About Us
Helping People to Help Themselves
What We Do
Let’s establish a coalition of people and organizations that include the blindness community. We invite you to join our “family” where there will be others to share experiences and challenges. We offer a sharing & caring atmosphere where we can all grow and offer whatever help we can give to others.
Our Values
We will keep you informed about news in the blindness world through our free publications, personal contact, workshops, speakers, seminars, an conventions. When we need to raise our voices to support causes, it will be a united strong voice. Our Councils have representation in Washington & Tallahassee, working to defend or advocate for our rights and privileges.
Welcome to the Jacksonville Council of the Blind, a vibrant affiliate of the Florida Council of the Blind (FCB)—itself an affiliate of the American Council of the Blind (ACB). As a trusted local chapter, we’re dedicated to empowering blind and visually impaired individuals in Jacksonville through community support, resources, and advocacy. Whether you’re joining us for support, volunteering, or leadership, you’re a valued member of our family.Florida Council of the BlindAmerican Council of the BlindWikipedia
Who We Are
Founded under the wide-reaching umbrella of the Florida Council of the Blind, our chapter lives by the belief that true independence and confidence flourish through connection. Our mission:
“Join with us to help build the self-confidence and self-reliance that is needed to take our proper place in today’s world. Let’s form a coalition of people and organizations that include the blindness community.”Florida Council of the Blind
Every meeting, newsletter, and event is driven by this promise: a sharing and caring atmosphere where our voices grow stronger together through fellowship, knowledge, and action.
Leadership: Steering the Chapter
Our chapter thrives on volunteer leadership and accountability. Meet our current officers:
Doug Hansard
President
Toni Burrell
First Vice President
Barbara Brown
Second Vice President
Jeanne Struhar
Secretary
Gloria Simmons
Treasurer
These individuals champion our mission, guide programming, and ensure our chapter remains an inclusive and effective community resource.
Our Affiliation & Support Network
Our impact is enhanced through close cooperation with local partners, including the Florida Division of Blind Services, Florida Bureau of Braille & Talking Books Library, and the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. You can read more about them on our Resources page, where we map out services available across Jacksonville.
Engage with Us: How You Can Help
There are countless ways to get involved:
- Attend a meeting—join at your pace, ask questions, connect.
- Share expertise—lead workshops, webinars, or facilitate meetings.
- Advocate—add your voice to local and statewide accessibility campaigns.
- Volunteer—help with outreach, communications, event coordination, or website management.
- Donate—support programs, printing of resources, or assistive tools
At the Jacksonville Council of the Blind, every conversation, shared insight, and returned phone call matters. You’re not joining an organization, but a committed, caring movement. Your journey—whether as a member, supporter, or advocate—enriches our collective voice and impact.
Together, let’s lift our sightless community toward equality, autonomy, and opportunity in Jacksonville and beyond.