- Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
A Message from the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
As we wrap up an incredible 2024, we are filled with gratitude for the countless opportunities we’ve had to serve and connect with our community. This year has been marked by important milestones, inspiring events, and meaningful collaborations, and we’re excited to carry this momentum into 2025.
We kicked off the year by celebrating World Braille Day and Braille Literacy Month in January, honoring the 200th anniversary of Louis Braille’s groundbreaking invention. Governor Maura Healey proclaimed 2024 as Braille Literacy Month in Massachusetts. We are proud to raise awareness about the critical role of braille as a tool for literacy, independence, and empowerment.
We also launched the MCB Community Update, a new monthly webinar and podcast, produced by Audible Local Ledger Executive Director Eric Joseph. This initiative allows us to reach even more people and share the latest happenings at MCB.
A highlight of the year was our Visions of Collaboration Conference, where we brought together 150 professionals to discuss post-secondary employment and education options for students who are legally blind. This conference underscored the importance of collaboration in creating better opportunities for young people.
Our 2024 Summer Internship Program concluded with a special ceremony at the State House, celebrating 45 interns who participated in this year’s program. This marked an incredible milestone as nearly 900 interns have now participated since the program's inception in 2003. We were inspired to hear from interns and mentors alike about the impact this program has on shaping future careers.
One of the year’s most energizing moments came during our White Cane Awareness Day Celebration at the State House, where we honored the white cane as a global symbol of independence and equality. The event saw our largest turnout in history, with inspiring speeches and the presentation of the Meg Robertson Mobility Award.
We also celebrated National Disability Employment Awareness Month by hosting our Visions of Employment Webinar, which offered valuable insights to employers about creating supportive work environments for employees who are legally blind. Our Virtual Reverse Job Fair was a resounding success, connecting 40 talented job seekers with employers, resulting in several job offers and ongoing interviews.
As we reflect on 2024, we are reminded of the deep sense of community and the strong partnerships that have made our work so fulfilling. Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to build on this foundation and look forward to even more opportunities to serve, connect, and make a lasting impact on the lives of those we support.
Here's to an even brighter year ahead!
