Glider Spotlight: Meet Kolby Garrison

In this monthly series, we put the spotlight on our Gliders community to celebrate individuals who inspire us. This month, we’re highlighting Kolby Garrison, Accessibility Consulting & Compliance Services Coordinator for the American Council of the Blind, and avid NASCAR fan!

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Tell us a bit about your background and upbringing

I’ve lived in North Carolina my entire life. I have been totally blind since birth and consider myself infinitely blessed to have been raised by wonderful parents — along with my younger sister — who never treated me differently because I couldn’t see.

From an early age, I was encouraged to try everything, maintain a positive attitude, and never allow blindness to define or limit me. Growing up, I participated in gymnastics, dance, bike riding, ice skating, musical theater, and just about anything else that interested me. If it sounded fun, I gave it a shot.

I attended public school and was fortunate to have several standout teachers who profoundly shaped both my education and my mindset. I’m also deeply grateful for the supportive friends and mentors who have walked alongside me throughout my life and continue to do so today.

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Where do you live? How did you end up there?

North Carolina has always been home. I was born and raised here, built my career here, and created a life surrounded by family, community, and opportunities that have allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. There’s something special about staying rooted while continuing to evolve.

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What type of work do you do — both volunteer and otherwise?

Professionally, I serve as the Accessibility Consulting & Compliance Services Coordinator for the American Council of the Blind. In this role, I work to advance accessibility in all aspects of life for people with disabilities.

Advocating for accessibility isn’t just my job — it’s my passion. It’s both personal and professional. I believe accessibility creates opportunity, independence, and dignity, and I’m grateful to work in a space where I can help move that mission forward.

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We hear that you are connected to NASCAR. Tell us about going to the events. What do you like and dislike?

I am an avid motorsports fan and attend NASCAR races whenever I can. There is nothing quite like being at the track. I love the roar of the engines, the smell of the fuel and rubber, the vibration in the air, and the overall energy of race day. It’s an immersive experience that engages every sense.

My husband also works for NASCAR, which makes it even more meaningful for me.

As for dislikes? The heat can be intense, and navigating large crowds can sometimes be challenging — but the excitement and atmosphere always make it worthwhile.

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After people, photos, and pets, what’s the first thing you’d rescue if your home were on fire?

As much of my technology as I could carry! My devices are my connection to the world — work, communication, entertainment, and independence — so they would definitely be high on the list.

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What’s the best thing you’ve crossed off your bucket list?

Singing the National Anthem at a NASCAR race was an incredible honor and a moment I will never forget. Standing there, knowing where I was and what it meant, was truly unforgettable.

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If you had to teach a class on one topic outside of your work expertise, what would it be?

I would love to teach a class on living the Guide Dog lifestyle. The partnership between a handler and a guide dog is unique, empowering, and life-changing. There’s so much to share about trust, teamwork, and the joy those partnerships bring.

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What’s a cause or charity that means a lot to you?

Advancing accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities will always be at the heart of what matters most to me. Creating a world where everyone can fully participate benefits not just individuals, but society as a whole.

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Anything else you’d like to share with the Gliders community?

Never lose hope. Never give up.

Challenges will come, but resilience, determination, and community carry us forward. I’m excited to be part of a movement that continues to push boundaries and create new possibilities.

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