Organization
National Federation of the Blind(NFB)
The NFB is the largest organisation of blind people in the US, with over 50,000 members organised in chapters in all 50 states. Led entirely by blind people, NFB is known for its strong civil rights stance, its flagship Jernigan Institute, and landmark accessibility litigation including the Target.com lawsuit.
About the National Federation of the Blind
Founded in 1940 by Jacobus tenBroek, the NFB was built on the conviction that blind people needed to organise and speak for themselves. The Federation's philosophy — that blind people can live full, independent lives with the right training and opportunity — distinguishes it from approaches that emphasise limitations. NFB argues that most of the problems blind people face are the result of misunderstanding and social barriers, not blindness itself.
The NFB is a membership organisation led entirely by blind people at all levels, from chapter presidents to the national president. This distinguishes it from organisations that serve blind people but are led by sighted professionals.
What they do
Advocacy and litigation: NFB has been at the forefront of digital accessibility litigation. The landmark NFB v. Target Corp. case (2006–2008) established that retail websites could be covered under Title III of the ADA, leading to a $6 million settlement and Target redesigning its website. NFB continues to file suits and negotiate settlements on digital accessibility, transportation, and educational materials.
Education and training: The Jacobus tenBroek Library and the NFB Jernigan Institute conduct research, develop training materials, and provide information on blindness. The Blind Educator of the Year Award and various scholarship programmes support blind people in education and careers.
Community: Hundreds of local chapters provide peer community, mentorship, and mutual support. NFB's annual convention is one of the largest gatherings of blind people in the world.
Key programs and resources
- NFB Jernigan Institute: Research and training centre
- Newsline: Free telephone and digital access to hundreds of newspapers and magazines
- NFB BELL Academy: Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning summer programme for blind children
- Career Mentoring Programme: Connecting blind job-seekers with employed blind mentors
Who they serve
Blind and low-vision people across the lifespan, with particular emphasis on employment, education, and independent living. NFB is notably committed to high expectations — rejecting the idea that blind people should accept lower standards or reduced opportunities.
Why it matters
NFB's combination of grassroots membership, legal advocacy, and technology focus makes it a major force in shaping how digital products, public spaces, and institutions serve blind people. When NFB speaks on accessibility standards or files litigation, companies and policymakers pay attention.
Related Organizations
American Council of the Blind(ACB)
Alexandria, VANationalACB is a national membership organisation of blind and low-vision Americans that promotes independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for all people who are blind or visually impaired. It operates numerous special-interest affiliates and coordinates a broad network of state and local chapters.
Disabled-LedBlind / Low VisionAdvocacyAmerican Foundation for the Blind(AFB)
New York, NYNationalAFB is a national non-profit that works to create a society where people who are blind or visually impaired can achieve equality in access and opportunity. Best known for the AccessWorld technology review publication, AFB was also Helen Keller's employer for over 40 years.
Professional-LedBlind / Low VisionResearchAutistic Self Advocacy Network(ASAN)
FeaturedWashington, DCNationalASAN is a national advocacy organisation run by and for autistic people, working to advance the rights of autistic people through public policy, community-building, and direct support. Their motto is "Nothing About Us Without Us."
Disabled-LedAutismAdvocacy