American Foundation for the Blind

As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, we're reminded of the treasures of this season—gratitude, connection, and family. At the American Foundation for the Blind, we’re so thankful for YOU. Your support fuels our mission to create equal opportunities and expand possibilities through advocacy, thought leadership, and partnerships. Together, we’re making the world a more inclusive and equitable place. We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and a holiday season filled with joy, warmth, and meaningful moments with your loved ones! Support our mission today: https://lnkd.in/eQyH9c9i

AFB’s Digital Accessibility Bootcamp goes beyond the standard curriculum by offering students hands-on experience in accessibility skills that are essential in today’s tech landscape. Our internship program provides participants with specialized knowledge in #InclusiveDesign and assistive technology and has a lasting impact on their career readiness and long-term success. Gain valuable skills that set you apart and prepare you for a rapidly evolving industry. Applications close January 31, 2025—apply today: https://lnkd.in/dE367KCm.

The winter edition of AccessWorld is now available! Highlights include: ? Accessible Holiday Shopping: Detailed evaluations of Target and Macy’s iOS apps and websites to ensure your shopping experience is seamless and accessible. ? Understanding WCAG: A beginner’s guide to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, explaining its role in creating inclusive digital spaces. ? Accessible Gaming: Reviews of Shadow Line and Fantasy Story II—top-down RPGs offering immersive, audio-based gameplay. ? Penny Forward: Learn how Chris Peterson is helping people who are blind and have low vision with personal finance tools and resources. ? Google Accessibility Updates: Discover the latest innovations enhancing accessibility across Pixel, Android, ChromeOS, and more. Read the full issue by visiting: https://ow.ly/JvIg50UcRzb

In today’s tech-driven world, the impact of our creations extends far beyond visuals and lines of code. Accessibility is not just a feature; it’s a fundamental right. AFB’s Digital Accessibility Bootcamp is a 3-month summer experience offering computer science students the opportunity to learn how to design and build digital solutions that break down barriers, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can fully engage with the digital landscape. Apply today and help shape tomorrow's inclusive technology: https://lnkd.in/e3XujK58.

Did you know that over 70% of websites are not accessible to people with disabilities? Yet, designers, developers, and product owners are still not being trained in accessibility skills. AFB's Digital Accessibility Bootcamp is transforming the future of #DigitalInclusion by leveraging our expertise to train the next generation of tech talent in #InclusiveDesign practices, meeting the immediate and future needs of an increasingly diverse world. Apply today: https://lnkd.in/e3XujK58

Today, Sarah Malaier, AFB’s Senior Advisor of Public Policy & Research, will speak at the DC Council's Transportation and Environment Committee Roundtable on the Use and Regulation of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs). While AVs offer the promise of expanded mobility and transportation freedom, we strongly advocate for the importance of accessibility as a core component. This includes accessible user interfaces, wheelchair-friendly designs, and systems that recognize and communicate effectively with blind pedestrians and individuals with other disabilities. Additionally, we believe that sustaining access to transit, including through the integration of autonomous solutions, will ensure that more people who are blind can access transportation—regardless of income. For more details and a link to the livestream, visit: https://ow.ly/qrUY50U74bm

AFB's Digital Accessibility Bootcamp is a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on training from #DigitalInclusion experts and engage with potential employers in the field. Through our interactive modules, practice activities, and assessments, you will create a collection of work that will showcase your accessibility skills and make you stand out amongst your peers. Don’t miss this chance to invest in your future! Apply today: https://lnkd.in/dE367KCm.

Eric Bridges, President & CEO of the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), appeared on WSAZ 3 Morning News in Huntington, WV, to share recent developments at AFB. Highlights included AFB's collaboration with Mattel on the creation of the first-ever blind Fashionista Barbie, the Possibilities documentary celebrating Helen Keller’s legacy through 21st-century voices, and the launch of the application period for AFB’s 2025 Digital Accessibility Bootcamp—the first tier of AFB’s internship program, designed to provide participants with essential digital accessibility skills. Learn more about the initiatives AFB is leading to create a more inclusive world for people who are blind or have low vision at www.afb.org.

The Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness (JVIB) invites submissions for its 2025 Special Issue on Advancements and Innovations in Assistive Technology for Individuals with Visual Impairments. Experts in the field are encouraged to contribute research exploring the latest advancements in technology and their impact on the lives of individuals who are blind and have low vision of all ages. Key topics include mobile app accessibility, tactile graphics, AI applications, STEAM assistive technology, accessibility in online learning platforms, user-centered design principles, and more. Submissions are due by February 28, 2025. For details on the 2025 Special Issue and submission guidelines, visit: https://ow.ly/nz2R50U3pqf.

Are you looking to create meaningful change through your career? Digital inclusion and accessibility are about more than just technology—they ensure that everyone can fully participate in the digital world. AFB’s Digital Accessibility Bootcamp provides an immersive, hands-on learning experience focused on accessibility and inclusive design. You’ll engage with industry leaders, learn to work with assistive technology and build a portfolio of projects that will help you stand out in the rapidly growing field of accessibility. Apply by January 31, 2025, and gain the skills to advance your career: https://ow.ly/OXfi50U1Jxk