Blind Woodworker Teaches Skills, Confidence

0:00This is Corey, here with your quick two-minute update from Anchorage News today. In Alaska, a long tradition of skilled woodworkers thrives, fueled by plentiful timber and breath-taking landscapes passed down through generations. Now, Kevin Whitley, who is completely blind, leads woodworking classes at the Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. He teaches others who are blind or have low vision how to safely use tools and craft items with pride. Whitley grew up around his dad's witch shop, mastering tools from a young age. In 2009, a violent accident took his sight, leading him to the center for computer training. There, he drew inspiration from a confident instructor who showed him it's possible to carry on strong. A former cement finisher, Whitley rediscovered woodworking under the guidance of center instructor Lowell Zucker, who taught him safe techniques, without sight. When Zucker retired years later, Whitley stepped in, taking over the role he had long eyed. For his students, the classes build more than skills.

1:02They ease fears and boost independence. Whitley knows that anxiety first hand from his early days at the center, and he helps clients stand taller, crack jokes, and reclaim confidence within. Weeks. Today, Whitley calls the center home and aims to turn every participant into a success story, proving that vision loss doesn't end hands on. Creativity Support for this episode comes from our sponsor, see the description. Headphones in a pillow. Once you try it, it just makes sense. S-O-L-I-SOLYPILLOW.COM