Form990
Click to see attachment
Department of the TreasuryInternal Revenue Service
Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except private foundations)
MediumBullet Do not enter social security numbers on this form as it may be made public.
MediumBullet Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for instructions and the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2018
Open to Public Inspection
A For the 2019 calendar year, or tax year beginning 07-01-2018 , and ending 06-30-2019
BCheck if applicable:
CName of organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
 
 
Doing business as
 
 
Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
1101 KING STREET SUITE 300
 
Room/suite
City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code
ALEXANDRIA, VA22314
D Employer identification number

53-0214281
E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 6,833,791
F Name and address of principal officer:
JOSEPH BOGART
1101 KING STREET SUITE 300
ALEXANDRIA,VA22314
I
Tax-exempt status: (   ) LeftBullet (insert no.) or
J
Website:MediumBullet
WWW.BVA.ORG
H(a)
Is this a group return for
subordinates?
H(b)
Are all subordinates
included?
If "No," attach a list. (see instructions)
H(c)
Group exemption number MediumBullet  
K Form of organization:  
L Year of formation: 1945
M State of legal domicile: DC
Part I
Summary
Activities & Governance 1 Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: TO PROMOTE THE WELFARE OF BLINDED VETERANS - SEE PART III AND SCHEDULE O
2 Check this box MediumBullet
3 Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a) ........ 3 10
4 Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) ..... 4 10
5 Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2018 (Part V, line 2a) ...... 5 31
6 Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) ............. 6 87
7a Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 ........ 7a 0
b Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, line 34 ......... 7b 0
Revenues Prior Year Current Year
8 Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) ......... 2,301,512 1,639,895
9 Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) ......... 0 0
10 Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) .... 407,743 625,693
11 Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e) 198,872 180,381
12 Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) 2,908,127 2,445,969
Expenses; 13 Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )... 13,635 13,710
14 Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4)..... 0 0
15 Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10) 1,226,408 904,747
16a Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e) ..... 62,400 54,200
b Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) MediumBullet311,915    
17 Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24e).... 2,070,945 1,463,512
18 Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) 3,373,388 2,436,169
19 Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12....... -465,261 9,800
Net Assets or Fund Balances; Beginning of Current Year End of Year
20 Total assets (Part X, line 16)............. 12,502,121 12,441,157
21 Total liabilities (Part X, line 26)............. 292,247 260,686
22 Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20..... 12,209,874 12,180,471
Part II
Signature Block
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
Sign Here
JumboBullet
Signature of officer Date
JumboBullet
Type or print name and title
Paid Preparer Use Only
Print/Type preparer's name
Preparer's signature
Date
PTIN
Firm's name MediumBullet

Firm's EIN MediumBullet
Firm's address MediumBullet



Phone no.
May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? (see instructions) ..........
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.
Cat. No. 11282Y Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 2
Part III
Statement of Program Service Accomplishments
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part III..............
1
Briefly describe the organization’s mission: TO PROMOTE THE WELFARE OF BLINDED VETERANS SO THAT, NOTWITHSTANDING THEIR DISABILITIES, THEY MAY TAKE THEIR RIGHTFUL PLACE IN THE COMMUNITY. TO PRESERVE AND STRENGTHEN A SPIRIT OF FELLOWSHIP AMONG BLINDED VETERANS SO THAT THEY MAY GIVE MUTUAL AID AND ASSISTANCE TO ONE ANOTHER. TO EDUCATE THE GENERAL PUBLIC SO THEY MAY UNDERSTAND WHAT BLINDED VETERANS MAY ACCOMPLISH AND HOW TO ASSIST BLINDED VETERANS THEY MAY ENCOUNTER IN THEIR COMMUNITIES.
2
Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? .....................
If "Yes," describe these new services on Schedule O.
3
Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program
services? ...........................
If "Yes," describe these changes on Schedule O.
4
Describe the organization’s program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services, as measured by expenses. Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.
4a (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 395,519 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
VETERAN SERVICE AND VOLUNTEER VETERAN SERVICE PROGRAMSSEE SCHEDULE O
4b (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 875,994 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
PUBLIC EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATIONSEE SCHEDULE O
4c (Code:   ) (Expenses $   including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
ADVOCACY SEE SCHEDULE O
(Code:   ) (Expenses $ 13,710 including grants of $ 13,710 ) (Revenue $   )
MEMBERSHIPSEE SCHEDULE O
4d Other program services (Describe in Schedule O.)
(Expenses $ 13,710 including grants of $ 13,710 ) (Revenue $   )
4e Total program service expensesMediumBullet1,285,223
Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 3
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules
Yes
No
1
Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If "Yes," complete Schedule AClick to see attachment.....................
1
Yes
 
2
Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors (see instructions)? Click to see attachment...
2
Yes
 
3
Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part IClick to see attachment.............
3
 
No
4
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities, or have a section 501(h) election in effect during the tax year? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part IIClick to see attachment..............
4
Yes
 
5
Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Revenue Procedure 98-19? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part IIIClick to see attachment.................
5
 
No
6
Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts for which donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IClick to see attachment..................
6
 
No
7
Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas, or historic structures? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IIClick to see attachment...
7
 
No
8
Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IIIClick to see attachment.............
8
 
No
9
Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21 for escrow or custodial account liability; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IVClick to see attachment..............
9
 
No
10
Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in temporarily restricted endowments, permanent endowments, or quasi-endowments? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VClick to see attachment......
10
 
No
11
If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is "Yes," then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X as applicable.
a
Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line 10?
If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VI.Click to see attachment...................
11a
Yes
 
b
Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VIIClick to see attachment.......
11b
 
No
c
Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VIIIClick to see attachment.......
11c
 
No
d
Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IXClick to see attachment............
11d
 
No
e
Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part XClick to see attachment
11e
Yes
 
f
Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part XClick to see attachment
11f
 
No
12a
Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year?
If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Parts XI and XII Click to see attachment.................
12a
Yes
 
b
Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If "Yes," and if the organization answered "No" to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI and XII is optional Click to see attachment
12b
 
No
13
Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If "Yes," complete Schedule E
13
 
No
14a
Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States? .....
14a
 
No
b
Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, investment, and program service activities outside the United States, or aggregate foreign investments valued at $100,000 or more? If "Yes," complete Schedule F, Parts I and IV.........
14b
 
No
15
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to or for any foreign organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Parts II and IV.....
15
 
No
16
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or other assistance to or for foreign individuals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Parts III and IV...
16
 
No
17
Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000 of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part I(see instructions) ....Click to see attachment
17
Yes
 
18
Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part II............ Click to see attachment
18
Yes
 
19
Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part III...................Click to see attachment
19
 
No
20a
Did the organization operate one or more hospital facilities? If "Yes," complete Schedule H....
20a
 
No
b
If "Yes" to line 20a, did the organization attach a copy of its audited financial statements to this return?
20b
 
 
21
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to any domestic organization or domestic government on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II.....Click to see attachment
21
 
No
22
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to or for domestic individuals on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III........Click to see attachment
22
Yes
 
Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 4
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)
Yes
No
23
Did the organization answer "Yes" to Part VII, Section A, line 3, 4, or 5 about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If "Yes," complete Schedule J.......................
23
 
No
24a
Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer lines 24b through 24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25a...............
24a
 
No
b
Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...
24b
 
 
c
Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds? ...............
24c
 
 
d
Did the organization act as an "on behalf of" issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...
24d
 
 
25a
Section 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part I............
25a
 
No
b
Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part I...................
25b
 
No
26
Did the organization report any amount on Part X, line 5, 6, or 22 for receivables from or payables to any current or former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, highest compensated employees, or disqualified persons? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part II................
26
 
No
27
Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to an officer, director, trustee, key employee, substantial contributor or employee thereof, a grant selection committee member, or to a 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part III.........
27
 
No
28
Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties (see Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):
a
A current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If "Yes," complete Schedule L,
Part IV........................
28a
 
No
b
A family member of a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV.....................
28b
 
No
c
An entity of which a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee (or a family member thereof) was an officer, director, trustee, or direct or indirect owner? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV...
28c
 
No
29
Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If "Yes," complete Schedule M..
29
 
No
30
Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If "Yes," complete Schedule M .............
30
 
No
31
Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If "Yes," complete Schedule N, Part I.
31
 
No
32
Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If "Yes," complete Schedule N, Part II...........
32
 
No
33
Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part I........
33
 
No
34
Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part II, III, or IV, and Part V, line 1.........................
34
 
No
35a
Did the organization have a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)?
35a
 
No
b
If ‘Yes’ to line 35a, did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2 ...
35b
 
 
36
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2.............
36
 
No
37
Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part VI
37
 
No
38
Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations in Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11b and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............
38
Yes
 
Part V
Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part V...........
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number reported in Box 3 of Form 1096 Enter -0- if not applicable ..
1a
19
b
Enter the number of Forms W-2G included in line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable .
1b
0
c
Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................
1c
Yes
 
Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 5
2a
Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and
Tax Statements, filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return ..................
2a
31
b
If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?
Note. If the sum of lines 1a and 2a is greater than 250, you may be required to e-file (see instructions)
2b
Yes
 
3a
Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?...
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No” to line 3b, provide an explanation in Schedule O...
3b
 
 
4a
At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account, securities account, or other financial account)? ..
4a
 
No
b
If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country: MediumBullet
See instructions for filing requirements for FinCEN Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR).
5a
Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year? ..
5a
 
No
b
Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
5b
 
No
c
If "Yes," to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ............
5c
 
 
6a
Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible as charitable contributions? ...
6a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible? ......................
6b
 
 
7
Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).
a
Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor? ....................
7a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided? .....
7b
 
 
c
Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282? .........................
7c
 
No
d
If "Yes," indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....
7d
 
e
Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?
7e
 
No
f
Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract? ..
7f
 
No
g
If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required? ......................
7g
 
 
h
If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C? ..........................
7h
 
 
8
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.
Did a donor advised fund maintained by the sponsoring organization have excess business holdings at any time during the year? .........................
8
 
 
9a
Did the sponsoring organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?...
9a
 
 
b
Did the sponsoring organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?...
9b
 
 
10
Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:
a
Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...
10a
 
b
Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities
10b
 
11
Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:
a
Gross income from members or shareholders .........
11a
 
b
Gross income from other sources (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them.) ..........
11b
 
12a
Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?
12a
 
 
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.
12b
 
13
Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.
a
Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state?
Note. See the instructions for additional information the organization must report on Schedule O.
13a
 
 
b
Enter the amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans ....
13b
 
c
Enter the amount of reserves on hand ............
13c
 
14a
Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....
14a
 
No
b
If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If "No," provide an explanation in Schedule O..
14b
 
 
15
Is the organization subject to the section 4960 tax on payment(s) of more than $1,000,000 in remuneration or excess parachute payment(s) during the year? If "Yes," see instructions and file Form 4720, Schedule N .....
15
 
No
16
Is the organization an educational institution subject to the section 4968 excise tax on net investment income?
If "Yes," complete Form 4720, Schedule O ................
16
 
No
Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 6
Part VI
Governance, Management, and Disclosure For each "Yes" response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a "No" response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VI..............
Section A. Governing Body and Management
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year
1a
10
If there are material differences in voting rights among members of the governing body, or if the governing body delegated broad authority to an executive committee or similar committee, explain in Schedule O.
b
Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent
1b
10
2
Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................
2
 
No
3
Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? .
3
 
No
4
Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed? .
4
 
No
5
Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .
5
 
No
6
Did the organization have members or stockholders? ................
6
Yes
 
7a
Did the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who had the power to elect or appoint one or more members of the governing body? ....................
7a
Yes
 
b
Are any governance decisions of the organization reserved to (or subject to approval by) members, stockholders, or persons other than the governing body? ...................
7b
Yes
 
8
Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:
a
The governing body? .......................
8a
Yes
 
b
Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ............
8b
Yes
 
9
Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If "Yes," provide the names and addresses in Schedule O.......
9
 
No
Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal Revenue Code.)
Yes
No
10a
Did the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............
10a
Yes
 
b
If "Yes," did the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with the organization's exempt purposes?
10b
Yes
 
11a
Has the organization provided a complete copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form? ............................
11a
Yes
 
b
Describe in Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review this Form 990. .....
12a
Did the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If "No," go to line 13.......
12a
Yes
 
b
Were officers, directors, or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ..........................
12b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If "Yes," describe in Schedule O how this was done...................
12c
Yes
 
13
Did the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............
13
Yes
 
14
Did the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........
14
Yes
 
15
Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?
a
The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........
15a
Yes
 
b
Other officers or key employees of the organization ................
15b
Yes
 
If "Yes" to line 15a or 15b, describe the process in Schedule O (see instructions).
16a
Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................
16a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization follow a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and take steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............
16b
 
 
Section C. Disclosure
17
List the States with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filedMediumBullet
AL , AK , AR , CA , CO , CT , GA , HI , IL , KS , KY , ME
18
Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (or 1024-A if applicable), 990, and 990-T (501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you made these available. Check all that apply.
19
Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how) the organization made its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public during the tax year.
20
State the name, address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the organization's books and records:
MediumBulletJOSEPH BOGART EXCECUTIVE DIRECTOR1101 KING STREET SUITE 300   ALEXANDRIA,VA22314 (202) 371-8880
Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 7
Part VII
Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VII..............
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees
1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See instructions for definition of "key employee."
RoundBullet List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (Box 5 of Form W-2 and/or Box 7 of Form 1099-MISC) of more than $100,000 from the
organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List persons in the following order: individual trustees or directors; institutional trustees; officers; key employees; highest
compensated employees; and former such persons.
Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organization compensated any current officer, director, or trustee.
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (list any hours for related organizations below dotted line) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; OfficerInd; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; FormerOfcrDirectorTrusteeInd;
(1) JOE J PARKER......................................................................
FORMER PRESIDENT
 22.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(2) JOE MCNEIL SR......................................................................
SECRETARY
 11.00
.................
  		X   X       0 0 0
(3) DANIEL WALLACE......................................................................
TREASURER
 30.00
.................
  		X   X       0 0 0
(4) DENNIS O'CONNELL......................................................................
DIRECTOR - DISTRICT 1
 12.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(5) VERNON RICHMOND......................................................................
DIRECTOR - DISTRICT 3
 4.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(6) JHENNI MORROW......................................................................
DIRECTOR - DISTRICT 4
 48.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(7) PAUL KAMINSKY......................................................................
DIRECTOR - DISTRICT 5
 10.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(8) DR THOMAS ZAMPIERI......................................................................
PRESIDENT
 43.00
.................
  		X   X       0 0 0
(9) KEVIN JACKSON......................................................................
DIRECTOR - DISTRICT 6
 4.50
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(10) TIM HORNICK......................................................................
DIRECTOR - DISTRICT 2
 20.00
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(11) BRIGITTE JONES......................................................................
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
 45.00
.................
  		    X       70,145 0 1,498
(12) JOSEPH BOGART......................................................................
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
 60.00
.................
  		    X       80,481 0 941
(13) MELANIE BRUNSON......................................................................
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS DIRECTOR
 40.00
.................
  		    X       88,070 0 18,684
(14) ALBERTO AVINA......................................................................
FORMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
 37.50
.................
  		    X       30,233 0 343
(15) KATHRYN RUAIS......................................................................
FORMER CFO
 37.50
.................
  		    X       87,899 0 497




Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 8
Part VII
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (list any hours for related organizations below dotted line) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; OfficerInd; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; FormerOfcrDirectorTrusteeInd;


























1b Sub-Total................MediumBullet
c Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A....MediumBullet
d Total (add lines 1b and 1c)...........MediumBullet 356,828 0 21,963
2
Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of reportable compensation from the organization MediumBullet0
Yes
No
3
Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such individual ..............
3
 
No
4
For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such
individual...........................
4
 
No
5
Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such person ........
5
 
No
Section B. Independent Contractors
1
Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
(A)
Name and business address 		(B)
Description of services 		(C)
Compensation
LEWIS ADVERTISING

325 EAST OLIVER STREET
BALTIMORE,MD21202 		PRINTING, MAILING, DATA PROCESSING 889,216
2
Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization MediumBullet1
Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 9
Part VIII
Statement of Revenue
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VIII.............
(A)
Total revenue 		(B)
Related or
exempt
function
revenue 		(C)
Unrelated
business
revenue 		(D)
Revenue
excluded from
tax under sections
512 - 514
Contributions, Gifts, GrantAmt and OtherAmt Similar Amounts 1a Federated campaigns..1a  
b Membership dues..1b 11,734
c Fundraising events..1c 18,500
d Related organizations1d  
e Government grants (contributions)1e  
f All other contributions, gifts, grants, and similar amounts not included above1f 1,609,661
g Noncash contributions included in lines 1a - 1f:$  
h Total. Add lines 1a-1f.......MediumBullet 1,639,895
Program Service RevenueAmt Business Code
2a
b
c
d
e
f All other program service revenue.        
g Total. Add lines 2a–2f ....MediumBullet  
OtherAmtRevenueAmt 3 Investment income (including dividends, interest, and othersimilar amounts) ......MediumBullet 233,268     233,268
4 Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceedsMediumBullet        
5 Royalties...........MediumBullet        
(ii) Personal (i) Real
6a Gross rents   59,235
b Less: rental expenses   0
c Rental income or (loss)   59,235
d Net rental income or (loss)......MediumBullet 59,235     59,235
(ii) Other (i) Securities
7a Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory   4,705,915
b Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses   4,313,490
c Gain or (loss)   392,425
d Net gain or (loss).....MediumBullet 392,425     392,425
8a Gross income from fundraising events (not including $ 18,500of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ....
a 47,233
b Less: direct expenses ...b 74,332
c Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..MediumBullet -27,099   -27,099
9a Gross income from gaming activities.
See Part IV, line 19 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from gaming activities..MediumBullet        
10a Gross sales of inventory, less
returns and allowances ..
a 2,676
b Less: cost of goods sold ..b 0
c Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..MediumBullet 2,676     2,676
Business Code Miscellaneous Revenue
11a SPONSORSHIP 900099 55,100     55,100
b EXHIBITS 900099 33,150     33,150
c REGISTRATION 900099 30,855     30,855
d All other revenue .... 26,464     26,464
e Total. Add lines 11a–11d ...... MediumBullet 145,569
12 Total revenue. See Instructions......MediumBullet 2,445,969 0 0 806,074
Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 10
Part IX
Statement of Functional Expenses
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A).Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part IX..............
Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b,
7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII. 		(A)
Total expenses 		(B)
Program service expenses 		(C)
Management and general expenses 		(D)
Fundraising expenses
1 Grants and other assistance to domestic organizations and domestic governments. See Part IV, line 21    
2 Grants and other assistance to domestic individuals. See Part IV, line 22 13,710 13,710
3 Grants and other assistance to foreign organizations, foreign governments, and foreign individuals. See Part IV, line 15 and 16.    
4 Benefits paid to or for members    
5 Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees .... 286,877 149,161 136,682 1,034
6 Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) ....        
7 Other salaries and wages 435,913 228,074 206,146 1,693
8 Pension plan accruals and contributions (include section 401(k) and 403(b) employer contributions) .... 1,735 1,056 664 15
9 Other employee benefits ....... 117,733 56,206 61,527  
10 Payroll taxes ........... 62,489 33,119 29,176 194
11 Fees for services (non-employees):        
a Management ......        
b Legal .........        
c Accounting ........... 156,540 3,079 153,461  
d Lobbying ...........        
e Professional fundraising services. See Part IV, line 17 54,200 54,200
f Investment management fees ...... 47,996 47,996    
g Other (If line 11g amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 11g expenses on Schedule O) 70,563 70,455 108  
12 Advertising and promotion .... 29,755 15,973   13,782
13 Office expenses ....... 69,243 17,175 39,040 13,028
14 Information technology ...... 53,007 42,807 10,200  
15 Royalties ..        
16 Occupancy ........... 196,833 106,290 88,575 1,968
17 Travel ............ 87,377 67,933 19,444  
18 Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials .        
19 Conferences, conventions, and meetings .... 1,801 1,801    
20 Interest ...........        
21 Payments to affiliates .......        
22 Depreciation, depletion, and amortization .. 43,899 39,070 2,634 2,195
23 Insurance ... 31,204   31,204  
24 Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above (List miscellaneous expenses in line 24e. If line 24e amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 24e expenses on Schedule O.)
a DIRECT MAILING 470,195 287,453 2,068 180,674
b BULLETIN 60,436 60,436    
c EQUIPMENT RENTAL 49,726 26,852 22,377 497
d MISCELLANEOUS 38,069 2,713 5,053 30,303
e All other expenses 56,868 13,864 30,672 12,332
25 Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24e 2,436,169 1,285,223 839,031 311,915
26 Joint costs. Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation. Check here MediumBullet if following SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720). 470,195 287,453 2,068 180,674
Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 11
Part X
Balance Sheet
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part IX..............
(A)
Beginning of year 		(B)
End of year
Assets 1 Cash–non-interest-bearing ........ 327,560 1 334,316
2 Savings and temporary cash investments .........   2  
3 Pledges and grants receivable, net ...... 595,006 3 267,218
4 Accounts receivable, net ............. 20,592 4 50,788
5 Loans and other receivables from current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees. Complete Part II of Schedule L .............
  5  
6 Loans and other receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)), persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B), and contributing employers and sponsoring organizations of section 501(c)(9) voluntary employees' beneficiary organizations (see instructions) Complete Part II of Schedule L ..............
  6  
7 Notes and loans receivable, net ....   7  
8 Inventories for sale or use ........   8  
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ...... 74,856 9 61,338
10a Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D 10a 2,176,503
b Less: accumulated depreciation 10b 110,043 46,074 10c 2,066,460
11 Investments—publicly traded securities . 11,427,200 11 9,650,204
12 Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 .....   12  
13 Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 ..   13  
14 Intangible assets ...............   14  
15 Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ........... 10,833 15 10,833
16 Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 34)... 12,502,121 16 12,441,157
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses ..... 219,532 17 164,030
18 Grants payable ...   18  
19 Deferred revenue ......... 72,715 19 85,390
20 Tax-exempt bond liabilities .........   20  
21 Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D   21  
22 Loans and other payables to current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, highest compensated employees, and disqualified
persons. Complete Part II of Schedule L..   22  
23 Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties ..   23  
24 Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties ..   24  
25 Other liabilities (including federal income tax, payables to related third parties, and other liabilities not included on lines 17 - 24). Complete Part X of Schedule D 0 25 11,266
26 Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25.. 292,247 26 260,686
Net Assets or Fund Balance Organizations that follow SFAS 117 (ASC 958), check here MediumBullet and complete lines 27 through 29, and lines 33 and 34.
27 Unrestricted net assets 12,031,753 27 11,979,823
28 Temporarily restricted net assets ........... 178,121 28 200,648
29 Permanently restricted net assets   29  
Organizations that do not follow SFAS 117 (ASC 958), check here MediumBullet and complete lines 30 through 34.
30 Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds .....   30  
31 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund ...   31  
32 Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds   32  
33 Total net assets or fund balances ........... 12,209,874 33 12,180,471
34 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances ........ 12,502,121 34 12,441,157
Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Page 12
Part XI
Reconcilliation of Net Assets
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part XI..............
1
Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) ............
1
2,445,969
2
Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) ............
2
2,436,169
3
Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ..............
3
9,800
4
Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 33, column (A)) ..
4
12,209,874
5
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments ...............
5
-39,203
6
Donated services and use of facilities .................
6
 
7
Investment expenses .....................
7
 
8
Prior period adjustments .....................
8
 
9
Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) ........
9
0
10
Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3 through 9 (must equal Part X, line 33, column (B))
10
12,180,471
Part XII
Financial Statements and Reporting
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part XII.............
Yes
No
1
Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990:  
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain in
Schedule O.
2a
Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?
2a
 
No
If ‘Yes,’ check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were compiled or reviewed on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
b
Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?
2b
Yes
 
If ‘Yes,’ check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were audited on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
c
If "Yes," to line 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant?
2c
Yes
 
If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O.
3a
As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133?
3a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits.
3b
 
 
Form 990 (2018)
Form 990 (2018)
Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
Form 990, Special Condition Description:
Special Condition Description
SCHEDULE A
(Form 990 or 990EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Public Charity Status and Public Support
Complete if the organization is a section 501(c)(3) organization or a section 4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trust.
right arrow Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
right arrow Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2018
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

53-0214281
Part I
Reason for Public Charity Status (All organizations must complete this part.) See instructions.
The organization is not a private foundation because it is: (For lines 1 through 12, check only one box.)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

10
11
12
a
b
c
d
e
f
Enter the number of supported organizations ...............................  
g
Provide the following information about the supported organization(s).
(i) Name of supported organization (ii) EIN (iii) Type of organization (described on lines 1- 10 above (see instructions)) (iv) Is the organization listed in your governing document? (v) Amount of monetary support (see instructions) (vi) Amount of other support (see instructions)
Yes No
Total
 
   
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for
Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 11285F
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 2
Part II
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in Sections 170(b)(1)(A)(iv), 170(b)(1)(A)(vi), and 170(b)(1)(A)(ix)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 5, 7, 8, or 9 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part III. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part III.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) right arrow (a) 2014 (b) 2015 (c) 2016 (d) 2017 (e) 2018 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grant.") .. 3,521,522 2,300,620 2,756,539 2,328,443 1,675,394 12,582,518
2 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf....            
3 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..            
4 Total. Add lines 1 through 3 3,521,522 2,300,620 2,756,539 2,328,443 1,675,394 12,582,518
5 The portion of total contributions by each person (other than a governmental unit or publicly supported organization) included on line 1 that exceeds 2% of the amount shown on line 11, column (f).. 137,302
6 Public support. Subtract line 5 from line 4. 12,445,216
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) right arrow (a) 2014 (b) 2015 (c) 2016 (d) 2017 (e) 2018 (f) Total
7 Amounts from line 4.. 3,521,522 2,300,620 2,756,539 2,328,443 1,675,394 12,582,518
8 Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources... 318,584 335,714 319,904 351,901 233,268 1,559,371
9 Net income from unrelated business activities, whether or not the business is regularly carried on..            
10 Other income. Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets (Explain in Part VI.).. 217,532 164,691 117,104 178,407 207,956 885,690
11 Total support. Add lines 7 through 10 15,027,579
12
12
4,642
13
First five years. If the Form 990 is for the organization's first, second, third, fourth, or fifth tax year as a section 501(c)(3) organization, check this box and stop here........................................right arrow
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
14
14
82.820 %
15
15
75.240 %
16a
b
17a
b
18
Private foundation. If the organization did not check a box on line 13, 16a, 16b, 17a, or 17b, check this box and see
instructions ..................................................... right arrow
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 3
Part III
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in Section 509(a)(2)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 10 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part II. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part II.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) right arrow (a) 2014 (b) 2015 (c) 2016 (d) 2017 (e) 2018 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") .            
2 Gross receipts from admissions, merchandise sold or services performed, or facilities furnished in any activity that is related to the organization's tax-exempt purpose            
3 Gross receipts from activities that are not an unrelated trade or business under section 513 .....            
4 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf...            
5 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge            
6 Total. Add lines 1 through 5            
7a Amounts included on lines 1, 2, and 3 received from disqualified persons            
b Amounts included on lines 2 and 3 received from other than disqualified persons that exceed the greater of $5,000 or 1% of the amount on line 13 for the year.            
c Add lines 7a and 7b..            
8 Public support. (Subtract line 7c from line 6.)  
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) right arrow (a) 2014 (b) 2015 (c) 2016 (d) 2017 (e) 2018 (f) Total
9 Amounts from line 6...            
10a Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources..            
b Unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 taxes) from businesses acquired after June 30, 1975.            
c Add lines 10a and 10b.            
11 Net income from unrelated business activities not included in line 10b, whether or not the business is regularly carried on.            
12 Other income. Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets (Explain in Part VI.) ..            
13 Total support. (Add lines 9, 10c, 11, and 12.)..            
14
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
15
15
 
16
16
 
Section D. Computation of Investment Income Percentage
17
17
 
18
18
 
19a
b
20
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 4
Part IV
Supporting Organizations
(Complete only if you checked a box on line 12 of Part I. If you checked 12a of Part I, complete Sections A and B. If you checked 12b of Part I, complete Sections A and C. If you checked 12c of Part I, complete Sections A, D, and E. If you checked 12d of Part I, complete Sections A and D, and complete Part V.)
Section A. All Supporting Organizations
Yes
No
1
Are all of the organization’s supported organizations listed by name in the organization’s governing documents?
If "No," describe in Part VI how the supported organizations are designated. If designated by class or purpose,
describe the designation. If historic and continuing relationship, explain.
1
 
 
2
Did the organization have any supported organization that does not have an IRS determination of status under section 509(a)(1) or (2)? If "Yes," explain in Part VI how the organization determined that the supported organization was described in section 509(a)(1) or (2).
2
 
 
3a
Did the organization have a supported organization described in section 501(c)(4), (5), or (6)? If "Yes," answer (b) and (c) below.
3a
 
 
b
Did the organization confirm that each supported organization qualified under section 501(c)(4), (5), or (6) and satisfied the public support tests under section 509(a)(2)? If "Yes," describe in Part VI when and how the organization made the determination.
3b
 
 
c
Did the organization ensure that all support to such organizations was used exclusively for section 170(c)(2)(B) purposes? If "Yes," explain in Part VI what controls the organization put in place to ensure such use.
3c
 
 
4a
Was any supported organization not organized in the United States ("foreign supported organization")? If “Yes” and if you checked 12a or 12b in Part I, answer (b) and (c) below.
4a
 
 
b
Did the organization have ultimate control and discretion in deciding whether to make grants to the foreign supported organization? If “Yes,” describe in Part VI how the organization had such control and discretion despite being controlled or supervised by or in connection with its supported organizations.
4b
 
 
c
Did the organization support any foreign supported organization that does not have an IRS determination under sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(1) or (2)? If “Yes,” explain in Part VI what controls the organization used to ensure that all support to the foreign supported organization was used exclusively for section 170(c)(2)(B) purposes.
4c
 
 
5a
Did the organization add, substitute, or remove any supported organizations during the tax year? If “Yes,” answer (b) and (c) below (if applicable). Also, provide detail in Part VI, including (i) the names and EIN numbers of the supported organizations added, substituted, or removed; (ii) the reasons for each such action; (iii) the authority under the organization's organizing document authorizing such action; and (iv) how the action was accomplished (such as by amendment to the organizing document).
5a
 
 
b
Type I or Type II only. Was any added or substituted supported organization part of a class already designated in the organization's organizing document?
5b
 
 
c
Substitutions only. Was the substitution the result of an event beyond the organization's control?
5c
 
 
6
Did the organization provide support (whether in the form of grants or the provision of services or facilities) to anyone other than (i) its supported organizations, (ii) individuals that are part of the charitable class benefited by one or more of its supported organizations, or (iii) other supporting organizations that also support or benefit one or more of the filing organization’s supported organizations? If “Yes,” provide detail in Part VI.
6
 
 
7
Did the organization provide a grant, loan, compensation, or other similar payment to a substantial contributor (defined in section 4958(c)(3)(C)), a family member of a substantial contributor, or a 35% controlled entity with regard to a substantial contributor? If “Yes,” complete Part I of Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) .
7
 
 
8
Did the organization make a loan to a disqualified person (as defined in section 4958) not described in line 7? If “Yes,” complete Part I of Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ).
8
 
 
9a
Was the organization controlled directly or indirectly at any time during the tax year by one or more disqualified persons as defined in section 4946 (other than foundation managers and organizations described in section 509(a)(1) or (2))? If “Yes,” provide detail in Part VI.
9a
 
 
b
Did one or more disqualified persons (as defined in line 9a) hold a controlling interest in any entity in which the supporting organization had an interest? If “Yes,” provide detail in Part VI.
9b
 
 
c
Did a disqualified person (as defined in line 9a) have an ownership interest in, or derive any personal benefit from, assets in which the supporting organization also had an interest? If “Yes,” provide detail in Part VI.
9c
 
 
10a
Was the organization subject to the excess business holdings rules of section 4943 because of section 4943(f) (regarding certain Type II supporting organizations, and all Type III non-functionally integrated supporting organizations)? If “Yes,” answer line 10b below.
10a
 
 
b
Did the organization have any excess business holdings in the tax year? (Use Schedule C, Form 4720, to determine whether the organization had excess business holdings).
10b
 
 
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 5
Part IV
Supporting Organizations (continued)
Yes
No
11
Has the organization accepted a gift or contribution from any of the following persons?
a
A person who directly or indirectly controls, either alone or together with persons described in (b) and (c) below, the governing body of a supported organization?
11a
 
 
b
A family member of a person described in (a) above?
11b
 
 
c
A 35% controlled entity of a person described in (a) or (b) above? If “Yes” to a, b, or c, provide detail in Part VI.
11c
 
 
Section B. Type I Supporting Organizations
Yes
No
1
Did the directors, trustees, or membership of one or more supported organizations have the power to regularly appoint or elect at least a majority of the organization’s directors or trustees at all times during the tax year? If “No,” describe in Part VI how the supported organization(s) effectively operated, supervised, or controlled the organization’s activities. If the organization had more than one supported organization, describe how the powers to appoint and/or remove directors or trustees were allocated among the supported organizations and what conditions or restrictions, if any, applied to such powers during the tax year.
1
 
 
2
Did the organization operate for the benefit of any supported organization other than the supported organization(s) that operated, supervised, or controlled the supporting organization? If “Yes,” explain in Part VI how providing such benefit carried out the purposes of the supported organization(s) that operated, supervised or controlled the supporting organization.
2
 
 
Section C. Type II Supporting Organizations
Yes
No
1
Were a majority of the organization’s directors or trustees during the tax year also a majority of the directors or trustees of each of the organization’s supported organization(s)? If “No,” describe in Part VI how control or management of the supporting organization was vested in the same persons that controlled or managed the supported organization(s).
1
 
 
Section D. All Type III Supporting Organizations
Yes
No
1
Did the organization provide to each of its supported organizations, by the last day of the fifth month of the organization’s tax year, (i) a written notice describing the type and amount of support provided during the prior tax year, (ii) a copy of the Form 990 that was most recently filed as of the date of notification, and (iii) copies of the organization’s governing documents in effect on the date of notification, to the extent not previously provided?
1
 
 
2
Were any of the organization’s officers, directors, or trustees either (i) appointed or elected by the supported organization(s) or (ii) serving on the governing body of a supported organization? If "No," explain in Part VI how the organization maintained a close and continuous working relationship with the supported organization(s).
2
 
 
3
By reason of the relationship described in (2), did the organization’s supported organizations have a significant voice in the organization’s investment policies and in directing the use of the organization’s income or assets at all times during the tax year? If "Yes," describe in Part VI the role the organization’s supported organizations played in this regard.
3
 
 
Section E. Type III Functionally-Integrated Supporting Organizations
1
Check the box next to the method that the organization used to satisfy the Integral Part Test during the year (see instructions):
a
b
c
2
Activities Test. Answer (a) and (b) below.
Yes
No
a
Did substantially all of the organization’s activities during the tax year directly further the exempt purposes of the supported organization(s) to which the organization was responsive? If "Yes," then in Part VI identify those supported organizations and explain how these activities directly furthered their exempt purposes, how the organization was responsive to those supported organizations, and how the organization determined that these activities constituted substantially all of its activities.
2a
 
 
b
Did the activities described in (a) constitute activities that, but for the organization’s involvement, one or more of the organization’s supported organization(s) would have been engaged in? If "Yes," explain in Part VI the reasons for the organization’s position that its supported organization(s) would have engaged in these activities but for the organization’s involvement.
2b
 
 
3
Parent of Supported Organizations. Answer (a) and (b) below.
a
Did the organization have the power to regularly appoint or elect a majority of the officers, directors, or trustees of each of the supported organizations? Provide details in Part VI.
3a
 
 
b
Did the organization exercise a substantial degree of direction over the policies, programs and activities of each of its supported organizations? If "Yes," describe in Part VI. the role played by the organization in this regard.
3b
 
 
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 6
Part V
Type III Non-Functionally Integrated 509(a)(3) Supporting Organizations
1
Section A - Adjusted Net Income (A) Prior Year (B) Current Year
(optional)
1 Net short-term capital gain 1    
2 Recoveries of prior-year distributions 2    
3 Other gross income (see instructions) 3    
4 Add lines 1 through 3 4    
5 Depreciation and depletion 5    
6 Portion of operating expenses paid or incurred for production or collection of gross income or for management, conservation, or maintenance of property held for production of income (see instructions) 6    
7 Other expenses (see instructions) 7    
8 Adjusted Net Income (subtract lines 5, 6 and 7 from line 4) 8    
Section B - Minimum Asset Amount (A) Prior Year (B) Current Year
(optional)
1 Aggregate fair market value of all non-exempt-use assets (see instructions for short tax year or assets held for part of year): 1
a Average monthly value of securities 1a    
b Average monthly cash balances 1b    
c Fair market value of other non-exempt-use assets 1c    
d Total (add lines 1a, 1b, and 1c) 1d    
e Discount claimed for blockage or other factors
(explain in detail in Part VI):  
2 Acquisition indebtedness applicable to non-exempt use assets 2    
3 Subtract line 2 from line 1d 3    
4 Cash deemed held for exempt use. Enter 1-1/2% of line 3 (for greater amount, see instructions). 4    
5 Net value of non-exempt-use assets (subtract line 4 from line 3) 5    
6 Multiply line 5 by .035 6    
7 Recoveries of prior-year distributions 7    
8 Minimum Asset Amount (add line 7 to line 6) 8    
Section C - Distributable Amount Current Year
1 Adjusted net income for prior year (from Section A, line 8, Column A) 1  
2 Enter 85% of line 1 2  
3 Minimum asset amount for prior year (from Section B, line 8, Column A) 3  
4 Enter greater of line 2 or line 3 4  
5 Income tax imposed in prior year 5  
6 Distributable Amount. Subtract line 5 from line 4, unless subject to emergency temporary reduction (see instructions) 6  
7
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 7
Part V
Type III Non-Functionally Integrated 509(a)(3) Supporting Organizations (continued)
Section D - Distributions Current Year
1 Amounts paid to supported organizations to accomplish exempt purposes  
2 Amounts paid to perform activity that directly furthers exempt purposes of supported organizations, in
excess of income from activity		  
3 Administrative expenses paid to accomplish exempt purposes of supported organizations  
4 Amounts paid to acquire exempt-use assets  
5 Qualified set-aside amounts (prior IRS approval required)  
6 Other distributions (describe in Part VI). See instructions  
7Total annual distributions. Add lines 1 through 6.  
8 Distributions to attentive supported organizations to which the organization is responsive (provide
details in Part VI). See instructions		  
9 Distributable amount for 2018 from Section C, line 6  
10 Line 8 amount divided by Line 9 amount  
Section E - Distribution Allocations (see instructions) (i)
Excess Distributions 		(ii)
Underdistributions
Pre-2018 		(iii)
Distributable
Amount for 2018
1 Distributable amount for 2018 from Section C, line
6 		 
2 Underdistributions, if any, for years prior to 2018 (reasonable cause required-- explain in Part VI).
See instructions.		  
3 Excess distributions carryover, if any, to 2018:
a From 2013.......  
b From 2014.......  
c From 2015.......  
d From 2016.......  
e From 2017.......  
fTotal of lines 3a through e  
g Applied to underdistributions of prior years  
h Applied to 2018 distributable amount  
i Carryover from 2013 not applied (see
instructions) 		 
j Remainder. Subtract lines 3g, 3h, and 3i from 3f.  
4Distributions for 2018 from Section D, line 7:
$  
a Applied to underdistributions of prior years  
b Applied to 2018 distributable amount  
c Remainder. Subtract lines 4a and 4b from 4.  
5 Remaining underdistributions for years prior to
2018, if any. Subtract lines 3g and 4a from line 2.
If the amount is greater than zero, explain in Part VI.
See instructions.		  
6 Remaining underdistributions for 2018. Subtract
lines 3h and 4b from line 1. If the amount is greater
than zero, explain in Part VI. See instructions.		  
7 Excess distributions carryover to 2019. Add lines
3j and 4c.		  
8 Breakdown of line 7:
a Excess from 2014......  
b Excess from 2015.....  
c Excess from 2016.....  
d Excess from 2017.....  
e Excess from 2018.....  
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) (2018)

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 8
Part VI
Supplemental Information. Provide the explanations required by Part II, line 10; Part II, line 17a or 17b; Part III, line 12; Part IV, Section A, lines 1, 2, 3b, 3c, 4b, 4c, 5a, 6, 9a, 9b, 9c, 11a, 11b, and 11c; Part IV, Section B, lines 1 and 2; Part IV, Section C, line 1; Part IV, Section D, lines 2 and 3; Part IV, Section E, lines 1c, 2a, 2b, 3a and 3b; Part V, line 1; Part V, Section B, line 1e; Part V Section D, lines 5, 6, and 8; and Part V, Section E, lines 2, 5, and 6. Also complete this part for any additional information. (See instructions).
Facts And Circumstances Test
 
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018


Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
Schedule B
(Form 990, 990-EZ,
or 990-PF)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Schedule of Contributors

Arrow Bullet Attach to Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
Arrow Bullet Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2018
Name of the organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

53-0214281
Organization type (check one):
Filers of:
Section:
Form 990 or 990-EZ






Form 990-PF




Check if your organization is covered by the General Rule or a Special Rule.  
Note. Only a section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organization can check boxes for both the General Rule and a Special Rule. See instructions.
General Rule
Special Rules
......... Arrow Bullet $  
Caution. An organization that isn't covered by the General Rule and/or the Special Rules doesn't file Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF), but it must answer “No” on Part IV, line 2, of its Form 990; or check the box on line H of its
Form 990-EZ or on its Form 990PF, Part I, line 2, to certify that it doesn't meet the filing requirements of Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF).
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions
for Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
Cat. No. 30613XSchedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2018)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2018) Page 2
Name of organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
  		Employer identification number
53-0214281
Part I
Contributors (See instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part I if additional space is needed.
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
RESTRICTED
 
 
 
 
  ,    

$ RESTRICTED


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2018)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2018)
Page 3
Name of organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
  		Employer identification number

53-0214281
Part II
Noncash Property (See instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part II if additional space is needed.
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(See instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2018)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2018)
Page 4
Name of organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
  		Employer identification number

53-0214281
Part III
Exclusively religious, charitable, etc., contributions to organizations described in section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) that total more than $1,000 for the year from any one contributor. Complete columns (a) through (e) and the following line entry. For organizations completing Part III, enter the total of exclusively religious, charitable, etc., contributions of $1,000 or less for the year. (Enter this information once. See instructions.) Arrow Bullet$  
Use duplicate copies of Part III if additional space is needed.
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
(a)
No. from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2018)

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
SCHEDULE C
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Political Campaign and Lobbying Activities

For Organizations Exempt From Income Tax Under section 501(c) and section 527

SchCMd Bullet Complete if the organization is described below. SchCMd Bullet Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
SchCMd BulletGo to www.irs.gov/Form990 for instructions and the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2018
Open to Public
Inspection
If the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, Line 3, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 46 (Political Campaign Activities), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations: Complete Parts I-A and B. Do not complete Part I-C.
Round Bullet Section 501(c) (other than section 501(c)(3)) organizations: Complete Parts I-A and C below. Do not complete Part I-B.
Round Bullet Section 527 organizations: Complete Part I-A only.
If the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, Line 4, or Form 990-EZ, Part VI, line 47 (Lobbying Activities), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations that have filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)): Complete Part II-A. Do not complete Part II-B.
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations that have NOT filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)): Complete Part II-B. Do not complete Part II-A.
If the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, Line 5 (Proxy Tax) (see separate instructions) or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 35c (Proxy Tax) (see separate instructions), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(4), (5), or (6) organizations: Complete Part III.
Name of the organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

53-0214281
Part I-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c) or is a section 527 organization.

1
Provide a description of the organization’s direct and indirect political campaign activities in Part IV (see instructions for definition of “political campaign activities")

2
Political campaign activity expenditures (see instructions) ....................................................................SchCMd Bullet
$  
3
Volunteer hours for political campaign activities (see instructions) ..................................................................
 

Part I-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3).
1
Enter the amount of any excise tax incurred by the organization under section 4955 ................................SchCMd Bullet
$  
2
Enter the amount of any excise tax incurred by organization managers under section 4955 .......................SchCMd Bullet
$  
3
If the organization incurred a section 4955 tax, did it file Form 4720 for this year? .........................................
4a
Was a correction made? ......................................................................................................................
b
If "Yes," describe in Part IV.
Part I-C
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c), except section 501(c)(3).
1
Enter the amount directly expended by the filing organization for section 527 exempt function activities ..... SchCMd Bullet
$  
2
Enter the amount of the filing organization's funds contributed to other organizations for section 527 exempt function activities ............................................................................................................................SchCMd Bullet

$  
3
Total exempt function expenditures. Add lines 1 and 2. Enter here and on Form 1120-POL, line 17b...........SchCMd Bullet

$  
4
Did the filing organization file Form 1120-POL for this year? ...................................................................
5
Enter the names, addresses and employer identification number (EIN) of all section 527 political organizations to which the filing
organization made payments. For each organization listed, enter the amount paid from the filing organization’s funds. Also enter the amount of political contributions received that were promptly and directly delivered to a separate political organization, such as a separate segregated fund or a political action committee (PAC). If additional space is needed, provide information in Part IV.
(a) Name (b) Address (c) EIN (d) Amount paid from filing organization's funds. If none, enter -0-. (e) Amount of political contributions received and promptly and directly delivered to a separate political organization. If none, enter -0-.
1
2
3
4
5
6
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 50084S
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018

Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 2
Part II-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3) and filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)).
A Check SchCMd Bulletexpenses, and share of excess lobbying expenditures).
B Check SchCMd Bullet
Limits on Lobbying Expenditures
(The term "expenditures" means amounts paid or incurred.) 		(a) Filing
organization's
totals 		(b) Affiliated group totals
1a Total lobbying expenditures to influence public opinion (grass roots lobbying) ......................    
b Total lobbying expenditures to influence a legislative body (direct lobbying) ............................... 40,000  
c Total lobbying expenditures (add lines 1a and 1b) ................................................................... 40,000  
d Other exempt purpose expenditures ........................................................................ 2,396,169  
e Total exempt purpose expenditures (add lines 1c and 1d) ............................................... 2,436,169  
f Lobbying nontaxable amount. Enter the amount from the following table in both
columns.		 271,808  
If the amount on line 1e, column (a) or (b) is:The lobbying nontaxable amount is:
Not over $500,00020% of the amount on line 1e.
Over $500,000 but not over $1,000,000$100,000 plus 15% of the excess over $500,000.
Over $1,000,000 but not over $1,500,000$175,000 plus 10% of the excess over $1,000,000.
Over $1,500,000 but not over $17,000,000$225,000 plus 5% of the excess over $1,500,000.
Over $17,000,000$1,000,000.
g Grassroots nontaxable amount (enter 25% of line 1f) ................................................. 67,952  
h Subtract line 1g from line 1a. If zero or less, enter -0-. ................................................ 0  
i Subtract line 1f from line 1c. If zero or less, enter -0-. ................................................ 0  
j If there is an amount other than zero on either line 1h or line 1i, did the organization file Form 4720 reporting
section 4911 tax for this year? ...................................................................................................................

4-Year Averaging Period Under section 501(h)
(Some organizations that made a section 501(h) election do not have to complete all of the five
columns below. See the separate instructions for lines 2a through 2f.)
Lobbying Expenditures During 4-Year Averaging Period
Calendar year (or fiscal year
beginning in) 		(a) 2015 (b) 2016 (c) 2017 (d) 2018 (e) Total
2a Lobbying nontaxable amount 338,179 340,205 318,669 271,808 1,268,861
b Lobbying ceiling amount
(150% of line 2a, column(e)) 		1,903,292
c Total lobbying expenditures 22,500 40,000 40,000 40,000 142,500
d Grassroots nontaxable amount 84,545 85,051 79,667 67,952 317,215
e Grassroots ceiling amount
(150% of line 2d, column (e))		 475,823
f Grassroots lobbying expenditures          
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018


Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 3
Part II-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3) and has NOT filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)).
For each "Yes" response on lines 1a through 1i below, provide in Part IV a detailed description of the lobbying activity.
(a)
No
Yes
(b)
Amount
1
During the year, did the filing organization attempt to influence foreign, national, state or local legislation, including any attempt to influence public opinion on a legislative matter or referendum, through the use of:
a
Volunteers? ...........................................................................................................
 
 
b
Paid staff or management (include compensation in expenses reported on lines 1c through 1i)? ........
 
 
c
Media advertisements? ...................................................................................................
 
 
 
d
Mailings to members, legislators, or the public? .............................................................................
 
 
 
e
Publications, or published or broadcast statements? ...........................................................
 
 
 
f
Grants to other organizations for lobbying purposes? ..........................................................
 
 
 
g
Direct contact with legislators, their staffs, government officials, or a legislative body? .......................
 
 
 
h
Rallies, demonstrations, seminars, conventions, speeches, lectures, or any similar means? ..................
 
 
 
i
Other activities? ...................................................................................................................
 
 
 
j
Total. Add lines 1c through 1i ....................................................................................................
 
2a
Did the activities in line 1 cause the organization to be not described in section 501(c)(3)? .....
 
 
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of any tax incurred under section 4912 ...........................................
 
c
If "Yes," enter the amount of any tax incurred by organization managers under section 4912 ...................
 
d
If the filing organization incurred a section 4912 tax, did it file Form 4720 for this year? ........................
 
 
Part III-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(4), section 501(c)(5), or section 501(c)(6).
Yes
No
1
Were substantially all (90% or more) dues received nondeductible by members? ...............................................
1
 
 
2
Did the organization make only in-house lobbying expenditures of $2,000 or less? ............................................
2
 
 
3
Did the organization agree to carry over lobbying and political expenditures from the prior year? .................................
3
 
 
Part III-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(4), section 501(c)(5), or section 501(c)(6) and if either (a) BOTH Part III-A, lines 1 and 2, are answered "No" OR (b) Part III-A, line 3, is answered “Yes."
1
Dues, assessments and similar amounts from members ......................................................................
1
 
2
Section 162(e) nondeductible lobbying and political expenditures (do not include amounts of political expenses for which the section 527(f) tax was paid).
a
Current year .............................................................................................................................
2a
 
b
Carryover from last year ............................................................................................................
2b
 
c
Total ...........................................................................................................................................
2c
 
3
Aggregate amount reported in section 6033(e)(1)(A) notices of nondeductible section 162(e) dues .
3
 
4
If notices were sent and the amount on line 2c exceeds the amount on line 3, what portion of the excess does the organization agree to carryover to the reasonable estimate of nondeductible lobbying and political expenditure next year? ......................................................................................................................
4
 
5
Taxable amount of lobbying and political expenditures (see instructions) .........................................
5
 
Part IV
Supplemental Information
Provide the descriptions required for Part l-A, line 1; Part l-B, line 4; Part l-C, line 5; Part II-A (affiliated group list); Part II-A, lines 1 and 2 (see instructions), and Part ll-B, line 1. Also, complete this part for any additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
SCHEDULE C, PART II-A BVA SENT LETTERS TO AND MET DIRECTLY WITH GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS AND LEGISLATORS, AND COMMUNICATED TO ITS MEMBERS BY ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTERS. BVA'S EFFORTS ARE CONCENTRATED ON LEGISLATION AFFECTING VETERANS BENEFITS AND, BLIND REHABILITATION PROGRAMS AND SERVICES OFFERED BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT THROUGH THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS TO BLINDED VETERANS. SEE SCHEDULE O FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BVA'S ADVOCACY PROGRAM.
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990EZ) 2018


Additional Data


Software ID:  
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SCHEDULE D
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Financial Statements
SchDMd Bullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes," on Form 990,
Part IV, line 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 12a, or 12b.
SchDMd Bullet Attach to Form 990.
SchDMd Bullet Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2018
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

53-0214281
Part I
Organizations Maintaining Donor Advised Funds or Other Similar Funds or Accounts. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 6.
(a) Donor advised funds (b) Funds and other accounts
1 Total number at end of year .........    
2 Aggregate value of contributions to (during year)    
3 Aggregate value of grants from (during year)    
4 Aggregate value at end of year ........    
5
Did the organization inform all donors and donor advisors in writing that the assets held in donor advised funds are the organization’s property, subject to the organization’s exclusive legal control? ............
6
Did the organization inform all grantees, donors, and donor advisors in writing that grant funds can be used only for charitable purposes and not for the benefit of the donor or donor advisor, or for any other purpose conferring impermissible private benefit? ...................................
Part II
Conservation Easements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 7.
1
Purpose(s) of conservation easements held by the organization (check all that apply).
2
Complete lines 2a through 2d if the organization held a qualified conservation contribution in the form of a conservation easement on the last day of the tax year.
Held at the End of the Year
a Total number of conservation easements ...................... 2a  
b Total acreage restricted by conservation easements .................... 2b  
c Number of conservation easements on a certified historic structure included in (a) ..... 2c  
d Number of conservation easements included in (c) acquired after 7/25/06, and not on a historic structure listed in the National Register ... 2d  
3
Number of conservation easements modified, transferred, released, extinguished, or terminated by the organization during the
tax year SchDMd Bullet  
4
Number of states where property subject to conservation easement is located SchDMd Bullet  
5
Does the organization have a written policy regarding the periodic monitoring, inspection, handling of violations, and enforcement of the conservation easements it holds? ............
6
Staff and volunteer hours devoted to monitoring, inspecting, handling of violations, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet  
7
Amount of expenses incurred in monitoring, inspecting, handling of violations, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet $  
8
Does each conservation easement reported on line 2(d) above satisfy the requirements of section 170(h)(4)(B)(i) and section 170(h)(4)(B)(ii)? .............................
9
In Part XIII, describe how the organization reports conservation easements in its revenue and expense statement, and
balance sheet, and include, if applicable, the text of the footnote to the organization’s financial statements that describes
the organization’s accounting for conservation easements.
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 8.
1a
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), not to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service, provide, in Part XIII, the text of the footnote to its financial statements that describes these items.
b
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service, provide the following amounts relating to these items:
(i)
Revenue included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 .........................SchDMd Bullet $  
(ii)
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
2
If the organization received or held works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets for financial gain, provide the
following amounts required to be reported under SFAS 116 (ASC 958) relating to these items:
a
Revenue included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ..........................SchDMd Bullet $  
b
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 52283D
Schedule D (Form 990) 2018

Schedule D (Form 990) 2018
Page 2
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets (continued)
3
Using the organization’s acquisition, accession, and other records, check any of the following that are a significant use of its collection items (check all that apply):
a
d
b
e
 
c
4
Provide a description of the organization’s collections and explain how they further the organization’s exempt purpose in
Part XIII.
5
During the year, did the organization solicit or receive donations of art, historical treasures or other similar
assets to be sold to raise funds rather than to be maintained as part of the organization’s collection?...
Part IV
Escrow and Custodial Arrangements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 9, or reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21.
1a
Is the organization an agent, trustee, custodian or other intermediary for contributions or other assets not
included on Form 990, Part X? ....................................
b If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIII and complete the following table: Amount
c Beginning balance ............................. 1c  
d Additions during the year ............................ 1d  
e Distributions during the year .......................... 1e  
f Ending balance ................................ 1f  
2a
Did the organization include an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21, for escrow or custodial account liability? ...
b
If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIII. Check here if the explanation has been provided in Part XIII ....
Part V
Endowment Funds. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 10.
(a)Current year (b)Prior year (c)Two years back (d)Three years back (e)Four years back
1a Beginning of year balance ....          
b Contributions ...          
c Net investment earnings, gains, and losses          
d Grants or scholarships ...          
e Other expenditures for facilities
and programs ... 		         
f Administrative expenses ....          
g End of year balance ......          
2
Provide the estimated percentage of the current year end balance (line 1g, column (a)) held as:
a
Board designated or quasi-endowment SchDMd Bullet  
b
Permanent endowment SchDMd Bullet  
c
Temporarily restricted endowment SchDMd Bullet  
The percentages on lines 2a, 2b, and 2c should equal 100%.
3a
Are there endowment funds not in the possession of the organization that are held and administered for the
organization by:

Yes
No
(i) unrelated organizations .................
3a(i)
 
 
(ii) related organizations .................
3a(ii)
 
 
b
If "Yes" on 3a(ii), are the related organizations listed as required on Schedule R? .........
3b
 
 
4
Describe in Part XIII the intended uses of the organization's endowment funds.
Part VI
Land, Buildings, and Equipment.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 11a. See Form 990, Part X, line 10.
Description of property (a) Cost or other basis
(investment) 		(b) Cost or other basis (other) (c) Accumulated depreciation (d) Book value
1a Land .....      
b Buildings ....   2,040,911 21,805 2,019,106
c Leasehold improvements        
d Equipment ....   135,592 88,238 47,354
e Other .....        
Total. Add lines 1a through 1e. (Column (d) must equal Form 990, Part X, column (B), line 10(c).)..SchDMdBullet 2,066,460
Schedule D (Form 990) 2018

Schedule D (Form 990) 2018
Page 3
Part VII
Investments—Other Securities. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 11b. See Form 990, Part X, line 12.
(a) Description of security or category
(including name of security)		 (b) Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1) Financial derivatives.........    
(2) Closely-held equity interests........    
(3)Other
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
(E)
(F)
(G)
(H)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col. (B) line 12.)Small Bullet  
Part VIII
Investments—Program Related. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11c. See Form 990, Part X, line 13.
(a) Description of investment (b) Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 13.)Small Bullet  
Part IX
Other Assets. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11d. See Form 990, Part X, line 15.
(a) Description (b) Book value
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 15.)...........Small Bullet  
Part X
Other Liabilities. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11e or 11f. See Form 990, Part X, line 25.
1.(a) Description of liability (b) Book value
(1) Federal income taxes  
SECURITY DEPOSIT 11,266
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 25.)Small Bullet 11,266
2. Liability for uncertain tax positions. In Part XIII, provide the text of the footnote to the organization's financial statements that reports the organization's liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740). Check here if the text of the footnote has been provided in Part XIII
Schedule D (Form 990) 2018

Schedule D (Form 990) 2018
Page 4
Part XI Reconciliation of Revenue per Audited Financial Statements With Revenue per Return Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 12a.
1 Total revenue, gains, and other support per audited financial statements ....... 1 2,780,187
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12:
a Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments .... 2a -39,203
b Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2b 310,823
c Recoveries of prior year grants ........... 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 2d 74,332
e Add lines 2a through 2d ..................... 2e 345,952
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1.................. 3 2,434,235
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b . 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ........... 4b 11,734
c Add lines 4a and 4b.................... 4c 11,734
5 Total revenue. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 12.) ...... 5 2,445,969
Part XII Reconciliation of Expenses per Audited Financial Statements With Expenses per Return. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 12a.
1 Total expenses and losses per audited financial statements ........... 1 2,809,590
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part IX, line 25:
a Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2a 310,823
b Prior year adjustments ............ 2b  
c Other losses ................ 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 2d 74,332
e Add lines 2a through 2d.................... 2e 385,155
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1................... 3 2,424,435
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part IX, line 25, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b .. 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 4b 11,734
c Add lines 4a and 4b..................... 4c 11,734
5 Total expenses. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 18.) ...... 5 2,436,169
Part XIII
Supplemental Information
Provide the descriptions required for Part II, lines 3, 5, and 9; Part III, lines 1a and 4; Part lV, lines 1b and 2b; Part V, line 4; Part X, line 2; Part XI, lines 2d and 4b; and Part XII, lines 2d and 4b. Also complete this part to provide any additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
PART XI, LINE 2D - OTHER ADJUSTMENTS: FUNDRAISING EXPENSES 74,332.
PART XI, LINE 4B - OTHER ADJUSTMENTS: LIFE MEMBER DUES 11,734.
PART XII, LINE 2D - OTHER ADJUSTMENTS: FUNDRAISING EXPENSES 74,332.
PART XII, LINE 4B - OTHER ADJUSTMENTS: LIFE MEMBER DUES 11,734.
Schedule D (Form 990) 2018


Additional Data


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Software Version:  




SCHEDULE G (Form 990 or 990-EZ)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information Regarding
Fundraising or Gaming Activities
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, lines 17, 18, or 19, or if the organization entered more than $15,000 on Form 990-EZ, line 6a. right arrowAttach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
right arrowGo to www.irs.gov/Form990 for instructions and the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2018
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

53-0214281
Part I
Fundraising Activities. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 17.
Form 990-EZ filers are not required to complete this part.
1
Indicate whether the organization raised funds through any of the following activities. Check all that apply.
a e
b f
c g
d
2a
Did the organization have a written or oral agreement with any individual (including officers, directors, trustees
or key employees listed in Form 990, Part VII) or entity in connection with professional fundraising services?
b
If "Yes," list the ten highest paid individuals or entities (fundraisers) pursuant to agreements under which the fundraiser is
to be compensated at least $5,000 by the organization.


(i) Name and address of individual
or entity (fundraiser) 		(ii) Activity (iii) Did fundraiser have custody or control of contributions? (iv) Gross receipts
from activity 		(v) Amount paid to
(or retained by)
fundraiser listed in
col. (i) 		(vi) Amount paid to
(or retained by)
organization
Yes No
 
LEWIS ADVERTISING
325 EAST OLIVER STREET
 
BALTIMORE, MD21202 		DIRECT MAIL SOLICITATION   No 675,578 32,400 643,178
 
THOMAS TOBIN
2310 ARDLEIGH DRIVE
 
CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH44106 		MAJOR DONOR SOLICITATION   No 230,802 21,800 209,002
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . right arrow 906,380 54,200 852,180
3
List all states in which the organization is registered or licensed to solicit contributions or has been notified it is exempt from registration or licensing.
AL, AL, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 50083H
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 2
Part II
Fundraising Events. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 18, or reported more than $15,000 of fundraising event contributions and gross income on Form 990-EZ, lines 1 and 6b. List events with gross receipts greater than $5,000.




VerticalRevenue
(a) Event #1

GOLF TOURNAMENT
(event type) 		(b) Event #2

BENEFIT CONCERT
(event type) 		(c) Other events

 
(total number) 		(d) Total events
(add col. (a) through col. (c))

1
Gross receipts . . . . .
44,162
21,571
 
65,733

2
Less: Contributions . . . .
18,500
 
 
18,500
3 Gross income (line 1 minus
line 2) . . . . . .
25,662
21,571
 
47,233



VerticalDirectExpenses
4 Cash prizes . . . . .        
5 Noncash prizes . . . .        
6 Rent/facility costs . . . .   5,395   5,395
7 Food and beverages . . .   10,545   10,545
8 Entertainment . . . .   29,319   29,319
9 Other direct expenses . . . 18,055 11,018   29,073
10 Direct expense summary. Add lines 4 through 9 in column (d) . . . . . . . . . . right arrow 74,332
11 Net income summary. Subtract line 10 from line 3, column (d). . . . . . . . . . right arrow -27,099
Part III
Gaming. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 19, or reported more than $15,000 on Form 990-EZ, line 6a.
VerticalRevenue
(a) Bingo (b) Pull tabs/Instant
bingo/progressive bingo 		(c) Other gaming (d) Total gaming (add col.(a) through col.(c))

1
Gross revenue . . . . .
 
 
 
 
VerticalDirectExpenses

2
Cash prizes . . . . .
 
 
 
 

3
Noncash prizes . . . .
 
 
 
 

4
Rent/facility costs . . . .
 
 
 
 

5
Other direct expenses . . .
 
 
 
 


6

Volunteer labor . . . .
%
%
%


7
Direct expense summary. Add lines 2 through 5 in column (d) . . . . . . . . . . right arrow
 

8
Net gaming income summary. Subtract line 7 from line 1, column (d). . . . . . . . . right arrow
 

9
Enter the state(s) in which the organization conducts gaming activities:
a
Is the organization licensed to conduct gaming activities in each of these states? . . . . . . . .
b
If "No," explain:
 
10a
Were any of the organization's gaming licenses revoked, suspended or terminated during the tax year? . . .
b
If "Yes," explain:
 
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Page 3
11
Does the organization conduct gaming activities with nonmembers? . . . . . . . . . . .
12
Is the organization a grantor, beneficiary or trustee of a trust or a member of a partnership or other entity
formed to administer charitable gaming? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13
Indicate the percentage of gaming activity conducted in:
a
The organization's facility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13a
%
b
An outside facility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13b
%
14
Enter the name and address of the person who prepares the organization's gaming/special events books and records:
Name right arrow
Address right arrow
15a
Does the organization have a contract with a third party from whom the organization receives gaming
revenue? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of gaming revenue received by the organization right arrow $   and the
amount of gaming revenue retained by the third party right arrow $   .
c
If "Yes," enter name and address of the third party:
Name right arrow
Address right arrow
 
 
16
Gaming manager information:
Name right arrow
Gaming manager compensation right arrow $  
Description of services provided right arrow
 
17
Mandatory distributions:
a
Is the organization required under state law to make charitable distributions from the gaming proceeds to
retain the state gaming license? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
b
Enter the amount of distributions required under state law distributed to other exempt organizations or spent
in the organization's own exempt activities during the tax year right arrow$  
Part IV
Supplemental Information. Provide the explanations required by Part I, line 2b, columns (iii) and (v); and Part III, lines 9, 9b, 10b, 15b, 15c, 16, and 17b, as applicable. Also provide any additional information. See instructions.
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018
Additional Data


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Schedule I
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Grants and Other Assistance to Organizations,
Governments and Individuals in the United States
Complete if the organization answered "Yes," on Form 990, Part IV, line 21 or 22.
lBullet Attach to Form 990.
lBullet Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2018
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number
53-0214281
Part I
General Information on Grants and Assistance
1
Does the organization maintain records to substantiate the amount of the grants or assistance, the grantees' eligibility for the grants or assistance, and
the selection criteria used to award the grants or assistance? ........................
2
Describe in Part IV the organization's procedures for monitoring the use of grant funds in the United States.
Part II
Grants and Other Assistance to Domestic Organizations and Domestic Governments. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 21, for any recipient
that received more than $5,000. Part II can be duplicated if additional space is needed.
(a) Name and address of organization
or government		 (b) EIN (c) IRC section
(if applicable)		 (d) Amount of cash grant (e) Amount of non-cash
assistance		 (f) Method of valuation
(book, FMV, appraisal,
other)		 (g) Description of
noncash assistance		 (h) Purpose of grant
or assistance
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
(10)
(11)
(12)
2
Enter total number of section 501(c)(3) and government organizations listed in the line 1 table ................. Bullet Image
 
3
Enter total number of other organizations listed in the line 1 table ........................ . Bullet Image
 
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50055P
Schedule I (Form 990) 2018

Schedule I (Form 990) 2018
Page 2
Part III
Grants and Other Assistance to Domestic Individuals. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 22.
Part III can be duplicated if additional space is needed.
(a) Type of grant or assistance (b) Number of
recipients		 (c) Amount of
cash grant		 (d) Amount of
noncash assistance		 (e) Method of valuation (book,
FMV, appraisal, other)		 (f) Description of noncash assistance
(1) SCHOLARSHIPS 9 13,075      
(2) SERVICE AWARDS 4 635      
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
Part IV
Supplemental Information. Provide the information required in Part I, line 2; Part III, column (b); and any other additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
PART I, LINE 2: THE ATTENDING COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY LISTED ON THE RECIPIENT'S SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION IS CONTACTED BY A BVA EMPLOYEE. FUNDS ARE DISBURSED DIRECTLY TO THAT SCHOOL UPON RECEIPT OF AN INVOICE FOR PAYMENT RATIFYING THE FACT THAT THE STUDENT IS ENROLLED.
Schedule I (Form 990) 2018



Additional Data


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SCHEDULE O
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or 990-EZ or to provide any additional information.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
MediumBullet Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2018
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

53-0214281
Return Reference Explanation
FORM 990, PART I, LINE 1 THE BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION (BVA) IS THE ONLY CONGRESSIONALLY CHARTERED VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATION (VSO) EXCLUSIVELY DEDICATED TO SERVING THE NEEDS OF, ADVOCATING FOR, AND PROMOTING THE WELFARE OF, AMERICA'S BLINDED VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES. BVA IS A NONPROFIT 501(C)3 TAX-EXEMPT ORGANIZATION FOUNDED BY WORLD WAR II COMBAT-BLINDED VETERANS IN 1945. THE ORGANIZATION WAS INCORPORATED IN 1947, CONGRESSIONALLY CHARTERED IN 1958, AND DEDICATED TO SERVING AS PEER MENTORS AND ADVOCATES FOR VETERANS AND FAMILIES COPING WITH VISION LOSS. BVA ADVOCACY TEAMS ENGAGE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR STAKEHOLDERS TO INCLUDE THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA), DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (DOD), DEPARTMENT OF LABOR (DOL), DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (HHS), SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA) AND U.S. CONGRESS. BVA COMMUNITY-BASED AMBASSADORS IDENTIFY BLINDED VETERANS REQUIRING ASSISTANCE AND SERVE AS ADVOCATES FACILITATING HIGH-QUALITY OUTCOMES WITHIN THE COMPREHENSIVE BLIND REHABILITATION SERVICE-DELIVERY SYSTEM OF CARE. BVA PROMOTES VOCATIONAL AND RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS THAT ENHANCE REHABILITATIVE OUTCOMES AND FOSTERS ENCOURAGEMENT AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT. CURRENT ESTIMATES BY THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS PROJECT 130,000 LEGALLY BLIND AMERICAN VETERANS, A MAJORITY OF WHICH REMAIN UNAWARE OF THEIR ELIGIBILITY FOR REHABILITATIVE SERVICES AND BENEFITS. ANNUALLY, ADDITIONAL THOUSANDS OF VETERANS BECOME BLIND OR VISUALLY IMPAIRED AS A RESULT OF MILITARY SERVICE, DISEASE, ACCIDENT, OR AGE-RELATED CONDITIONS. BVA PROGRAMS ARE DESIGNED AND ALIGNED TO ASSIST THESE VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES IN MEETING THE CHALLENGES OF SUBSTANTIAL VISION LOSS AT NO CHARGE OR MEMBERSHIP PREREQUISITE. OPERATIONAL FUNDING IS PRIMARILY DERIVED FROM THE BENEVOLENT GENEROSITY OF ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORTERS. THE ORGANIZATION IS GOVERNED BY AN ALL-VOLUNTEER MEMBER ELECTED 11 PERSON VOTING BODY COMPRISING THE NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS. POSITIONS ARE HELD ON A VOLUNTARY BASIS AND ALL MEMBERS GIVE FREELY OF THEIR TIME AND RESOURCES. THE BOARD INCLUDES BVA MEMBERS APPOINTED TO SERVE AS THE NATIONAL SERGEANT-AT-ARMS AND THE NATIONAL CHAPLAIN. BOARD MEMBER TRAVEL INCLUDES TWO SEMI-ANNUAL MEETINGS, ONE COINCIDING WITH THE ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION AND THE OTHER AT BVA NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS. BOARD MEMBERS CONDUCT THE VAST MAJORITY OF REGULAR ORGANIZATIONAL BUSINESS VIA EMAIL AND MONTHLY TELECONFERENCING. THIS FISCAL YEAR ALONE, BOARD MEMBER DONATIONS EXCEEDED 10,447 HOURS OF IN-KIND WORK AND OVER $516 IN REIMBURSABLE EXPENSE WAIVED. THE NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS APPOINTS STANDING ADVISORY COMMITTEES COMPRISED OF AN ALL-VOLUNTEER GROUP OF BVA MEMBERS, CAREGIVERS AND NON-MEMBER STAKEHOLDERS. COMMITTEE TERMS ARE STAGGERED AFFORDING PROGRAMMATIC CONTINUITY, WHILE FOSTERING A CONTINUAL ANALYSIS AND OVERSIGHT OF ORGANIZATIONAL OPERATIONS. THIS FISCAL YEAR ALONE, COMMITTEE MEMBER DONATIONS EXCEEDED 80 HOURS OF IN-KIND VOLUNTEER SERVICE. BVA OVERSEES 52 ORGANIZATIONAL REGIONAL GROUPS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES AND PUERTO RICO. EACH REGIONAL GROUP SERVES AS THE LOCAL BVA AFFILIATE PROVIDING GEOGRAPHICALLY AND CULTURALLY SPECIFIC PEER SUPPORT, SOCIAL EVENTS, AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR BLINDED VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES. REGIONAL GROUPS ALSO IDENTIFY RELEVANT POLICY CHANGES, ULTIMATELY ADDRESSED AND IMPLEMENTED BY THE NATIONAL TEAM. BVA NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS IS CURRENTLY LOCATED IN THE OLD TOWN NEIGHBORHOOD OF ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA, ONLY A FEW MILES ACROSS THE POTOMAC RIVER FROM OUR NATION'S CAPITAL AND THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA) CENTRAL OFFICE IN WASHINGTON, DC.
FORM 990, PART III, LINE 4A VETERAN SERVICE AND VOLUNTEER VETERAN SERVICE PROGRAMS THE BVA VETERAN SERVICE PROGRAM CONSISTS OF 13 VETERAN SERVICE OFFICERS AND VOLUNTEER SERVICE OFFICERS INCLUDING FIVE LEGALLY BLIND VETERANS PROVIDING SERVICES THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES AND PUERTO RICO. FOUR VETERAN SERVICE OFFICERS ARE LOCATED AT THE NATIONAL VETERAN SERVICE RESOURCE CENTER IN ALEXANDRIA, VA. BVA HAS DEVELOPED A NATIONAL NETWORK COMPRISED OF 181 CROSS-ACCREDITED SERVICE OFFICERS LOCATED THROUGHOUT VARIOUS STATE AND COUNTY DEPARTMENTS OF VETERANS SERVICES OFFERING FREE SERVICES TO BLINDED VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES. VETERAN SERVICE OFFICERS ASSIST BLINDED VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE LIFE-CYCLE OF BLINDNESS. THEY PROVIDE CRITICAL SERVICES SUCH AS EXPERT ASSISTANCE AND REPRESENTATION WITHIN THE VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION (VBA) CLAIMS PROCESSES, ASSISTANCE AND OVERSIGHT DURING THE VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (VHA) BLIND REHABILITATION SERVICES PROCESSES, AND PROVIDE RESOURCES AND ASSISTANCE IN OBTAINING COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES. THEY HELP BLINDED VETERANS BRING FOCUS AND DIRECTION TO THEIR LIVES, PROVIDING INSPIRATION AND ENCOURAGEMENT. THIS FISCAL YEAR ALONE, THE BVA VETERAN SERVICE PROGRAM WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR 181 CLAIM APPROVALS TOTALING $4,559,144 IN VBA ADMINISTERED COMPENSATION, PENSION, AND SPECIALIZED GRANT BENEFITS TO CLIENTS. IN ADDITION, THE BVA VETERAN SERVICE PROGRAM CONDUCTS ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE VETERANS CARE REVIEW ASSESSMENTS OF THE VA'S BLIND REHABILITATION SERVICES. BVA'S BLIND REHABILITATION QUALITY ASSURANCE COORDINATOR MEETS WITH VA MEDICAL CENTER STAFF AND VETERANS CREATING A COMPREHENSIVE PICTURE OF THE CURRENT STATUS OF EACH BLIND REHABILITATION CENTER (BRC) OR VISION IMPAIRMENT SERVICES IN OUTPATIENT SERVICES (VISOR) PROGRAM. THIS UNIQUE PARTNERSHIP ALLOWS BVA TO SHARE BEST PRACTICES ACROSS VA STATIONS AND INCREASES COLLABORATION WITH VA'S BLIND REHABILITATION SERVICES. THE BVA BLIND REHABILITATION QUALITY ASSURANCE COORDINATOR IS UNIQUELY POSITIONED AS AN ORGANIZATIONAL OUTREACH AMBASSADOR OFFERING EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS AND ONE-ON-ONE BENEFITS ANALYSIS FOR NEWLY BLINDED VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES. BVA'S VETERAN SERVICE OFFICERS ALSO SUPPORT VOLUNTEER OFFICES IN VHA MEDICAL CENTERS, COMMUNITY BASED OUTPATIENT CLINICS, AND VBA REGIONAL OFFICES NATIONWIDE. VOLUNTEER VETERAN SERVICE OFFICERS ARE BLINDED VETERANS SERVING AS PEER COUNSELORS PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR BLINDED VETERANS TO HELP AND SERVE ONE ANOTHER. THEY PROVIDE INFORMATION ON PROGRAMS AND SERVICES, ENCOURAGE BLINDED VETERANS TO ENTER REHABILITATION PROGRAMS, PROVIDE CAMARADERIE AND SERVE AS MENTORS DEMONSTRATING EQUIPMENT AND AIDS USED BY THE BLIND. THEY REINFORCE THE WORK OF THE VETERAN SERVICE OFFICERS BY LIFTING FELLOW VETERANS FROM THE DISCOURAGEMENT AND FRUSTRATION THEY OFTEN FACE. BVA VOLUNTEERS ARE ACTIVE IN THEIR COMMUNITIES AND GOOD SOURCES OF INFORMATION ABOUT LOCAL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES. THIS FISCAL YEAR ALONE, BVA HAD 13 REPRESENTATIVES AND DEPUTY REPRESENTATIVES AND 87 VOLUNTEERS DONATING OVER 15,919 HOURS IN 56 VA FACILITIES. OPERATION PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM BVA ESTABLISHED THE OPERATION PEER SUPPORT (OPS) PROGRAM IN 2006 AS AN EFFORT TO BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN ERA BLINDED VETERANS AND PREVIOUS GENERATIONS. THE PROGRAM CONTINUED TO EVOLVE AND ENCOMPASS INCREASING ERA SPECIFIC GROUPS OF BLINDED VETERANS, UNTIL ULTIMATELY SERVING ALL BLINDED VETERANS REGARDLESS OF ERA. DURING THIS FISCAL YEAR ALONE, THE PROGRAM CONDUCTED 12 EVENTS FOCUSED ON EMPOWERING HUNDREDS OF BLINDED VETERANS, THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS, SUPPORTERS, AND VOLUNTEERS. IN AN EFFORT TO INCREASE MEMBERSHIP INVOLVEMENT AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL, THE OPS PROGRAM BEGAN OFFERING TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION SCHOLARSHIPS FOR NEWLY IDENTIFIED BLINDED VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS TO ATTEND BVA'S NATIONAL CONVENTION. TO DATE, THIS PILOT PROGRAM HAS SUCCESSFULLY INSPIRED DOZENS TO RETURN TO THE ANNUAL CONVENTION AND PARTICIPATE AT THEIR OWN EXPENSE, NOW SERVING IN LEADERSHIP ROLES FOR BVA AND OTHER VETERAN ORGANIZATIONS. IN COOPERATION WITH OUR ORGANIZATIONAL PARTNERS, THE OPS PROGRAM HAS SUCCESSFULLY SPONSORED BLINDED VETERAN PARTICIPATION IN THE CALIFORNIA INTERNATIONAL MARATHON, BLIND APPALACHIAN TRAIL EXPEDITION, PROJECT GEMINI PROGRAM, MAJOR ROB SOLTES MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT, AS WELL AS DOZENS OF HUNTING, SKIING FISHING, KAYAKING, SAILING AND VARIOUS OTHER ADAPTIVE SPORT PROGRAMS.
FORM 990, PART III, LINE 4B PUBLIC EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATION THE BVA BULLETIN SITS AT THE HEART OF ALL BVA NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS EFFORTS. THIS IS A BI-MONTHLY PERIODICAL SENT TO ALL BVA MEMBERS, THEIR FAMILIES, LIBRARIES, HEALTH CARE INSTITUTIONS, VETERAN SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS AND VA BLIND REHABILITATION SERVICE PROVIDERS FOR WHOM THE ORGANIZATION HAS UPDATED CONTACT INFORMATION. THE BULLETIN EDUCATES ON PAST AND PRESENT ISSUES AND EVENTS RELATING SPECIFICALLY TO BLINDED VETERANS. IT COVERS GENERAL TOPICS ABOUT VETERANS AS WELL AS GENERAL TOPICS ABOUT BLINDNESS (I.E., TECHNOLOGY, SOCIAL ISSUES, ETC.). ADDITIONALLY, BVA USES ONE MAJOR TRI-FOLD BROCHURE TO SHARE ITS MESSAGE TO THE ORGANIZATION'S STAKEHOLDERS. AVERAGE CIRCULATION OF THESE COMMUNICATIONS RESOURCES, IN ALL REQUISITE FORMATS, FOR THIS FISCAL YEAR ALONE, EXCEEDED TENS OF THOUSANDS PRODUCED AND DISTRIBUTED. THE BVA WEBSITE RECEIVED 93,228 UNIQUE VISITORS AND 222,424 PAGE VIEWS DURING THIS FISCAL YEAR, AS COMPARED TO 48,000 VISITS AND 116,200 VIEWS DURING THE PRECEDING TIMEFRAME. MOST VISITS ORIGINATED THROUGH THE GOOGLE SEARCH ENGINE AND 93% OF ALL USERS WERE NEW COMPARED TO 90% DURING THE PRECEDING TIMEFRAME. THE BVA WEBSITE IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING IN AN ONGOING EFFORT TO INCREASE ACCESSIBILITY AND ASSIST IN FULFILLING THE ORGANIZATIONS MISSION. BVA MAINTAINS SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS ON MAJOR SITES SUCH AS FACEBOOK, TWITTER, LINKEDIN, INSTAGRAM, AND YOUTUBE. OVER THE PRIOR YEARS, BVA HAS ATTRACTED A LARGE FOLLOWING AND CURRENTLY COMMANDS A SOCIAL MEDIA AUDIENCE OF OVER 12,000 FOLLOWERS, A CUMULATIVE 1.3 PERCENT INCREASE OVER THE PRECEDING YEAR WITH INSTAGRAM GROWING THE MOST WITH A 20 PERCENT INCREASE. BVA USES SOCIAL MEDIA IN AN EFFORT TO EDUCATE AND ADVOCATE TO ITS FOLLOWERS ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION'S ACTIVITIES, LEGISLATIVE NEWS, AND ISSUES FACING BLINDED VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES. SOCIAL MEDIA FOSTERS COLLABORATION WITH PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS AND EDUCATES BVA FOLLOWERS ABOUT THE HELPFUL RESOURCES AVAILABLE. BVA'S MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER CAMPAIGN INFORMS THOUSANDS OF SUPPORTERS, DONORS, AND MEMBERS ABOUT RECENT BVA ACTIVITIES WHILE PROVIDING A DIGEST OF MONTHLY NEWS SHARED ON SOCIAL MEDIA. BVA ALLOCATES A PORTION OF ITS DIRECT MARKETING EXPENSES TO PUBLIC EDUCATION, AND MANAGEMENT AND GENERAL FUNDS ACCORDING TO AICPA STATEMENT OF POSITION 98-2 (SOP 98-2), ACCOUNTING FOR COSTS OF ACTIVITIES OF NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AND STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES THAT INCLUDE FUNDRAISING, NOW CODIFIED IN FASB ACCOUNTING STANDARDS CODIFICATION 958-720, NOT-FOR-PROFIT ENTITIES-OTHER EXPENSES (ASC 958-720). BVA UNDERTAKES A PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS OF ITS ACTIVITIES TO DETERMINE IF THE PURPOSE, AUDIENCE, AND CONTENT CRITERIA ARE MET, AND, IF SO, APPLIES A SYSTEMATIC, RATIONAL JOINT COST ALLOCATION METHODOLOGY. BVA MAKES ITS FINANCIAL INFORMATION AVAILABLE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND WATCHDOG AGENCIES. BVA ADHERES TO THE REQUIREMENTS SET FORTH BY THE COMBINED FEDERAL CAMPAIGN (#10513), THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU WISE GIVING ALLIANCE, AND GUIDESTAR.ORG. BVA IS PROUD TO DISPLAY ITS SEAL AWARDED BY THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU (BBB) AS AN ACCREDITED CHARITY. BVA HOSTS AN ANNUAL CONVENTION EACH AUGUST IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS BLIND REHABILITATION SERVICES ANNUAL CONFERENCE. THIS ALLOWS DIRECT INTERACTION BETWEEN LEADERS AND MEMBERS OF BOTH ORGANIZATIONS, EXPOSURE TO THE LATEST REHABILITATION TECHNOLOGY, POLICIES, RESEARCH AND FOSTERS COLLABORATION ON BEHALF OF ALL BLINDED AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED VETERANS. DURING EACH ANNUAL CONVENTION, BVA PRESENTS AWARDS TO HONOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS. A BLINDED VETERAN WITH PROVEN OUTSTANDING EMPLOYMENT PERFORMANCE AND ADJUSTMENT TO DAILY LIVING RECEIVES THE MAJOR GENERAL MELVIN J. MAAS ACHIEVEMENT AWARD. A VOLUNTEER RECEIVES THE DAVID L. SCHNAIR AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE BVA VOLUNTEER PROGRAM. A BVA MEMBER WHO PROVIDES THE MOST OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF HIS/HER REGIONAL GROUP RECEIVES THE IRVING DIENER AWARD. CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION ARE AWARDED TO INDIVIDUALS, GROUPS, AND EMPLOYERS WHO PROVIDED OUTSTANDING SERVICES TO BLINDED VETERANS AND/OR TO BVA AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL. THE ANNUAL CONVENTION PROVIDES EDUCATION SESSIONS OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES, INCREASING INDIVIDUAL COMPETENCIES, CAPABILITIES AND OVERALL INDEPENDENCE. VOLUNTEER SERVICE OFFICER TRAININGS ARE CONDUCTED AS WELL AS, ADAPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES SEMINARS. THIS YEAR'S CONVENTION HOSTED 53 EXHIBITORS WITH PRODUCT DEMONSTRATIONS, TECHNOLOGY UPDATES AND THE LATEST PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED COMMUNITY. BVA MEMBERS, VA BLIND REHABILITATION SERVICES AND THE PUBLIC ALL VISIT AND PARTICIPATE IN THE EXHIBIT HALL.
FORM 990, PART III, LINE 4C ADVOCACY BVA'S CONGRESSIONAL CHARTER DESIGNATES IT AS THE ORGANIZATIONAL ADVOCATE FOR ALL BLINDED VETERANS BEFORE THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT. BVA'S NATIONAL PRESIDENT, BOARD MEMBERS, AND NATIONAL STAFF PRESENT ANNUAL TESTIMONY BEFORE THE HOUSE AND SENATE COMMITTEES ON VETERANS AFFAIRS IN AN EFFORT TO SHARE INFORMATION AND CONCERNS ON SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS AND SERVICES OFFERED BY THE VA TO VISUALLY IMPAIRED AND BLINDED VETERANS. THEY ALSO MEET PERIODICALLY WITH MEMBERS OF CONGRESS, THEIR KEY STAFF, THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (DOD), THE WHITE HOUSE, AND VA OFFICIALS TO INFORM AND EDUCATE THEM REGARDING THE UNIQUE AND SPECIFIC NEEDS OF BLINDED AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED VETERANS ACROSS OUR NATION. BVA'S EDUCATIONAL EFFORTS SEEK TO ENHANCE THE SPECIALIZED REHABILITATION PROGRAMS PROVIDED BY VA THAT ASSIST BLINDED VETERANS IN THE ACCEPTANCE OF AND ADJUSTMENT TO VISION LOSS, WHILE HELPING THEM ACQUIRE THE ADAPTIVE SKILLS NECESSARY TO SUCCESSFULLY REINTEGRATE INTO THEIR FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES. BVA COLLABORATES AND PARTNERS WITH RECOGNIZED INDUSTRY LEADERS IN ADVOCATING FOR CONTINUED AND EXPANDED RESEARCH INITIATIVES, EDUCATIONAL AND AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS, BENEFITS, ENHANCED SERVICE DELIVERY, AND ADEQUATE ACCOMMODATIONS RELEVANT TO ITS STAKEHOLDER COMMUNITY.
FORM 990, PART III, LINE 4D MEMBERSHIP BVA SERVES AS A MEMBERSHIP-DRIVEN ORGANIZATION. MEMBERSHIP CONSTITUTES AFFILIATION IN THE NATIONAL ORGANIZATION AS WELL AS IN A LOCAL REGIONAL GROUP. ANY BLINDED VETERANS CAN BENEFIT FROM THE SERVICES BVA PROVIDES REGARDLESS OF MEMBERSHIP STATUS. BVA PROVIDES LOCAL ADVOCACY AND SUPPORT THROUGH THE 52 REGIONAL GROUPS. THESE LOCAL GROUPS FOSTER OPPORTUNITIES TO MEET NEW PEOPLE FACING SIMILAR CHALLENGES, TO ESTABLISH FRIENDSHIPS, AND TO GAIN A VOICE AT THE ANNUAL CONVENTION. BVA LIFE MEMBERSHIP DUES ARE DEPOSITED INTO A LIFE MEMBERSHIP FUND, WHICH IS MANAGED BY A BOARD OF TRUSTEES APPOINTED BY THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT. THE DUES ARE INVESTED AND THE ANNUAL EARNINGS (INTEREST AND DIVIDENDS) ARE APPORTIONED TO THE REGIONAL GROUP BASED ON THE NUMBER OF LIFE MEMBERS IN EACH GROUP. BVA NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS DOES NOT BENEFIT FINANCIALLY FROM THE LIFE MEMBERSHIP DUES, SIMPLY MANAGING AND ADMINISTERING THE FUND WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND AN EXTERNAL PORTFOLIO MANAGER. IT IS A BOARD-DESIGNATED FUND. BVA INCLUDES AN AFFILIATE MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY WHERE VETERANS WITH SIGHT, FIRST RESPONDERS, GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS, FEDERAL AGENCY STAFF, HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS, OPTOMETRISTS AND OPHTHALMOLOGISTS AMONG OTHERS CAN JOIN AS MEMBERS VIA THE BVA WEBSITE. SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS FOR 34 YEARS BVA HAS AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS TO DEPENDENT CHILDREN, SPOUSES OR GRANDCHILDREN OF BLINDED VETERANS OR ACTIVELY SERVING BLINDED U.S. MILITARY MEMBERS WITH EITHER SERVICE CONNECTED OR NON-SERVICE CONNECTED VISION LOSS. THIS FISCAL YEAR ALONE, THE KATHERN F. GRUBER SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED SIX $2,000 SCHOLARSHIPS, AND THE THOMAS H. MILLER SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED ONE $1,000 SCHOLARSHIP.
FORM 990, PART V, LINE 13A ND
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 1 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ESTABLISHING AND MAINTAINING A COMPETITIVE COMPENSATION PROGRAM FOR EMPLOYEES OF THE ASSOCIATION. THEY MEET ANNUALLY AND AS NEEDED TO REVIEW, DETERMINE, AND APPROVE ANY COMPENSATION CHANGES. DURING THE ANNUAL CONVENTION THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMPARE THE SALARIES OF CURRENT EMPLOYEES TO SALARY SURVEYS PREPARED BY AN INDEPENDENT THIRD PARTY OR COMPARABLE DATA FROM PEER ORGANIZATION TO ASSESS HOW THEY COMPARE AGAINST THE COMPETITIVE MARKET. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS IS THE ONLY GROUP OF INDIVIDUALS RESPONSIBLE FOR DETERMINING THE COMPENSATION OF BVA'S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. THIS DISCUSSION OCCURS EACH YEAR AT THE ANNUAL CONVENTION.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 6 THE MEMBERS AND ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ASSEMBLED AT THE ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION HAVE VOTING RIGHTS AND ARE THE SUPREME AUTHORITY OF THE ASSOCIATION.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 7A THE MEMBERS AND ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ASSEMBLED AT THE ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION ELECT THE NATIONAL OFFICERS OF THE NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS. THE DISTRICT DIRECTORS ARE ELECTED BY THE MEMBERS AND ASSOCIATE MEMBERS WITHIN THEIR RESPECTIVE GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRICT.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 7B THE MEMBERS AND ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ASSEMBLED AT THE ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION VOTE TO APPROVE ISSUES AND AMENDMENTS THAT ARISE REGARDING RULES, BYLAWS, RESOLUTIONS, AND REPORTS PRESENTED TO SAID MEMBERSHIP.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 11B A DRAFT OF THE FORM 990 IS SENT TO THE CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER BY THE PREPARER. IT IS EMAILED TO THE FINANCIAL EXPERT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE AND THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR WHO ALONG WITH THE CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER REVIEW THE RETURN TOGETHER AND DISCUSS ANY ISSUES OF CONCERN. THEY MAY INDIVIDUALLY OR COLLECTIVELY SPEAK WITH THE PREPARER TO DISCUSS THEIR CONCERNS OR REVIEW THE FORM IN DETAIL. AFTER ANY CHANGES ARE MADE, A COPY IS SENT TO THE FULL BOARD PRIOR TO FILING. ANY COMMENTS THEY HAVE ARE REVIEWED AND DISCUSSED WITH THE PREPARER. WHEN COMPLETED, THE FORM 990 IS SIGNED BY THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND FILED WITH THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 12C BVA'S WRITTEN CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY QUESTIONNAIRE IS DISTRIBUTED TO ALL BOARD MEMBERS, EMPLOYEES, AND APPROPRIATE OUTSIDE PARTIES BY THE CFO PRIOR TO THE ANNUAL CONVENTION. THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR ENSURE THAT ALL QUESTIONNAIRES ARE COMPLETED, REVIEWS THEM, AND DISCLOSES ANY CONFLICTS AT THE PRE-CONVENTION BOARD MEETING. BOARD MEMBERS WHO HAVE CONFLICTS DO NOT VOTE ON ANY ISSUES PERTAINING TO THAT CONFLICT.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 15 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ESTABLISHING AND MAINTAINING A COMPETITIVE COMPENSATION PROGRAM FOR EMPLOYEES OF THE ASSOCIATION. THEY MEET ANNUALLY AND AS NEEDED TO REVIEW, DETERMINE, AND APPROVE ANY COMPENSATION CHANGES. DURING THE ANNUAL CONVENTION THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMPARE THE SALARIES OF CURRENT EMPLOYEES TO SALARY SURVEYS PREPARED BY AN INDEPENDENT THIRD PARTY OR COMPARABLE DATA FROM PEER ORGANIZATION TO ASSESS HOW THEY COMPARE AGAINST THE COMPETITIVE MARKET. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS IS THE ONLY GROUP OF INDIVIDUALS RESPONSIBLE FOR DETERMINING THE COMPENSATION OF BVA'S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. THIS DISCUSSION OCCURS EACH YEAR AT THE ANNUAL CONVENTION.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION C, LINE 19 THE BYLAWS AND CONGRESSIONAL CHARTER OF THE ASSOCIATION ARE AVAILABLE ON BVA'S WEBSITE, ALONG WITH THE FORM 990. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.
FORM 990 PART XII, LINE 2C EXPLANATION: DESCRIBE CHANGES IN COMMITTEE OVERSIGHT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT AUDIT - NO CHANGES FROM PRIOR YEAR.
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 51056K
Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2018


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