A Little About Us
Computers for the Blind (CFTB) is a Non-Profit, volunteer organization devoted to providing computers to persons who are blind or visually impaired. It is our hope that each person who is visually impaired may experience the information age in a positive and productive manner. We believe technology opens new worlds and creates opportunity for greater personal freedom.
We refurbish donated computers and provide accessibility software for our clients. If you or someone you know is interested in getting a computer, go to the next section to get quick information.
Potential Recipients
If you are in need of a computer, or are working on someone's behalf to order one, here are some quick notes to get you started.
- Our computers are available for any visually impaired individual in the United States
- Please familiarize yourself with our Before Applying Page as well as What We Provide
- If you have any questions, please contact us
How We Do It
We receive computers as donations from many sources. Our volunteers clean, rebuild, upgrade and set up the computers with software designed to give accessibility options to those who need them. Afterwards, the computers are packaged and shipped all across the country. It wouldn't be possible without all those who donate time and equipment to the cause.
Our Beginnings
Bob Langford was blinded in an accident at age 16. Instead of quitting, he worked hard to achieve many things. He graduated from high school, then continued until he earned a Doctorate's Degree in Vocational Rehabilitation. Later in life, Bob received his first computer and discovered how computers could overcome many obstacles. He wanted to share this gift with others and started what would become Computers for the Blind.
Thoughts From Our Clients
You've Made a Real Difference for Me
Thank you to the people at Computers for the Blind for making this possible. I would have never been able to afford the hardware and software. Your grant is making a big difference and allowing much greater freedom for me to not be tethered to a desktop. Thanks again, you've made a real difference for me.
Elliot W
09-2017
Photos
CFTB Board of Directors - October 2016
Taken after a relaxing Saturday morning meeting.
Back row (left to right): Derek Pfeifer, Jack Irons, Dan Young, John Pfotzer, Sal Jamal.
Front row: Robert Langford (founder), Gil Brand (retiring after 20 years of service), Lee Mann, Kimberly Dewey, Fran Osborn, Meridith Musgrove.
Bob Langford with the 2017 Access Award
Computers for the Blind was awarded the Access Award from the American Foundation for the Blind for making computers accessible to persons who could not otherwise be able to get one.
Our Location at King of Glory Lutheran Church
A scene of volunteers working in the old Refurbishing Location. The same work was getting done, but as you can see, the equipment was a little older back them. Many volunteers are still with us!
Refurbishing Center Full of Volunteers
During the summer of 2017 we even had students helping us while they were off from school. We had fallen behind on orders a bit when the summer started, but with their help, we were able to get ahead! We hope to see them again during holidays.
2000th Computer Presentation
Gil, Bob and John present the 2000th computer
