From Left:  Jesse Hartle, Government Programs Specialist, National Federation of the Blind;  Nicky Gacos, President of the National Association of Blind Merchants, division of the National Federation of the Blind; Eric Dell, Senior Vice President, NAMA; John G. Paré, Jr. Executive Director for Advocacy and Policy National Federation of the Blind.

National Federation of the Blind and NAMA:  Building on Their Advocacy Work Together

(CHICAGO) OCTOBER 29, 2013 – NAMA’s Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Eric Dell visited the National Federation for the Blind (NFB) headquarters last week to continue and expand the advocacy relationship with the NFB and Blind Vendors.

NAMA has increased its advocacy efforts with the Blind Vendor community across the country, specifically on state and local issues in California, Tennessee, and the District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.).

Nicky Gacos, a member of NAMA’s Government Affairs committee and the President of the National Association of Blind Merchants, initiated the meeting with Dell and NFB leadership.  “While our work together benefits Blind Vendors, it also positively impacts the industry overall.  I look forward to our continued joint advocacy efforts,” said Gacos.

“Our work together will also include issues at the U.S. Mint related to potential recommendations to Congress on the metallic content of coins,” said Dell.  “Our advocacy partnership has been very beneficial to the industry.”

Founded in 1936, NAMA is the national association representing the $42 billion U.S. vending and refreshment services industry.  With more than 1800 member companies – including many of the world’s most recognized brands – NAMA provides advocacy, education and research for its membership.