The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey State Convention is the largest gathering of blind people in the state. It is the premier event for training, support, and information for the blind community. It also serves as a governing body, democratically electing our leadership and establishing each year’s organizational priorities.

National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey 50th Annual State Convention

Wednesday, October 21 through Sunday, October 25, 2026
Theme: Live the Life You Want -- Stronger Together: 50 Years of Progress and Possibilities
Host Chapter: South Jersey Shore Chapter

Register and make a difference in the lives of blind New Jerseyans!

The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey invites members, families, professionals, community partners, and supporters to attend the 50th Annual NFB of New Jersey State Convention, taking place October 21–25, 2026, at Tropicana Atlantic City.

This year’s convention marks the 50th anniversary of the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey. For five decades, the organization has worked to expand opportunity, promote independence, and raise expectations for blind people throughout the state. The 50th Annual State Convention celebrates this history while continuing the work of advancing equality, accessibility, and opportunity across New Jersey.

The convention is the largest annual gathering of blind individuals in New Jersey and serves as the premier event for training, networking, advocacy, and information within the blind community. Each year it brings together blind New Jerseyans, families, educators, rehabilitation professionals, technology experts, and community partners to share ideas, strengthen connections, and advance opportunities for blind people.

Here is your opportunity to learn more about the National Federation of the Blind’s programs and goals at both the state and national levels. The convention will feature presentations by the NFB national representative, along with speakers addressing issues affecting blind individuals and families across New Jersey and the nation.

We are pleased to announce that Kevan Worley, NFB of Colorado and executive director for the National Association of Blind Merchants (NABM), will attend the 50th Annual NFB of NJ State Convention as President Riccobono's representative. Kevin will join us in Atlantic City and share updates and perspectives on our national movement as we celebrate 50 years of progress and possibilities in New Jersey. Kevin's bio will be coming soon since this was a last minute change.

Attendees will hear about topics such as membership, seniors, accessible technology, Braille literacy, student leadership, guide dog users, and issues affecting parents of blind children. Additional workshops and discussions will focus on advocacy, accessibility, employment, leadership development, and community engagement.

The convention will also recognize the 2026 NFB of New Jersey scholarship class, celebrating outstanding blind students. Special programming throughout the weekend will commemorate the 50-year history of the NFB of New Jersey, honoring the individuals and milestones that have helped shape the organized blind movement in our state.

Whether you are newly blind, a long-time Federation member, a parent, a student, or a professional working in the blindness field, the convention offers valuable information, meaningful connections, and opportunities to become involved in a vibrant movement dedicated to equality, independence, and opportunity.

Mark your calendars and make plans now to attend the 50th Annual NFB of New Jersey State Convention as we celebrate 50 years of advocacy, progress, and achievement for blind New Jerseyans. Get involved, share the information widely, and join us in continuing the work of raising expectations and expanding opportunities. Everyone is welcome.

Jump to Convention Information

• Auction and Door Prize Contributions
• 2026 State Convention Committees
• Convention Volunteers
• Resolutions Committee Pre-Convention Meeting
• Daily Outline
• Location
• Room Reservations
• Convention Bus Transportation
• Registration
• Convention Camp
• Meal Options
• Agenda
• Sponsorship and Exhibitor Opportunities
• Convention Sponsors
• Convention Policies
• Past State Conventions
• Additional Information

Support the 2026 Convention Auction and Door Prizes

Help make the 50th Annual NFB of NJ State Convention even more memorable by contributing to our convention auction and door prizes. Individuals, NFB of NJ chapters, committees and groups, and companies or organizations are invited to donate auction baskets, individual auction items, door prizes, or monetary contributions.

Monetary contributions may be designated for auction items or baskets, door prizes, or both. Every contribution helps enhance the convention experience while supporting the work of the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey.

Click here to contribute to the 2026 Convention Auction and Door Prizes!

2026 State Convention Committees

The success of our 2026 NFB of NJ State Convention depends on the energy, commitment, and teamwork of our convention committees. Each committee plays an important role in planning and coordinating the 50th Annual State Convention, whether developing engaging sessions, coordinating sponsorships, supporting accessibility, assisting with convention activities and logistics, or strengthening connections with our members. Their work ensures that our convention is both meaningful and impactful.

You can view the full list of committees and find contact information for their chairs at the following link:
https://nfbnj.org/state-convention/committees

Convention Volunteers

Help make the 50th Annual NFB of NJ State Convention a success by volunteering during our historic 2026 convention. Volunteers play an important role in supporting convention activities, assisting attendees, and helping create a welcoming and organized experience throughout the event.

Whether you are an NFB of NJ member, family member, friend, community supporter, or someone interested in getting involved, we encourage you to explore available 2026 State Convention volunteer opportunities. Complete the volunteer registration form to tell us about your interests, availability, and how you would like to help.

Resolutions Committee Pre-Convention Meeting

The NFB of NJ Resolutions Committee will meet virtually via Zoom on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 7:00 PM in preparation for the 50th Annual NFB of NJ State Convention. Come witness the development of resolutions, which help establish the policies and priorities of the NFB of NJ. Following a process similar to the Resolutions Committee meeting at the National Federation of the Blind National Convention, the committee will review and discuss proposed resolutions and vote them up or down for advancement to the convention floor.

The meeting is open to all interested attendees; however, only appointed Resolutions Committee members are eligible to vote. Authors of proposed resolutions are required to attend to present their resolutions and respond to questions from the committee. Resolutions advanced by the committee will be presented for consideration and a final vote by the membership during the general session and Affiliate Business Meeting at the State Convention.

Zoom meeting information will be provided before the meeting.

Daily Outline

Get an at-a-glance view of the 2026 NFB of NJ State Convention schedule with our daily outline. Review the major activities, meetings, meals, seminars, and special events planned throughout the 50th Annual State Convention, from Wednesday, October 21 through Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Tropicana Atlantic City.

Use the daily outline to help plan your convention experience and identify the activities you want to attend. Dates, times, and activities are subject to change.

Click here to view the 2026 NFB of NJ State Convention Daily Outline.

Location

Tropicana Atlantic City
2831 Boardwalk
Atlantic City, NJ 08401

The 50th Annual State Convention will be held at Tropicana Atlantic City, an accessible resort located directly on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. The hotel provides a convenient setting for convention activities, with meeting rooms, guest accommodations, restaurants, shops, and other amenities located within the resort complex.

Tropicana Atlantic City offers accessible entrances, elevators, and public areas that support independent participation by blind and low-vision guests. Accessible guestrooms are available upon request.

The hotel is accessible via NJ Transit Access Link, which provides curb-to-curb transportation for eligible riders traveling to Atlantic City. Attendees may also travel by car, NJ Transit rail service, regional bus carriers, taxi, Uber, or Lyft. Parking is available for an additional fee.

Room Reservations

Tropicana Atlantic City is accepting room reservations for the 50th Annual NFB of NJ State Convention. Reservations may be made through the dedicated online booking link or by telephone. A credit card is recommended, and the first night's room rate will be charged at the time of reservation.

The NFB of NJ hotel room block ends Sunday, October 4, 2026. Rooms remaining in the block after this date will be released back to the hotel, so attendees are encouraged to reserve their rooms early.

Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM

Hotel Guestroom Rates

The following convention rates include the reduced $20 daily resort fee but do not include applicable taxes. Guestrooms may accommodate a maximum of four people.

• Wednesday, October 21: $99
• Thursday, October 22: $99
• Friday, October 23: $119
• Saturday, October 24: $169

The average nightly cost, including the reduced resort fee, is approximately $121.50 before applicable taxes.

Call-In Booking

To make your reservation by telephone, call 888-516-2215. Room reservations are available 8:00 AM–2:00 AM Eastern Time, seven days a week.

Group Name: National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
Group Code: ST10FB6

All callers will be asked for the group code. You may also tell the reservation agent that you are booking with the National Federation of the Blind of NJ group.

Online Booking

To make your reservation online, use the dedicated NFB of NJ convention booking link:
https://book.passkey.com/go/ST10FB6

Havana Tower and Convention Space

Convention activities will be held on the third floor of the Havana Tower. Every effort will be made to assign convention attendees' guestrooms in the Havana Tower; however, room assignments cannot be guaranteed.

Accepting a room before the standard 4:00 PM check-in time may result in an assignment in another tower. The Havana Tower is accessible through the Quarter at Tropicana.

If you require an accessible guestroom or specific accessibility features, please make your needs known when making your reservation.

Additional Hotel Information

The reduced $20 daily resort fee includes basic in-room Wi-Fi, local telephone calls, and daily fitness center access for up to two guests per room at each property. Fitness center access does not include lockers or shower facilities. Guestrooms also include in-room coffee makers.

Self-parking is available for an additional fee. Guests staying within the NFB of NJ convention room block will receive a $5 per-room credit toward self-parking. Additional parking information will be posted once finalized.

Room Reservation Cancellations

If you are unable to attend the 2026 NFB of NJ State Convention after making a hotel reservation, please do not contact Tropicana Atlantic City directly to cancel your reservation. Instead, contact Linda Melendez at 908-590-1747.

Linda may have a waiting list of attendees seeking rooms, particularly as the convention approaches and after the hotel room block closes. Contacting Linda first may allow your room to remain within the NFB of NJ block and become available to another attendee.

Hotel reservations may be canceled at least 48 hours before the scheduled arrival date for a refund, subject to the hotel's cancellation policy.

Convention Bus Transportation

NFB of NJ will offer bus service to and from Atlantic City with stops at the Rahway NJ Transit train station at 40 East Milton Ave in Rahway, NJ, and Ocean County Mall Macy's entrance at 1201 Hooper Ave in Toms River, NJ. The bus will depart on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from Rahway at 8AM. Individuals departing from Toms River are asked to arrive no later than 9AM.

Bus transportation is prioritized for members. All bus transportation interest must be submitted by October 7, 2026. If the bus is filled prior to this date, registration will close.

Price breakdowns are as follows:

• General round trip or one-way ticket = $20/person
• Child ticket = Free (one per adult)
• Additional child ticket = $20
• Support Staff (including aid, PCA, SSP, or interpreter) = $25

All interested riders must first register for the NFBNJ state convention prior to October 7, 2026.

Interested riders must agree to the following eligibility and conduct requirements:

• Bus deposits are non-refundable AFTER all riders receive ticket confirmation.
• Riders who were not selected due to capacity or member preference will receive their refund.
• Adults may ride with one child. Additional children will require additional payment.
• Individuals seeking to bring a support staff (aid, SSP, PCA, or interpreter) must pay an additional $25 fee. This support staff must also be registered for convention on the same transaction as the individual needing assistance.
• All riders must bring no more than one carry-on and one checked suitcase. All checked bags will be color-coded, but it is encouraged that riders have methods to identify their luggage.
• Bus itineraries will not change for one person or party. Buses will depart fifteen minutes after designated times. Bus captains will not call missing riders but will provide their phone number should riders need to share updates at the time of boarding. Please note that calls expressing requests to wait are not encouraged if wait times far exceed initial itineraries. Please consider booking rideshare options or Access Link appointments to avoid late arrivals.
• Riders are encouraged to locate seats closer to the back of the bus when boarding to speed up the process and enable other riders to find seats more easily. Seats in the first three rows will be reserved for the bus captain, alternate bus captain, and individuals with access needs.
• Riders must provide emergency contact information for an individual not riding on the same bus. This information will be kept by the NFBNJ Operations Committee co-chairs.
• Riders must agree to NFB’s Code of Conduct along with the NFBNJ Fragrance Free policy while utilizing convention transportation.

Tips for completing this form:

• You may complete this form for multiple individuals at once including children and support staff. Please select the number of items per package that you would like, and please add full names for each package ticket.
• After selecting packages, the form will prompt the p-urchaser to include their name, email address, phone number, and address. These fields will be used on the checkout page.
• If completing this form on a computer, use down arrow instead of tab to navigate. Questions are not labeled with headings. Essential details for questions are included below if necessary. These details may include policies that all must agree to or guidelines for responding to questions. To be sure that you do not miss essential hints, use down arrow when items are unclear.
• All individuals receiving tickets in one purchase (even if free) must respond to a series of questions. Some questions may be repeated to make sure that convention planners have adequate data. Adults may use their email address and phone number when registering children.
• It is essential that all individuals adhere to the policies and agreements outlined in this form. General ticket holders will agree on behalf of all individuals (children and support staff) included on this form.
• Payment options include credit card, ApplePay, and bank payments. To pay by physical check, please click the “request invoice” button when on the payments page. Please note that all checks must be received no later than October 7, 2026.
• You can obtain assistance with online registration by contacting your chapter president or sending an email to convention@nfbnj.org.

Riders will receive reminders for bus transportation closer to the departure date. To remain up to date on real-time bus updates, please opt into our transportation-specific text message reminders. You may do so by texting 50155 with the keyword: NJBUS2026.

Click here to complete the bus transportation registration form!

Register for the 2026 NFB of NJ State Convention

Registration Is Now Open!

The 2026 registration form features a new and improved design that allows attendees to register multiple people and purchase convention packages within a single transaction.

Pre-convention registration closes Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 5:00 PM. All convention meals must be purchased by this deadline and will not be available for purchase on-site.

Registration Form:
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/nfbnj2026annualconvention/event/nfbnj2026registrationform

New Features

You can register multiple attendees in one transaction, such as two adults, a child, and a support staff member.

Already registered and need to add something? Select “Already Registered/Additional Packages” to purchase additional meals, tickets, or convention packages without creating a new registration. Meals must be added by October 7 at 5:00 PM.

Registration Form Layout

Page 1: Event Information

Review the event information and select “Register Now” to begin.

Page 2: Package Selection

Choose the applicable package or packages:

• General Packages: Adults and youth ages 16 and older.
• Child Packages: Youth under age 16.
• Support Staff Packages: SSPs, aides, PCAs, and interpreters.
• Already Registered/Additional Packages: For attendees returning to add packages to an existing registration.

Page 3: Purchaser Contact Information

Enter the purchaser's billing information. You will enter the primary attendee's information separately on the following page to meet NFB of NJ registration requirements.

Page 4: Registrant Information

Provide the requested information for each attendee. For applicable meal packages, select a meal option and enter attendee names as requested so meals and tickets can be assigned correctly.

Review the “Your Summary” section before proceeding to checkout.

Page 5: Payment Options

Payment methods include credit card, debit card, Apple Pay on compatible devices, PayPal, and bank transfer.

The Invoice option may be used for payments by check or money order, subject to the deadlines below.

Information for JAWS Users

JAWS users completing the registration form on a computer should use the Down Arrow key to hear all information and instructions associated with each question.

Registration Disclaimer and Important Policies

NFB of NJ reserves the right to cancel any registration that is not completed and paid in full by October 7, 2026. Check or money order payments must be received by October 7; please allow sufficient mailing time, as late payments will not be accepted or processed.

Beginning October 3, 2026, all new registrations must be paid electronically using PayPal, debit card, credit card, Apple Pay, or bank transfer. New check or money order payments will not be accepted after this date.

NFB of NJ also reserves the right to cancel pre-registration submitted by current or former members who are not in good standing with the organization. Registration is considered a privilege and may be revoked at NFB of NJ's discretion to maintain fairness and uphold the integrity of the organization. Anyone with questions about membership status or payment options should contact us well before the applicable deadlines.

Convention Camp

NFB of NJ Convention Camp will be available for youth ages 2 through 10, offering engaging, age-appropriate activities while parents and guardians participate in the convention. Experienced childcare providers will provide a welcoming environment during the following sessions: Friday, October 23, from 8:00 AM–12:00 PM and 1:00–5:00 PM; Saturday, October 24, from 8:00 AM–12:00 PM and 1:00–5:00 PM; and during the Saturday evening banquet from 7:00–9:30 PM. Separate fees will apply to each session.

Each child must bring their own food, drinks, and necessary personal items, such as diapers, wipes, or comfort items. Convention Camp staff will not administer medications. If a child requires a diaper change, the parent or guardian will be notified and must return to handle the change.

Convention Camp will be offered only if there is sufficient interest, with a minimum of five participating children required. Parents and guardians should indicate their interest through the convention registration form by September 25, 2026. Indicating interest does not register a child for Convention Camp. If the minimum is met, a separate registration form will be made available to select sessions and pay the applicable fees.

Convention Meal Options

The 2026 NFB of NJ State Convention will offer breakfasts, boxed lunches, a Thursday evening Pasta Dinner, the Friday Federation Family meal, and the Saturday evening banquet. Meal descriptions, selections, and pricing are available through the convention registration process.

All meals must be purchased by Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 5:00 PM and will not be available for purchase on-site. Already registered attendees may use the “Already Registered/Additional Packages” option to add meals before the deadline.

Due to circumstances beyond our control, menu items may be changed or substituted by the hotel without prior notice. Every effort will be made to provide high-quality meals for convention attendees.

Complete meal descriptions and available selections are also available at:
https://nfbnj.org/state-convention/meal-options

Agenda

Please note that the agenda is subject to change due to last minute changes during the convention.

• 2026 NFB of NJ State Convention Agenda (HTML)
  • Monday, October 19, 2026
  • Wednesday, October 21, 2026
  • Thursday, October 22, 2026
  • Friday, October 23, 2026
  • Saturday, October 24, 2026
  • Sunday, October 25, 2026
  • Convention Notes
• 2026 NFB of NJ State Convention Agenda (Word Document)
• 2026 NFB of NJ State Convention Agenda (PDF)
• 2026 NFB of NJ State Convention Agenda (BRF)

Sponsorship Opportunities

The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey (NFB of NJ) cordially invites organizations, businesses, and individuals to become sponsors of our annual State Convention. Your generous support is absolutely critical; it directly empowers us to continue our vital work of raising expectations and expanding opportunities for blind individuals throughout New Jersey.

This year, we're focusing our fundraising efforts exclusively on sponsorships. A contribution of $75 or more is considered a sponsorship, and every dollar directly helps us host a meaningful and impactful convention. In return for your generosity, you or your organization will receive valuable visibility and recognition within the vibrant blindness community we serve.

Exhibit Hall Access for Sponsors

As a special perk, any individual, company, or organization that registers at the Vendor Sponsorship level or higher will be provided with a dedicated table in our exhibit hall. This isn't just a table; it's a prime opportunity to connect directly with attendees, proudly showcase your products or services, and engage in meaningful conversations with members of the blind community and their allies. It's a chance to build relationships and demonstrate your commitment.

Ready to Make a Difference?

To become a sponsor and actively support our mission, please take a moment to complete our sponsorship registration form. You can find it by visiting:
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/habdvg/event/nationalfederationoftheblindsponsorshipandgiving

We extend our deepest gratitude to all our sponsors, exhibitors, and resource partners. Your partnership is truly essential to the success of our convention and, more broadly, to our mission. Together, we are powerfully transforming perceptions and creating greater, brighter opportunities for blind people across New Jersey.

Meet Our Sponsors

The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey (NFB of NJ) proudly recognizes and thanks the generous sponsors of our 50th Annual State Convention, “Live the Life You Want -- Stronger Together: 50 Years of Progress and Possibilities.” Their commitment ensures that this annual gathering brings together blind New Jerseyans, families, advocates, and allies to share resources, build connections, and strengthen our community.

Through their support, NFB of NJ is able to expand programs in advocacy, education, technology, and leadership — empowering blind individuals to live the lives they want and creating opportunities across New Jersey. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and dedication to accessibility and inclusion.

Visit our Convention Sponsors Page to see the full list of this year’s sponsors:
www.nfbnj.org/state-convention/exhibitors-and-sponsors

Convention Policies

Integrity and Respect

To ensure all attendees can benefit from every aspect of the convention, we are committed to providing a harassment-free environment for everyone. We appreciate your assistance in cultivating an atmosphere where participants from diverse backgrounds can learn, network, and share with one another in an environment of mutual respect.

Thank you for doing your part to support our community and uphold the high expectations we strive to maintain.

Please visit the following link for the code of conduct:
www.nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct

Fragrance-Free Environment

To ensure a healthy and comfortable environment for all participants, the NFB of New Jersey State Convention is a fragrance-free event. Some individuals experience significant health effects from exposure to scented products. Attendees are asked to refrain from wearing or using perfume, cologne, scented lotions, aftershave, essential oils, or other strongly scented personal products during convention activities.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping maintain an environment that is welcoming and accessible for everyone.

Please review the NFB of New Jersey Fragrance-Free Policy for additional information:
https://nfbnj.org/fragrance-free-policy

Past State Conventions

Please visit our Past Conventions page to access audio and video highlights from previous state conventions.

Additional Information

If you have questions and need additional information, please contact us at 908-590-1747 or via our contact us form.