Ep. 23
The episode revolves around the Nicholas Flige Foundation, a German organization with a nearly two-century history dedicated to supporting visually impaired individuals. It was founded in 1827 by Gottlieb Friedrich Wagner, an educator with a vision to create lasting change for people with visual impairments, moving beyond the typical pity and charity approaches of that era. With support from influential figures like Tsar Nicholas’s daughter, Olga, the foundation gained traction and officially launched in 1856. Wagner’s passion was complemented by Christian Sackman in 1858, who introduced practical skills training, ensuring the independence of the visually impaired through employment.
The conversation explores how the foundation evolved under subsequent leadership, growing its facilities, like the Crerwell hub, and continuously adapting its methods. Today, its mission is driven by seven guiding principles, with an emphasis on lifelong learning, high-quality work, and the innovative use of technology. The foundation supports staff development through its own academy, focuses on assistive technologies like tactile graphics printers, and is building new, accessible facilities, such as the Betty Hirsch Schultz Centrum.
The episode highlights the personal impact of the foundation’s work, sharing stories of families whose lives have been transformed. The conversation concludes with a call for listeners to support inclusive practices and to recognize the importance of advocating for accessible design and technology.