Live The Life You Want
The National Federation of the Blind of Montana (NFB of Montana) is a state affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), the largest and most influential membership organization of blind people in the United States. Our mission is to ensure that blind individuals in Montana have the resources, opportunities, and support needed to lead full and independent lives. We work tirelessly to promote equal rights and access, challenge societal misconceptions about blindness, and foster a supportive community for blind individuals and their families.
Become a member today!
NFB Newsline Program
The NFB-NEWSLINE program is a free service that provides access to newspapers, magazines, and other publications to blind and visually impaired individuals. With NFB-NEWSLINE, users can access over 500 publications, including major national newspapers, state newspapers, breaking news, and a variety of magazines on topics ranging from technology to health. This service is available 24/7 through a variety of platforms, including telephone, the NFB-NEWSLINE mobile app, and Amazon Alexa. In Montana, this invaluable resource ensures that our blind and visually impaired residents stay informed and connected to the world around them.
Bell Academy
The Bell Academy (Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning) is an essential program that provides intensive Braille instruction to blind and low-vision children during the summer. The program is designed to foster a love for Braille and literacy while boosting the confidence and skills of young blind students. The Bell Academy combines fun, hands-on activities with serious learning, ensuring that children receive the foundational skills they need to succeed in their educational journeys and beyond. In Montana, the Bell Academy plays a critical role in empowering the next generation of blind individuals.
Local Legislative Efforts
The NFB of Montana is actively involved in advocating for legislation that supports the rights and needs of blind individuals within our state. Currently, we are supporting several key legislative initiatives, including:
- 1. Accessible Voting Legislation: Ensuring that blind and visually impaired individuals have equal access to voting by advocating for accessible voting machines and processes.
- 2. Employment Non-Discrimination: Working to pass laws that prevent discrimination against blind individuals in the workplace and promote equal employment opportunities.
- 3. Education Access: Supporting legislation that ensures blind students have access to appropriate educational materials and resources, including Braille textbooks and adaptive technology.
- 4. Access Technology Affordability Act: Supporting legislation that provides tax credits for the purchase of assistive technology, making it more affordable for blind individuals to access the tools they need.
- 5. Greater Accessibility in Air Travel: Advocating for stronger regulations to ensure that blind passengers have equal access to airline services and accommodations.
- 6. Blind Americans Equality Act: Working towards comprehensive legislation that addresses a wide range of issues, including employment, education, and public accommodations for blind individuals.
The Insight Podcast
The Insight Podcast is a new initiative by the NFB of Montana aimed at providing valuable information, resources, and stories to the blind community. The episodes may feature interviews with experts, personal stories from blind individuals, and discussions on a variety of topics relevant to our listeners. The Insight Podcast is available on all major podcast platforms, making it accessible to anyone interested in learning more about the blind community and the work of the NFB of Montana.
State Affiliate Newsletter
Our state affiliate newsletter is another new publication designed to keep our members informed and engaged. This quarterly newsletter includes updates on our legislative efforts, chapter updates, upcoming events, success stories, and resources for blind individuals and their families. The newsletter is available in an accessible digital format to ensure it is easily accessible to all of our members.
NFB Pledge
I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its constitution.