Jim Hoxie Honored with Champion of Independent Living Services Award
Belle Fourche, S.D. — The Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) has named Jim Hoxie, a retired forester from Spearfish, as the recipient of this year’s Champion of Independent Living Services Award.
The award was formally presented during SILC’s Champion of Independent Living Services Award Presentation on Tuesday, September 30, in Belle Fourche.
Since its establishment in 2015, the award has recognized 11 individuals and one organization for advancing independence, inclusion, and disability awareness across South Dakota. By receiving this year’s honor, Hoxie joins that distinguished “Team of Champions.”
On Wednesday, October 8, in Pierre, SD, Hoxie received a second award, the Governor's Award for an Outstanding Individual with a Disability. This honoree has demonstrated exceptional commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities have equal opportunities to thrive in the workplace.
Hoxie’s journey reflects both resilience and advocacy. Diagnosed with glaucoma in 2001, his condition progressed until he was declared legally blind in 2013. In 2017, he pursued vision rehabilitation training at the Central Blind Rehabilitation Center at Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital in Illinois. The skills and confidence he gained not only restored his independence but also inspired him to become a strong voice for the blind and for white cane users across the region.
Part of that advocacy took shape in schools, where Hoxie became a spokesperson for blindness awareness. Visiting elementary classrooms, he taught children courtesy rules for interacting with the blind while highlighting the importance of the white cane. His presentations featured hands-on learning, including white canes he personally crafted from wooden dowels painted white with a red tip and black handle. Students enthusiastically embraced the chance to try cane mobility activities, making the lessons both educational and memorable.
Over the past seven years, Hoxie has seen a shift in the Spearfish community, with more residents recognizing what the white cane represents. Inspired by the impact of his school presentations, he and co-author Joanna Jones created the children’s book Grandpa’s White Cane to expand education and awareness beyond the classroom.
Hoxie’s presentations continue to deliver not only information but also inspiration, leaving a lasting impression on audiences young and old. Mr. Hoxie’s commitment to education, safety, and advocacy is both inspiring and impactful. He serves as a powerful role model, not only for students but for educators and community members alike.
The Champion of Independent Living Services Award celebrates individuals who demonstrate courage, leadership, and a commitment to advancing independence and accessibility. Hoxie’s story exemplifies the spirit of the honor and highlights the power of advocacy to create lasting change.
Article by Joanna Jones, Co-Author of Grandpa’s White Cane