[NFBV-Announce] Please Share with Students

Sun Jan 4 12:32:24 UTC 2026

Hello,

Please work through your chapters and relevant divisions to spread word of
these upcoming activities via Project RISE, as well as announcements
relevant to students from other partners. Thank you kindly in advance for
your help in passing these along.

These events will be of interest to blind and low vision high school and
college students. RSVP links will typically be made available a month in
advance of the event's registration deadline.

Please check the RISE calendar page as we update the listings:

https://nfbv.org/project-rise-program-calendar

Questions? Please email Project RISE coordinator, Joe Orozco, at:
<mailto:rise at nfbv.org> rise at nfbv.org, or call: 703-594-9634.

Raising Leaders, Breaking Barriers

Date/Time: Sunday, January 18 at 12:00 PM - Monday, January 19, 2026, at
12:00 PM

Format: In person

Registration Deadline: Sunday, December 21, 2025 (Contact us if you find out
about this opportunity closer to the event date.)

 <https://forms.gle/ZCjX1vpZjPz1YMuXA> Click here to register for Raising
Leaders, Breaking Barriers.

Description: Don't miss this unique summit blending Project RISE's
self-advocacy training and hands-on career exploration with the NFB of
Virginia's leadership development program's confidence workshops,
culminating in dynamic, cross-generational dialogue and collaborative
learning. A little icebreaking, a little outside the box thinking, and a lot
of bonding interwoven with positive blindness philosophy to move you from
good to great. High school or college, it's never too early to make your
presence felt. Bring your technology. You're going to lean on it this
weekend!

Students interested in participating in the NFB of Virginia's Richmond
Seminar on January 20 should also  <https://nfbv.org/richmond> register here
to be assigned to a team and set up appointments with their own state
delegates and senators. Do not make hotel reservations. All travel logistics
will be arranged for you.

Mastering Admissions, Accommodations, and Finding Your Perfect Fit!

Date/Time: Wednesday, January 21; 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Format: Virtual

Registration Deadline: Friday, January 9, 2026

 <https://forms.gle/7fNd4EgSesk96gPs5> Click here to register for Mastering
Admissions, Accommodations, and Finding Your Perfect Fit!

Description: Prepare to launch your undergraduate journey with an
action-packed session designed for high school students ready to take charge
of their future! Discover the secrets to building a standout application,
meet critical deadlines, and craft essays that make admissions teams give
you a second glance. Go beyond paperwork: explore practical strategies for
securing reasonable accommodations and learn insider tips for discovering
colleges and universities that truly match your academic, social, and
accessibility needs. Walk away confident in finding a school where you'll
thrive-academically and personally. High school juniors and seniors are most
likely to benefit from this session, though it is never too late to start
learning!

Career Quest at Washington Seminar

Note: This event is being hosted by the NFB national office.

Date/Time: Sunday, January 25 - Wednesday, January 28, 2026 

Format: In person

Registration deadline: Past due.

Description: Get ready for an informative and exciting experience during the
National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Career Quest Program, held during the
NFB Washington Seminar. This four-day program empowers blind and low-vision
students and early professionals to become confident advocates and future
leaders.

You will have the chance to:

*	Advocate on Capitol Hill about issues that impact the blind
community.
*	Learn advocacy skills that will become valuable in college, career,
and life.
*	Connect with peers at the National Association of Blind Students
winter meeting.
*	Explore industries and meet employers at the NFB Career Fair.
*	Network with Federation mentors and professionals.

If you're ready to advocate, , network, and shape your future, read more and
complete the
<https://nfb.org/programs-services/employment/career-quest/application>
Career Quest Interest Application. The deadline is December 12 with possible
extensions on a case by case basis.

Please direct all questions to Nikki Jackson at: 410-659-9314, extension
2404.

The NFB of Virginia also requests students to  <https://nfbv.org/washington>
register separately by December 31 to help the Legislative Committee build
teams and schedule appointments on the Hill.

Deadline: AFB Digital Accessibility Bootcamp

Note: This is an external opportunity. Please follow the relevant link for
additional information.

Date: January 30, 2026

Format: Virtual

Description: This is a three-month summer experience that challenges
students to consider accessibility early in the design and development
process by understanding how people with disabilities access and use digital
products and experiences every day. Students with and without low vision
work together to explore the evolving landscape of digital accessibility,
how common assistive technologies work, and how to use assistive technology
like screen readers to navigate and test a user interface.

This program is specifically for undergraduate students in computer science,
graphic design, UX and UI design programs. While lived experience with
blindness or vision loss is not required, any eligible students are
encouraged to apply regardless of their disability status. Students who have
personal experience with blindness, low vision, or the use of assistive
technology will have the opportunity to share their experiences with their
peers during the program.

Program runs June 1 through August 28, 2026, approximately 20-25 hours per
week, entirely virtual. A total scholarship stipend of $3,000 will be
awarded in two installments: $1,000 Midpoint Milestone award and $2,000
award upon successful program completion.

Click here for the program flyer.
<https://afb.org/sites/default/files/2025-10/Bootcamp%20Informational%20Flie
r%202025%20-%20Tagged%20for%20Accessibility%20-%20Updated%20Oct%202025.pdf> 

Applications are open now and close January 30, 2026. Apply via this link.
<https://www.afb.org/internships/bootcamp> 

Become Your Own Boss Through the Randolph-Sheppard Program

Date/Time: Wednesday, February 4; 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Format: Virtual

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, January 21

Description: College? No college? Not everyone's dream career starts with a
traditional degree-and that's totally okay! The Randolph-Sheppard Program
offers blind entrepreneurs the chance to take charge, run their own
businesses, and shape their own success. In this engaging session, students
will dive into how the program works, what kinds of vending and food service
opportunities are available, and how it equips participants with business
skills, financial independence, and leadership experience. We'll break down
what it takes to get started, how to access training and mentorship, and how
this path can lead to long-term stability and personal freedom. Whether
you're craving a career that's hands-on, independent, or totally your own,
this session will show you how to turn ambition into action-and become your
own boss through Randolph-Sheppard. Though the focus will be on Virginia, we
welcome students nationwide to benefit from learning about the core program.

National Convention Open House

Date/Time: Wednesday, February 18, 2026; 7:00 PM

Format: Virtual

Description: Ditch the routine and dive into the unparalleled excitement
that is the NFB National Convention in the Lone Star! We're bringing
together hundreds of blind and low-vision students for a week of
skill-building, friendship, and pure Texas fun. Imagine: connecting with
successful blind professionals, exploring the vibrant Austin music scene,
and discovering your own incredible potential. We're talking hands-on
workshops, inspiring speakers, and a community that gets you. This isn't
just a conference; it's your launchpad to success, packed with the best
barbecue and Tex Mex and unforgettable moments.

Why do You NEED to Be There?

*	Find Your Tribe: Connect with hundreds of students across the
country who get it, building lifelong friendships and a powerful network.
*	Austin Adventure: Explore the heart of Texas, soaking up the
culture, great outdoor attractions, music, and amazing food.
*	Unlock Your Potential: Discover career paths, learn about
scholarships, and leave feeling inspired and empowered.
*	Pure Fun: It's not all work! Expect exciting events, engaging
speakers, and a week you won't forget alongside old and new friends.

If you've never attended the largest gathering of blind and low vision
people in the world, we understand how it could be intimidating. Project
RISE staff will be on hand to help craft an experience within the larger
convention to help get you what you need to make the most out of your week.
On this call, representatives from the NFB of Virginia will be walking you
through the different ways you can attend and what you can expect.

Convention Dates: Friday, July 3 - Wednesday, July 8

Project RISE RSVP: Monday, March 31

You do not have to participate in the national convention as part of Project
RISE. The advantage to attending under our program is that we help eligible
students create a customized experience within the larger agenda. We can
tailor it to your specific needs, but in order to make hotel and travel
arrangements, we need ample time to get things lined up. Generally, we
prefer to travel with students. Students under the age of 18 will need to be
accompanied by a parent or designated guardian. We will work closely with
you and your DBVI counselor to facilitate your participation.

To express your interest in attending, please email the program coordinator,
Joe Orozco, at: rise at nfbv.org <mailto:rise at nfbv.org> , by the RSVP deadline.

To learn more about the national convention, please visit the national
convention landing page. <https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention> 

Finding Your Place: Navigating Housing with Confidence and Independence

Date/Time: Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Format: Virtual

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Description: Finding an apartment or other rental properties can feel
overwhelming, but with the right tools and mindset, you can take full
control of the process. In this interactive session, participants will
explore how to research potential apartments, understand lease terms,
evaluate neighborhoods, and advocate for their rights as blind renters.
We'll discuss what questions to ask landlords, what accessibility and
location features to consider, and how to recognize red flags in rental
listings. The session will also cover effective strategies for handling
objections to service or guide dogs and asserting your legal rights under
the Fair Housing Act. Through real-world examples and group discussion,
participants will leave empowered to approach apartment hunting with
confidence, clarity, and self-advocacy skills.

Deadline: National Convention RSVP and National Scholarship

Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Every year, the NFB awards more than $250,000 in cash and prizes to blind
scholars in recognition of their achievements and professional aspirations.
This is part of the organization's national scholarship program, of which
the previously mentioned national convention is a huge component. The
deadline for applications is March 31. For complete details, please visit
the
<https://nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-progr
am> national scholarship page.

If you need a recommendation letter from the Project RISE coordinator,
please submit your requests no later than Sunday, March 1, 2026.

Remember, March 31 is also the deadline to express interest in attending the
national convention, regardless of your scholarship application status.
Since winning a scholarship is not guaranteed, you are encouraged to express
interest in attending the convention by emailing  <mailto:rise at nfbv.org>
rise at nfbv.org, or by calling: 703-594-9634.

Mind Over Matter: Building Resilience and Balance

Date/Time: Wednesday, April 1; 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Format: Virtual

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Description: Challenges are part of growth-but learning how to manage
stress, navigate tough emotions, and handle difficult social situations can
make all the difference. In this Project RISE session, a mental health
professional will lead an open discussion on mindfulness, coping strategies,
and self-care practices for times when life feels uncomfortable or
overwhelming. This is perfect timing with final exams on the horizon, and
for some of you, graduation. Participants will discover practical ways to
stay grounded, build emotional resilience, and approach challenges with
confidence and clarity-skills that support success in school, work, and
everyday life.

Get Involved, Get Connected

Date/Time: Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Format: Virtual

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, April 22, 2026

Description: College and community life aren't just about grades-they're
about getting out there and shaping your story! This upbeat session dives
into how joining fraternities, sororities, clubs, student organizations, and
community groups can help you meet amazing people, discover new interests,
and build serious confidence. You'll learn how getting involved opens doors
to leadership roles, career connections, and lasting friendships while
helping break down barriers between blind or low vision students and their
sighted peers. We'll also explore real-world strategies for finding the
right group, making that first "hello" a little less awkward, and showing up
with ease and comfort. By the end, you'll know how to turn every meeting,
volunteer gig, or event into an opportunity to grow-and own your space.
You'll be surprised at how well these skills will translate to social
activities outside of your professional life long after college.

Lead, Learn, Thrive

Date/Time: Friday, May 15 - Sunday, May 17, 2026

Format: In person

Registration Deadline: Friday, May 1, 2026

Description: Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of leadership, growth,
and connection! This in-person experience brings together everything
students have explored throughout the program-from job readiness and
independent living to mindfulness and teamwork. Through interactive
workshops, real-world challenges, and mentor-led activities, students will
strengthen their confidence, communication, and leadership skills. It's a
hands-on, high-energy weekend designed to celebrate your progress, expand
your potential, and prepare you to take the next bold step toward your
future!

Cordially,

Joe Orozco, Project RISE Coordinator

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