Jim Richter, the blind Indianapolis man best known as the “Broom Guy,” still has trouble wrapping his head around the recent shake-up in his life.

After the devastating blow in February of being booted from his long-time spot outside the Nora Post Office, where he had sold brooms for decades, Richter’s fortunes took a surprising turn. The change has been so dramatic, Richter said, that he now views the incident as a blessing in disguise.

The abrupt about-face — which began following an IndyStar story about Richter’s plight — brought the anonymous, street-corner icon a rush of local and national attention, and a new level of respect and support in the community. It’s also reflected in a boon to the modest business Richter has pursued for more than 60 years to supplement his Social Security benefits.

The full extent of that transformation was evident Sunday, when the “Broom Guy” served as the honorary grand marshal for the 12th annual Walking for Dreamscharity fundraiser on the canal Downtown. Richter, 78, started the walk, which included a team raising money for the Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation, with a ceremonial “dropping of the broom.”

And next month, he will be honored again with a “Jim Richter Night” at the Marion County Fair. Read more