The NFB Snake River Valley Chapter’s values in helping the visually impaired and blind
One national group with local ties is doing what it can to spread awareness and to make the lives of people who are blind or visually impaired a little easier. The National Federation of the Blind — or NFB — has a local chapter in Idaho Falls and its members are doing what they can to advocate for accessibility for the visually impaired.
Accessibility, independence and education are three main values the Snake River Valley Chapter bases its actions on — all to make sure the visually impaired in the community keep living life to the fullest.
“It’s a great way to support others and share, you know, that with love and help and determination that they can achieve their goals and career opportunities and live a full life,” said Kevin Pirnie, the first vice president of the NFB Snake River Valley Chapter.
The organization is big on providing independent teaching experiences for people who are blind and visually impaired. Officials from the group have visited the state capital many times to be sure they have the resources to do so.
“We like to have a good relationship with our legislators because often times there’s legislation whether its accessibility issues or education issues and things that require some funding or where state funds can be better spent to promote the independence and education of the blind,” Pirnie said.
The chapter had a legislative luncheon in Boise last month with out legislators to talk about the standardizing of education for blind students, raising funds for career preparation so young adults can learn to support themselves and working with the ITD to provide better public transportation for everyone.
The chapter hopes to help as many people as it can offer assistance to. “Many people don’t realize that they can go on living the life they want. So we provide all kinds of support,” said Sandy Streeter, the president of the NFB Snake River Valley Chapter.
The NFB’s “Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning Program” does just that. It teaches young kids to read braille and daily living skills, like cooking and traveling.
The organization’s state convention will be held next month when state and local officials will attend to educate and help promote the independence of the blind.
