<html xmlns:v="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:vml" xmlns:o="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" xmlns:w="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:word" xmlns:m="http://schemas.microsoft.com/office/2004/12/omml" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40"><head><meta http-equiv=Content-Type content="text/html; charset=us-ascii"><meta name=Generator content="Microsoft Word 15 (filtered medium)"><!--[if !mso]><style>v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
.shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
</style><![endif]--><style><!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Wingdings;
panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;}
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{margin:0in;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;}
h1
{mso-style-priority:9;
mso-style-link:"Heading 1 Char";
mso-margin-top-alt:auto;
margin-right:0in;
mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
margin-left:0in;
font-size:24.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
font-weight:bold;}
h2
{mso-style-priority:9;
mso-style-link:"Heading 2 Char";
mso-margin-top-alt:auto;
margin-right:0in;
mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
margin-left:0in;
font-size:18.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
font-weight:bold;}
a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:#0563C1;
text-decoration:underline;}
span.EmailStyle17
{mso-style-type:personal-compose;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
color:windowtext;}
span.Heading1Char
{mso-style-name:"Heading 1 Char";
mso-style-priority:9;
mso-style-link:"Heading 1";
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ligatures:none;
font-weight:bold;}
span.Heading2Char
{mso-style-name:"Heading 2 Char";
mso-style-priority:9;
mso-style-link:"Heading 2";
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ligatures:none;
font-weight:bold;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
/* List Definitions */
@list l0
{mso-list-id:2042977005;
mso-list-template-ids:342137304;}
@list l0:level1
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:\F0B7;
mso-level-tab-stop:.5in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Symbol;}
@list l0:level2
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:o;
mso-level-tab-stop:1.0in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Courier New";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
@list l0:level3
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:\F0A7;
mso-level-tab-stop:1.5in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Wingdings;}
@list l0:level4
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:\F0A7;
mso-level-tab-stop:2.0in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Wingdings;}
@list l0:level5
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:\F0A7;
mso-level-tab-stop:2.5in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Wingdings;}
@list l0:level6
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:\F0A7;
mso-level-tab-stop:3.0in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Wingdings;}
@list l0:level7
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:\F0A7;
mso-level-tab-stop:3.5in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Wingdings;}
@list l0:level8
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:\F0A7;
mso-level-tab-stop:4.0in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Wingdings;}
@list l0:level9
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:\F0A7;
mso-level-tab-stop:4.5in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Wingdings;}
ol
{margin-bottom:0in;}
ul
{margin-bottom:0in;}
--></style><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:shapedefaults v:ext="edit" spidmax="1026" />
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:shapelayout v:ext="edit">
<o:idmap v:ext="edit" data="1" />
</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>Dear Federation Family,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Attached and below is information for a new and innovative Leadership Program being offered by the National Federation of the Blind. This is a serious one-year commitment. Please review the information closely and if you are interested let me or your chapter president know so we can get all requirements in to President Riccobono by August 25<sup>th</sup>. Chapter presidents, please share this information with your members.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width=600 style='width:6.25in'><tr><td style='background:white;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=left width="100%" style='width:100.0%;margin-bottom:5.75pt'><tr style='height:7.5pt'><td width="100%" valign=top style='width:100.0%;background:#0075C9;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;height:7.5pt'><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><img width=600 height=28 style='width:6.25in;height:.2916in' id="Picture_x0020_2" src="cid:image001.jpg@01D9CBA0.9FC712D0"><o:p></o:p></p></td></tr></table></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></td></tr><tr><td style='background:white;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=left width="100%" style='width:100.0%;margin-bottom:5.75pt'><tr style='height:7.5pt'><td width="100%" valign=top style='width:100.0%;background:white;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;height:7.5pt'><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0><tr><td style='padding:12.0pt 12.0pt 12.0pt 12.0pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><a href="https://u32452178.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=mTCu8dGvOkl-2BXqaCK8sZ2XZsIV-2FIHwCJ1wu82RzQMT8t64jmb9bmcUogA-2Bzxye9vxDcx3lVDh2tpPIXAL3Xf6MxUQeTiNSumVJEdRtfE3Dk-3D_Da7_YHoeFa5KuxVLMreZe7v9Js34MShOO-2BmtM7-2F7P0uPqaqWmbalCSRjfl43A9qEQoh9tLgVfTbes2WKcAPnDchs5JAuGBBe-2FbGJ49Af-2B1mJvdPN3T-2B0qahWnYIQvpEm5n2WHAVYEs2BG0Yg-2Fzgojo1Km2MsGSi1-2BygWYddPn0-2FBfDvc5VQQjYjgl7o0B-2FFNqKc9z8nKlnKD4cCFewTOzqP4OqaT-2FUpOfBcq1F2j62M0t4M-3D"><span style='color:blue;text-decoration:none'><img border=0 width=240 height=264 style='width:2.5in;height:2.75in' id="Picture_x0020_1" src="cid:image002.jpg@01D9CBA0.9FC712D0" alt="National Federation of the Blind logo and tagline live the life you want"></span></a><o:p></o:p></p></td></tr></table></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></td></tr><tr><td style='background:white;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><h1 style='line-height:106%'><span style='font-size:26.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'>NFB Kenneth Jernigan Leadership in Service Program</span><o:p></o:p></h1><p style='line-height:106%'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'>Calling Visionary Leaders: Join the National Federation of the Blind Leadership in Service Program. Empower the blind community. Make a difference. Lead with conviction. Deadline to apply is August 25, 2023. </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style='line-height:106%'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'>The National Federation of the Blind invites you to be part of our groundbreaking Kenneth Jernigan Leadership in Service Program. Prepare to embark on a transformative journey that will shape you into a powerful advocate for blind individuals, while fostering personal growth and building a stronger community. This program is a unique opportunity tailored specifically for blind individuals who aspire to become leaders within the organized blind movement. </span><o:p></o:p></p><h2 style='line-height:106%'><span style='font-size:22.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'>Program Highlights</span><o:p></o:p></h2><p style='line-height:106%'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'>Over the course of one year, you will experience a comprehensive training curriculum that blends in-person and virtual learning to provide a holistic leadership development experience.</span><o:p></o:p></p><ul type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;line-height:106%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2'><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'>In-Person Training Intensives:</span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'> Engage in immersive in-person training sessions led by seasoned leaders in the blind community. These intensive workshops will equip you with practical skills, knowledge, and strategies to effectively advocate for the rights and needs of blind individuals.</span><o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;line-height:106%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2'><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'>Virtual Learning Modules:</span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'> Access a diverse range of virtual modules designed to enhance your leadership capabilities, with a particular focus on leveraging technology for advocacy, communication, and community building. Explore topics such as public speaking, strategic planning, coalition building, and more.</span><o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;line-height:106%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2'><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'>Mentorship and Networking:</span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'> Benefit from mentorship opportunities with experienced leaders from the National Federation of the Blind, who will provide guidance, support, and insights throughout your journey. Additionally, you will have the chance to connect with fellow program participants, building a network of like-minded individuals passionate about the blind community.</span><o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;line-height:106%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2'><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'>Real-World Projects:</span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'> Apply your newfound skills through hands-on leadership experiences within the National Federation of the Blind. Contribute to ongoing initiatives, collaborate with existing leaders, and make a tangible impact on the lives of blind individuals.</span><o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;line-height:106%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2'><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'>Personal Growth and Empowerment:</span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'> Our program places great emphasis on personal growth, fostering self-confidence, resilience, and effective communication skills. Develop a strong sense of empowerment and self-advocacy that will serve you in all aspects of your life.</span><o:p></o:p></li></ul><h2 style='line-height:106%'><span style='font-size:22.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'>Eligibility and Application Process</span><o:p></o:p></h2><p style='line-height:106%'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'>The Kenneth Jernigan Leadership in Service Program is open to individuals who are blind and demonstrate a passion for the organized blind movement. To apply, interested individuals should contact and </span><span style='color:black'><a href="https://u32452178.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=mTCu8dGvOkl-2BXqaCK8sZ2XZsIV-2FIHwCJ1wu82RzQMT8t64jmb9bmcUogA-2Bzxye9v7CJWb0HwahLM9Pmur9aiIvtuS-2FS6mMuDoQZNpIHcW-2FQ-3DoCzy_YHoeFa5KuxVLMreZe7v9Js34MShOO-2BmtM7-2F7P0uPqaqWmbalCSRjfl43A9qEQoh9tLgVfTbes2WKcAPnDchs5DUgEE-2BE16-2FjgbJINV037X4SqQhAe2nSRb5-2BKN-2Fzn-2FgLobvMI-2B93vtsOuxiTNY193s4ufxIDM3a3gEZxhZxZVD0x-2F24WZKN6-2FLnKhZ3VB-2FoOeIpkIj3D1qQvh1mYb4nSMgxbr5BRdDYJ-2FSn6j3ziVZg-3D"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%'>secure the support of two NFB affiliate presidents</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'> who agree to serve as sponsor/mentor for the program, providing them with a written essay or audio/video recording explaining the merits of your participation and your leadership goals. </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style='line-height:106%'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:106%;color:black'>Affiliate presidents are only allowed to sponsor two candidates, and they must make their recommendations to the President of the National Federation of the Blind by August 25, 2023.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style='line-height:106%'><o:p> </o:p></p></td></tr></table></div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Thank you,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Maryanne Melley<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="mailto:maryanne.melley@gmail.com">maryanne.melley@gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>860-212-5549<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>With love, hope, and determination we can transform our dreams into reality.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>