Episode 47: Dr. Kirk Adams, American Foundation for the Blind

In this episode, we talk with philanthropist Dr. Kirk Adams. Kirk became blind around age 5 and grew up to be resilient and compassionate to those who are also affected by blindness. He went on to became the Past President of the Board and CEO of the American Foundation for the Blind and has since become a consultant in his own practice called Innovative Impact. Tune in to hear how Kirk is making the world a better place and works to have it more equitable and inclusive.

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Guest Bio

Dr. Adams spent his professional career diligently driving the inclusion of people who are blind throughout society. A long white cane user since age six, he attended the Oregon State School for the Blind, and attribute the blindness skills and strong sense of internal agency gained there for much of his success in life. He entered the nonprofit sector through fundraising. 

His first nonprofit job was as a development officer for the Seattle Public Library Foundation, raising money for the statewide Talking Book and Braille (NLS) Library. During that time, he earned a Master’s degree in Not-For-Profit Leadership from Seattle University, and earned the Certified Fundraising Executive credential from the Association of Fundraising professionals. He was originally hired by the Seattle Lighthouse to stand up a comprehensive fundraising program and a supporting Foundation and fundraising board. 

Moving into the CEO roles at the Lighthouse and AFB, he continuously developed my network of relationships with others interested in the inclusion of people with disabilities. He currently has 4900 friends on Facebook, and 29,000 connections on LinkedIn. In his new role as a consultant, he’s excited about putting his skills, experience, and networks to good use, supporting innovative, impactful projects, like the Inspiration Foundation.


Show Notes

Connect with Kirk on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Transcript

COMING SOON.

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