When Brenda Niccum found herself in the position of losing her ability to drive due to vision loss, she used it as an opportunity for self-empowerment. Now Brenda advocates on behalf of other people with disabilities, helps others navigate the world of services in her community, and helps connect their stories to local government agencies. This week, she guides us through her journey.

Foundation Fighting Blindness

https://www.fightingblindness.org/

ILRU Centers for Independent Living Directory.

https://www.ilru.org/cil-directory

The League

https://the-league.org/

Blessed, Bold, & Blind

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blessed-bold-blind

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brenda Niccum and her background

01:11 Brenda's early life and diagnosis with retinitis pigmentosa

02:29 The moment Brenda realized she couldn't drive safely anymore

03:50 First experience with paratransit and initial feelings

05:27 The selfless decision to stop driving for safety reasons

06:53 Brenda's work at the League for the Blind and Disabled

08:52 Overcoming stigma and promoting transit independence

12:13 Transit challenges in Indiana's mid-sized cities

14:03 Advocacy efforts and engaging with legislators

16:40 Brenda's involvement in transit boards and leadership roles

17:56 Driver training and improving transit experiences for people with disabilities

22:27 The importance of funding and community investment in transit

23:43 Impact of state politics on local transit services

26:31 Brenda's inspiring outlook and personal growth through adversity

28:51 The rewarding nature of advocacy and community support

30:55 How to connect with Brenda and learn more about her work

Questions? email [email protected]

nondriver is a production of Nondrivers Alliance. More info: https://nondrivers.org

Hosted by Anna Zivarts and Devin Silvernail. This episode was produced by Devin Silvernail.

Pick up a copy of Anna's book When Driving is Not An Option: Steering Away from Car Dependency. https://annazivarts.com/