Who We Are
The Greater Springfield Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Massachusetts (NFBMA) is a thriving, inclusive community of blind and low vision individuals, families, advocates, and allies dedicated to creating a future where blind people can live full, independent lives. We are part of the National Federation of the Blind, the largest and most influential organization led by blind people in the United States. Together, we work to change the public perception of blindness and advocate for equal opportunities for all.
The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of our members and all blind people in the United States. We know that blindness is not the characteristic that defines us or our future, and every day we raise the expectations for blind people because we recognize that low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. Our collective power, determination, and diversity help achieve the aspirations of all blind people.
Serving the Greater Springfield area, we offer a supportive network that promotes independence, self-confidence, and self-respect for blind individuals of all ages. We are committed to changing how blindness is understood—providing tools, resources, and peer support to help individuals break through barriers and raise their expectations.
Our Purpose
The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) is dedicated to helping blind persons achieve self-confidence and self-respect, while also acting as a powerful vehicle for collective self-expression by the blind community. Our mission is to empower blind individuals by changing societal perceptions of blindness and by offering programs that support independence, equality, and equal opportunities for all.
At the Greater Springfield Chapter, we align with the core purpose of the National Federation of the Blind by providing public education about blindness, information and referral services, advocacy services, and protection of civil rights. Through these services, we work to challenge the misconceptions and low expectations that often surround blindness, and to create a more accessible and inclusive world.
We focus on increasing accessibility in key areas like education, employment, transportation, and public spaces, ensuring that blind people have the same opportunities as anyone else to participate fully in society. We also prioritize the development and evaluation of technology that supports blind individuals in their daily lives, from adaptive tools to innovative technologies that promote greater independence.
In addition, the Greater Springfield Chapter provides critical support to blind individuals and their families through peer mentoring, community-building initiatives, and leadership training. We work to foster a sense of empowerment, encouraging blind people to take active roles in their communities and to advocate for change. By offering these opportunities for personal and professional growth, we help blind people in the Greater Springfield area lead fulfilling, independent lives and overcome the barriers created by misinformation and low expectations.
We are here for anyone who is blind, losing vision, or seeking connection—whether you’re new to blindness or a long-time advocate. The Greater Springfield Chapter welcomes individuals at every stage of their journey, providing meaningful support and resources that promote growth, inclusion, and community engagement.
Our Mission
The mission of the National Federation of the Blind is to create a world where blind people live the lives they want. We believe that the real problem of blindness is not the loss of eyesight, but the misconceptions, low expectations, and lack of accurate information that persist in society. By challenging these outdated beliefs, we open doors to equal opportunity, full participation, and meaningful independence for blind individuals.
We fulfill this mission by bringing blind people together to share successes, support one another in times of challenge, and create innovative solutions that advance our collective goals. In our community, we celebrate the achievements of blind individuals while working together to eliminate the social, economic, and accessibility barriers that still exist.
The Greater Springfield Chapter is proud to contribute to this national mission through local outreach, education, advocacy, and mentorship. We organize programs and events that inform the public, support blind individuals and their families, and encourage community engagement throughout the Greater Springfield area. Our chapter serves as a bridge between blind residents and vital resources that foster growth, connection, and opportunity.
As members of the NFB, we believe that together, with love, hope, and determination, we transform dreams into reality. Every day, we work to ensure that blind people have the tools, confidence, and support they need to shape their own future and break down barriers with strength and pride.
Get Involved
We encourage anyone with an interest in supporting the blind community to join the Greater Springfield Chapter. Whether you are blind, experiencing vision loss, a family member, an educator, a professional, or an ally, there is a place for you in our chapter. We are always looking for volunteers, leaders, and advocates to help us with our work.
By joining our chapter, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Attend regular meetings to connect with others in the blind community
- Participate in advocacy initiatives that make a real difference in the lives of blind individuals
- Volunteer for community events and outreach efforts
- Be part of a positive, supportive network that believes in the power of blind people to create change
No matter your role, your involvement will help strengthen the movement toward a more inclusive and accessible future for blind people.
Chapter Constitution & Bylaws
The Greater Springfield Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Massachusetts operates in accordance with a formal constitution that outlines our structure, guiding principles, and responsibilities as a local chapter of the National Federation of the Blind. This foundational document ensures transparency, accountability, and unity of purpose in all that we do.
Our constitution reflects our commitment to democratic values, grassroots advocacy, and member-driven leadership. It defines our organizational framework, including how we elect officers, conduct meetings, handle finances, and engage with the broader NFB movement. It also outlines the rights and responsibilities of our members, reinforcing our belief that blind people themselves are the best advocates for policies and practices that affect their lives.
We encourage all members and prospective members to familiarize themselves with our constitution, as it helps ensure that our chapter remains a strong, inclusive, and effective voice for blind individuals in the Greater Springfield area.
To view our chapter constitution and bylaws, visit:
https://nfbmags.org/constitution-and-bylaws