115 years ago, BISM then known as Maryland Workshop for the Blind opened its doors to employ the blind and sell their products. Today, BISM continues to provide employment for the blind as well as provide blind individuals the ability to navigate the world independently.
1908
Maryland Workshop for the Blind established by the Maryland General Assembly. Located in Baltimore, its purpose is to provide vocational rehabilitation, continuous employment, and other resources to blind adults of Maryland.
1957
The Cumberland division is established, providing services for blind residents of Western Maryland.
1969
The Salisbury Sewing division is established, providing services for blind residents of the Eastern Shore.
1973
Maryland Workshop for the Blind is renamed Blind Industries & Services of Maryland (BISM).
1986
The Rehabilitation Training Division is established. Originally a small department focused on vocational training, the division grew quickly to provide skills training to blind people of all ages across the state.
1997
BISM creates its Base Supply Center (BSC) division, opening the first BSC store on Dover Air Force Base with five associates.
1999
BISM purchases a second location in Salisbury for its cutting and embroidery operations. BISM wins its first contract to produce uniforms for the military, significantly boosting the Cumberland and Salisbury divisions' production.
2002
BISM expands its BCS division online with the creation of SuperEagleSupply.com, a one stop e-commerce site. In 2015 the website became ShopBISM.com.
2004
Having outgrown its original headquarters, the Baltimore headquarters moves into its present location on 3345 Washington Boulevard. The new facility houses administration, rehabilitation services, and manufacturing.
2014
BISM creates the Raleigh Division of Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, following a previous partnership with the Raleigh Lions Clinic for the Blind.
