<p> SOUTH DAKOTA ASSOCIATION OF THE BLIND (SDAB)</p><p>What is SDAB? SDAB is a private, non-profit, consumer organization for individuals who are blind and visually impaired. It was founded in 1928, when students of the School for the Blind formed an alumni associated, with SDAB evolving from that organization. In 1959 the founders of SDAB played an integral roll in organizing the American Council of the Blind (ACB), a nationwide consumer advocacy organization.</p><p>What is the purpose of SDAB? The purpose of SDAB is to support and advocate for the full inclusion of persons who are blind and visually impaired into society, including employment and independent living. This is accomplished through the effective use of education, peer support, self advocacy, developing and supporting legislation, and sponsoring the Gadgetry Program.</p><p>Who can be a member of SDAB?  Anyone who is blind or visually impaired,  Family members and friends of a person who is blind or visually impaired,  Professionals, and  Other consumer organizations that support the interest of SDAB.</p><p>WHAT DOES SDAB DO?  The membership of SDAB provides input into the quality of service provided by the SD Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired.  Develop and support legislation to improve the quality of life for South Dakotans who are blind and visually impaired.  SDAB provides educational opportunities to their constituency on a variety of topics that include leadership training, self advocacy skills training, and information on the Americans With Disabilities Act.  SDAB provides peer support to people who have problems dealing with their vision loss.</p><p>Gadgetry Program SDAB supports a program that provides a variety of independent living aids to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. These devices include but are not limited to:  Large print and Braille playing cards,  Braille and talking watches,  Talking alarm clocks,  Large print and Braille timers,  Adapted cooking devices,  Mobility and support canes, and  A variety of other aids that help people who are blind and visually impaired to continue to live independently.</p><p>For further information on available products, contact the Gadgetry Project, at 1-888-584-7440.</p><p>If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a SDAB member, or you would like additional information on SDAB or the Gadgetry Project:</p><p>Call: 1-888-584-7440</p><p>Mailing Address: SDAB PO Box 1622 Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57101-1622</p><p>Website: http://sdab.club.officelive.com</p><p>6/2011</p>