We are pleased to announce that the Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) will be continuing the summer tradition of traveling with students and families to a national consumer group convention.
Consumer groups are a crucial support in the lives of our students and families and we value the opportunity to introduce you to the different types of organizations that exist for you and your needs. These groups advocate for the rights and legal protections of people who are blind, low vision, or deaf blind and advance opportunities in communities across the country in the areas of activism, recreation, sports, performing arts, and other pursuits.
This year, we are excited to announce that we will be traveling to the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) National Convention in Orlando, Florida in July!
The convention will offer participants:
- Daily job exploration, assistive technology, job seeking, and college transition workshops (and much more!)
- Community workshops in the Orlando area (locations to be determined).
- Introductions to mentors that can support growth and advance participant knowledge in preparation for college or employment pathways
- Presentations from leaders from across the country on topics that are the most important to consumers who are blind, low vision, or deaf blind and instruction on becoming more informed.
- Access to community resources directly from Washington State NFB members and what is available locally.
The 2024 NFB National Convention runs from July 3 through July 8, 2024. Travel dates will vary depending on flight and hotel availability.
The convention features daily sessions that students (and parents/guardian) are required to attend. However, students and families will have time to explore other topics of interest. There will also be time for students and families to explore the local Orlando area through DSB-hosted community workshops and evening free time.
Cost
Free! There is no cost to students actively participating in a DSB VR case and their parent/guardian.
All travel costs including flights, airport to hotel round-trip, hotel and food will be covered throughout the duration of the trip for active VR participants. Participants under 18 years-old, are required to travel with a parent or guardian. The parent or guardian’s travel costs will also be covered throughout the duration of the trip. Students and families will travel from the airport nearest to their home directly to the conference in Orlando.
Only travel, lodging, and convention registration costs are covered by DSB. Participants are responsible for the cost of any additional goods, activities, or experiences.
Who
Students between the ages of 14 and 21 years-old, who are blind, low vision, or deaf blind and who are active participants of DSB through a VR Services case. Students 18 years old or younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
When
Where
Rosen Centre Hotel
9840 International Drive
Orlando, Florida 32819
RSVP
Space is limited! Please register online by Thursday, March 28, 2024.
If you have any questions about attending the NFB national Convention – or would like to start DSB services – please reach out to Christel Hustad at christel.hustad@dsb.wa.gov.