A Conversation with President Mark Riccobono to Celebrate Our 100th Episode
Release Date: 04/08/2024
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Cast Your Vote, Use your Voice: Introducing Vote That Jawn.
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As we move through the fall, it’s time to prepare for election day on November 5, 2024. Join White Canes Connect contributor Simon Bonenfant, as he speaks with Carson Eckhard, Youth Director of Vote That Jawn. They discuss the importance of voting, resources for involving youth in the voting process, and introduce their community voting event happening on October 16th. Vote That Jawn was created to amplify youth voices about issues that matter to them when they submit their ballot. Through community events, featured youth writings, and educational college classes, Vote That Jawn aims...
info_outlineIn this 100th episode of White Canes Connect, Mark Riccobono, President of the National Federation of the Blind, joins Lisa and David for a celebratory and insightful discussion. President Riccobono reflects on the podcast's journey, emphasizing its role in amplifying the voices of the blind community and fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. He shares his journey with blindness, highlighting the transformative impact of finding mentorship and a supportive community within the Federation.
President Riccobono discusses the significance of advocacy, the evolution of technology for the blind, and the importance of challenging societal misconceptions about blindness. Through his narrative, listeners understand the Federation's mission, the value of resilience, and the collective effort to build a more inclusive society.
President Riccobono's passion for baseball shines through his unique experiences with the sport, notably his achievement of throwing out the first pitch at two Major League Baseball games in two different stadiums. As a lifelong baseball fan, this opportunity was more than just a ceremonial gesture; it was a moment of pride and representation for the blind community. He even tells us his choice: Brewers or Orioles.
President Riccobono's achievement as the first blind person certified to independently sail a Badger Tech at the University of Wisconsin showcases his pioneering spirit. He explains that one of the tasks to get certified was to capsize the sailboat and then right the boat himself.
Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/100
Links Mentioned
- Article written by President Riccobono on the Presidential Release and customary endings: https://web.nfbcal.org/pipermail/brl-monitor/2018/000071.html
- Apply for a Jernigan Scholarship to the National Convention in Orlando: https://www.nfbofpa.org/jernigan/
- National Convention in Orlando July 3-8. Book it: https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention-prep
Connect with President Riccobono
On Mastodon: @[email protected], Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.a.riccobono, on Personal.ai: https://riccobono.personal.ai/messaging/profile. You can also email him at [email protected].
An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA
Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.
Donate to the NFB of PA
If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.
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