National Federation of the Blind of Maine

The National Federation of the Blind of Maine is a state affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), the oldest and largest organization led by blind people in the United States. The NFB as a whole was founded in 1940 by Jacobus tenBroek, and it has affiliates in every state, including Maine[2][3]. The NFB of Maine operates as part of this national framework, aiming to advance the lives of blind individuals within Maine.

Mission and Philosophy

The National Federation of the Blind, including its Maine affiliate, is based on the philosophy that blindness does not define a person or limit their potential. It works to raise expectations and create opportunities for blind people by promoting independence, advocacy, and access to resources[2].

Activities and Resources

The National Federation of the Blind of Maine supports various activities and provides resources to its members. These include:

• NFB Newsline: A free service that allows individuals to access over 300 publications, including local newspapers like the Portland Press Herald, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. This service is particularly beneficial for those who cannot read regular newsprint[1].
• Local Chapters and Services: The NFB of Maine participates in local chapters and state conventions, offering support and resources tailored to the needs of blind individuals within the state[3].
• Advocacy and Education: The organization engages in advocacy efforts to educate the public and policymakers about issues affecting the blind, aiming to improve accessibility and equality[2].

Membership and Governance

Membership in the National Federation of the Blind of Maine is open to anyone, though leadership positions must be held by blind individuals. The organization is governed by a structure that ensures blind people have the majority control over its operations and policies[2].

Role in Maine

In Maine, the National Federation of the Blind plays a significant role in improving the quality of life for blind individuals. Through local initiatives and support, it helps to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for everyone[5].

[1] https://www.maine.gov/msl/outreach/lbph/newsline.htm [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Federation_of_the_Blind [3] https://nfb.org/about-us/state-affiliates [4] https://nfb.org [5] https://nfb-me.org