This summer Austen hosted the BELL (Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning) program. The goal of this program is to provide children ages 4-12 with two weeks of intense Braille instruction through fun, hands-on learning and activities. The program targets those children with low vision, who otherwise do not receive Braille instruction because of their residual vision.  The program is designed to run Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. In addition to Braille crafts, games, and other engaging projects, children may also enjoy field trips to sites related to the NFB BELL curriculum.

Richie Flores is the Texas coordinator for the NFB BELL program. Toni Hurt, a nationally certified braille teacher, provides instruction in reading and writing braille. The Austin Chapter of the NFB is working to raise money to fund the BELL program for children here in Austin for many years to come.

If you have a child who is struggling with reading large print materials braille will change their life. The ability to read comfortably and confidently is the first building block of a lifetime of success. For more information or to enroll your child contact Richie Flores.

If you are not the parent of a blind child we still need your help. Please consider donating to the program directly, volunteering your time to help with activities, or telling your stories of how braille has helped you to be successful as a blind person.

Donate to the BELL Program with Paypal.

Go to day 1.