butler University Student Ensemble performing holiday and jazz music.

11:30AM - 12:00PM

Caroling with ISBVI Choir Teacher Ms. Pivec and ISBVI Students

12:00PM - 1:00PM

Visit with Santa Claus at the Tree Farm

1:00PM - 2:00PM

Rudolph Ryan and a Real Live Reindeer at the Tree Farm

Rudolph Ryan is featured outside in the tree farm wearing a red and green tunic and hat. He is holding the reins connected to a real live reindeer. A young boy stands next to Rudolph Ryan dressed in a winter coat and hat; his arm is stretched out on the back of the reindeer. Adults are scattered behind them.

Pet a REAL reindeer! We are not sure which reindeer Santa will bring with him this year. You will just have to wait and see.

Click here to download and print out a copy of this Event Flyer

2022 No Limits Celebration

Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper on Saturday, July 23rd

The Indiana Blind Children's Foundation (IBCF), in partnership with the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ISBVI) is excited to welcome Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper on Saturday, July 23rd to the ISBVI Auditorium.

Join us for this magical evening that includes three parts:

A Pre-Concert Reception at 6:00PM featuring heavy appetizers from the Jazz Kitchen and select complimentary beverages.
A concert in the ISBVI Auditorium at 8PM featuring Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper.
A Post-Concert Reception and Q and A with Michael Cleveland and Emcee Kathy Nimmer (additional fee).

The No Limits Arts Series aims to strengthen inclusiveness and remove social barriers in the arts for individuals with disabilities. In keeping with the goals of No Limits: An Arts Series Focused on Access For All, made possible by the Strengthening Indianapolis through Arts and Cultural Innovation grant from Lilly Endowment, IBCF in partnership with ISBVI, brings artists of all abilities to the stage that mirror the strengths and abilities of students at ISBVI. The public is invited onto the school grounds to not only experience internationally known artists and musicians but learn about the programs at ISBVI helping students succeed academically and socially.

Please Note: Guests, upon entry, will be expected to pass through a screening process which includes a security wand and bag check. Guests who do not comply with safety and security procedures will be denied entry. Firearms of any kind are prohibited within school buildings. Only authorized off-duty police officers hired to maintain security and the safety of guests during this event will be allowed to carry a firearm within the building.

Accessibility: ASL Interpreters, Audio Description, Open Captioning, ASL Interpretation, Wheelchair Seating & Companion Seats, and Assistive Listening Devices are available.

We look forward to celebrating with you!

Click Here To Purchase Your Tickets!

Click here for Sponsorship Opportunities

2022 Through the Looking Glass

Click on a button below to review the official event photographs.

2021 No Limits Virtual Celebration

Thank you to our 2021 No Limits Virtual Celebration sponsors and attendees. We appreciate the support for our programs and students during this very difficult year. In case you missed the Virtual Celebration or Watch Party at Tibbs Drive-In, take some time to enjoy the No Limits Virtual Celebration which features audio description, ASL interpretation and open captioning so people of all abilities may experience the Celebration fully.

This event was pre-recorded in April 2021, and featured virtually on August 6, 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. A Watch Party of the Virtual Celebration at Tibbs Drive-In allowed supporters to gather safely and celebrate together.