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Business Owner Who’s Blind Earns Achievement Award

09/26/2018

For Immediate Release
September 26, 2018

Media Contact: Kandy Cayce
 DHS Division of Services for the Blind
(501) 682-0332

William Trotter of Springdale delivers an acceptance speech after receiving an achievement award from the DHS Division of Services for the Blind presented by Shane Bronson, DSB Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, seated.

William Trotter of Springdale delivers an acceptance speech after receiving an achievement award from the DHS Division of Services for the Blind presented by Shane Bronson, DSB Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, seated.

Business Owner Who’s Blind Earns Achievement Award  

Little Rock, Ark. –  William Trotter of Springdale, who’s blind, has been named the area’s outstanding Consumer of the Year by the Department of Human Services Division of Services for the Blind (DSB).

Trotter is a federally licensed firearms salesman and distributor. He has been the owner and operator of Ozark Bear Arms since 2011, where he buys, sells, and trades firearms and accessories.

DSB Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Shane Bronson nominated Trotter for the achievement award because of his determination to overcome adversity and succeed as a small businessman. He was selected from Washington County.

The award presentation was made at the noon meeting of the Fayetteville Lions Club on September 26.

Trotter’s blindness is due to congenital glaucoma. Trotter appreciates the services he has received from DSB. He purchased his own technology, but DSB provided counseling and guidance; transportation services; and orientation and mobility training to use a white cane to increase his level of independence at home and work. DSB also purchased the initial stocks and supplies, tools, equipment, and licensure costs for him to start his business.

Trotter has a Bachelor’s degree in History/Political Science from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

This is the 11th year that DSB has given Consumer of the Year awards to recognize individuals who have managed their rehabilitation plans, gained marketable skills, secured good jobs, and become role models for others. An overall state winner will be selected at the end of the year.

DSB provides vocational rehabilitation services to adults who are blind or severely visually impaired and whose goal is successful employment. The division also serves youth and older blind individuals. For information about DSB’s programs and services, visit the DSB website at https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/about-dhs/dsb, or call 1-800-960-9270, 501-682-5463, or deaf relay 711. 

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