Sometimes focusing on the specifics can make the most difference. So here’s one for this week that will only take you two minutes. The CEO of the Braille Institute reached out and I said I’d help spread the word.
Help Save the Braille Institute Library – Act Now!
We need your help.
The State has zeroed out and cut all state funding for Braille Institute’s Library.
We cannot let this happen — our library is a vital resource for the blind and visually impaired.
Please contact Governor Newsom this week and urge him to restore the $500,000 in state funding for Braille Institute’s Library. His team is finalizing revisions to the 2025–26 state budget now — your voice can make a difference.
When you call or write, tell them what the Braille Institute Library means to you or your community. Share why this free access to books and educational resources is not just important — it's vital. If no one answers when you call, leaving a message is just as effective.
Without these funds, more than 40,000 blind and visually impaired residents across Southern California risk losing access to the braille, audio, and large print materials they depend on to live independently, stay connected, and continue learning.
With your support, we can protect this essential service for the thousands who rely on it every day.
Thank you for standing with us!
Sincerely,
Jim (Dimitri) Kales CEO, Braille Institute
Pretty simple and a tiny drop in the massive California budget, yet so important for the people who rely on this vital service!
Thanks everyone!
Jess (and Andrea who helps with state newsletters)
Jess, I spent 20 years of my working life providing audio description for blind and visually impaired people. This segment of our population is largely forgotten when it comes to political influence. They are the last disability group to be acknowledged and served. Those is extremely important. Thank you. I will share this with folks I know in this community. Both the folks we serve and those who do the setvice.
Jess, I spent 20 years of my working life providing audio description for blind and visually impaired people. This segment of our population is largely forgotten when it comes to political influence. They are the last disability group to be acknowledged and served. Those is extremely important. Thank you. I will share this with folks I know in this community. Both the folks we serve and those who do the setvice.
Thanks for letting us know!