2024 Year in Review
“The American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults is unique because our board is made up entirely of blind people who are making decisions based on lived experience. Braille is a central component of what we offer in our programming because we understand that Braille fosters independence, community, and success. ” – Mark A. Riccobono, Executive Director
Cultivating Care and Competitive Spirits
Hundreds of volunteer hours bridge the importance of lived experiences with providing essential services.
"The American Action Fund helps us know we are not alone. It lowers the frustration and loneliness of feeling like we are the only parents with a blind child."
Braille Readers Are Leaders Contest – 325 children and adults participated in this annual contest on most minutes read to encourage a love of Braille. All ages, all reading levels, all fun.
"Knowing about the American Action Fund is comforting. You get a warm hug. There is a community of individuals that realize the importance of literacy."
Building Literacy Through Braille Books and Brilliance
Braille Book Fair – An annual event that provides hundreds of Braille readers of all ages the rare opportunity to build their very own collection of Braille and Twin Vision(R) books free-of-charge.
"We worry about Gwenn being different. We want to see her fit in. It is a big deal to have access to her Braille books in school."
Braille Books Program – Every month, we send a free Braille book from a popular children’s reading series to blind children across the country. This past year, we sent 22,524 books to participants.
Expanding Access to Tools and Opportunities
"Xiomara has an avid love for reading Braille books. We are so grateful for the service that you have provided and your part in giving her a love for reading."
Braille Calendars – These pocket calendars are a valuable informational tool for everyday use. This past year, we produced 6,499 Braille calendars and sent them free-of-charge to blind people.
“I have had students who have utilized your Braille calendars in the past and it was a game changer for them within the classroom.”
Support for Higher Education – Each year, the American Action Fund supports merit-based scholarships to blind students who are changing the public perception of the capabilities of blind people.
How Can You Help
- Contribute online today at www.actionfund.org/donate or to give over the phone, please call us at 410-659-9315.
- Mail checks to American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults, attention Outreach, 1800 Johnson Street, Baltimore, MD 21230.
- Leave a legacy that will help future generations of blind and deafblind children. Call 410-659-9315 and ask for Patti Chang for planned giving options.
Financial Statement & Transparency
The American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults is a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Federal Internal Revenue Code and completes an annual audit of activities. Learn more at www.actionfund.org/about.
Together, we will continue to positively impact the lives of both blind children and adults for decades to come. If you have any questions or want to learn more about our work, please contact us at 410-659-9315, explore www.actionfund.org, or email us at [email protected].
*All contributions and gains received in the year not spent on management and general or fundraising are available for program services.
Management & General and Fundraising as a Percent of Contributions
Available Program Funds 85%*
Management & General 3%
Fundraising 12%