The 49th Annual State Convention
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey

Live The Life You Want; Becoming Champions!
Thursday through Sunday
October 23, 24, 25, & 26, 2025

APA Hotel Woodbridge
120 Wood Avenue South
Iselin, NJ 08830

Linda Melendez, President
908-590-1747
president@nfbnj.org
www.nfbnj.org

Who We Are and What We Do

The National Federation of the Blind (NFB), established in 1940, is the oldest and largest organization of and for the blind in the US and its territories. The NFB is made up of blind and low vision people of all ages, and their families and friends. We help blind people adjust to eyesight loss, assist parents and teachers of blind children, and promote the full participation and integration of blind people in our communities. Our activities include:

• Assisting blind persons in acquiring the skills of independence and developing confidence in themselves
• Supporting parents and teachers of blind children with information, mentoring, role modeling, and training
• Preparing blind students for careers and self-sufficiency through mentoring, training, and academic scholarships
• Encouraging blind seniors to continue to live active and meaningful lives
• Advocating policies that eliminate discrimination, promote civil rights, and guarantee equal access to high-quality educational and rehabilitation programs
• Sponsoring information campaigns and legislative action at the state and national levels
• Educating the public through community activities and publications

Spotlight on the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey (NFB of NJ)

Since 1976, the NFB of NJ, an affiliate of the NFB, has been providing invaluable information and resources to blind/low vision people throughout the state. Our members work together for a brighter tomorrow by raising expectations for blind people everywhere so that blind people can live the life they want. Our five chapters meet monthly; committees and groups meet at various times throughout the year. Please join us — we would welcome your participation and membership. For more information on the affiliate, chapters, committees, groups, programs, and projects, visit www.nfbnj.org.

Integrity and Respect

To allow all attendees the chance to benefit from all aspects of the convention, we are committed to providing a harassment-free environment for everyone. We appreciate your assistance in cultivating an atmosphere in which participants from diverse backgrounds can learn, network, and share with each other in an environment of mutual respect. Thank you for doing your part to contribute to our community and the high expectations we strive to maintain. To read the NFB Code of Conduct, visit www.nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct.

NFB Mission Statement

The NFB advances the lives of its members and all blind people in the United States and its territories. We know that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. Our collective power, determination, and diversity achieve the aspirations of all blind people.

NFB Pledge

I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its constitution.

Fragrance-Free Policy

The NFB of NJ's goal is to be sensitive to members with perfume and chemical sensitivities who, as a result, may suffer potentially serious health consequences. In order to address this concern, members and participants at conventions and other meetings should refrain from wearing scented products, including, but not limited to perfumes, colognes, aftershave lotions, or similar products. We want to ensure full participation in all of our statewide activities.

Accessibility Statement

The NFB of NJ holds itself to the highest standards of inclusion in all our work. This commitment encompasses our in-person events as well as our virtual communications. To make accessibility-related requests or report barriers, please contact Clarke King, 2nd VP, NFB of NJ at czking30@gmail.com.