[NFBA-Phoenix] Phoenix Chapter Meeting Minutes for March 7, 2026

[Sharonda Goode]

National Federation of the Blind of Arizona – Phoenix Chapter

Meeting Minutes

Date: March 7, 2026

Location: Hybrid (In-person & Zoom)



The meeting was called to order by President Michael Smith. We started with
roll call, with members joining both in person at SAVI and on Zoom.

We began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the NFB Pledge.

President Smith then introduced the NFB Belief Statement and talked about
why this statement is important for all of us to learn. He mentioned that
going forward, we’ll start including it more regularly in our meetings. He
also noted that Braille copies are available for anyone who wants one.

Our President opened us in prayer and then invited anyone who had prayer
requests to share. Members shared prayer requests covering personal needs,
chapter matters, and broader concerns. We closed this portion with a final
prayer.



President’s Remarks

President Smith shared how proud he is of the chapter, especially
highlighting the Valentine’s Day event. He talked about how impressed he
was with the turnout, especially given the short planning time. It really
showed how strong and engaged the chapter is. He encouraged us to keep that
same energy going throughout the year.



Secretary’s Report – Sharonda Goode

Before reading the February minutes, Sharonda gave an update on minutes
that had not yet been submitted.

She stated that the December and February minutes have already been sent
out. However, the January minutes are still in progress.

The February minutes were read during the meeting. After the correction of
chaning the word Chapter to Division in one of the sections, Donna made the
motion to approve, and Diane T. seconded. The motion passed.



Treasurer’s Report – Donna Silba

Donna gave the treasurer’s report with detailed explanations.

She explained that while the current balance shows $829.36, there is still
about $800 that has not been deposited yet from recent activities, i.e. the
Valentine’s event, dues, and fundraisers.

She also reviewed expenses--including food for the Valentine’s dinner and
the picnic reservation.

After further discussions and clarifications concerning PayPal and Square
deposits, how funds are being tracked, and what funds are being reimbursed,
Sharonda made the motion to approve the Treasurer’s report. Vicki seconded,
and the motion passed.



National Updates:

Joe Goode played the Presidential Release.

Key takeaways include:

* The National Convention in Austin, Texas is coming up, and it’s really
important for chapters to be represented

* Convention is where major decisions are made, and it’s also a huge
opportunity for networking and learning

* There are improvements being made to how new members are welcomed and
supported

* Washington Seminar was successful, with new legislative support gained



Legislative Report – Jordan Moon

Jordan gave an update on both state and national legislation.

On the state level:

* SB 1001 (Older Blind Program funding) is moving forward and looks
promising

* Other bills, like those related to Braille education and accessibility,
are less certain this session

He also talked about ongoing concerns with:

* ASDB (Arizona School for the Blind & Deaf) and how changes may impact
students

* Transportation issues, especially Dial-a-Ride and RideChoice, including
long wait times and inconsistent service

On the federal level:

* Advocacy is continuing, but Arizona still needs more engagement from its
representatives



Seniors Division – Kimberly Fetterman

Kimberly shared that the Seniors Division has officially restarted and had
a great first meeting. There new meeting place and time is the first Friday
of each month

from 1–2 PM. It will be hybrid—in person at Saavi and on Zoom, in order to
give all who wish to participate an opportunity to do so.

Their focus will include outreach, advocacy, and fundraising.



Scholarships

Vicki reminded everyone that the deadline for the National scholarship
application  is March 31. The application deadline for the State
Scholarship is May 31. Please spread the word and help students apply.



Phoenix Chapter Committee Reports

Membership – Vicki Farley

Vicki reported that there were no new members to vote in at this meeting.

She also mentioned that the membership committee could use more help and
encouraged anyone interested to get involved.



Outreach – President Smith

President Smith reminded everyone that the outreach committee is open and
looking for members—and potentially a chairperson.

Anyone interested should reach out to him directly.



Fundraising – Sharonda Goode

Sharonda shared that:

* The popcorn fundraiser brought in about $399

* The Valentine’s event raised $800 total

She emphasized how important fundraising is—not just for events, but to
support members who may need help attending convention or other activities.
She encouraged everyone to bring creative new ideas so that we can work
together in raising more funds for the Chapter.



Social – Lori Kirsop

Plans were shared for lunch after the meeting at Zen Burger.

There was also discussion about making sure we have better RSVPs for events
so planning is easier.



New Business –

Picnic Planning

The chapter picnic is scheduled for March 28.

It will take place at Saguaro Ranch Park between 10 AM – 3 PM.

There was a motion that passed to allocate $200 for food.

The picnic will be potluck-style with the Chapter providing meat and
charcoal.

Members will bring sides. A strong reminder was given to RSVP and
communicate what you’re bringing.



Leadership Updates

With our former First Vice  President moving back to Mississippi, Joe Goode
officially moved into the role of First Vice President.

Tom Johnson was nominated and elected as Second Vice President by
acclamation.



April Meeting Change

Because the first Saturday in April falls on Easter weekend, we moved and
the motion passed to move the meeting to April 11.

This meeting will be virtual, due to the STEM2U program happening in the
building simultaneously.



Philosophy Discussion

Joe led a discussion on the importance of National Convention. Members
shared reasons why they attend, along with personal stories.



Announcements, Birthdays, & anniversaries

* Cheryl Susunkewa has artwork on display at the Heard Museum

* Chapter Board meetings are held the Thursday before each chapter meeting

* Chapter Membership committee meets the Tuesday before each chapter meeting

* STEM2U event will be held on April 11

* Volunteers are needed

* Joe Giacinto announced he will be performing the National Anthem at a
Diamondbacks game



We recognized and sang to the following members with March birthdays:

* Alberta (“Pert”) Susunkewa

* Kimberly Fetterman

* Adelina Zepeda

* Ruth Parade



Adjournment

A motion was made and seconded to adjourn.

The meeting concluded successfully.
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