About
The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is a national nonprofit that has been a leader in addressing the needs of people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision since 1921. Best known as the organization Helen Keller devoted much of her life's work to, AFB works to create equal opportunities and expand possibilities for people with vision loss through advocacy, thought leadership, and strategic partnerships. AFB is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 13-5562161) and has held tax-exempt status since 1922; it is currently based in Huntington, West Virginia.
Mission
AFB's mission is to create equal opportunities and expand possibilities through advocacy, thought leadership, and strategic partnerships. The organization focuses on building pathways to leadership, education, inclusive technology, and career opportunities to create meaningful change for the millions of Americans living with vision loss.
What they do
- Conduct original research and publish peer-reviewed work, including the Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness, which AFB has published for over a century
- Advocate for policies that advance workplace, educational, and community inclusion for people who are blind or have low vision
- Provide digital accessibility consulting for businesses and websites
- Run Digital Accessibility Internships that give hands-on learning experience in the accessibility field
- Publish AccessWorld Magazine, covering accessible design and technology
- Offer educational resources for children who are blind or have low vision
- Steward the Helen Keller Archive and produced the documentary film Possibilities celebrating Helen Keller's legacy
History
AFB was established in 1921. Helen Keller is the organization's most famous ambassador, and AFB continues to honor her legacy through its stewardship of the Helen Keller Archive and its ongoing research, publishing, and advocacy work spanning more than a century.
Financials
According to the organization's IRS Form 990 data on ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 AFB reported total revenue of $9,771,132, total expenses of $6,001,271, and net assets of $39,781,302.
Governance
AFB is governed by a Board of Trustees and led by an executive leadership team of experts in the blindness and accessibility fields.
