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Why Volunteer at RFB&D?
Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic provides over 185,000
people with print disabilities the books they need to learn
and succeed. A national nonprofit organization, we need
volunteers to help us record these books and more. Whatever
your area of interest or expertise, you will find that volunteering
at RFB&D is a very fulfilling experience. We could not
do what we do without our talented and committed volunteers.
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How Volunteers Contribute to RFB&D’s
Success
RFB&D’s success in serving people with print disabilities
is due in large measure to our volunteer workforce of over
7,000 individuals nationwide. Their knowledge, combined
with a steadfast dedication to our mission, have made RFB&D’s
extensive library the most unique and valued resource of
its kind in the world. All of the books in RFB&D’s
library are recorded by volunteers working in 30 studios
or at home across the country. Each year, our dedicated
volunteers add thousands of new titles to our collection.
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Volunteers, using computers at our studios nationwide are
helping to produce books in accessible digital format on
CD and downloadable audio textbooks. These books offer students
greater ability to search for and retrieve information quickly
and easily. Volunteer opportunities at RFB&D are varied
and include:
Readers
narrate the text of a book and describe any visual elements,
such as charts, graphs, pictures, maps, or mathematical
equations. Currently, RFB&D is facing a shortage of
specialized readers proficient in math, science, finance,
accounting, computer science, foreign languages, and other
technical areas. We also are in need of volunteers to read
general K-12 titles.
Directors
guide the reader by operating easy-to-use recording equipment
and making corrections to the recorded material when needed.
Digital Audio
Editors review files during the production process
to ensure that RFB&D’s high quality standards are
being met.
Educational
Outreach volunteers assist staff by spreading the word about
RFB&D’s services at schools, community events and
local conferences. Volunteers also arrange appointments
for staff, facilitate training sessions at schools, and
compile information and training packets to be passed on
to members and potential members. Volunteers also represent
RFB&D at local events and conferences.
Book
Markers
create a “pencil path” through books to be recorded,
making notes to guide readers through the sequence of text,
charts, illustrations and footnotes.
Board/committee
members
provide general oversight of local operations and assist
with fundraising, name awareness and relationship building.
Other needs include fundraisers, public relations helpers,
orientation leaders, speakers’ bureau presenters and
office assistants. All volunteers are trained by our professional
staff.
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