 It Takes All of Us
July marks Disability Pride Month, a time dedicated to honoring disability identity, celebrating community, and reaffirming our shared commitment to inclusion. At SSB, this observance is especially meaningful as we work every day to ensure Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, low vision, or have a print disability can access the tools, opportunities, and support they need to thrive.
This year’s theme, “The World Works Better With Us,” reflects a truth we see across our programs, partnerships, and the stories of the people we serve: communities are stronger and more innovative when disabled voices are at the center. Many accessibility features that benefit everyone—like curb cuts, captioning, audiobooks, and voice dictation—exist because of disability-led advocacy and creativity.
Throughout July, Disability Pride Month encourages visibility, intersectionality, and collective action to dismantle ableism and build environments where everyone belongs. As we celebrate, we also recommit to advancing equitable access to employment, education, technology, and community life.
By lifting up this year’s message, we recognize not only the contributions of disabled individuals across Minnesota, but also the ongoing work needed to ensure that our world truly does work better with all of us included.
SSB Department Spotlight - Data Analysis
The Data Analysis team at State Services for the Blind plays a vital behind‑the‑scenes role in helping the agency understand trends, measure outcomes, and strengthen services for Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, or low vision. Karen A. explained that the team “collects, organizes, analyzes, and reports the data that drives our programs and decision‑making,” noting that their work ensures staff have accurate and accessible information to support service delivery. Mansur A. added that improving data quality and expanding dashboard tools remain among the team’s top priorities this year, helping SSB move toward “more efficient, transparent, and insight‑driven reporting.”
A typical day on the team blends technical precision with collaboration across the agency. Karen and Mansur spend time reviewing data accuracy, preparing monthly and federal reports, and supporting staff with questions or data entry issues. “The work shifts between technical tasks and people‑focused support,” they shared, calling the role both dynamic and impactful. Their toolkit includes Power BI, SQL, Excel, and SSB’s case management systems—tools that help them uncover trends, evaluate program performance, and ensure reporting is consistent and timely.
For both team members, the most rewarding part of the work is knowing that their efforts make a real difference for the people SSB serves. “Our work helps leadership and staff make evidence‑based decisions that contribute to improved client outcomes,” Karen said. Mansur echoed this, noting how meaningful it is to see data used to improve programs and services. Looking ahead, the team is excited about expanding automation, making dashboards more user‑friendly, and exploring new ways to make data more accessible across SSB. As they put it, strengthening data systems ultimately strengthens the agency’s mission—ensuring Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, or low vision have the supports they need to achieve their goals and live independently.
Volunteer with Us! Opportunities in St. Cloud and Fergus Falls
Looking for a volunteer opportunity that can have a deep and lasting impact on the lives of others? Radio Talking Book (RTB) is a free news and information service that broadcasts 24 hours a day, seven days a week to listeners across Minnesota and the nation. We broadcast daily newspapers, current magazines and periodicals, and a wide variety of books to appeal to a diverse range of interests. The recordings are archived on the organization's website and on the app, Minnesota Radio Talking Book, so that people can more easily access their local newspaper. These recordings are created every day, so a solid roster of volunteers is crucial to keeping this free and important service up and running!
We are especially looking for volunteer broadcast readers in the St. Cloud and Fergus Falls areas. Outstate newspaper volunteers are asked to commit to one session per month—sessions last a few hours each and there is flexibility for you to select days that work with your schedule.
If interested in becoming a volunteer RTB reader, please complete this application.
2026 SSB Customer Satisfaction Survey
Head's up Workforce Development customers! The 2026 SSB Customer Satisfaction Survey will be arriving in your email boxes in August. This short online survey provides the data we need to evaluate how well SSB delivers services and supports.
You can help State Services for the Blind (SSB) improve the services that SSB staff deliver to blind, DeafBlind, and low vision clients in our state by taking a few minutes to complete the survey.
Accommodations will be available to those with limited internet access.
Low Vision Support Groups
If you are interested in joining a Low Vision Support Group or starting one of your own, please contact Stacy S. at stacy.shamblott@state.mn.us
Get Involved - Join the SRC-B Council
The State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind (SRC-B) acts as an advisory body to provide recommendations and a perspective from the community of the low vision, blind, and DeafBlind to State Services for the Blind on programs and services SSB provides to qualified Minnesotans. The council must have a majority of members who are blind, low vision, or DeafBlind, and who are not employed by SSB. Meetings are bimonthly and currently offer the option of joining in-person or via Zoom. Per diem reimbursement is available.
Current SRC-B seats open for application:
- American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Projects Representative
- Industry Representative #2
Be part of the advisory body to provide recommendations for SSB services and programming. Click this link to complete and submit an online Open Appointments Application on the Secretary of State website.
Other Announcements:
NLS July Patron Corner - Monday, July 13th
The topic for this program is Celebrating 20 Years of BARD: From Analog to Digital. The program will feature NLS narrators who have experienced both sides of the coin. The session will last 90 minutes and will be the first of two sessions celebrating the 20th anniversary of BARD, which NLS began pilot testing in 2006. (Part two is scheduled for October.)
Date: Monday, July 13th
Time: 6:00 pm central time
Location: Online
Click this link to join the NLS Patron Corner on Zoom.
Webinar - Driving Independence - Tuesday, July 14th
Join the Disability Employment Technical Assistance Center (DETAC) for a discussion on Driving Independence: Integrating Transportation Supports into Workforce Development.
Throughout America's history, transportation has been a hallmark of progress by connecting people to opportunity, strengthening communities, and expanding pathways to independence. As we commemorate both the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act and our nation’s 250th anniversary, DETAC will explore how transportation continues this legacy by helping people with disabilities access competitive, integrated employment and fully participate in community life. Join national transportation expert Dr. Judy L. Shanley of Easterseals, Ashley Gettys and Lukas Smith of the Easterseals Northeast Indiana affiliate, and DETAC Strategic Advisor Dan Middleton of Catalight to explore practical strategies for strengthening transportation supports in workforce development. Participants will learn how to identify and coordinate transportation resources, leverage mobility management and travel training, and build partnerships—including with employers—to integrate transportation into employment services and address barriers to job attainment and retention.
Date: Tuesday, July 14th
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 pm central time
Location: Online
Click here to register for the transportation discussion webinar.
Participate in a Survey for Seniors - Deadline July 15
The Minnesota Comprehensive Aging Survey is a statewide survey that asks older Minnesotans about their daily lives, needs and experiences.
Answering the survey will help the state improve services and supports for you and your community.
- You can take this survey if you’re 60 or older and live in Minnesota.
- The survey is optional and takes about 20 minutes.
- Your answers are private and will not be linked to your name.
Complete the online survey in English or Spanish by July 15.
A final report with findings will be shared in fall 2026.
Disability Pride Festival - Thursday, July 16
Come celebrate Disability Pride, culture, and community, because it’s truly a whole vibe! July is Disability Pride Month, and everyone is welcome for a joyful, family-friendly celebration honoring the richness, diversity, and contributions of people with disabilities.
This free event is hosted by Advocating Change Together (ACT) and brings together community members from across Minnesota to uplift disability identity, culture, and pride.
Event Details
What: Fourth Annual Disability Pride Festival
When: Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Minnesota State Capitol, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul
Event page: Disability Pride Festival
Facebook event: Fourth Annual ACT Disability Pride Festival
Webinar - Sensory Development - Friday, July 17th
Join OIB-TAC for a webinar on Sensory Development: Harnessing the Power of Non-Visual Senses for Everyday Living.
Discover the transformative role of sensory development in daily life for people with visual impairment. Led by Paul Hastings of the Carroll Center in Newton, MA, this webinar demonstrates how harnessing the non‑visual senses can unlock new skills, strengthen spatial understanding, and improve orientation in familiar and unfamiliar environments. Professionals will gain practical, immediately usable exercises and strategies to help older adults apply sensory techniques to a variety of everyday tasks and mobility.
Date: Friday, July 17th
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 pm central time
Location: Online
Click here to register for the sensory development webinar.
Celebrate America's 250th
Even though July 4th has passed, there's still time to celebrate the Semi quincentennial. Here some fun events around the state to keep the celebration going:
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America 250 Block Party: A large, family-friendly gathering hosted by the Center of the American Experiment. It will feature live music, food trucks, face painting, and patriotic speeches on the Capitol steps.
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Date & Time: Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 12:00 PM
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Venue: Minnesota State Capitol, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, St. Paul, MN
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USA 250th Hiawatha Train Excursion: A historical, nostalgia-filled train ride traveling through western Minnesota specifically themed around the 250th anniversary.
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Date: July 17–18, 2026
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Venue: Departing from Montevideo, MN
Many other events are taking place across the state throughout the summer. Check out Explore Minnesota's America 250 events calendar for a complete list.
In the News - Eye Drop Recall
Millions of Eye Drop Bottles Recalled Over Contamination Concerns
ADA Anniversary - July 26th
Celebrating the 36th Anniversary of the ADA
On July 26, 2026, the nation will celebrate the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark civil rights law that transformed public life for millions of people. Signed into law on July 26, 1990, the ADA established comprehensive protections to ensure individuals with disabilities have equal access to employment, public accommodations, transportation, telecommunications, and state and local government services.
The ADA has played a central role in expanding accessibility and reducing discrimination, helping to create communities where people with disabilities can fully participate and thrive. Its impact can be seen in workplaces, public facilities, transit systems, and digital communication—areas that continue to evolve toward greater inclusion.
As we observe the 2026 anniversary, we recognize both the progress made and the ongoing work ahead. The ADA remains a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to advance equality, remove barriers, and support opportunities for all.
For Your Reading Pleasure
Here are a couple newsworthy articles to explore this month. Click the links below to access those that pique your interest.
KARE 11 - Meta offers free AI glasses to eligible legally blind veterans
Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness - Exploring labor market narratives within the r/Blind Reddit online community
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