Above: National Federation of the Blind logo

Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning Academy to be August 8-18 in Portland

The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning (BELL) Academy is being held in Portland from August 7 through 18 in Portland. NFB’s BELL Academy prepares blind and low vision children, ages four through twelve, to grow into confident and independent blind people who will live the lives they want. The hours will be 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 205 N.E. 50th Avenue.

The program provides Braille and non-visual skills instruction through fun, hands-on learning in a day program or residential setting. In addition to Braille crafts, games, and other engaging projects, children learn vital independent living skills, interact with blind adults who serve as mentors, and enjoy field trips to sites related to the NFB BELL Academy curriculum. Through these activities and interactions, the children learn that blindness or low vision does not define them or their future.

NFB BELL Academy targets blind and low-vision children, ages 4 to 12, who do not receive enough Braille and non-visual skill instruction in school or who could benefit from Braille enrichment over the summer. In addition to Braille crafts, games, and other engaging projects, children learn vital independent living skills, benefit from peer learning and mentoring from blind adults, and enjoy field trips to sites related to the NFB BELL Academy curriculum.

To learn more about the NFB BELL Academy, visit the federation's website. Further information about the academy being held in Portland, including contact information about the Oregon Program Coordinator, may be found on the Oregon BELL Academy FAQs webpage.