American Foundation For The Blind

The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is a leading organization dedicated to creating equal opportunities and expanding possibilities for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. With a rich history spanning over a century, AFB has been at the forefront of addressing the most pressing needs of people with visual impairments and their families, breaking down societal barriers, and promoting broad systemic change.

Our Mission

AFB's mission is to expand pathways to leadership, education, inclusive technology, and career opportunities to create a world of no limits for people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. To achieve this, AFB cultivates in-depth knowledge that improves understanding of issues affecting children and adults who are blind or have low vision to facilitate meaningful change that fosters equality and inclusion.

Our Objectives

AFB aims to achieve its mission through a multifaceted approach, focusing on three key objectives:

• Conduct Research to Advance Change: AFB collaborates with researchers and educators to better understand the issues facing people who are blind or visually impaired. We use that knowledge to develop evidence-based solutions in education, employment, socio-economic mobility, rehabilitation services, aging and vision loss, healthcare, and technology.
• Promote Knowledge and Understanding: We educate policymakers, business leaders, advocates, and the public about the challenges and opportunities that exist for people who are blind or have low vision. This knowledge influences attitudes, improving acceptance, accessibility, and inclusion.
• Shape Policies and Practices: AFB builds relationships with policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders to shape policies and practices that promote equal opportunities and inclusion for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Our Impact

AFB's research, education, and advocacy efforts have a significant impact on the lives of individuals who are blind or have low vision. Our work:

• Improves understanding and acceptance of blindness and low vision
• Enhances access to education, employment, and community services
• Advances technology and accessibility standards
• Fosters social and economic inclusion
• Shapes policies and practices that promote equal opportunities

We Offer

AFB offers a wide range of services, including:

• Research: AFB conducts research to better understand the issues facing people who are blind or visually impaired, and to develop evidence-based solutions.
• Education: AFB provides education and training on issues related to blindness and low vision, including employment, technology, and advocacy.
• Advocacy: AFB advocates for policies and practices that promote equal opportunities and inclusion for people who are blind or visually impaired.
• Client Solutions: AFB offers client solutions, including accessibility consulting and training, to help businesses and organizations improve their services for people who are blind or visually impaired.
• Accessibility Resources: AFB provides accessibility resources, including publications, webinars, and online resources, to help individuals and organizations improve accessibility and inclusion.

Stay Up-to-Date

AFB is committed to sharing its research, education, and advocacy efforts with the public. Stay up-to-date on AFB's latest news, research, and events by signing up for our newsletter, following us on social media, or visiting our website.