National Braille Press of Boston Celebrates 20 Yrs of "A Million Laughs for Literacy" on Nov. 13

National Braille Press (NBP) will mark a milestone this fall as it hosts the 20th anniversary of its signature gala, “A Million Laughs for Literacy,” on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the 521 Overlook in Fenway Park. Since its launch in 2005, the gala has paired world-class comedy entertainment with its mission to expand braille literacy by raising critical financial support for braille books and other materials for blind and low-vision children and adults.

Co-chairs of this year’s NBP gala are Tom Sullivan, Mitch Rosen and Ted & Kathy Truscott. This year also marks the 20th anniversary of Sullivan’s leadership as gala co-chair. Sullivan, founder and director of Lumber Liquidators, Cabinets to Go, and owner and investor of Trashology, has been at the heart of A Million Laughs for Literacy since its very first year, helping to grow the event into one of Boston’s most anticipated celebrations.

“A Million Laughs for Literacy is still going strong after 20 years thanks to our dedicated co-chairs, Tom Sullivan, Mitch Rosen and Ted and Kathy Truscott,” said Brian Mac Donald, NBP President and CEO. This year is a special one for Tom, who first came up with idea of adding comedy to the gala program to make it special and different from others. The funds raised will go towards producing vital braille materials for blind, low-vision children, and adults, giving them the same access to materials as sighted people.”

The evening’s featured performer is award-winning comedian, writer, and actor Demetri Martin who is known for his smart, offbeat human that blends clever wordplay and music. He rose to fame in the early 2000s through appearances on Premium Blend, Late Night with Conan O’Brien and The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. His Comedy Central series, Important Things with Demetri Martin, aired in 2009. He is a best-selling author and the creator of the indie film Dean, which won the top narrative prize at the 2016 Tribeca Film Festival. His latest Netflix special, Demetri Deconstructed (2024) offers a fresh and introspective take on the art of comedy. Martin brings his one-of-a-kind humor to support NBP’s mission of braille literacy.

Guests will also enjoy a musical performance by singer Lavender Darcangelo, 30, of Fitchburg, MA, who rose to national prominence as a finalist on America’s Got Talent in 2023. Blind and autistic, Darcangelo has inspired audiences nationwide with her powerful voice and her advocacy for inclusion and accessibility. Her story and music are featured on her website: www.lavenderdarcangelo.com.

A Million Laughs for Literacy has become a cornerstone event for NBP, blending laughter, inspiration, and community to shine a spotlight on the power of braille. Proceeds from the evening directly support braille literacy programs, ensuring blind readers of all ages have access to the books and materials they need to learn, grow, and thrive.

Tickets and sponsorships are available here. Donations are also welcome for those unable to attend.

About National Braille Press

National Braille Press is a non-profit braille publisher and producer of braille products. NBP creates products and programs to support braille and tactile literacy in the blind community and to provide access to information that empower blind people to actively engage in work, family, and community. For more information visit www.nbp.org

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