About
About The NFB of Montana
The National Federation of the Blind of Montana is a consumer civil rights organization in which the blind and interested sighted persons come together in monthly local chapter meetings and annual statewide conventions to improve the lives of blind people through advocacy, education, research, technology, and programs encouraging independence and self-confidence.
The NFB of Montana works toward the removal of legal, economic, and social barriers to full participation by blind people in all aspects of community life.
- Affiliated with the National Federation of the Blind in 2012
4 Active Chapters Around the State
- Treasure State Chapter – At Large
- Electric City Chapter – Great Falls
- Helena Chapter
- Missoula Chapter
History
History of the NFB of Montana
The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) of Montana boasts a profound and longstanding history in the state, dating back to its origins in the mid-1940s. Initially affiliated with the Montana Association for the Blind, the NFB of Montana has steadfastly served as a beacon of advocacy and support for the blind community throughout the state.
Commitment to Advocacy
For decades, the NFB of Montana has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of blind and low-vision Montanans. Our commitment has been unwavering in the fight for equal opportunities, particularly in education and the workplace. We strive to create an inclusive society where visual impairments do not define one’s ability to succeed and contribute to society.
Educational and Workplace Inclusion
Through persistent advocacy and collaboration with various stakeholders, we have made significant strides in making education systems and workplace environments more accessible and accommodating for those with visual impairments. Our efforts ensure that blind and low-vision individuals in Montana have the resources and support they need to excel academically and professionally.
Preserving Our History and Forging Ahead
In recognition of our rich heritage, we are currently engaged in an extensive project to document the history of the NFB of Montana. This initiative aims to preserve our numerous accomplishments and the impactful stories of our members. Additionally, we are writing new chapters for the future, continuously working to enhance the lives of Montana’s blind community.
Join Us
As we continue to advocate for change and progress, we invite all interested parties to join us in our mission. Whether by contributing to our historical archives or participating in our advocacy efforts, your support is invaluable in driving forward the cause of the blind and low-vision community in Montana.
Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable future for every blind Montanan.
Board Members
NFB of Montana Board Members
The NFB of Montana Board consists of nine members, including five officers: President, First Vice President, Second Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer, and four at large board members. The officers and two at large board members are elected for two year terms in even-numbered years; two at
large board members are elected for two year terms in odd numbered years. Occasionally an officer or a board member may not be able to, or may not choose to, fulfill their full term, in which case their term is fulfilled by the next officer in order, or by the election of a board member at the next convention to fill out the remaining year of the vacant term.
The current board members are as follows:
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Board of Directors:
- President: Jim Marks, Helena, re-elected in 2022 for a 2-year term
- First Vice President: Joy Breslauer, Great Falls, re-elected in 2022 for a 2-year term
- Second Vice President: Sheila Leigland, Great Falls, re-elected in 2022 for a 2-year term
- Secretary: Robert Jaquiss, Missoula, re-elected in 2022 for a 2-year term
- Treasurer: Rick White, Helena, elected in 2023 for a 2-year term
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Board Members at large:
- Board Member At Large: Jim Aldrich, Billings, re-elected in 2022 for a 2-year term
- Board Member At large: Denise Moses, elected in 2022 for a 2-year term
- Board Member at Large: Samantha Chase, Missoula, elected in 2023 for a 2-year term
- Board Member At Large: Jacob Krissovich, Helena, elected in 2023 for a 2-year term