[NFB_of_Georgia] NFB of Georgia 2025 State Convention Survey Analysis for your information & review

[Patrice Lewis]

Good evening Georgia Affiliate
For your knowledge and review

NFB of Georgia 2025 State Convention Survey
Analysis Report

Title: NFB of Georgia Survey 2025
Response Period: October 13 through December 31, 2025
Total Participants: 27
Purpose: This survey was conducted to understand participant experiences at the 2025 NFB of Georgia State Convention. The goal was to gather clear feedback on what worked well and what needs improvement, with a focus on registration, accessibility, lodging, programming, networking, and overall experience. The findings are intended to guide planning and decision-making for future conventions.

Data Quality and Context
Most participants completed the survey in full, allowing for meaningful comparison across topics. A small number of respondents noted that they only attended part of the convention, which helps explain some neutral or limited responses. The data includes both rating-based questions and written comments, providing both numerical trends and lived experiences.

Overall Experience Summary
The 2025 convention delivered strong value in its mission-driven areas, particularly speaker quality, programming content, and community connection. However, the physical venue and hotel experience significantly undermined the overall experience for many attendees. The results show a clear pattern: people were satisfied with what the convention stood for and what it offered intellectually and socially, but frustrated with how it was executed logistically.

Registration and Communication
Registration was one of the stronger operational areas. Approximately 59 percent of respondents reported being satisfied or very satisfied with the registration process and pre-convention communication. About 26 percent felt neutral, and roughly 15 percent reported dissatisfaction. Written comments suggest that while registration itself was generally smooth, clearer and more timely communication before and during the convention would improve confidence and reduce confusion, especially for first-time attendees.

Accessibility
Accessibility was rated positively overall, with about two-thirds of respondents reporting satisfaction or high satisfaction. Participants appreciated the intention to make sessions accessible and inclusive. At the same time, written feedback revealed gaps between planning and execution. Several respondents noted missing or limited Braille materials, inconsistent navigation support, and a shortage of trained volunteers. These comments suggest that accessibility efforts were present but not consistently applied across all spaces and activities.

Lodging and Venue
Lodging and venue experience emerged as the weakest area of the convention. Nearly 67 percent of respondents reported being unsatisfied or very unsatisfied. Only about 11 percent reported satisfaction. Common concerns included cold water, unprepared rooms, poor coordination with hotel staff, and lack of accessible signage. These issues appeared repeatedly in open-ended comments, indicating systemic problems rather than isolated incidents. For many attendees, the hotel experience negatively affected comfort, safety, and overall participation.

Speaker Quality and Programming
Speaker quality was one of the strongest successes of the convention. Nearly 89 percent of respondents rated speakers as good or excellent. Participants consistently praised the knowledge, leadership, and relevance of presenters. Programming variety and content were also viewed favorably, with many respondents noting that sessions aligned well with the values and mission of the organization. These results show that the intellectual and educational core of the convention is strong and respected.

Networking and Community Engagement
Networking was a major positive outcome. About 78 percent of respondents reported being satisfied or very satisfied with networking opportunities. Participants valued the chance to connect with peers, affiliate leaders, families, and service providers. Many comments emphasized the importance of relationship-building, shared learning, and community support. This confirms that the convention continues to serve as an essential gathering space for connection and empowerment.

Entertainment and Special Events
The variety show and entertainment offerings were generally appreciated, but feedback pointed to organizational challenges. Participants enjoyed the inclusion of entertainment but requested clearer structure, better sign-up processes, and more intentional inclusion of children and families. This feedback suggests that while these events add value, they need clearer planning and communication to be fully successful.

Technology and Assistance
Responses related to technology and on-site assistance were mixed but leaned positive. Participants expressed interest in expanded technology demonstrations, clearer access to assistance, and better coordination of support services. This indicates an opportunity to strengthen hands-on learning and practical resource sharing in future conventions.

Key Themes from Open-Ended Feedback
Several consistent themes appeared across written responses. Participants called for improved organization, stronger communication during the event, better volunteer training and availability, clearer navigation within the hotel, and closer coordination with venue staff. Many comments emphasized that these improvements would significantly enhance accessibility, reduce stress, and allow attendees to focus more fully on learning and connection.

Respondent Profile
While the survey did not collect formal demographic data, comments indicate a diverse group of participants. Respondents included parents of blind or visually impaired children, long-time members, new attendees, affiliate leaders, and division members such as seniors and chapter presidents. Engagement levels varied, with some attending primarily for leadership sessions and others for networking or resources. This diversity highlights the need for planning that supports multiple participation styles and needs.

Conclusion
The 2025 NFB of Georgia State Convention was successful in its mission-driven goals, particularly in speaker quality, programming, and community building. At the same time, serious logistical and venue-related issues significantly impacted participant satisfaction. The data clearly shows that future success depends on maintaining strong programming while making substantial improvements in lodging coordination, accessibility consistency, volunteer management, and communication. Addressing these areas will help ensure that future conventions reflect the values of independence, dignity, and full participation that the organization stands for.


We look forward to hosting everyone at the 53rd Georgia State Convention

    Thanks    
Patrice Lewis
National Federation of the Blind of Georgia
1st Vice President
PH: 678-756-3757
Email: plewis at nfbga.org


The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. Our collective power, determination, and diversity achieve the aspirations of all blind people.

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