Convention Memory Minute Contest: Share Your First Convention Experience

by Tracy Soforenko

From the Editor: Tracy Soforenko is the chairman of our Kenneth Jernigan Fund. He brings us news about an interesting contest that will help us get to know one another a little better and promote another fine program conducted in memory of an outstanding leader and former president of the National Federation of the Blind. Here is what Tracy says:

In 2005, I attended my first convention where I learned the Texas Two-Step while wearing learning shades…well, no, I wore a pair of black socks over my eyes. That experience taught me that I could do anything.

For many, our very first convention becomes a life-changing experience. During the May 2020 Presidential Release, President Mark Riccobono shared memories from his first convention: dodging the persistent Buna Dahal who wanted him to buy a candy bar, exploring Disneyland with students from the Louisiana Center for the Blind, and putting together all the pieces of Federation philosophy at the end of the convention.

As a means of encouraging others to register for this year’s convention, we ask that you share a video or audio message about a special memory of your first convention in less than sixty seconds. By tagging your social media post with #NFB20 or submitting the entry directly to us by email or phone, you will be entered to win a cash prize and have your story shared at this year’s convention.

Contest Rules

We are seeking entries that are heartwarming, funny, and creative. All entries must:

• be less than one minute!
• be received by July 1, 2020
• include the words “National Federation of the Blind” in full
• include your name in spoken form
• nominate three other people by name to participate
• have the submitter’s name preregistered for convention

How to Submit

Contest submissions can be made in several ways:

• On Social Media - Post your video using #NFB20 on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok. In the same post, tag three others to participate, too.
• By Email - If you do not have social media, record a video, voice memo, or audio file with your phone or computer, and email the file to [email protected].
• By Phone - We’ve made participating as easy as leaving us a voicemail! Simply call the National Center at 410-659-9314, dial extension 2020, and leave a one-minute voicemail of your experience. Be sure to nominate three friends as part of your message, then call them to share the news after you hang up.

Note: Submissions by phone or email may be used on National Federation of the Blind social media.

Prizes and Award Announcement

The Kenneth Jernigan Convention Scholarship Fund Committee will review submissions and award the top three winners based on the creativity and impact of their stories. Submissions will be played during convention, and winners will be announced at the banquet.

• First Place Winner: $200
• Second Place Winner: $150
• Third Place Winner: $100

Be sure to register for national convention to get the latest updates and agenda. You can register and learn more at nfb.org/convention.