With summer nearly upon us, we invite you to join us as we explore the two largest blindness/low vision groups in the United States throughout the month of May. Regardless of whether you plan to participate in a convention this summer, we will cover the ins and outs of these organizations and how they can provide support to transition-age students.
- May 3: Overview of ACB and NFB
- May 10: ACB and NFB 2022 National Conventions
- May 17: ACB and NFB Statewide
- May 24: Students in the ACB and the NFB
- May 31: Parents and Families in the ACB and the NFB
In this second installment of our organization exploration, we share information about in-person and virtual options for the ACB and NFB conventions taking place this summer.
Why It Matters
National conventions are a great time for blind/low vision individuals to connect and learn from one another. Through various sessions, exhibits, and activities, the blind and low vision community shares resources, discusses best practices, and provides a massive support network that spans nationwide. There are also many opportunities for educators, rehabilitation professionals, friends, and family members of blind/low vision people to participate in and benefit from national convention. Bridges Helpdesk staff have attended and benefited from national conventions, and we welcome your questions about these exciting and transformative experiences.
ACB Convention
The 61st annual national convention of the American Council of the Blind will feature virtual-only sessions, in-person sessions, and combined virtual and in-person sessions. ACB is using this conference format for the first time at the 2022 convention.
- ACB Convention Registration Information and Sneak Preview, Part 2 article: “Registration will open for ACB members on May 12th at 7 a.m. Central time. The cost of registration will be $35. On May 19th, registration will open for non-ACB members. The cost will be $50. A non-member has the option of joining ACB as a member at large for $10, thus saving $5. Registration will close on Monday, June 20th at 10:59 p.m. Central time. You may also register during the convention; prices will increase by $10.”
- 2022 ACB Conference and Convention web page.
- ACB Convention announcement email listserv. The Bridges Helpdesk subscribes to this list, and we find the information to be timely and helpful.
NFB Convention
The 82nd annual national convention of the National Federation of the Blind will take place in person and also offers an online registration component for those who are unable to make it in person.
- NFB Convention Online Registration form before May 31; there is a fee of $25. You may also register in person at the NFB Convention in New Orleans.
- 2022 NFB Convention – Virtual Experience form; there is no fee for this registration. Registering for the virtual component will give you access to Zoom links for various sessions and presentations.
- NFB National Convention web page.
Contact us
Follow the Bridges Helpdesk Facebook page for more transition tips, and please contact the Free Helpdesk for Maryland Blind/Low Vision Transition Students, Families, and Educators anytime using:
- Our Accessible web form
- Email: Helpdesk@imagemd.org
- Text: Send to: (410) 305-9199
- Bridges Helpdesk Facebook page or Facebook Messenger
- Voice mail: Call (443) 320-4003, leave a voice mail message, and we will return your call
This unique project is being coordinated through The IMAGE Center of Maryland, a center for independent living in Towson, and it is funded by a grant from the Maryland Department of Education Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services.