A compelling presentation that will shed light on the unique challenges individuals face when managing their finances with visual impairment. This engaging talk will explore the various obstacles and misconceptions surrounding financial management for the visually impaired, while also emphasizing the importance of setting and pursuing financial goals. Through inspiring stories and practical strategies, the presentation will showcase how individuals with vision loss can develop financial independence, create effective financial plans, and leverage innovative tools and technologies to overcome obstacles. Attendees will gain valuable insights into building financial security, unlocking opportunities, and ultimately achieving their aspirations, proving that vision loss is not a hindrance but a springboard towards successful financial accomplishments.
BIO
Chris Peterson is the founder and CEO of Penny Forward. He was born blind and raised with the expectation that he’d lead a successful life. He has a Bachelor’s in computer science from Southwest Minnesota State University, a Master’s in software engineering from the University of Minnesota, and has worked as a software developer for IBM, Lenovo, and Thrivent Financial.
Throughout his adult life, Chris has learned a great deal about managing his finances, mostly from accidental successes and mistakes he has made along the way. In 2020, he decided to make it his mission to teach other blind people some of the things he had to learn the hard way. Knowing he couldn’t do it alone, he began building Penny Forward, a community of people who are blind, their families, and friends, who share his interest in financial independence. He lives in Minneapolis with his wife Kelly, children Abby and Elliott, retired guide dog Javier, pet dog Boomer, and cat Foxy.
Eric Yarberry is the CEO of World Services for the Blind and proudly serves as the treasurer for Penny Forward. He graduated from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock with a Bachelor’s in English and a Master’s in Professional and Technical Writing. He enjoys volunteering his time to the Arkansas Association for Education and Rehabilitation for the Blind and Visually Impaired as well as the Arkansas School for the Blind Alumni Association.
Eric is an avid outdoorsmen and a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitor. He brings to the table real world knowledge of living with a visual impairment and over 7 years of working with blind youth and adults. He lives in Little Rock with his lovely wife, Emily, and his Leader Dog, Hank.
