In the crucible of adversity during the Spanish Civil War in 1938, the ONCE Association emerged as a beacon of hope for visually impaired individuals. Our visit to Grupo Social ONCE allowed us to delve into the organisation’s historical roots, financial autonomy, strategic collaborations, and its unwavering commitment to nurturing autonomy among its members.

Historical Roots and Democratic Structure

At the heart of ONCE lies a robust democratic structure, distinguishing it as an organisation of the people, by the people, and for the people. Governed by visually impaired members, the organisation annually elects representatives at the national and provincial levels.

Under the leadership of Antonia, a visually impaired territory manager, this structure ensures a nuanced and inclusive representation reflective of the diverse visually impaired community.

Financial Independence through Lottery Sales

A distinctive financial model sets ONCE apart: the sale of lottery tickets. With over 20,000 salesmen, ONCE’s lotteries have undergone a transformative evolution, from a modest three-number format in 1939 to a national system by 1984. This financial independence serves as the lifeblood that sustains ONCE, enabling the provision of a diverse range of essential services to its members.

Diversification and collaborations

Recognising the need for broader inclusivity, ONCE expanded its mission in 1988 to include individuals with special needs, birthing Fundación ONCE. The collaboration with companies like Carrefour led to the creation of ILUNION in 2014, a visionary venture employing 20,000 individuals across 60 sectors, all committed to enhancing the lives of those with special needs.

Membership Criteria and Autonomy Focus

ONCE has set forth stringent yet inclusive criteria for membership, centred on blindness or visual impairment. Regardless of the degree of visual challenge, ONCE’s services are rendered free, underscoring the organisation’s unyielding commitment to fostering autonomy among its members.

Innovation and Technology Integration

Embracing the forefront of technological advancements, ONCE pioneers the integration of cutting-edge solutions through its typotechnology support department. From magnifiers to guide dogs, the organisation continually explores and adopts innovations that enrich the lives of the visually impaired, aligning with its commitment to enhancing accessibility.

 Education and Inclusive Practices

ONCE stands as a staunch advocate for inclusive education, actively supporting visually impaired students in ordinary schools across Spain. Collaborations with educational institutions ensure that teachers receive specialised training, guaranteeing a holistic and inclusive education for visually impaired students. This commitment resonates with ONCE’s vision of breaking down barriers to education.

Cultural inclusion and job training

Acknowledging the importance of cultural access, ONCE provides resources that empower the visually impaired to enjoy a diverse spectrum of cultural offerings. Simultaneously, the organisation places a strong emphasis on job training, recognising it as a pivotal step towards not only economic independence but also the integration of individuals with disabilities into society.