Volunteer
Why
Volunteer at RFB&D?
Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic provides 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.
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 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 studios across the country. Each year, our dedicated volunteers add thousands
of new titles to our collection.
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:
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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.
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Directors guide the reader by operating easy-to-use recording equipment and making corrections to the recorded material when needed.
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Digital Audio Editors review files during the production process to ensure that RFB&D’s high quality standards are being met.
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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.
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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.
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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.
RFB&D Locations:
For
more detailed information about becoming a volunteer, contact the RFB&D
studio nearest you. Please see nationwide
locations for a list of the addresses and phone numbers.
You may also send us an e-mail at volunteer@rfbd.org
to receive further information.
New! View RFB&D’s latest Quick Facts and Figures for Fiscal Year 2008
