“RFB&D has given my child the tools to study independently, the ability to be transported to imaginary places, to be successful in his school life and to share my love of books.â€
- Tracy Anglada, parent of Florida RFB&D member
So who are we?
RFB&D Learning through Listening, a volunteer powered nonprofit organization provides audio educational materials in accessible format to students who are unable to access standard print because of visual, learning or physical disabilities. Our vision is for all people to have equal access to the printed word.
The Regional Unit of Florida, established in 1958, is serving students and schools in all 67 counties in Florida. Our audio accomodation, together with the hands-on support provided by our educational outreach team, gives students with print disabilities the means to achieve academic success and independence. We level the playing field for students who must learn through listening.
How do we measure our success?
The true measure of our success is best exemplified by our individual members. Jill Brondolo has been a member of the Florida Unit of RFB&D since 1977. Diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, she began losing her eyesight. In spite of this obstacle, and with the support of RFB&D, Jill not only earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, but went on to earn a Masters Degree in Education. She is presently employed at Florida Atlantic University as a Learning Specialist in the Office for Students with Disabilities and still uses our services daily. Success looks like Jill Brondolo.
"This school year has been a delight for us as parents and Riley as a child. When Riley was diagnosed at the University of Florida as being dyslexic I really didn't know what to expect for our lives. I honestly thought we would have an even more difficult time in school. That was until you introduced me to the RFB&D audiobooks. Your audiobooks have made a tremendous impact on our lives. Riley made the honor roll for the first time ever this year! She is so proud of herself and our course, so are we.
The freedom the audiobooks gives us all is indescribable. Riley is very independent now and rarely asks for help with her homework, she simply puts on a tape and listens to the chapter and then sets out to complete her assignment.
For another first this year, Riley has begun to enjoy reading. She now picks out books to read and we order the audiobook for it and she listens and follows along in the book. She's reading novels and entertaining books. it's fantastic!"
Rene May Sotis
aka Riley's Mom
