American Foundation for the Blind

The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with vision loss in the United States. Established in 1921 with the support of philanthropist M.C. Migel, AFB was created in response to the large number of veterans blinded during World War I and serves to advance research, provide a national clearinghouse for information on vision loss, and advocate for the interests of people with vision impairments.

History and Accomplishments

AFB's founding was formalized at the convention of the American Association of Workers for the Blind in Vinton, Iowa. Early achievements include standardizing the English Braille code and establishing the first professional publications program for educators and administrators working with visually impaired individuals. The organization also published the Directory of Services for Blind and Visually Impaired Persons, first released in 1926, which has become a comprehensive resource for services available to individuals with vision loss.

In 1932, AFB engineers developed the Talking Book and the Talking Book Machine, a precursor to modern audiobooks, and set up recording studios. This led to the inclusion of talking books in the National Library System managed by the Library of Congress. Helen Keller, AFB's long-time ambassador, played a crucial role in advocating for these programs and left a lasting legacy with her dedication to AFB.

Advocacy and Policy Influence

AFB has been instrumental in shaping significant legislation, notably contributing to the creation and passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. The organization also worked on renewing the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to include provisions for children with vision loss. AFB continues to advocate for policy changes and systemic improvements to ensure equal opportunities for people with visual impairments.

Mission and Activities

The mission of the American Foundation for the Blind is to create a world of equal opportunities and endless possibilities for people who are blind or visually impaired. AFB achieves this through:

• Advocacy: Championing impactful policies and practices.
• Thought Leadership: Promoting knowledge and understanding.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with technology manufacturers to develop universally accessible products.
• Research and Publication: Conducting research and publishing scholarly works and periodicals, including the Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness.

AFB also offers programs such as the Blind Leaders Development Program, launched in 2019, aimed at increasing upward mobility and leadership opportunities for individuals who are blind or low vision. Additionally, AFB supports education and career development through initiatives like Digital Accessibility Internships.

Legacy and Impact

Helen Keller, who worked for AFB for over 40 years until her death in 1968, remains a symbol of the organization's commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with visual impairments. AFB continues to steward her legacy by maintaining the Helen Keller Archive, which includes her papers and memorabilia. The organization's work has significantly enhanced accessibility and equality for millions of Americans living with vision loss.