We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive community through audio translation services for individuals who are blind or have low vision, and are pleased to announce that the 23rd Annual MindsEye Soiree will take place on Friday, March 20, 2026, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Missouri History Museum.
This year’s Soiree will highlight MindsEye’s audio description program, which has brought accessibility to numerous organizations and events across the community, including the Missouri History Museum. Guests will hear from Adam Kloppe, exhibit content lead and public historian, who will share a preview of “St. Louis at Bat: 100 Moments in Baseball History,” opening at the museum in October 2026.
As MindsEye’s largest annual fundraising event, the Soiree provides critical support for programs that break down barriers and expand access to arts, culture, news, and community life for people who are blind or partially sighted.
“We’re thrilled to gather at the Missouri History Museum for a night that celebrates both the past and future of accessibility,” said MindsEye Executive Director Jason Frazier. “This year’s Soiree highlights how audio description and adaptive athletics open doors not only to cultural experiences but also to connection, independence, and joy.”
The evening will include entertainment, inspiration, live and silent auctions, and opportunities for guests to witness firsthand the impact of MindsEye’s work across the region.
A highlight of the program will be the presentation of the Fr. Boni Wittenbrink Visionary Award, honoring individuals and organizations who champion accessibility and opportunity for those with visual impairments. The 2026 recipients are Orlando Gonzalez and the Memorial Hospital Foundation.
Gonzalez has been a dedicated MindsEye volunteer for 11 years, serving in a variety of roles that reflect his commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Since 2023, he has served as head coach of the Gateway Archers, MindsEye’s beep baseball team. He has also contributed as a Spanish language audio describer for select events, including a St. Louis Blues game, and as a reader for MindsEye’s Broadcast Information Program, where he provided Spanish language readings of the Red Latina newspaper.
“I am honored to receive the Fr. Boni Wittenbrink Visionary Award,” said Gonzalez. “My years as a volunteer with MindsEye have allowed me to see firsthand how access and inclusion impact individuals and families. It has been meaningful to contribute in so many ways to work that opens doors for our community.”
Memorial Hospital Foundation has been a steadfast partner to MindsEye for many years, supporting its mission through funding, collaboration, and community outreach. The Foundation has played a key role in expanding access to MindsEye’s programming, including its newest initiative, Equal Access Reporting, which provides blind and low vision individuals with the opportunity to train and work as reporters covering live sporting and community events. This continued support reflects the Foundation’s commitment to equity, empowerment, and inclusive storytelling in the region.
“Supporting MindsEye aligns directly with our mission to strengthen the health and well-being of our community,” said Elizabeth Jennings, foundation and development manager, Memorial Hospital Foundation. “We are proud to champion programs that expand access, elevate voices, and create opportunities for individuals who are blind or low vision. MindsEye’s work makes a real difference, and we are honored to stand alongside them.”
The award is named for MindsEye founder Fr. Boniface Wittenbrink, OMI, whose pioneering work established one of the nation’s earliest reading services for people with print impairments. His legacy continues through MindsEye’s expanding programs in audio description, broadcast information, and adaptive athletics.
Tickets for MindsEye’s 23rd Annual Soiree are available now. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://onecau.se/mindseye or text mindseye to 44834