Honoring the Legacy of Visual Aid Volunteers of Florida (VAVF)
The National Braille Association (NBA) wishes to acknowledge the recent closure of Visual Aid Volunteers of Florida (VAVF), an organization that significantly contributed to the braille community for nearly 50 years. VAVF officially ceased operations in January 2025.
Founded in 1975, VAVF was a dedicated membership association that at its peak, reached 150 members. For decades, they served as a vital resource for braille transcribers, educators, and individuals who are blind or visually impaired, particularly within the state of Florida.
VAVF was known for several key contributions:
The VAVF Newsletter: This educational journal provided valuable insights and information to its members, fostering knowledge sharing and professional growth within the braille community.
Annual Professional Development Conference: VAVF hosted an annual in-person conference, offering training sessions focused on braille transcription and production. These events provided essential opportunities for networking and skill development.
Scholarship Programs: VAVF’s commitment to education was evident in their robust scholarship programs. They focused their fundraising efforts on providing financial assistance to Florida seniors who are blind or visually impaired, enabling them to pursue higher education at colleges or trade schools. Additionally, they awarded scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 per year, up to a total of $10,000, to Florida students needing additional years of schooling. These scholarships made a tangible difference in the lives of students, helping them to achieve their academic and career goals.
VAVF’s dedication to accessibility and education leaves a lasting legacy. The NBA recognizes and appreciates the years of service and the positive impact VAVF had on the braille community. We extend our gratitude to all the volunteers, members, and supporters who contributed to VAVF’s mission over the past five decades.
While VAVF’s physical presence may be gone, their spirit of dedication and commitment to accessibility will continue to inspire us all.