In the latest episode of the Doing Good podcast, host Megan McInnis sits down with Steve Bauer, a retired Braille instructor and dedicated volunteer at the Braille Institute. With a background in radio and a 15-year career as a staff member teaching Braille and assistive technology, Steve has dedicated his life to literacy and accessibility for the visually impaired. Now retired, he continues to serve his community by volunteering at the Braille Institute library, training individuals to use Braille e-readers and other assistive devices. His story is a testament to how passion and persistence can change lives.

Making Braille More Accessible

Braille is more than just a reading system—it’s a gateway to independence and opportunity. Steve explains that while fewer than 10% of blind individuals read Braille, 90% of employed blind people do, underscoring its crucial role in education and career success. “Braille is so important,” he shares, emphasizing its impact beyond reading for pleasure—it’s a vital tool for navigating life.

One of the most exciting advancements in accessibility is the introduction of free Braille e-readers. Traditionally, Braille books have been bulky and expensive, but new digital devices are making them more portable. However, many recipients struggled with setup and usage, creating a gap in accessibility. Seeing this need, Steve stepped in to offer hands-on training, ensuring more people could benefit from this life-changing technology. “I wanted to help folks learn,” he recalls, a simple statement that has fueled years of dedicated service.

Volunteering: A Pathway to Impact

Steve’s journey into volunteering wasn’t planned—when he voiced the need for more Braille training, the Braille Institute’s library director asked, “Are you volunteering?” His response? “Well, sure, why not?” That moment led him back into the classroom, where he now helps individuals navigate assistive technology and trains new Braille users, from children to adults.

In addition to his work at the library, Steve plays an active role in the Braille Challenge, a nationwide competition that helps students develop their Braille skills. He helps score and grade competitors, witnessing firsthand the next generation of Braille readers in action.

The Lifelong Value of Service

For Steve, volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it’s about ensuring that others have the opportunities he was fortunate to receive. He recalls a student in her seventies who, despite initial struggles, learned Braille and later converted all her recipes and contact lists to an accessible format. “I hope I’m this persistent when I’m 83,” he says, inspired by the determination of those he teaches.

His advice for anyone looking to volunteer? “Find something you’re interested in doing.” Whether it’s teaching, advocacy, or mentorship, dedicating time to a cause you care about can create a lasting impact.

Steve’s journey proves that making a difference doesn’t require grand gestures—sometimes, it starts with simply saying, “Sure, why not?”

Click here to listen to Steve’s episode of the Doing Good podcast. Doing Good is a 501c3 nonprofit. www.doinggood.tv