The American Council of the Blind of Nebraska began as the result of a concern arising regarding where the Library for the Blind would be housed. Originally this specialized lending Library was housed within the offices of the State services for the Visually Impaired, now known as The Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired. The first meetings to establish our organization came about in order to assure equal access not only to the library but also to guarantee access to other blind rehabilitation services to all visually impaired persons.

We are a grassroots organization committed to maintaining that philosophy. Early meetings were held in the homes of Betty Hofmann and James Faimon; and these two are considered as our founding fathers; along with a core of concerned and dedicated individuals including John Smith, Bob and Garnet Nalley, Marge Morre, Bill Orester, Janet Ineck – Doulas and Joann Curusso who worked to organize the state organization. These individuals were all concerned over issues dealing with the visually impaired.

James Faimon was an attorney with the city of Lincoln and served as president for many years. Until his passing in June of 2012, he remained active both state and nationally. For his dedicated work he was the recipient of the Carl T. Curtis award, which is semi-occasionally presented to an individual for their outstanding contributions in service to The Visually Impaired. Additionally, he also received the Optimists Man of the Year award for his contribution to organizing Beeper Ball and other community services.