Category: Accessibility

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Access Technology Accessibility Blindness & Low Vision Inclusion

Inclusion Unlocks Potential

Inclusion is far more than a policy or buzzword; it is a powerful catalyst for innovation, productivity, and social justice. For individuals like me—someone who is blind and has Asperger’s syndrome—inclusion is the foundation that enables us to fully contribute our skills, experience, and unique perspectives to the workplace and community. It is about recognizing and dismantling barriers while building systems and cultures that welcome and empower everyone.

This blog post explores the practical meaning of inclusion and accessibility from my lived experience, details the assistive tools and techniques that enable me to work independently, highlights the strengths neurodiverse individuals bring, and explains why businesses that embrace inclusion unlock competitive advantages and long-term success.

What Does Accessibility and Inclusion Really Mean?

Accessibility is often narrowly defined as compliance with regulations or providing accommodations, but true accessibility is a proactive, holistic approach to designing environments, technologies, and communications that are usable and welcoming to all people—regardless of sensory, physical, or cognitive differences.

From my perspective as a blind individual with Asperger’s, inclusion means:

  • Clear, precise, and step-by-step verbal directions: Instead of vague phrases like “over there” or “this way,” directions such as “turn right at the water fountain, walk 10 steps forward, then enter through the door on your left” provide clarity and independence.
  • Information repeated or reworded as needed: Because I process language differently, sometimes I need instructions or concepts explained again or phrased in another way to fully grasp them. This flexible communication style fosters better understanding and collaboration.
  • Multiple accessible content formats: Information should be available in various formats—Braille, large print, audio, and digital text compatible with screen readers—to accommodate different needs and preferences.
  • Predictable routines and structured environments: Many neurodiverse individuals, including those with Asperger’s, perform best with clear, consistent schedules and expectations, which reduce anxiety and enhance focus.

Inclusion isn’t just about removing barriers—it’s about valuing different ways of experiencing and interacting with the world.

Adaptive Tools That Empower Independence and Excellence

Thanks to advancements in assistive technology, people who are blind or have low vision can independently complete complex tasks and engage fully in professional and daily life. Some of the key tools I use include:

  • Screen readers on computers and smartphones: Software such as JAWS, NVDA, or VoiceOver convert text, menus, buttons, and web content into synthesized speech or Braille output, enabling me to navigate digital environments efficiently.
  • Optical character recognition (OCR) scanners: These devices scan printed materials—whether letters, contracts, menus, or forms—and convert the text into readable or listenable digital formats. This allows me to access a wide variety of documents without assistance.
  • Handheld and desktop video magnifiers: Although I don’t currently use screen magnifiers, these devices provide magnified, high-contrast views of printed materials, which is invaluable when working with detailed visual information.
  • Braille reading and writing: Maintaining Braille literacy is critical for accurate note-taking, document editing, and detailed information management. It remains a core skill that complements digital tools.
  • White cane travel: My white cane is an essential mobility aid that supports safe, confident navigation through unfamiliar or busy spaces—whether at work, on public transit, or outdoors.

Collectively, these tools enable me to meet deadlines, communicate effectively, and contribute high-quality work independently. They are not accommodations but extensions of my capabilities.

The Unique Strengths of Neurodiversity in the Workplace

Being an individual with Asperger’s offers strengths that complement diverse teams and drive success:

  • Intense focus and sustained attention: I can maintain deep concentration on complex tasks for extended periods, which helps in completing detailed projects efficiently.
  • Keen attention to detail: I often spot inconsistencies or errors others may miss, which contributes to higher quality outcomes and fewer mistakes.
  • Logical and systematic problem-solving: My methodical approach supports innovative thinking and improves processes by identifying logical solutions.
  • Reliability and dedication: When instructions are clear and environments structured, I consistently deliver work on time and to a high standard.

While I may sometimes need information repeated or rephrased, this is a natural variation in cognitive processing that can be supported through patient, inclusive communication. Embracing neurodiversity enhances team creativity, resilience, and performance.

The Tangible Benefits of Inclusivity for Organizations

Companies and organizations that embed inclusion and accessibility into their DNA see measurable benefits:

  • Elevated customer experience: Clear, accessible communication builds trust and loyalty among clients, especially those with disabilities or specific needs.
  • Higher employee engagement and retention: Inclusive workplaces create a sense of belonging and respect, leading to lower turnover and stronger morale.
  • Access to a broader market: More than 1 billion people worldwide live with disabilities—by prioritizing accessibility, organizations tap into this significant and often underserved demographic.
  • Enhanced innovation: Diverse cognitive and sensory perspectives lead to more creative, effective problem-solving and decision-making.
  • Legal compliance and brand reputation: Meeting accessibility standards reduces legal risk and builds a positive public image as an ethical, forward-thinking entity.

Inclusion is both a social responsibility and a smart business strategy that contributes to sustained success.

How to Build Truly Inclusive Environments: Practical Steps

Creating accessibility and inclusion is an ongoing journey that requires intentional action:

  1. Listen to those with lived experience: Engage directly with employees, customers, or community members who have disabilities or neurodiverse conditions to identify barriers and opportunities for improvement.
  2. Invest in training and awareness: Educate staff on disability etiquette, inclusive communication, and accessible technology to build empathy and competence.
  3. Audit physical and digital spaces: Ensure that buildings, websites, documents, and digital tools meet accessibility standards such as WCAG guidelines and ADA requirements.
  4. Implement flexible policies: Allow individualized accommodations and recognize different communication and work style needs.
  5. Use clear, consistent communication: Provide detailed instructions, allow for repetition or rephrasing, and use multiple accessible formats.

These actions foster a culture of respect and empower all individuals to contribute their best.

Looking Forward: Inclusion as a Foundation for Growth and Innovation

The organizations and communities that embrace inclusion today will lead tomorrow’s innovation and social progress. By designing systems and cultures that welcome diverse ways of thinking and being, we create environments where everyone can thrive.

As a blind professional with Asperger’s, I know the transformative power of accessibility and inclusive communication—not only for my own success but for the enrichment of every space I am part of.

True inclusion requires ongoing commitment, empathy, and collaboration. But the payoff—a more equitable, innovative, and prosperous world—is immeasurable.

Are you ready to embrace accessibility and inclusion in your organization? Start by listening, learning, and partnering with those who live these experiences daily. Together, we can unlock the full potential of every individual and create lasting positive change.

Categories
Access Technology Accessibility Artificial Intelligence (AI) Blindness & Low Vision

Be My AI Review: Identifying Food Labels Nonvisually

From mid-February to mid-March 2025, while my parents were on a 30-day Viking cruise in Southeast Asia, I relied on accessible technology to handle daily tasks independently. One of the most useful tools I discovered during this time was Be My AI, an artificial intelligence-powered feature within the Be My Eyes app.

As a blind iPhone user who relies on VoiceOver, I often need assistance with identifying food labels. Whether I was grabbing a jar from my pantry or selecting a Clean Eatz pre-packaged frozen meal that I had thawed in the fridge, I needed a nonvisual way to confirm what I was holding. My primary goal wasn’t to get detailed ingredient lists or cooking instructions—I simply needed to determine:

  • The name of the meal (e.g., “Basic Chicken with Asparagus”) so I could accurately log it into MyFitnessPal
  • Nutritional facts, including calorie counts and protein content
  • The type of jar or package I was grabbing from my pantry (e.g., peanut butter, jelly)

This review details my experience using Be My AI, explains how to navigate the Be My Eyes app with VoiceOver, and discusses the advantages and limitations of this AI-powered tool.

What Is Be My Eyes?

Be My Eyes is a free accessibility app designed to assist blind and low-vision users by connecting them with sighted volunteers through live video calls. These volunteers help users with tasks such as:

  • Reading labels and packaging
  • Identifying objects
  • Navigating unfamiliar environments
  • Checking expiration dates

In addition to human assistance, Be My Eyes offers Be My AI, a built-in feature powered by artificial intelligence. Instead of connecting with a volunteer, users can take a picture, and Be My AI will generate a text-based description of the object or text in the image.

Be My AI is particularly useful for tasks like:

  • Reading food labels
  • Checking nutritional information
  • Identifying products in a pantry or fridge

Navigating Be My Eyes and Be My AI with VoiceOver

As a VoiceOver user, I found the Be My Eyes app easy to navigate. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Be My AI:

1. Open Be My Eyes

  • If you haven’t already, download Be My Eyes from the App Store.
  • Open the app, and VoiceOver will automatically read the interface elements.

2. Locate Be My AI

  • On the home screen, swipe right with one finger until you hear “Be My AI.”
  • Double-tap to select it.

3. Capture an Image for AI Analysis

  • When Be My AI opens, swipe right until you hear “Take Picture.”
  • Double-tap to capture an image of the food package or jar.
  • Make sure the label is facing the camera and well-lit.

4. Read the Description

  • After taking the picture, wait a few seconds while Be My AI processes the image.
  • VoiceOver will then read the AI-generated description aloud, including the product name and any readable text.

5. Repeat if Needed

  • If the description isn’t clear, try adjusting the camera angle or distance and taking another picture.
  • Swipe right to find an option to retake the photo if necessary.

Using Be My AI to Identify Food Labels

How I Used Be My AI While My Parents Were Traveling

During my parents’ month-long Viking cruise, I used Be My AI primarily for:

  • Identifying Clean Eatz meals – I needed to determine the exact meal name (e.g., “Basic Chicken with Asparagus”) so I could log it in MyFitnessPal. These meals are pre-packaged frozen and I had thawed them in the fridge for later use.
  • Reading nutritional information – I checked calorie counts, protein content, and serving sizes.
  • Confirming pantry items – I used Be My AI to ensure I grabbed the correct jar from the pantry, such as peanut butter or grape jelly.

This allowed me to quickly and independently select the right meal or pantry item and track my food intake without relying on sighted assistance.

How Be My AI Worked in Practice

  • Opened Be My Eyes and navigated to Be My AI.
  • Took a picture of the food label or jar.
  • Waited a few seconds for Be My AI to process the image.
  • Listened as VoiceOver read the description aloud, providing the meal name or nutritional information.

This method was fast and effective, allowing me to complete my tasks independently.

Pros of Using Be My AI

1. Fast and Convenient

Instead of waiting for a sighted volunteer, I received instant results by taking a picture. This was especially useful when grabbing a meal from the fridge or selecting an item from the pantry.

2. Accurate Meal Names and Nutritional Info

Be My AI reliably identified:

  • The meal name (e.g., “Basic Chicken with Asparagus”)
  • Nutritional details (e.g., calories, protein content)

This made logging meals in MyFitnessPal much easier.

3. Increased Independence

Be My AI allowed me to identify and track my meals without needing a sighted person’s help, making me more self-sufficient in my daily routine.

Challenges and Limitations

1. Camera Positioning Matters

The biggest challenge was holding my phone at the correct angle and distance. If I positioned the camera too close or too far from the label, the AI sometimes struggled to read the text.

2. No Live Adjustments

Unlike sighted volunteers who can guide camera positioning in real time, Be My AI only processes still images. If my photo wasn’t clear, I had to retake it multiple times.

3. Limited Context Beyond Text

Be My AI was great for reading meal names and nutrition facts, but it didn’t always provide context beyond the text on the label. If I had needed additional details (like preparation instructions), I would have had to take multiple photos.

Best Use Cases for Be My AI in Food Label Identification

From my experience, Be My AI is best for:

  • Identifying pre-packaged frozen meals – It provided the exact meal name, making it easy to log into MyFitnessPal.
  • Reading nutritional facts – It quickly gave me calorie counts, protein content, and serving sizes.
  • Confirming pantry items – It helped me ensure I grabbed the right jar, like peanut butter or jelly.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Be My AI proved to be an invaluable tool for identifying food labels nonvisually. It made meal tracking and pantry organization significantly easier while my parents were away.

  • Fast and accessible – I could identify meals and labels in seconds.
  • Accurate results – The AI provided reliable meal names and nutrition facts.
  • Independent experience – I didn’t need to rely on sighted assistance.

Although positioning the phone correctly required some trial and error, once I got the hang of it, Be My AI worked flawlessly. If you’re a blind or low-vision user looking for a fast and accessible way to identify food packaging, I highly recommend giving Be My AI a try!

Have you used Be My AI to identify food labels or other items? Share your experience in the comments below!

Categories
Accessibility Blindness & Low Vision Inclusion Personal Reflections

The Meaning of “Blind With Vision”

When most individuals learn that someone is blind, they often assume it means complete or partial loss of vision. What they don’t realize is that the blind individual has only lost their physical vision, and still has the ability to use mental, tactile, and audio vision to interact with and understand the world. These nonvisual forms of vision not only help blind individuals thrive, but they also enable them to live full, independent lives.

What Is Mental, Tactile, and Audio Vision?

Mental Vision

Mental vision is the ability to imagine or visualize something in your mind, whether it’s a task you need to accomplish, a goal you want to reach, or a creative project you are working on. This type of vision goes beyond what can be seen with the eyes. Mental vision allows blind individuals to use their imagination and creativity to “see” possibilities, plan solutions, and create mental maps of their surroundings.

For example, blind individuals may use mental vision to plan a route through a new location, rehearse a presentation in their mind, or create a mental image of a painting or photograph. They rely on their mind’s eye to visualize the world in the same way sighted individuals use their eyes, which empowers them to make decisions and take actions confidently.

Tactile Vision

Tactile vision refers to using the sense of touch to explore objects or environments. For blind individuals, the sense of touch becomes an essential tool in understanding the world around them. Using Braille, tactile graphics, and other specialized materials, blind people are able to read and interact with information in ways that are just as effective as sighted individuals use their vision.

Examples of tactile objects that facilitate tactile vision include Braille books, LEGO bricks, 3D photos, and tactile maps. These tools allow blind individuals to gather information, process ideas, and navigate their environment independently. For instance, a blind person can use a slate and stylus to write Braille notes or feel the raised shapes on a tactile map to understand the layout of a space. Tactile vision enriches their world and promotes learning, communication, and independence.

Audio Vision

Audio vision involves the ability to understand and interpret the world using sound. For blind individuals, auditory cues and feedback provide essential information about their environment. This could include listening to descriptions of objects or surroundings, using screen readers to navigate websites, or utilizing auditory navigation apps to move through physical spaces.

Screen readers like JAWS (Job Access With Speech), NVDA (Nonvisual Desktop Access), TalkBack, or VoiceOver turn digital text into audio, allowing blind individuals to interact with technology, write emails, or surf the web. Navigation apps such as AIRA, Be My Eyes, and Seeing AI use audio cues to describe the world, guiding blind individuals through their day-to-day tasks with spoken descriptions. For example, a voice assistant might tell a blind person which bus is approaching, provide directions, or even describe a scene in a photograph.

Through audio vision, blind individuals can gain insight into their surroundings, stay informed, and interact with the world without relying on sight.

The NFB Philosophy

As the National Federation of the Blind’s one-minute message states, “Blindness is not the characteristic that defines a blind person and their future.” This powerful statement reflects the NFB’s long-standing belief that blind individuals can lead rich, successful lives. By learning how to use nonvisual tools and techniques, maintaining a positive “can do” attitude, and embracing an adaptable mindset, blind individuals can reach their goals and live life to the fullest.

This philosophy has been at the heart of the NFB’s mission since its founding in 1940. Through advocacy, education, and technology, the NFB works to break down barriers and change public perceptions about blindness, helping to create a world in which blind people have access to equal opportunities and the tools they need to succeed.

The Story Behind “Blind With Vision”

In 2015, when I was searching for a tagline for my company, Mackey Enterprises, I asked several individuals for their ideas and suggestions. During one of my workout sessions with Steve Murray of Rezults Never Lie, he reminded me that even though I might be blind, no one can ever take away my vision. This profound insight led me to create the tagline “Blind With Vision,” which aligns perfectly with the NFB’s philosophy.

This phrase represents the idea that blind individuals possess vision in ways that go beyond physical sight. It symbolizes resilience, creativity, and adaptability—the qualities that allow blind individuals to overcome challenges and live the lives they choose.

What Does “Blind With Vision” Really Mean?

The best way to explain the meaning behind “Blind With Vision” is through an example. Let’s consider a blind individual who needs to take notes independently. Here are some of the ways they might do this:

  • Using a slate and stylus to write notes in Braille.
  • Recording notes on a voice recorder and later transcribing them using a screen reader.
  • Using audio navigation tools like AIRA or Be My Eyes to guide them through new environments, or even recording a spoken summary of a meeting.

By using mental, tactile, and audio vision, blind individuals are able to “see” tasks and experiences from multiple perspectives. Whether they are working, studying, or engaging in personal activities, blind people use their nonvisual senses to approach challenges and find solutions that align with their abilities and strengths.

Living Life With a “Blind With Vision” Mindset

I encourage you to live the life you want by seeing things from a different perspective. Whether you are blind, low vision, sighted, deafblind, deaf, hard of hearing, autistic, or experience any other condition, it’s important to embrace a “Blind With Vision” mindset. The world is full of opportunities, and you can achieve your goals if you’re willing to use your unique vision to navigate challenges and embrace your potential.

Final Thoughts

It doesn’t matter whether you are blind or sighted—the key to success is to think creatively and see the world through your unique lens. By adopting a “Blind With Vision” mindset, you unlock endless possibilities for personal growth and achievement. Embrace mental, tactile, and audio vision, and live a life full of purpose, fulfillment, and independence.

Categories
Accessibility Blindness & Low Vision Community & Inspiration Inclusion Personal Reflections

How My Dream Transformed Into A Reality

Early Beginnings: The Dream Takes Shape

In 2006, as I prepared for my senior year at Lenape High School, I applied for a variety of scholarships, one of which was offered by the Medford Business Association. In my scholarship essay, I shared my dream of becoming a bookkeeper, imagining that in five years, I would be working in that field. Little did I know, that dream would eventually become a reality, but it would take a different direction than I had expected.

In November 2011, I began actively seeking a bookkeeping position. On November 4, I had an interview with Padden Denn Drewry, a local accounting firm in Medford, for an office job. During the interview, Dan Padden, one of the firm’s partners, suggested something I hadn’t considered before. He encouraged me to start my own business focusing on data entry and bookkeeping, areas that I had always found enjoyable. Inspired by his advice, I officially founded Mackey Enterprises later that month.

The first few years involved working on subcontracted projects for Padden Denn Drewry. Some of the tasks I handled included creating profit and loss statements from bank statement information, building Excel spreadsheets to track clients’ credit card expenses, and reconciling multiple bank accounts. These initial projects continued through 2014, providing the groundwork for the business.

In June 2014, I started promoting Mackey Enterprises more actively. I spread the word through emails, flyers, and word of mouth. By 2015, I had business cards printed and a website for the company. That same year, I had the opportunity to introduce Mackey Enterprises at the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey (NFBNJ) state convention.

First Personal Clients: Expanding the Services

In the spring of 2015, I gained my first two personal clients. One of the projects involved creating an inventory list for a model train collection, while another required organizing sales receipts for a bathroom remodeling project. These early opportunities allowed me to expand my services beyond bookkeeping and take on new challenges.

Entering Web Content Management: A New Chapter Begins

In February 2016, the NFBNJ reached out to me with an exciting opportunity to manage their website’s content. With the assistance of the Website Committee, I helped rebuild the site on WordPress, launching it in late June. The positive feedback I received encouraged me to start offering content management as part of my services. In October 2016, I took on the role of maintaining the National Federation of the Blind of Illinois (NFBIL) website, which was already on WordPress, ensuring that the site’s content was kept up to date.

New Projects and Growing Opportunities

In early 2017, the president of the National Federation of the Blind of Delaware (NFBDE) asked me to manage their website’s content. I completed the project before the 2017 National Convention, marking another milestone for Mackey Enterprises. Later that year, I revamped the website for the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association (MABGA), improving its accessibility and optimizing it for WordPress.

Around the same time, I began maintaining the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania (NFBPA) website, ensuring that it was kept up to date. By early 2018, I had also become the website coordinator for the National Federation of the Blind of Nevada (NFBNV) National Federation of the Blind DeafBlind Division, and the National Federation of the Blind of Iowa (NFBIA), transitioning their websites to Drupal, a more flexible platform for long-term growth.

Expanding Further: New Challenges and Opportunities

In 2018, the National Federation of the Blind of California (NFBCA) approached me to assist in transferring their website to a new hosting provider and rebuilding it with WordPress. This project represents another exciting opportunity for Mackey Enterprises and the continued growth of the business.

Where I Am Today: Living the Dream

At Mackey Enterprises, I combine my passion for data entry, bookkeeping, and web content management to deliver top-quality services. From handling bookkeeping projects to managing website content for National Federation of the Blind affiliates, I have gained valuable experience and built a foundation of skills that help clients achieve their goals.

As of 2025, I am proud to maintain the websites for several National Federation of the Blind (NFB) affiliates and related organizations, including the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey (NFBNJ), National Federation of the Blind of Illinois (NFBIL), National Federation of the Blind of Arkansas (NFBAR), National Federation of the Blind of Iowa (NFBIA), National Federation of the Blind of Massachusetts (NFBMA), National Federation of the Blind of Nevada (NFBNV), National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC), NFBMA Greater Springfield Chapter, and National Federation of the Blind Seniors Division. Additionally, I serve as the web coordinator for the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association (MABGA).

Of the websites I maintain, the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association (MABGA) and the NFBMA Greater Springfield Chapter are hosted on WordPress, while all the other listed organizations are using Drupal.

I am committed to helping these organizations maintain an accessible and up-to-date online presence, contributing to their missions and supporting the blind community in various ways.

Partner with Mackey Enterprises: Making Your Vision a Reality

Turning my dream into a reality was no easy feat, but now I’m ready to help you do the same. Whether you need data entry services, bookkeeping services, or website content management, Mackey Enterprises is here to support you. Let’s work together to make your vision a reality!

Categories
Accessibility Blindness & Low Vision Inclusion Sports & Recreation

MABGA: Golf for the Blind

Golf is a great game enjoyed by many, but not everyone realizes that blind and low vision individuals can also participate in and excel at the sport. The Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association (MABGA) has been empowering blind and low vision golfers since 1948, proving that anyone, regardless of vision, can enjoy this challenging and rewarding game.

The History of the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association

In 1948, four blind individuals from the Philadelphia area who enjoyed playing golf came together to form the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association. Today, over 70 years later, the organization boasts over 115 blind and visually impaired members, along with sighted coaches who assist with estimating distances and identifying hazards such as sand traps and water. When the organization began, they held only a few outings. Now, MABGA organizes 30 to 40 outings every year in the Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey area, including its annual Joe Casey Pro-Am Tournament and fundraising events.

The organization has also evolved, now having both male and female members and coaches, compared to its early days when only men were involved.

How Do Blind and Low Vision Golfers Play?

When a sighted individual learns that a blind person is playing golf, they often wonder how such a challenging game can be played without sight. Blind golfers are paired with sighted coaches, who assist in a variety of ways, including determining the distance for a shot, selecting the appropriate club, lining up the ball, and finding it after a shot.

Many blind golfers also use nonvisual techniques, such as placing tactile distinguishing tape on their clubs. For example, MABGA President Mario Tobia uses different types of tape on his clubs to differentiate between woods, irons, and wedges. This method allows blind golfers to independently identify their clubs. Despite these challenges, some blind golfers can take better swings than their sighted peers!

The MABGA Junior Golf Program

The MABGA Junior Golf Program has played a critical role in introducing blind and low vision children to the sport of golf. The program, which is available to children ages 5 through 21 in the Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware areas, offers free golf clinics and lessons from professional golfers. MABGA also pairs junior golfers with local golf pros for free lessons at their local courses.

When I first got involved with the Junior Blind Golf program in 2001, I attended the spring golf clinic at the Overbrook School for the Blind. At that clinic, I had to overcome the challenge of hitting short swings since the course had very short holes! The program has grown significantly over the years. In 2009, there were about 20 to 30 participants. Today, the program serves 78 participants and has expanded to six to seven locations in the Philadelphia area, along with a new group in northern New Jersey.

MABGA’s Legacy of Inclusivity and Growth

The MABGA Junior Golf program was founded by Norman Kritz, who left a lasting legacy by building two golf courses for blind students: the Robert Allman Memorial Golf Course at the Overbrook School for the Blind in Philadelphia (opened in 1996) and the Kritz Links at the New York Institute for Special Education in Bronx, NY (opened in 2021). These courses provide blind golfers with dedicated, accessible spaces to practice and improve their skills.

How to Become a Member of MABGA

Blind and low vision individuals interested in joining the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association can submit a membership application. After approval by the Membership Committee, members are considered provisional until voted in as full members during the annual Fall General Meeting. Once approved, members are required to pay annual membership dues, which grants access to all MABGA outings throughout the year.

MABGA’s Annual Fundraising Tournament

One of MABGA’s key events is the annual fundraising tournament, which raises essential funds for the organization’s programs. This year’s tournament is scheduled for August 25th at Philmont Country Club in Huntingdon Valley, PA. The registration cost for general participants is $250 per person, which includes brunch, 18 holes of golf, cocktail hour, and dinner. Special reduced rates are available for MABGA members and their coaches.

The tournament is the organization’s primary fundraising vehicle, supporting the continuation of its golf clinics, programs, and events. Additional details and registration information can be found on the MABGA website at www.mabga.org/annual-tournament.

Get Involved with MABGA

The Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association is always welcoming new members and supporters. Whether you are a blind or low vision golfer, a sighted coach, or someone who simply wants to support the organization, there are numerous ways to get involved. For more information, contact MABGA at info@mabga.org or 215-745-2323. You can also watch their promotional video on YouTube or visit their official website at www.mabga.org for more details.

Categories
Access Technology Accessibility Blindness & Low Vision Business & Finance Inclusion

QuickBooks for the Blind

For most people, QuickBooks is a familiar tool for managing their finances. The software is designed for visual use, relying on point-and-click techniques for tasks such as generating invoices, writing checks, and reviewing reports.

But what about those who are blind, low vision, or print disabled?

Before 2013, managing finances with QuickBooks Desktop was a major challenge for blind users, especially those relying on screen readers. The software was not designed to be compatible with screen reading technology, making it difficult or impossible to complete key tasks such as writing checks, generating invoices, and reviewing financial reports.

I know this firsthand. To use QuickBooks Desktop, I had to combine ZoomText (screen magnification software) with JAWS (Job Access with Speech screen reader), but the experience was frustrating and inefficient. Navigating QuickBooks was a complex process, and I spent much more time than I should have completing simple bookkeeping tasks.

The Turning Point: MyBlindSpot’s QuickBooks Blind Scripts

In 2013, everything changed when MyBlindSpot, Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on accessibility, introduced the QuickBooks Blind project. They developed a set of JAWS scripts specifically for QuickBooks Desktop, making it accessible for blind and low vision users. These scripts transformed the experience of using QuickBooks by enabling screen reader users to easily navigate the program with keyboard shortcuts.

Before the release of these scripts, blind QuickBooks users faced major barriers in performing even the most basic tasks. Now, thanks to QuickBooks Blind, blind users could access and utilize the software in a way that was previously impossible. Some of the tasks that became accessible included:

  • Writing and printing checks
  • Creating and sending invoices
  • Managing accounts payable and receivable
  • Running financial reports
  • Organizing and tracking business expenses

The QuickBooks Blind scripts not only made QuickBooks Desktop accessible but also helped me become more efficient in managing my personal company, Mackey Enterprises, LLC. They also opened doors to leadership positions within the National Federation of the Blind (NFB):

  • Affiliate Treasurer of the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey (2016–2018)
  • Affiliate Bookkeeper for the NFB of New Jersey (2019–present)
  • Affiliate Treasurer for the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania (2019–2024)

Accessibility in QuickBooks Online (QBO)

While QuickBooks Desktop required JAWS scripts for full accessibility, the cloud-based version, QuickBooks Online (QBO), is now built with accessibility features that are designed to work out of the box with screen readers. This development makes QuickBooks Online a great option for blind, low vision, and print-disabled users who prefer a more flexible, cloud-based solution.

Thanks to improvements made by Intuit in partnership with MyBlindSpot, QuickBooks Online has become fully compatible with popular screen readers like JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver. This means users can now access their QuickBooks account through their browser and utilize a variety of bookkeeping features without additional tools or scripts.

For those who prefer QuickBooks Desktop, the QuickBooks Blind scripts are still necessary, but QuickBooks Online offers a more streamlined experience for users who rely on screen readers for day-to-day bookkeeping tasks.

Learn QuickBooks Blind with MyBlindSpot’s Virtual Lessons

To help blind users become proficient with QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Blind, MyBlindSpot offers over 60 Self-Paced Virtual Lessons. These lessons are designed to guide users step-by-step through key processes in QuickBooks, such as writing checks, managing invoices, and reviewing reports.

The virtual lessons cover essential tasks in QuickBooks Desktop and closely mirror the MyBlindSpot MBS User’s Guide, both of which were created by blind professionals with decades of experience in accessibility. The materials are based on 20 years of traditional documentation, ensuring that blind users receive training equivalent to that provided to sighted users.

Here are two example lessons:

Lesson 50 Writing a Check:

Lesson 56 Sending an Email Directly from an Invoice Screen:

These lessons are incredibly beneficial for individuals who want to master QuickBooks and build their confidence when using the software for personal or professional purposes.

Powerful Testimonials and More Resources

MyBlindSpot’s QuickBooks Blind project has been transformative for many users in the blind community. For an in-depth look at how QuickBooks Blind has changed lives, watch this powerful testimonial:

Additionally, for more lessons and detailed guidance on using QuickBooks with accessibility tools, check out the MyBlindSpot YouTube channel:
Visit MyBlindSpot on YouTube

To learn more about QuickBooks Blind, MyBlindSpot, and their commitment to making QuickBooks accessible for everyone, visit their official website:
www.myblindspot.org