[NFBSF] Braille Readers Are Leaders: Who’s joining me?

[Laura Millar]

Braille Readers Are Leaders

Hello everyone,

*This will be my first time entering Braille Readers Are Leaders. Who’s
joining me?*

With reduced access to rehabilitation services
<https://www.dor.ca.gov/Home/OrderofSelection> leaving blind Californians
waiting for support, our community needs to come together now more than
ever. This contest is one way to connect, share skills, and help each other
keep learning. I’ve included background resources at the end.
The contest: What’s involved?

Braille Readers Are Leaders is a *seven-week Braille reading contest for
children and adults*, sponsored by the American Action Fund for Blind
Children and Adults in partnership with the National Federation of the
Blind. Participants track their Braille reading minutes and compete for
prizes while enjoying books and building their skills.

*Registration opens:* November 9, 2026.

*Reading begins:* December 7, 2026.

Braille Readers Are Leaders contest information and registration updates
<https://actionfund.org/BRAL>

The official page still displays last season’s details, so watch for
updated rules and registration instructions. Meanwhile, let’s find books,
reading partners, and encouragement.
What would help you join in?

Our chapters and statewide affiliate can be places to find connection and
practical support, especially when someone cannot access services or is
still waiting for them.

*What would help you participate or keep learning?* Braille books, help
using a display, someone to practice with, or a mentor? Tell us what you
need so we can explore how our community, your local chapter, or the
statewide affiliate might help.

Let’s get creative about connecting: pair new and experienced readers,
start small Braille practice groups, or arrange informal skill-sharing
sessions by phone, online, or in person. We could share what we know about
technology and everyday tasks, recommend books, and check in with one
another throughout the contest. You are welcome whether you have something
to teach or are just starting out. You don’t need to offer anything in
return to ask for support.

Our California list can be more than announcements. Have you participated
before? Share what helped you get ready. *Please reply to this thread* with
your experience, what would help you join in, or an idea for bringing
people together. You’re also welcome to contact me privately, including if
someone forwarded this email to you.

Community support does not replace needed services, but nobody should have
to navigate the wait alone.
Stay connected with our chapter and NFB of California

New to the National Federation of the Blind (NFB)? Explore local chapters,
the at-large chapter, and interest-based divisions. Come for connection,
shared skills, community events, and opportunities to get involved.

   - Explore the NFB of California website <https://www.nfbcal.org/>
   - Find a California chapter or division and its meeting contacts
   <https://www.nfbcal.org/chapters-and-divisions/>
   - Follow NFB of California on Facebook
   <https://www.facebook.com/nationsblindca/>

Please share this invitation with anyone interested in Braille or
connecting with our community. Contact the chapter listed in the directory
to confirm current meeting details.
More about what’s happening in California

Here is the background I mentioned on the Department of Rehabilitation’s
Order of Selection and the community’s request for a legislative hearing:

Watch California Blind Advocacy: A Fireside Conversation on YouTube
<https://youtu.be/RJy5-KIGUeo>

Read about California’s rehabilitation waitlist and blind community advocacy
<https://lauramillar.com/2026/09/26/california-order-of-selection-blind-advocacy/>

Read the hearing-request campaign and access the letter-writing form
<https://actionnetwork.org/letters/hearing-request>

Warmly,

*Laura Millar, MPH, MA*

Pronouns: she/they

Public Health Professional and Sexologist

Learn more about my work at lauramillar.com. <https://lauramillar.com/>

Second Vice President of the San Francisco chapter of the National
Federation of the Blind.

Board Member of the National Federation of the Blind of California.

Phone: 925-321-8804 <+19253218804>

Email: laura at lauramillar.com