[NFBC-Info] Braille Readers Are Leaders: Who’s joining me?

[Tina Thomas]

Absolutely
Tina Thomas Sent from my iPhone

> On Oct 1, 2026, at 2:26 PM, Laura Millar via NFBC-Info <nfbc-info at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> 
> 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
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