The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.
The National Federation of the Blind believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power, influence, diversity, and determination to help transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people. Our democratically elected leaders and our diverse nationwide membership are made up of blind people, our families, and our friends. We are bound together by the shared belief that we are capable of achieving our dreams and living the lives we want. We support one another, act with courage and determination when we encounter barriers or experience setbacks, and engage in collective action to improve our lives.
The Seeing Eye, Inc., pioneers and innovators of dog guide services, provides specially bred and trained dogs to guide people who are blind. Seeing Eye® dog users experience greatly enhanced mobility and independence, allowing them to retain their active lifestyles despite blindness. The Seeing Eye is a philanthropy, established in 1929, and is supported exclusively by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, bequests, and other planned gifts.
Our Mission:
The American Foundation for the Blind creates equal opportunities and expands possibilities through advocacy, thought leadership, and strategic partnerships.
Who We Are:
Since 1921, AFB has been a leader in expanding possibilities for the nearly 25 million Americans living with vision loss. A national nonprofit with offices in five U.S. cities, we champion access and equality and stand at the forefront of new technologies and evidence-based advocacy. We address the most pressing needs of people with vision loss and their families, breaking down societal barriers and promoting broad systemic change. Like Helen Keller, AFB's most famous ambassador, we are committed to creating a more equitable world for people with disabilities.
Our Action Plan:
AFB cultivates in-depth knowledge that improves understanding of issues affecting children and adults who are blind or visually impaired, to facilitate meaningful change that fosters equality and inclusion.