Making a charitable gift can be one of the most satisfying experiences in life. Each year millions of people contribute their time, talent, and treasure to charitable organizations. When you plan for a gift to the National Federation of the Blind, you are not just making a donation; you are leaving a legacy that insures a future for blind people throughout the country. Special giving programs are available through the National Federation of the Blind (NFB).

So many organizations, people and companies made this summer’s BELL Programs possible. We want to extend our gratitude to the following supporters. Thanks for helping us change what it means to be blind!

• Beaumont Transit
• The Blind Café
• Bonham Elementary School
• Burger King
• Cheddar’s
• Chick Fil A
• Cici’s Pizza
• DARS/DBS
• ExxonMobil Foundation Volunteer Involvement Program
• HEB
• Jason’s Deli
• Lighthouse of Houston
• Logan’s
• Market Basket

by Meleah Jensen
From the Editor: Meleah Jensen is an education program assistant in the NFB’s Jernigan Institute. In the following article she describes a brand new JI program and invites us all to spread the word about it to the families of young blind children.

by Maxine Schrader

From the Editor: This informational and inspirational piece about Braille is taken from the NFB of Minnesota Bulletin, Winter 2012. It is a wonderful insight into the legacy learning Braille has on one’s life. Enjoy!

My six-year-old great granddaughter A’mya is the inspiration for this article. Whenever she sees Braille – in elevators, on doors, signs, ATM machines, and so forth –she loudly and proudly announces to the public “that’s Braille; my great- grandma can read it!” What a little advocate she is.

by April Endertin

Editor’s Note: April and her daughter translate popular children’s books into Braille. The Texas BELL Program has partnered with Mrs. Endertin to provide Braille books for each student that attends BELL. Please consider visiting her web site to order Braille books for your family!

"What did you do last summer?"
My teacher asked of me.
"I ate green eggs and ham,in a box with a fox.
Oh, they were so good, you see.

"I rode through the park on a big, red dog.
Clifford is his name.
I went on a picnic with
  

by Bre Brown
Editor’s Note: Bre led the Braille reading class at 2012 Houston BELL. Bre has been reading Braille her whole life. The gift of literacy has powered her educational success. Here are some of her thoughts regarding Braille and participation in the Texas BELL Program.