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What is Braille?
Braille is a series of raised dots that can be read with the fingers by people who are blind or whose eyesight is not sufficient for reading printed material. Teachers, parents, and others who are not visually impaired ordinarily read braille with their eyes. Braille is not a language. Rather, it is a code by which languages such as English or Spanish may be written and read. For more information about reading and writing braille, visit the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) Web site.
Braille Literacy
Since its development in France by Louis Braille in the latter part of the 19th century, braille has become not only an effective means of communication, but also a proven avenue for achieving and improving literacy for people who are blind or have significant vision loss. Braille literacy is the key to employment and full participation in society. The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) established a comprehensive initiative in braille literacy in July 2008 to enhance opportunities and education for the blind.
Lions' Support Services
Lions clubs can assist individuals who are blind or visually impaired by providing funds to purchase braille writers or braille assistive devices for use with computers and other related technologies.
The Hadley School for the Blind offers numerous programs (include braille courses) for blind and visually impaired students and adults:
Lions referring a student who enrolls in the Hadley courses may receive the "Lions-in-Touch" award pin from the president of the The Hadley School.
International Services
There are many international libraries and organizations that provide services for blind people in many countries throughout the world. Click here for a listing by country.
For more information, e-mail the Health and Children's Services Department at International Headquarters at: programs@lionsclubs.org
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