[Nfbv-announce] The Vigilant, March 2018

[Joe]

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The Vigilant: March 2018

 <http://www.nfbv.org/vigilant-march-2018/> March 12, 2018
<http://www.nfbv.org/wp-admin/post.php?post=731&action=edit> Edit 

Joe Orozco, Editor

Special Announcement

The National Federation of the Blind has implemented a Code of Conduct that
all members of the National Board of Directors and affiliate presidents have
signed. The Virginia affiliate will discuss and officially adopt the Code of
Conduct at its state board meeting on Saturday, May 19, 2018. Everyone must
read and understand the code of conduct. Acknowledgement of the pledge is
required of all affiliate and chapter leaders.

Our affiliate must confirm adoption of this Code of Conduct prior to the
national convention. Changes to this document are not permitted without the
permission of the NFB National Board. If you have suggestions for future
edits to this document, please send them to President Riccobono with a
carbon copy to NFB of Virginia President Tracy Soforenko.

Two conference calls have been set up to answer questions of the Code of
Conduct. These will be presided over by NFB First Vice President Pam Allen.

Call #1:

Monday, March 19 at 7:00 PM ET

Call #2:

Thursday, March 22 at 8:00 PM ET

Dial: 218-895-6872

Passcode: 2018#

The text of the Code of Conduct follows:

  _____  

NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF Virginia
CODE OF CONDUCT

I. Introduction

The National Federation of the Blind of Virginia is part of a nationwide
community of members and friends who believe in the hopes and dreams of the
nation's blind. The Federation 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. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back. To help carry out the Federation's
vital mission, this Code of Conduct sets forth policies and standards that
all members, especially Federation leaders, are expected to adopt and
follow. 

II. Diversity Policy

The National Federation of the Blind of Virginia embraces diversity and full
participation as core values in its mission to achieve equality,
opportunity, and security for the blind. We are committed to building and
maintaining a statewide organization with local chapters and divisions that
is unified in its priorities and programs and is directed by the membership.
We respect differences of opinion, beliefs, identities, and other
characteristics that demonstrate that blind people are a diverse cross
section of society. Furthermore, the organization is dedicated to continuing
to establish new methods of membership and leadership development that
reflect the diversity of the entire blind community. In promoting a diverse
and growing organization, we expect integrity and honesty in our
relationships with each other and openness to learning about and
experiencing cultural diversity. We believe that these qualities are crucial
to fostering social and intellectual maturity. Intellectual maturity also
requires individual struggle with unfamiliar ideas. We recognize that our
views and convictions will be challenged, and we expect this challenge to
take place in a climate of tolerance and mutual respect in order to maintain
a united organization. While we encourage the exchange of differing ideas
and experiences, we do not condone the use of demeaning, derogatory, or
discriminatory language, action, or any other form of expression intended to
marginalize an individual or group. The National Federation of the Blind
does not tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color,
religion, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, national
origin, citizenship, marital status, age, genetic information, disability,
or any other characteristic or intersectionality of characteristics. 

III. Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy

The National Federation of the Blind of Virginia will not tolerate
discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender identity
and expression, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, marital
status, age, genetic information, disability, or any other characteristic or
intersectionality of characteristics. Harassment on the basis of any of
these characteristics similarly will not be tolerated. Although this Code of
Conduct establishes a minimum standard prohibiting discrimination and
harassment, nothing in this Code should be interpreted to limit in any way a
person's right to report abuse or harassment to law enforcement when
appropriate.
Sexual harassment is prohibited by state and federal law and also will not
be tolerated by the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia. Complaints
of harassment may be lodged by a female against a male, by a female against
a female, by a male against a male, or by a male against a female. Sexual
harassment is defined as "unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual
favors, sexually motivated physical contact, or other verbal or physical
conduct or communication of a sexual nature." The following conduct is
either considered conduct that by itself is sexual harassment, or that has
the potential risk of causing sexual harassment to occur, and this conduct
is therefore prohibited:
. unwelcome inappropriate physical contact or touching;
. repeating of sexually suggestive jokes/references/innuendoes and comments
about an individual's body/sexual prowess/physical attributes/dress;
. the use of sexually derogatory language/pictures/videos toward/about
another person;
. the use of inappropriate sexual gestures;
. sexually suggestive propositions; and
. explicit or implicit threats that failure to submit will have negative
consequences.

Under this policy, harassment can be verbal, written, or physical conduct
that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward an individual because
of his or her race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender
identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, marital status,
citizenship, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by
law; or that of his or her relatives, friends, or associates, and that a)
has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive
environment; b) has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with
an individual's performance or involvement in the organization; or c)
otherwise adversely affects an individual's opportunities for
participation/advancement in the organization.
Harassing conduct includes epithets, slurs, or negative stereotyping;
threatening, intimidating or hostile acts including bullying; denigrating
jokes; and written or graphic material that denigrates or shows hostility or
aversion toward an individual or group that is placed on walls or elsewhere
on the organization's premises or circulated by email, phone (including
voice messages), text messages, social networking sites, or other means.

IV. Social Media and Web Policy

All members of the Federation, but especially officers and board members of
the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia as well as those in
leadership positions such as chapter and division presidents, should follow
these recommended guidelines when making comments online, posting to a blog,
using Facebook/Twitter/LinkedIn/YouTube/Pinterest/Instagram/similar tools,
and/or using other platforms that fall under the definition of social media:
. Promote the mission and branding message of the organization in
comments/posts.
. Recognize that you are morally and legally responsible for
comments/pictures posted online.
. Be aware that the audience includes members and nonmembers of the NFB,
both youth and adults, representing diverse cultures and backgrounds.
. Refrain from using profanity/derogatory language.
. Post/respond with integrity. Though you may disagree with a post, be
respectful and factual. Do not fight or air personal grievances online.
. Do not post materials that are inappropriate for children/minors to
view/share/read.

V. Conflict of Interest Policy

Each NFB of Virginia officer, board member, or chapter or division president
(hereafter Federation leader) is expected to take appropriate responsibility
to protect the Federation from misappropriation or mismanagement of
Federation funds (including funds of the affiliate, chapter, or division in
which the Federation leader assumes a leadership role).
Each Federation leader is expected to disclose the existence of any
potentially conflicting personal financial interest or relationship to the
full National Federation of the Blind of Virginia Board of Directors and
seek its review and approval, as specified below. For example:
. A Federation leader must seek board review and approval of his or her
receipt of salary or compensation of any kind from the Federation (including
an affiliate, chapter, or division).
. A Federation leader must seek board review and approval of receipt by his
or her spouse, parent, child, sibling, or other close relative of salary or
compensation of any kind from the Federation (including an affiliate,
chapter, or division).
. A Federation leader must seek board review and approval of any ownership
interest exceeding 5 percent in or of any salary, compensation, commission,
or significant tangible gift from any commercial venture doing business or
seeking to do business with the Federation (including an affiliate, chapter,
or division). This process will also apply to the review of such interests
involving spouses, parents, children, siblings, or other close relatives.
. In reviewing matters brought pursuant to this section, the officer or
board member seeking state board review and approval will refrain from
voting.
. Each Federation leader shall take appropriate steps to avoid unauthorized
or inaccurate appearances or official endorsement by the Federation
(including an affiliate, chapter, or division) of any product, service, or
activity that has not been so endorsed. For example, because the Federation
never endorses political parties or candidates for elected office, any
Federation leader participating in the political process must take care to
avoid creating an appearance of official Federation endorsement.

VI. Policy While Interacting with Minors

For purposes of this Code of Conduct and consistent with most legal
standards, a minor is any individual under the age of eighteen. While
interacting with any minor, a state officer, board member, or chapter or
division president (hereafter Federation leader) shall recognize that a
minor cannot legally give consent for any purpose even if said minor is
verbally or otherwise expressing consent. For example, a minor may say that
he/ or she consents to physical interaction. However, such consent is not
valid or legal and should not be accepted. A parent or guardian must be
informed and consulted about any action requiring consent from the minor. A
Federation leader shall report any inappropriate interactions between adults
and minors to the minor's parents and law enforcement when appropriate.

VII. Alcohol and Drug Policy

Although alcoholic beverages are served at some Federation social functions,
members and Federation leaders may not participate in any such functions in
a condition that prevents them from participating safely and from conducting
Federation business effectively or that might cause embarrassment to or
damage the reputation of the Federation. The Federation prohibits the
possession, sale, purchase, delivery, dispensing, use, or transfer of
illegal substances on Federation property or at Federation functions. 

VIII. Other General Principles

In addition to the other policies and standards set-forth herein, state
officers, state board members, and chapter and division presidents
(hereafter Federation leaders) shall adhere to the following standards:

. Federation leaders shall practice accountability and transparency in all
activities and transactions.
. Federation leaders shall foster a welcoming environment at NFB meetings,
events, and conferences that is a cooperative and productive atmosphere for
all members and nonmembers.
. Federation leaders shall interact with NFB staff in a professional manner
and follow proper channels of authority and communication.
. Federation leaders shall positively promote the NFB through verbal and
written communication.
. Whenever possible, Federation leaders and members are strongly encouraged
to handle conflicts or complaints involving other members privately,
directly, and respectfully. Nothing in this standard is intended to limit a
Federation leader's or member's right to pursue organizational change
through appropriate methods or to limit anyone's right to file a complaint
for violation of this Code when necessary. 

IX. Violations and Complaint Procedure

Violations of this Code of Conduct, after first being established through
the process set-forth below, are subject to disciplinary action by the
Federation. Such disciplinary actions may include but are not limited to
counselling, verbal and/or written reprimand, probation, suspension or
termination of officer/leadership duties, and/or suspension or expulsion
from the Federation.
. Any complaint for a violation of this Code of Conduct shall be filed with
the state president. The state president shall appoint a committee of no
more than four persons to investigate the complaint and provide a
recommendation for action or lack thereof. The committee shall be comprised
of persons not directly involved in the matters being raised and who can be
completely unbiased about the individuals and issues addressed in the
complaint. Every effort shall be made to appoint a committee reflecting the
broad diversity of individuals in the Federation. The state president shall
inform the national President in a timely fashion of any complaints filed
and report on the resolution of such complaints.
. Complaints shall be treated as confidential in order to protect the
identity and reputation of the person about whom the complaint is filed and
the person filing the complaint.
. All complaints shall be filed as promptly as possible. Except under
extreme circumstances, no complaint shall be accepted or investigated after
a year from the time of the alleged violation of this Code.
. Complaints that turn out to be false and used for the purpose of
harassing, intimidating, or retaliating against someone will be subject to
the same kind of disciplinary action enumerated above.
. Any person dissatisfied with the resolution of a complaint may file an
appeal with the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia Board of
Directors, which may, in its discretion, take such action as it deems
necessary. If a person is still dissatisfied, such person may raise the
matter to the national board of directors, which may, in its discretion,
take whatever action it deems necessary. No national or state board member
shall participate in the consideration of an appeal under this Code if such
board member is the subject of the complaint or if such board member cannot
be completely unbiased, impartial, and fair while considering the matter. 

X. Minimum Standard

This Code of Conduct is intended to recite a minimum set of standards
expected of Federation members. It sets forth the spirit that the Federation
expects of all of its participants toward each other and toward those who
work with the Federation at all of its levels. It is intended to be
interpreted broadly to instill a respectful, cooperative, and welcoming
spirit in members and in the activities of the Federation. 

XI. Federation Pledge and Acknowledgement of Code of Conduct

I, (Federation leader), pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the
National Federation of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and
security for the blind; to support the policies and programs of the
Federation; and to abide by its Constitution. I further acknowledge that I
have read this Code of Conduct and that I will follow its policies,
standards, and principles.

Note: The Board of Directors of the National Federation of the Blind
unanimously adopted this Code of Conduct on January 26, 2018. In adopting
this Code, the Board expressed its clear intent that this Code shall be
reviewed annually or at any other time as necessary. 

  _____  

>From the President's Desk

Greetings Fellow Virginians!

The National Federation of the Blind of Virginia is hopping in March.
Chapters are running great programming, Virginia members are getting excited
about our upcoming National Convention, our Project RISE has successfully
launched, our 2 BELL academies are engaging parents and students for an
exciting Summer, and our Federation spirit is strong. 

Project RISE

Later in this newsletter, you will hear about the successful kick off of
Project RISE and how you can help. We are grateful for the opportunity to
partner with the Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired
(DBVI) to provide these pre-employment transition services under a vendor
agreement signed in February. We are excited about this important
partnership with DBVI and appreciate their commitment to serving blind and
low vision students.

Braille Readers Are Leaders

We are very pleased to announce the winners from Virginia of the 2017-2018
Nationwide Braille Readers Are Leaders Contest. While the program was
sponsored by the NFB of Illinois in partnership with the National
Association to Promote the Use of Braille (NAPUB). Altogether eighty-one
students from twelve states took part in the contest. From Virginia, 21
students participated in the program which is absolutely remarkable.
Here is a list of the 2017-2018 Nationwide Braille Leaders Are Leaders
winners from Virginia.
Grades 2-3
Honorable Mention: Ely Giraldo, Staunton, VA
Grades 9-12
Second Place: Marie Presume, Staunton, VA
Third Place: Kaelyn Kinlaw, Staunton, VA
We are grateful to the program organizers and we are glad so many students
from Virginia chose to participate in the program.

National Convention Hosting

The 2018 NFB National Convention will be especially meaningful because
Virginia, Iowa and Florida are serving as the hosts of this year's
convention. Plans are coming together and we will need your help.

In particular, while the conventions run from Tuesday, July 3 through late
in the evening of Sunday, July 8, we are taking on responsibilities in the
very early part of convention. Please plan to come to convention early so we
can hold up our responsibilities and share some warm Virginia hospitality.

A) Welcome Table, Monday July 2 - There will be a Welcome Table passing out
convention agendas, answering questions, and welcoming people to the Rosen
Shingle Creek property. Since this is technically before the official start
of convention, we will need some members to choose to come early to staff
the table on Monday, July 2. Earl Everett has agreed to coordinate our
staffing of the Welcome Table.
B) Hospitality Suite - Every day of the convention, there is a Host
Committee Hospitality Suite open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 PM from July 3 - 5.
The suite is open for breakfast and lunch on General Session (July 6-8)
days. The Virginia affiliate will be staffing the Host Committee Hospitality
Suite on Tuesday July 3 and Friday, July 6. Nancy Yeager has agreed to
coordinate our staffing of the hospitality suite.
C) Opening Ceremonies - We are organizing an exciting Opening Ceremonies to
kick off the convention. I am taking the lead on Opening Ceremonies for the
Virginia Affiliate but I need your ideas and suggestions. Please reach out
and share your ideas and suggestions as we work to develop an exciting
program to kick off the convention. If you have any connections in Orlando,
it would really help.
D) special Events - In some years, the Host committee organizes additional
events. Kathryn Webster has agreed to participate in an exploratory
committee to determine if there are viable options for special events.

If you have ideas and suggestions or other resources to help us succeed,
please reach out to one of us. If you would like to volunteer, we would
especially appreciate hearing from you.

2018 McDonald Fellowship Program

The 2018 NFB National Convention is an experience you do not want to miss.
Many of those who have attended our national NFB conventions are amazed at
how meeting and interacting with over 3000 other blind and low vision
convention attendees has positively changed their lives. They not only learn
how the problems of vision loss can be overcome, but also experience the
confidence that comes with solutions.

If you have never attended a convention, we offer two programs to assist you
in attending the convention and getting the most from the experience.

A) McDonald Fellowship organized by the National Federation of the Blind of
Virginia
B) Kenneth Jernigan Scholarship run by the National Federation of the Blind

First time convention attendees are strongly encouraged to apply for both.
Below the description of these two separate programs, you will find details
on the process for requesting assistance if this is not your first
convention.

McDonald Fellowship from the NFB of Virginia 

Robert and Marian McDonald selflessly contributed to our Virginia affiliate
to further the progress and better the lives of those who are blind,
visually impaired, and low vision in Virginia. In their honor, we recognize
the personal benefits that come to people who attend a national convention
for the first time. In their memory, the National Federation of the Blind of
Virginia (NFBV) continues their legacy of education and empowerment to
Virginia's blind citizens.

We anticipate awarding fellowships to assist each recipient with costs of
attending our 2018 NFB National Convention to be held in Orlando, FL, from
July 3- July 8. Please note: The banquet ends late in the evening of Sunday,
July 8 and fellowship winners are expected to attend the banquet so return
travel must occur on Monday, July 9 or later. This event will take place at
the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel in Orlando Florida.

The McDonald Fellowship program was established in 1998 to assist those who
have never attended a convention of the National Federation of the Blind
(NFB) or those who have not attended in many years and wish to come to a
convention this year.

Federations are welcome and encouraged to apply for both the Virginia
specific McDonald Fellowship and a National Kenneth Jernigan Scholarship.

We will link each of our Fellowship winners with mentors who will assist
them in getting the most out of their national convention experience.
McDonald Fellowship winners are expected to attend the entire NFB convention
and share their experiences by addressing our 2018 NFB of Virginia state
convention.

Deadline for applications for the McDonald Fellowship is Sunday, April 15,
2018. Winners will be announced May 15, 2018.

Your application should be in the form of a letter delivered via electronic
mail. There is no specific form for the application. Applicants should write
a brief letter outlining reasons why they should be considered for a
Fellowship and the letter must include:

A) Name, Address, phone and email contact information
B) Chapter or other connection with the affiliate
C) How you will benefit from the experience
D) How you have participated with your chapter or the affiliate in the past
year
E) Any other pertinent details

In addition, you are required to contact your Chapter President or an
affiliate Board Member for a letter of recommendation. Letters of
recommendation are due by Sunday, April 15, 2018.

Applications or questions about the Fellowship program should be sent to:

Mary Durbin, Chairman
McDonald Fellowship Committee
Email: mrdurbin at cox.net
Phone: 757-472-2495

Our committee wants to help you make 2018 the year you attend our national
convention. The convention will be even better because you were there. 

The Kenneth Jernigan Convention Scholarship Fund by Allen Harris

Allen Harris is the chairman of the Kenneth Jernigan Fund Committee and was
one of the people who came up with the idea of honoring our former president
and longtime leader by establishing a program to promote attendance at the
national convention, where so much inspiration and learning occur. Here is
Allen's announcement about the 2018 Kenneth Jernigan Convention Scholarship
Fund Program:
Have you always wanted to attend an NFB annual convention but have not done
so because of the lack of funds? The Kenneth Jernigan Convention Scholarship
Fund invites you to make an application for a scholarship grant. Perhaps
this July you too can be in the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel in Orlando,
Florida, enjoying the many pleasures and learning opportunities at the
largest and most important yearly convention of blind people in the world.
The three biggest ticket items you need to cover when attending an NFB
national convention are the roundtrip transportation, the hotel room for a
week, and the food (which tends to be higher priced than at home). We
attempt to award additional funds to families, but, whether a family or an
individual is granted a scholarship, this fund can only help; it won't pay
all the costs. Last year most of the sixty grants were in the range of $400
to $500 per individual.
We recommend that you find an NFB member as your personal convention mentor,
(Virginia will assign one to the Virginia winners) someone who has been to
many national conventions and is able to share money-saving tips with you
and tips on navigating the extensive agenda in the big hotel. Your mentor
will help you get the most out of the amazing experience that is convention
week.
Who is eligible?
Active NFB members, blind or sighted, who have not yet attended an NFB
national convention because of lack of funding are eligible to apply.

How do I apply for funding assistance?

1. You write a letter giving your contact information, and your local NFB
information, your specific amount requested, and then explain why this is a
good investment for the NFB. The points to cover are listed below.
2. You contact your state president in person or by phone to request his or
her help in obtaining funding. Be sure to tell the president when to expect
your request letter by email, and mention the deadline.
3. You (or a friend) send your letter by email to your state president. He
or she must add a president's recommendation and then email both letters
directly to the Kenneth Jernigan Convention Scholarship Fund Committee. Your
president must forward the two letters no later than April 15.
Your letter to Chairperson Allen Harris must cover these points:
Your full name, and all your telephone numbers and label them-cell phone,
home, office, other person (if any).
Your mailing address and, if you have one, your email address.
Your state affiliate and state president; your chapter and chapter
president, if you attend a chapter.
Your personal convention mentor, and provide that person's phone number.
Your specific request:
Explain how much money you need from this fund to make this trip possible
for you. We suggest you consult with other members to make a rough budget
for yourself.
The body of your letter should answer these questions:
How do you currently participate in the Federation? Why do you want to
attend a national convention? What would you receive; what can you share or
give? You can include in your letter to the committee any special
circumstances you hope they will take into consideration.

When will I be notified that I am a winner?

If you are chosen to receive this scholarship, you will receive a letter
with convention details that should answer most of your questions. The
committee makes every effort to notify scholarship winners by May 15, but
you must do several things before that to be prepared to attend if you are
chosen.
1. Make your own hotel reservation. If something prevents you from
attending, you can cancel the reservation. (Yes, you may arrange for
roommates of your own to reduce the cost.) 2. Register online for the entire
convention, including the banquet, by May 31.
2. Find someone in your chapter or affiliate who has been to many
conventions and can answer your questions as a friend and advisor.
3. If you do not hear from the committee by May 15, then you did not win a
grant this year.

How will I receive my convention scholarship?

At convention you will be given a debit card or credit card loaded with the
amount of your award. The times and locations to pick up your card will be
listed in the letter we sent you. The committee is not able to provide funds
before the convention, so work with your chapter and state affiliate to
assist you by obtaining an agreement to advance funds if you win a
scholarship and to pay your treasury back after you receive your debit or
credit card.

What if I have more questions?

For additional information email the chairman, Allen Harris, at
kjscholarships at nfb.org, or call his Baltimore, Maryland, office at (410)
659-9314, extension 2415.

Above all, please use this opportunity to attend your first convention on
the national level and join several thousand active Federations in the most
important meeting of the blind in the world. We hope to see you in Orlando. 

Financial Assistance to attend the 2018 National Convention

Our National convention is a highlight for the year and the 2018 convention
will be especially remarkable because Virginia is part of the convention
host committee. The convention will begin Tuesday, July 3 and end late after
the banquet on Sunday evening, July 8. Most people will be departing on
Monday, July 9.

We want everyone to plan this into your calendar and your budget so you can
be there to join us.

If you are a first-time attendee, we strongly encourage people to apply to
both the McDonald Fellowship and Kenneth Jernigan convention Scholarship
programs which target first time convention attendees. 

Every year, the affiliate president will receive a few requests for
convention assistance from affiliate members. I am putting some ground rules
in place to help clarify expectations.
If you are planning to request assistance, please send your request to me in
email. Your request should factor in the following:
A) What are my total expected costs:
What should I expect to pay for convention factoring in expected costs for
travel, lodging, meals, and a banquet ticket and convention registration? I
have no idea how much it costs to get from your home to the Rosen Shingle
Creek in Orlando. You need to do the research. In addition, the banquet is a
highlight of the convention and you don't want to miss it. Many people
choose to share rooms and you will start seeing roommate requests posted to
us announce list starting soon. 

B) What can I afford myself?

No one will be going to convention for free. The Jernigan Scholarships and
McDonald Fellowships do not provide all the funding for convention for first
timers. Individuals requesting financial assistance should expect to make a
significant contribution to your convention expenses. You should be
factoring in this expense into your budget.

C) What is my chapter contributing?

Your chapter is a resource for financial assistance. Do not come to the
Virginia Affiliate requesting financial assistance if you have not asked
your local chapter. I will be following up with chapter presidents to
understand how you are contributing at the chapter level to programming and
fundraising.
D) How much are you requesting from the affiliate 

After considering other sources, how much are you requesting from the
Virginia affiliate. Please note that we do not provide funding in advance.
Mark Roane will provide funding at convention but you need to work locally
to get your travel and room expenses addressed. You should definitely expect
to attend the Virginia Caucus, probably Wednesday evening, July 4 at 10:00
PM to receive the financial assistance. It is not Mark's job to hunt you
down at convention and it is not Mark's job to provide you funds as you walk
into the hotel. However, Mark will gladly sell you some Virginia Peanuts. 

Speaking of selling, fundraising is the means through which we have the
resources to provide financial assistance. When I talk to your chapter
president, I am checking to determine if you are engaged in the chapter and
affiliate fundraising. We will certainly be selling items at the Virginia
table at convention and you will be expected to help with that activity if
you receive financial assistance. You should also plan to participate in
working the Hospitality Suite and other responsibilities as we host the
convention. You should be hustling throughout convention and afterward back
in Virginia to sell our products to fund our movement. 

We are asking that requests are submitted no later than June 1, 2018. You
should be planning in advance, booking your hotel room and taking advantage
of the early registration pricing. 

We want everyone to join us in Orlando and we hope this guidance clarifies
the process. However, if you have questions, I am glad to address them.

Whew! That was quite a mouthful of a report! But, I want you to be informed,
and most importantly, I want you to be involved. Please tell me if there is
anything you need to make that happen.

Yours in service,

Tracy Soforenko, President
National Federation of the Blind of Virginia

  _____  

This Month's Words of Inspiration

>From the March Braille Monitor:

"At times, when I am asked questions that are born of doubt, I feel like it
is definitely not the cat's meow. However I also realize that these are
opportunities to stop and educate someone. For them to go uneducated about
what a blind person can do would definitely not be the cat's meow. But when
they discover how I live the life I want with my cats, then it is-yes-the
cat's meow!"-Lauren Merryfield

You may read the article in its entirety here:

https://nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm18/bm1803/bm180316.htm

  _____  

Return of the BELL Program

What is the NFB BELL Program?

The NFB Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning (BELL) program provides
children, ages 4 through 14, with two weeks of concentrated Braille
instruction through fun, hands-on learning. This program is for all blind
children who could benefit from Braille enrichment over the summer. This
includes children with low-vision, children who have recently lost their
vision, children who have been blind since birth, and children who have
additional disabilities in addition to blindness/ low-vision.

The National Federation of the Blind will hold two BELL Programs in Virginia
in Summer 2018:

Harrisonburg, June 18-29
Contact-Beth Sellers - bsellers31 at gmail.com

Arlington, July 16-27
Contact-Nancy Yeager - brlteacher13 at gmail.com

Both programs are designed to run Monday through Friday for approximately
seven hours each day. In addition to Braille instruction, projects, games,
and other engaging activities, children may also enjoy field trips to local
attractions.

For a peek at the 2017 Northern Virginia BELL Program, go to:

For more information, go to:

https://nfb.org/bell-academy-faqs-affiliate/va

To apply for either of the Virginia BELL Programs go to:

www.nfb.org/bell-student-application-form

The NFB BELL program has grown exponentially since its inception in 2008.
Beginning as one site in the state of Maryland, the program is now offered
in numerous states around the country! The NFB BELL program uses time-tested
lessons and proven techniques to build self-confidence, positive attitudes,
and skills in blind children; characteristics that are essential to ensuring
blind children can live the lives that they want now and in the future.

What parents are saying:

"Besides Braille exposure, the most valuable thing my child gained at the
NFB BELL program is increased confidence. I can't believe the change in her
attitude and initiative since attending the program." "This was the most
positive program/experience we have ever been involved in. This program was
an incredible resource for us both." "The NFB BELL program changed our lives
this year. My daughter learned more in two weeks at NFB BELL than she did in
a two- month program last summer!"

  _____  

Taking on Transition Programming in Northern Virginia
By Arielle Silverman

On Saturday February 17, 2018, the NFBV kicked off Project RISE (Resilience,
Independence, Self-advocacy, Employment) with a bang. We had nearly 20
students join us at the Lyon Village Community House in Arlington. After
starting with some icebreaker conversations, the students prepared a
three-course lunch for the group. Several students learned to cut
vegetables, cook pasta and meat sauce, and bake cookies for the very first
time. The students worked under the tutelage of our dedicated blind mentors:
Marc Canamaso, Susie D'Mello, Derek Manners, Sarah Patnaude, and Evelyn
Valdez. While the students were learning nonvisual cooking skills, their
parents had a workshop of their own, where they discussed expectations,
fears, and questions about blindness with successful blind adults and
learned about nonvisual cooking and cane travel techniques.

After lunch, the students engaged in a philosophy discussion with NFBV past
president, Dr. Fred Schroeder, as they learned about self-advocacy and
positive attitudes surrounding blindness. Students shared their personal
experiences and discussed difficult questions, such as how to cope with not
getting accessible materials in school, and when a student with low vision
should tell an employer about blindness. During the conversation, the older
students readily shared their experiences and advice with the younger ones,
while Dr. Schroeder emphasized the value of networking to "keep reminding
you that what you want to do is possible."

Over the next four months, our Project RISE students will be meeting one
Saturday each month to explore career and college options, practice
nonvisual skills, and continue building connections with their mentors and
peers. Highlights include a tour of George Mason University in March; a
visit to the Apple Store in April; a trip to Pentagon Center Mall in May;
and we will culminate with an exciting weekend seminar at the NFB National
Center in Baltimore in June. Over the summer, students will be individually
connected with opportunities for work experience, job shadowing, or further
training in blindness skills.

None of this would be possible without the support of our NFBV family. We
are extraordinarily appreciative of our volunteers, mentors, membership, and
affiliate leadership. In order to build our program, we need your input and
experience. Please join us at an upcoming RISE session! To learn more, visit
our web site! 

  _____  

The Wine Report
By John Halverson

The Potomac chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia held
one of its two major fundraisers on Saturday March 3.

More than 20 members and friends gathered at Bistro 360 in Arlington
Virginia for our annual wine tasting fundraiser.
This year the theme was wines from Spain. Each participant was served four
different wines accompanied by Spanish cheeses, crackers, and sausage. A
representative of a major distributer of Spanish wines gave a description of
each wine and its accompaniments. 

After the wine tasting most everyone remained for dinner and to purchase
wine. The Bistro graciously offered a 15% contribution to our chapter from
all dinner and wine sales.

Finally, they offered us a $100 gift basket to raffle. We charged $5 per
ticket and raised $300 on this basket. Needless to say, I was pleased that
Sandy Halverson won the prize.

I want to particularly thank Robert Parsons, President of our Richmond
Chapter, and his sister Robin for braving the windstorm and slow trains to
join us.

Everyone agreed the day was a financial success and a wonderful opportunity
for good friends to enjoy fellowship.

  _____  

Aira & job seeking, a winning combination!

Are you looking for a job, a promotion or career change? Are you finding
that various components of these processes are not fully accessible? Would
you find it helpful if you had sighted assistance at the moment you were
faced with a barrier to landing that dream job? If you have answered yes to
any of these questions, then you will want to look into the new employment
initiative from Aira.

Aira uses a combination of an iPhone and video streaming technology to
provide sighted assistance at the touch of a button from 7:00am - 1:00am
EST. There are countless visual tasks the trained Aira live agent can assist
you with. Those who use the Aira services are called Aira Explorers and have
used the service to Explore New Neighborhoods, complete tasks around the
Home, Try New Restaurants, Read a Book or other documents,
Attend Social Events
Go Hiking or for a run and much more. 

The latest announcement from Aira is their Employment Assistance program.
"Starting on Tuesday, February 20, Aira is offering free service for
job-seekers as they navigate employment sites, fill out applications, build
resumes, and travel to and from meetings with prospective employers. Through
the Aira Employment Program, the first 100 Aira Explorers to secure job
interviews will have their ride covered via our partnership with Lyft."

For more information about the Aira Employment program visit:

http://go.aira.io/employment

For information on Aira's services and to learn about becoming an Aira
Explorer, full details can be found at:

www.aira.io

The company can also be contacted by phone at 858.876.2472 (Pacific Standard
Time

  _____  

Applications for 2018 Roeder Scholarship Now Available

Kathy Gallagher, Learning and Development Manager, NIB
703-310-0343 or kgallagher at nib.org 
Applications for the 2018 Joseph Roeder Scholarship are now available on the
NIB website. The scholarship provides a one-time award of $2,500 for an
undergraduate or graduate student who is legally blind to pursue a college
degree in a business-related field.

The scholarship is named for Joe Roeder, senior accessible technology
specialist at NIB from 1997 until his death in 2010. Roeder was instrumental
in development of the Section 508 electronic and information technology
accessibility standards of the Rehabilitation Act, which require all federal
government agencies to provide accessible data and information for employees
with disabilities.

Paste the following link into your browser for the Joseph Roeder Scholarship
application:

http://www.nib.org/content/roeder-scholarship-application

Materials must be submitted online no later than Friday, May 11, 2018. The
winner will be announced in June.

  _____  

NFB Pledge

I pledge to participate actively in the effort of the National Federation of
the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to
support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its
constitution.