[NFBMD] Community Impact: Raising Expectations

Tue Sep 15 15:01:33 UTC 2026

HIGH EXPECTATIONS SHAPE LIVES

The alternative techniques and positive philosophy of blindness embraced by
the Federation help raise expectations, create problem-solving ability, and
foster independence. Our programs empower blind people of all ages to
develop the confidence and skills necessary to believe they can achieve
their dreams. As President Mark Riccobono said: 

> "_The quality of instruction, mentorship, and expectations we provide
> plays a critical role in making that belief a reality. Together, we
> continue transforming the systems, services, and expectations that shape
> the lives of blind youth and adults._"

MENTORS, TRAINING, AND SKILLS BUILD CONFIDENCE

Our faith in the capacity and dignity of blind individuals is at the heart
of our mission, which is why we partner with leading training centers
around the country and host programs for teachers of blind students and
rehabilitation counselors. The Federation's comprehensive approach imparts
skills, inspires, and adapts to our community's needs. 

Our affiliated training centers [1] are grounded by the Structured
Discovery method [2] and equip students with the skills, positive attitude,
and self-assurance to pursue their desired lifestyle. Moreover, they
immerse blind people in a supportive community of teachers, mentors, and
other blind people who face similar challenges. 

TOOLS FOR INDEPENDENCE PROGRAM

This Federation program allows blind people to receive, at no charge, a
long white cane for travel and a slate and stylus for writing Braille.
While the tools are important, the connection to blind people who can
mentor a person to use those tools is critical. Thus, this program also
includes follow-up by Federation leaders in the state where the recipient
lives so they can get connected at the local level. 

Learn more about our Tools for Independence Program [3]. 

THE WORK TO OVERCOME LOW EXPECTATIONS

We know that when blind people have the skills and confidence to tackle
challenges, they can live an independent and fulfilling life. But society's
pervasive low expectations can be hard to overcome. In the July issue of
the _Braille Monitor_, Amy Porterfield [4] shared how it took years of hard
work to build a training program that allowed students--and herself--to
find their own potential. 

> "_What the Federation adds is the part no training center and no mentor
> can provide alone. It is the place where the work of pushing back against
> low expectations gets held across time, across members, and across
> generations so that no one of us carries it alone._"

DARE TO BE REMARKABLE

This fall, the Federation will host a specialized, multi-day training event
grounded in Structured Discovery and high expectations. The Dare to Be
Remarkable professional development conference will bring together more
than one hundred rehabilitation and education professionals who work with
blind youth and adults and are willing to think boldly, lead courageously,
and expect greatness from every person they serve. 

Learn more and register for the Dare to Be Remarkable Conference [5]. 

UNTIL NEXT TIME: SHARE OUR RESOURCES AND HIGH EXPECTATIONS

The Federation provides resources and support for blind people of all ages,
including people who are new to blindness. If you or someone you know would
like to learn more, call us at 410-659-9314 or email nfb at nfb.org. 

Thank you for helping us show the world that we can live and create the
lives we want. You are subscribed to our monthly community impact email,
where we share how we are advancing the lives of the Nation's blind. The
National Federation of the Blind is a network of members, friends, and
people like you who believe in the hopes and dreams of blind people. 

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 		 National Federation of the Blind | 200 E Wells Street | Baltimore, MD
21230 | 410-659-9314 

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 		 200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place
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United States
.. 

Links:
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[1] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44405&qid=13007585-us/training-centers
[2] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44395&qid=13007585
[3] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44406&qid=13007585-services/tools-for-independence
[4] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44407&qid=13007585
[5] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44406&qid=13007585-services/employment/dare-be-remarkable
[6] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44399&qid=13007585
[7] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44400&qid=13007585
[8] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44401&qid=13007585
[9] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44402&qid=13007585
[10] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44403&qid=13007585
[11] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/unsubscribe?reset=1&jid=26785&qid=13007585&h=7d12a8ceda62c593
[12] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/optout?reset=1&jid=26785&qid=13007585&h=7d12a8ceda62c593
[13] https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=44404&qid=13007585
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