Tag: blindness advocacy

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Blindness & Low Vision Community & Inspiration NFB Stories Personal Reflections

Remembering Joe Ruffalo, Jr.

Joseph Ruffalo, Jr.
Joseph Ruffalo, JR.
July 6, 1948 – May 3, 2022

Who Was Joe Ruffalo to Me?

Who is Joe Ruffalo? Some may say he is a friend, a mentor, a teacher, and a Federationist. To me, he is all of that and more.

I first met Joe Ruffalo in 2002, when I attended my first National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey (NFBNJ) state convention. Since then, I slowly grew to know Joe by participating in the Leadership Education Advocacy Determination (LEAD) program, a program run by the New Jersey Commission for the Blind, up until 2006, along with attending the state convention every year. Joe was one of the program’s mentors, and through his guidance, I grew into the confident blind leader I am today. When we first met, I was a shy teenager getting used to being a blind individual. At that point, I hadn’t yet been diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome; that wouldn’t come until 2008. I just knew I often felt like an outsider, someone on the fringes of both the sighted and blind communities. 20 years later, thanks to Joe’s guidance and grooming, I have blossomed into a more outgoing and confident individual who is blind with Asperger’s within the Federation family.

Joe Ruffalo wasn’t just a leader in the National Federation of the Blind—he was a powerful presence, a mentor, and a guiding light to countless blind individuals across the country. But to me, he was even more than that. He was one of the first people who truly saw potential in me when I didn’t yet know how to see it in myself.

Joe had a way of making people feel seen—not in a superficial way, but in a deeply affirming way. He greeted me with his booming voice and that unmistakable Jersey charisma. He asked questions, listened intently, and made it clear that I mattered. That moment stuck with me—and it was the beginning of something life-changing.

A Leader Who Gave Others a Voice

One of Joe’s most remarkable qualities was how he lifted others up. He didn’t hoard the spotlight—he handed it to others and encouraged them to shine. Through the Leadership Education Advocacy Determination (LEAD) program, which was run by the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Joe helped blind individuals find their voice, their confidence, and their purpose. He served as a mentor in the program, and his personal encouragement was transformative.

Thanks to LEAD and Joe’s mentorship, I began participating more at state conventions and NFB meetings. I watched how he led with humor, heart, and hustle. Over time, I started to find my own leadership voice, inspired by his example.

A couple of years after graduating from the Louisiana Center for the Blind (2007), I offered to assist Joe during a couple of state conventions. From just that bit of involvement, Joe sparked my leadership growth in the Federation. One of my first positions included my being appointed as the assistant secretary of the At-Large Chapter. After a few months, then in true Joe fashion, he graduated me to being the secretary of the At-Large Chapter and the affiliate assistant secretary. Wow! For him to have believed that much in a kid he hardly knew. Since then, Joe gradually gave me little assignments to do things throughout the affiliate leading up to the 2012 state convention, where I was elected as affiliate secretary. I held that position until February 2016, when I was appointed as the affiliate treasurer and web coordinator. Still overwhelmed and thankful to Joe’s confidence in me. At the 2016 state convention, I was elected as the affiliate treasurer, a position that I held until the 2018 convention, when I had to move to Pennsylvania. Throughout my leadership growth, Joe recognized that I had certain talents and knowledge that could be applied to the various roles and assignments he handed to me over the years.

Joe’s Continued Support: A New Role as Affiliate Bookkeeper

In January 2019, Joe appointed me as the affiliate bookkeeper to assist the affiliate treasurer in recording transactions into the affiliate’s QuickBooks file. This role allowed me to contribute to the financial integrity of the organization, something Joe always emphasized as essential to its success. It was a privilege to work closely with Joe during this time, as he continued to guide me through the intricacies of managing the affiliate’s finances.

When Linda Melendez was elected affiliate president in 2020, my appointment as bookkeeper was carried over into her presidency. It was an honor to continue supporting the affiliate in this new phase of leadership, contributing to the foundation that Joe had helped build. Although my role as bookkeeper was a shift from my previous position as treasurer, the experience I gained from managing the affiliate’s finances in the treasurer role proved invaluable. I was able to carry forward the same principles of financial integrity and transparency while adapting to the evolving needs of the affiliate under Linda’s leadership.

In this new capacity, I continued to work closely with the affiliate leadership, assisting in tracking financial transactions, helping with budgeting, and providing regular financial updates. My understanding of the affiliate’s financial landscape, developed during my time as treasurer, allowed me to make valuable contributions as bookkeeper, ensuring that the organization’s financial records remained accurate and up to date.

As I continued in the role of bookkeeper, I was proud to see the affiliate’s financial practices evolve, guided by the strong foundation Joe had laid and supported by the leadership of both Joe and Linda. My experience as affiliate treasurer had prepared me well for the challenges I faced as bookkeeper, and I was grateful to have the opportunity to continue supporting the affiliate’s financial health during this exciting period of growth and leadership change.

Blind with Vision: Joe’s Influence on My Life’s Mission

In 2011, I officially launched Mackey Enterprises, my company to provide data entry and bookkeeping services. Later, I expanded the business to include website content management—thanks to encouragement from Joe Ruffalo and other NFB leaders. Some of my clients happened to be blind, which only deepened my commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

While I launched the business in 2011, I didn’t start actively promoting it until 2015. That year, after a workout session at the gym, my trainer reminded me that even without eyesight, I still had the vision to perform things in a different way. That moment stuck with me and inspired the tagline for Mackey Enterprises: “Blind with Vision.” I began designing flyers and business cards and ultimately launched the website that same year.

The tagline—“Blind with Vision”—was directly inspired by the NFB’s philosophy and by Joe’s example. Joe taught me that blindness is not the characteristic that defines your future. It’s just one part of who we are—and it never limits what we can achieve. His life was living proof of that. He gave everything he had to the Federation and to the people in it, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations.

Since becoming web coordinator for the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey, I went on to serve as web coordinator for 14 additional NFB affiliated websites through 2022. As of today, I maintain 8 NFB affiliated websites in addition to NFBNJ’s site. I also serve as web coordinator for the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association (MABGA). These opportunities have allowed me to support blind organizations across the country, strengthen our shared message, and make accessible information more available for our communities.

Joe’s Battle with Cancer: A Testament to His Strength

In mid-2020, Joe began a difficult and courageous battle with cancer, a consequence of his exposure to Agent Orange during his military service in Vietnam. This diagnosis marked the beginning of a challenging and emotionally charged journey, not just for Joe but for all of us who had been fortunate enough to learn from him and work alongside him. Joe’s health had always been robust, marked by his unyielding drive and determination. But cancer, unfortunately, had begun to chip away at that strength.

Despite the prognosis, Joe never allowed the disease to define him. In true Joe fashion, he remained committed to his work and the Federation, continuing to inspire those around him. Even as his health declined, his spirit remained unbroken. He kept up with his responsibilities as much as he could, always with that familiar warmth and caring attitude that endeared him to everyone who knew him. His leadership didn’t waver, and his belief in his fellow Federation members remained unwavering, even in the face of his personal struggle.

Throughout the following months, Joe underwent numerous treatments and surgeries. He fought with everything he had, as was his nature. There were times when his energy and resilience astounded those who were close to him. Despite the toll the disease took on his body, Joe maintained his sense of humor, his sharp wit, and his unwavering commitment to helping others. He often joked that he was “fighting like hell,” and true to form, he did just that.

Joe’s strength was evident not only in the way he handled his illness but also in the way he continued to mentor and support the people around him, particularly in the Federation. Even in the toughest of times, he never let go of his mission to uplift others. He stayed in touch with Federation members, offering advice, encouragement, and guidance. His ability to listen and provide thoughtful counsel, even when battling his own pain, was nothing short of remarkable.

Sadly, in early 2022, the cancer returned, and this time, it came back with greater aggression. Joe had been doing everything possible to keep the disease at bay, but by the beginning of that year, it was clear that the fight was becoming more difficult. The treatments, once hopeful, no longer had the same effect, and Joe’s condition worsened. Despite the valiant efforts, it was clear that Joe’s time with us was running short.

Even as Joe’s physical health deteriorated, his mental clarity and his ability to impact those around him did not waver. He continued to impart lessons on resilience, leadership, and what it means to live with purpose, even in the most challenging of circumstances. His ability to remain positive and focus on the good he had done throughout his life was a testament to his character.

As Joe’s battle with cancer drew to a close, we all began to reflect on the immense impact he had on so many lives. His tireless dedication to the Federation and his steadfast belief in the potential of others were undeniable. It became clear that while cancer might take his physical body, it could never take his legacy—a legacy that would live on in the countless people he mentored, the programs he helped build, and the community he strengthened.

Though his final days were fraught with physical pain, Joe never stopped being Joe. He remained a leader to the very end, guiding those who were closest to him through one of life’s toughest challenges. His bravery in facing this battle, and his refusal to let it define him, left an indelible mark on all of us. His family, his friends, and his fellow Federationists will never forget the courage with which he faced the end of his journey.

The Final Visit: A Farewell Full of Meaning

On April 27, 2022, my mom and I made the drive to Bloomfield, New Jersey, to visit him at home. We knew it was likely our last chance to see him.

Joe was not in very good physical shape that day and was mostly nonverbal, but he was still Joe. Even in his weakened state, he welcomed us with warmth and gratitude. We mainly reflected on memories—on the journey, the growth, and the shared belief that we could all make a difference.

It was incredibly emotional, but also peaceful—like closing a circle that began 20 years earlier. I told him how much he had meant to me. How much his mentorship changed my life. How I hoped to carry forward the work he had so passionately done.

Less than a week later, on May 3, 2022, I was at work at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Reading, going about my usual routine, when I opened an email and learned of Joe’s passing. I froze. A wave of sadness and gratitude washed over me. I had been lucky enough to say goodbye—and I now carried the responsibility of honoring his legacy.

Carrying the Torch

Joe Ruffalo’s legacy lives on—not just in formal titles or recorded speeches, but in the people he mentored, the lives he touched, and the values he instilled in us. He believed in people before they believed in themselves. He saw leadership in unexpected places. He fought tirelessly for the rights and dignity of blind Americans. And he showed us all what it meant to be “blind with vision.”

He often said, “We care, we share, we grow, we make a difference.” Joe lived that motto every day. And now it’s up to us to carry it forward.

In January 2024, I was honored to be elected president of the NFB of Pennsylvania Greater Berks Chapter. I know Joe would have been proud, and I’ve been intentionally incorporating his leadership style into how I serve—uplifting others, creating opportunities, and always leading with heart.

Joe, thank you for everything. I will continue the work because you taught me how. You gave me purpose, direction, and the courage to lead.

Rest in peace, Joe. Your light continues to shine in all of us.



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The phrase **”We care, we share, we grow, we make a difference”** has been included in the section about Joe’s legacy and influence.

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.