The Value of Time & the Blind Merchants Big Fundraiser

In this episode of iCantCU, I share my experience traveling to Harrisburg for the Blind Merchants Holiday Party and fundraiser, reflecting on the challenges of navigating public transportation as a person with very limited sight. Timing was a major hurdle, from the unpredictable delays with CCT to coordinating a group of 17 people on an Amtrak train. I discuss how small inefficiencies can snowball, highlighting the importance of time—our most precious resource.

Once in Harrisburg, the event was a success, with 65 tickets sold, great food, a DJ playing festive music, and lively auctions and raffles that raised over $6,000. I was impressed by how smoothly everything ran, despite a few hiccups, like managing auction payments and losing a check. I also recount some funny moments, like my guide dog encounter with a cracker I dropped and the dictation mishaps that never fail to amuse (or frustrate).

I wrap up by reflecting on the importance of accessibility and time management while balancing humor and frustration. The fundraiser was a rewarding reminder of what our community can accomplish, even when obstacles arise.

Show notes at https://www.iCantCU.com/276 

Links Mentioned (product links are affiliate links so that I may earn a commission.)

• GoPro Hero 13 Black: https://amzn.to/48rmvpC 
• Ziggy’s favorite birthday present: https://amzn.to/3ZpuLTO
• Be My Eyes app (free): https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 
• Seeing AI app (free): https://www.seeingai.com/ 
• That Real Blind Tech Show episode 167: https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-167-the-human-alexa 
• Index of That Real Blind Tech Show episodes: https://www.icantcu.com/trbts/ 
• Watch episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iCantCU

Support iCantCU

When shopping at Amazon, I would appreciate it if you clicked on this link to make your purchases: https://www.iCantCU.com/amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associate Program and earn commissions on qualifying purchases. The best part is, you don't pay extra for doing this!

White Canes Connect Podcast Episode 117

In episode 117 co-host Lisa Bryant and I speak with Kennedy Zimnik and Karl Belanger from the National Federation of the Blind to discuss the Accessibility Toolkit, a resource designed to empower blind and low-vision individuals to advocate for accessible technology. Kennedy, an Access Tech Specialist, and Karl, a Non-Visual Accessibility Analyst, share the story behind the Toolkit, which evolved from a 2018 Braille Monitor article to a comprehensive, step-by-step guide now available on the NFB’s website.

   Find the podcast on

Apple Podcasts

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

YouTube

Https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

White Canes Connect On Twitter

Https://www.twitter.com/PABlindPodcast

My Podcast Gear

Here is all my gear and links to it on Amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associates Program and earn a commission on qualifying purchases.