January 2011

NFADB’s Mission NFADB exists to empower the voices of families of individuals who are deaf-blind and to advocate for their unique needs.

 It is family that is there when their eyes first open for the day and then close for rest at night. Family is the first circle of support, the first circle of influence, and the direct source for data that defines needs and prioritizes issues.

Who does NFADB serve?  The National Family Association for Deaf-Blind (NFADB) is the only national organization created by families with deaf-blind members to support families with deaf-blind members.  NFADB is the only organization that serves all children and families affected by deaf-blindness across the nation.

Who does NFADB serve?  State DB projects  Professionals working with individuals who are deaf-blind  State Parent Family Organization

What types of services does NFADB provide?  Parent to parent networking (1:1 family matching and groups)  Family listserv  Training for families – Presentations at parent weekend – Ohio Presentations at State Project PLT – NY  Information sharing – toll free number, website, newsletter  Develop and disseminate materials for families – newsletter, transition paper, Rowland booklet, national surveys  Referrals to other organizations and agencies

Services continued… National advocacy efforts National Coalition on DB National networking & collaboration Affiliate Network – CA NY PA PR WI interpreter Task Force AADB Liaison NAPVI Conference 2009 OSEP Family Leadership Forum 2009 OSEP Fall Leadership Meeting 2010 CHARGE International Conference 2009, 2011

There’s something new about NFADB:  Awarded TERP Grant Summer, 2010  Helped the organization to examine its goals and future direction  Facebook, Website calendar, Newsletter, Family Connect  Exciting Symposium planned for  New Board Composition – profile, numbers, geography

Contact Information National Family Association for Deaf-Blind 141 Middle Neck Road Sands Point NY