Calendar

LightHouse will be closed on Wednesday, June 19 for the Juneteenth holiday.

Events in January 2022

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
Dec 26
Dec 27
Dec 28
Dec 29
Dec 30
Dec 31
Jan 1
Jan 2
Jan 3
Jan 4
Jan 5(1 event)


Jan 5

Between class obligations, the additional hours of homework, and many other responsibilities students have in their lives it becomes clear that a stretch break might be a good addition to the week. To help students structure a break this into their busy week the LightHouse Youth Program is starting a Midweek Meditation and Movement series. Each week our class leader, Ellie Kneer will lead us in activities that will help us feel a little more grounded through activities such as yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness exercises. Activities will be geared for all experience levels and will soon be your mid-week escape with your blind and low vision friends.

Who: All students 24 years of age and younger

What: Weekly virtual gathering of blind and low vision students to participate in yoga, meditation, and mindfulness activities

When: Wednesday afternoons from 5:00 to 6:00 pm Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

RSVP: If you are interested in signing up for the Midweek Meditation and Movement, please contact Jamey Gump by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at (415) 694-7372.

Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program.

 

Jan 6
Jan 7(1 event)


Jan 7

Reel Escape Audio Description Club: Friday Evening Daredevils
Friday evenings @ 8:00 pm

We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. After a summer break and some adjustment to when our club gathers, we are excited announce our fall 2021 program options for the many ages of youth we work with. Starting on Friday, September 3rd, teens, and young adults will gather to watch the Netflix series, Daredevil, a TV series about a blind attorney by day and vigilante by night. Our weekly gathering will start at 8:00 pm Friday evenings, leaving plenty of time to watch that week’s episode and connect with your EHC and LightHouse friends.

***Parents Please Note*** – the Daredevil TV Series has adult content and is rated TV-MA and contains the following: crude indecent language (L), explicit sexual activity (S), and graphic violence (V). A more detailed parental guide can be found at - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3322312/parentalguide If any youth under the age of 18 wish to join this series, they must have a parent or guardian contact a LightHouse youth team member with written permission for their child to participate.

Who: older teens and young adults that are blind or low vision
What: audio description media club via Zoom
When: Friday evenings in January at 8:00 pm (excluding January 21)
Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting
RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program

If you are interested in signing up for the Reel Escape Audio Description Club, please contact Jamey Gump by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at (415) 694-7372.

Jan 8(2 events)


Jan 8

Starting in the fall of 2021, the LightHouse Youth Program will be hosting a new series called Cooking Creates Community. This monthly virtual cooking lesson and conversation will be led by LightHouse staff and a rotating guest mentor that is blind or low vision and who has a passion for cooking, baking or anything food related. This class will be a chance for blind and low vision students to learn some basic independent cooking skills at home from cool mentors that may have invaluable wisdom to share about questions students might have, all wile connecting with peers and deepening the connections to their blind and low vision communities both near and far.

Our Cooking Creates Community series will run between an hour and an hour and a half starting at 1:00 pm on the second Saturday of the month. Those that sign-up for the program will be sent via email the list of equipment, supplies, recipes, and the zoom link they will be using for the program. If students can sign up by the 4th of each month LightHouse will mail the ingredients for that month’s recipe to their home. Marshmallow Yams and Pineapple.

Who: Middle and Highschool students who are blind or have low vision

What: Virtual cooking lesson and conversation led by blind and low vision mentors about how we get creative in the kitchen

When: Second Saturday of the month at 1:00pm

Where: Anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

RSVP: For students those that RSVP at least one week prior to the program gathering will receive in the mail cooking supplies for that month’s recipes.

If you are interested in signing up for the Cooking Creates Community, please contact Jamey Gump by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.


Jan 8

During the last few years of teen session at EHC, our youth have been lucky to have a group of wood workers inspire our campers to take up the hobby. In order to encourage youth to further their excitement around this craft, the LightHouse Youth Program will be hosting a monthly virtual wood polishing club. In addition to making space for EHC and LightHouse friends to connect while polishing wood into art, we will invite a woodworker who is blind or has low vision to join us and share their story and share wisdom with the next generation of artiest. Students that sign up for the program will receive the basic materials and equipment to get started with wood polishing. Those students that remain active in the program and improve their skill will become eligible for additional raw materials that they can turn into art or gifts for loved ones. The polishing party takes place on the second Saturday of the month at 7:00pm. Each gathering will have time dedicated to update others about their projects, learn a little about that month’s mentor, and most importantly have as much time as the evening will allow to hangout and polish with your blind and low vision friends.

Who: Teens and young adult students who are blind or low vision

What: Virtual gathering space for young wood workers to connect with their EHC friends and other blind and low vision woodworkers from all over

When: Second Saturday of the month at 7:00pm

Where: Anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

Students who sign up for the program at least one week in advance will receive the basic materials and equipment to get started with wood polishing. Those students that remain active in the program and improve their skill will become eligible for additional raw materials that they can turn into art or gifts for loved ones. Each gathering will have time dedicated to update others about their projects, learn a little about that month’s mentor, and most importantly have as much time as the evening will allow to hangout and polish with your friends.

RSVP to Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.

Jan 9
Jan 10
Jan 11(1 event)


Jan 11

The National Federation of the Blind is a nationwide community of members that believe blind people can live the lives they want. We meet online via Zoom with the following schedule:

6:00 pm to 6:30 pm – Virtual Happy (Half) Hour
6:30 pm to 8:00 pm – Chapter Meeting

To RSVP, contact President Bobbi Pompey at bobbipompey@gmail.com or 336-988-6375.

Jan 12(1 event)


Jan 12

Between class obligations, the additional hours of homework, and many other responsibilities students have in their lives it becomes clear that a stretch break might be a good addition to the week. To help students structure a break this into their busy week the LightHouse Youth Program is starting a Midweek Meditation and Movement series. Each week our class leader, Ellie Kneer will lead us in activities that will help us feel a little more grounded through activities such as yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness exercises. Activities will be geared for all experience levels and will soon be your mid-week escape with your blind and low vision friends.

Who: All students 24 years of age and younger

What: Weekly virtual gathering of blind and low vision students to participate in yoga, meditation, and mindfulness activities

When: Wednesday afternoons from 5:00 to 6:00 pm Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

RSVP: If you are interested in signing up for the Midweek Meditation and Movement, please contact Jamey Gump by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at (415) 694-7372.

Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program.

 

Jan 13
Jan 14(1 event)


Jan 14

Reel Escape Audio Description Club: Friday Evening Daredevils
Friday evenings @ 8:00 pm

We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. After a summer break and some adjustment to when our club gathers, we are excited announce our fall 2021 program options for the many ages of youth we work with. Starting on Friday, September 3rd, teens, and young adults will gather to watch the Netflix series, Daredevil, a TV series about a blind attorney by day and vigilante by night. Our weekly gathering will start at 8:00 pm Friday evenings, leaving plenty of time to watch that week’s episode and connect with your EHC and LightHouse friends.

***Parents Please Note*** – the Daredevil TV Series has adult content and is rated TV-MA and contains the following: crude indecent language (L), explicit sexual activity (S), and graphic violence (V). A more detailed parental guide can be found at - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3322312/parentalguide If any youth under the age of 18 wish to join this series, they must have a parent or guardian contact a LightHouse youth team member with written permission for their child to participate.

Who: older teens and young adults that are blind or low vision
What: audio description media club via Zoom
When: Friday evenings in January at 8:00 pm (excluding January 21)
Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting
RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program

If you are interested in signing up for the Reel Escape Audio Description Club, please contact Jamey Gump by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at (415) 694-7372.

Jan 15
Jan 16
Jan 17
Jan 18(2 events)


Jan 18

This course is designed to offer foundational Orientation & Mobility knowledge, concepts, and skills in a friendly, small group atmosphere. It is intended for any individual who is new to blind and low vision skills training; waiting for one-on-one services; or would benefit from developing their existing skills with an in-depth O&M training refresher.

To RSVP, please contact Robert Alminana at ralminana@lighthouse-sf.org or Jennifer Huey jhuey@lighthouse-sf.org. Registration deadline is Tuesday, January 11.


Jan 18

Tech Together Online: Team Up on Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a robust virtual conferencing platform with solid accessibility support for access technology users. Join the Access Technology team and we'll discuss how to join, schedule, and moderate meetings on Microsoft Teams.

RSVP for Tech Together Online: Team Up on Microsoft Teams.

Tuesday, January 18 from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm

Tech Together Online: Get Together on Google Meet

Google Meet is Google's platform for hosting virtual meetings. How does its accessibility experience compare to that of other virtual conferencing contenders? Join the Access Technology team and we'll discuss how to join, schedule and moderate meetings on Google Meet.

RSVP for Tech Together Online: Get Together on Google Meet

Tuesday, January 25 from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm

Jan 19(1 event)


Jan 19

Between class obligations, the additional hours of homework, and many other responsibilities students have in their lives it becomes clear that a stretch break might be a good addition to the week. To help students structure a break this into their busy week the LightHouse Youth Program is starting a Midweek Meditation and Movement series. Each week our class leader, Ellie Kneer will lead us in activities that will help us feel a little more grounded through activities such as yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness exercises. Activities will be geared for all experience levels and will soon be your mid-week escape with your blind and low vision friends.

Who: All students 24 years of age and younger

What: Weekly virtual gathering of blind and low vision students to participate in yoga, meditation, and mindfulness activities

When: Wednesday afternoons from 5:00 to 6:00 pm Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

RSVP: If you are interested in signing up for the Midweek Meditation and Movement, please contact Jamey Gump by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at (415) 694-7372.

Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program.

 

Jan 20(2 events)


Jan 20

This course is designed to offer foundational Orientation & Mobility knowledge, concepts, and skills in a friendly, small group atmosphere. It is intended for any individual who is new to blind and low vision skills training; waiting for one-on-one services; or would benefit from developing their existing skills with an in-depth O&M training refresher.

To RSVP, please contact Robert Alminana at ralminana@lighthouse-sf.org or Jennifer Huey jhuey@lighthouse-sf.org. Registration deadline is Tuesday, January 11.


Jan 20

It is time to get geared up for 2021! Have you set any new employment goals for the new year? Have you thought about what strategies you will use to achieve these goals? Brainstorming with your fellow 30% peers can help! Are you currently working in your dream job? Share with the rest of us how you reached that place. We can learn a lot from each other as we meet in the virtual pub!
To RSVP and receive Zoom access information, contact Community Outreach Coordinator, Sheri Albers at salbers@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7331.

Jan 21
Jan 22
Jan 23
Jan 24(1 event)


Jan 24

The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together course is composed of essential topics recommended for all participants who are new to low vision.

Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.

The virtual course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

It is a comprehensive skills training distance course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the virtual six-session course, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Thereafter, participants can be eligible for individualized Low Vision Therapy lessons.

The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

Week 1: Monday, January 24 and Wednesday, January 26 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Week 2: Monday, January 31 and Wednesday, February 2 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Week 3: Monday, February 7 and Wednesday, February 9 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.

Please RSVP by Monday, January 10 to receive class materials in time for the first class on Monday, January 24. To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Certified Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org. The class is limited to ten students; once the class limit is reached, all other students will be placed on a waitlist for the next available class (date TBA).

Jan 25(1 event)


Jan 25

This course is designed to offer foundational Orientation & Mobility knowledge, concepts, and skills in a friendly, small group atmosphere. It is intended for any individual who is new to blind and low vision skills training; waiting for one-on-one services; or would benefit from developing their existing skills with an in-depth O&M training refresher.

To RSVP, please contact Robert Alminana at ralminana@lighthouse-sf.org or Jennifer Huey jhuey@lighthouse-sf.org. Registration deadline is Tuesday, January 11.

Jan 26(2 events)


Jan 26

The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together course is composed of essential topics recommended for all participants who are new to low vision.

Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.

The virtual course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

It is a comprehensive skills training distance course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the virtual six-session course, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Thereafter, participants can be eligible for individualized Low Vision Therapy lessons.

The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

Week 1: Monday, January 24 and Wednesday, January 26 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Week 2: Monday, January 31 and Wednesday, February 2 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Week 3: Monday, February 7 and Wednesday, February 9 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.

Please RSVP by Monday, January 10 to receive class materials in time for the first class on Monday, January 24. To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Certified Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org. The class is limited to ten students; once the class limit is reached, all other students will be placed on a waitlist for the next available class (date TBA).


Jan 26

Between class obligations, the additional hours of homework, and many other responsibilities students have in their lives it becomes clear that a stretch break might be a good addition to the week. To help students structure a break this into their busy week the LightHouse Youth Program is starting a Midweek Meditation and Movement series. Each week our class leader, Ellie Kneer will lead us in activities that will help us feel a little more grounded through activities such as yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness exercises. Activities will be geared for all experience levels and will soon be your mid-week escape with your blind and low vision friends.

Who: All students 24 years of age and younger

What: Weekly virtual gathering of blind and low vision students to participate in yoga, meditation, and mindfulness activities

When: Wednesday afternoons from 5:00 to 6:00 pm Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

RSVP: If you are interested in signing up for the Midweek Meditation and Movement, please contact Jamey Gump by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at (415) 694-7372.

Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program.

 

Jan 27(1 event)


Jan 27

This course is designed to offer foundational Orientation & Mobility knowledge, concepts, and skills in a friendly, small group atmosphere. It is intended for any individual who is new to blind and low vision skills training; waiting for one-on-one services; or would benefit from developing their existing skills with an in-depth O&M training refresher.

To RSVP, please contact Robert Alminana at ralminana@lighthouse-sf.org or Jennifer Huey jhuey@lighthouse-sf.org. Registration deadline is Tuesday, January 11.

Jan 28(1 event)


Jan 28

Reel Escape Audio Description Club: Friday Evening Daredevils
Friday evenings @ 8:00 pm

We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. After a summer break and some adjustment to when our club gathers, we are excited announce our fall 2021 program options for the many ages of youth we work with. Starting on Friday, September 3rd, teens, and young adults will gather to watch the Netflix series, Daredevil, a TV series about a blind attorney by day and vigilante by night. Our weekly gathering will start at 8:00 pm Friday evenings, leaving plenty of time to watch that week’s episode and connect with your EHC and LightHouse friends.

***Parents Please Note*** – the Daredevil TV Series has adult content and is rated TV-MA and contains the following: crude indecent language (L), explicit sexual activity (S), and graphic violence (V). A more detailed parental guide can be found at - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3322312/parentalguide If any youth under the age of 18 wish to join this series, they must have a parent or guardian contact a LightHouse youth team member with written permission for their child to participate.

Who: older teens and young adults that are blind or low vision
What: audio description media club via Zoom
When: Friday evenings in January at 8:00 pm (excluding January 21)
Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting
RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program

If you are interested in signing up for the Reel Escape Audio Description Club, please contact Jamey Gump by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at (415) 694-7372.

Jan 29
Jan 30
Jan 31(1 event)


Jan 31

The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together course is composed of essential topics recommended for all participants who are new to low vision.

Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.

The virtual course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

It is a comprehensive skills training distance course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the virtual six-session course, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Thereafter, participants can be eligible for individualized Low Vision Therapy lessons.

The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

Week 1: Monday, January 24 and Wednesday, January 26 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Week 2: Monday, January 31 and Wednesday, February 2 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Week 3: Monday, February 7 and Wednesday, February 9 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.

Please RSVP by Monday, January 10 to receive class materials in time for the first class on Monday, January 24. To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Certified Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org. The class is limited to ten students; once the class limit is reached, all other students will be placed on a waitlist for the next available class (date TBA).

Feb 1(3 events)


Feb 1

This course is designed to offer foundational Orientation & Mobility knowledge, concepts, and skills in a friendly, small group atmosphere. It is intended for any individual who is new to blind and low vision skills training; waiting for one-on-one services; or would benefit from developing their existing skills with an in-depth O&M training refresher.

To RSVP, please contact Robert Alminana at ralminana@lighthouse-sf.org or Jennifer Huey jhuey@lighthouse-sf.org. Registration deadline is Tuesday, January 11.


Feb 1

LightHouse is partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Tuesdays and Thursdays from February 1 – April 15. Appointments are required and they can be made for 10 am, 11:15 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415 – 694 – 7648 or completing this form: https://forms.office.com/r/GfZJ4wRnGV

Due to the “red” level of COVID-19 spread that the CDC has determined SF to be in, this will be a “same day drop off” structure. Tax payers will come to 1155 and drop off their materials with AARP tax preparers. They will then wait in MPR C or Reception while their taxes are being prepared. They may leave but it is preferred that they stay. The appointments are scheduled for one hour and fifteen minutes and most taxes will be able to be completed in that time.

This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and CA state tax returns for the tax years 2021, 2020, and 2019 (note: each year requires a separate appointment). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or SF residency.

Please bring with you: 

  • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
  • A copy of your social security card
  • A copy of your photo ID
  • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check

COVID-19 Requirements:

  • Masks must be worn at all times. The Centers for Disease Control and the State of California are recommending that you double mask or wear an N95 mask. LightHouse will provide a second disposable mask if needed to ensure your safety and the safety of our staff and volunteers.
  • We will be practicing physical distancing at this location

There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers, these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

If you have any questions, please call 415 -694 -7648. Thank you.


Feb 1

Feb 1: Making the Most of Zoom Meetings
Zoom is one of the most popular and widely-used platforms for virtual meetings. Join the access technology team and we'll discuss techniques, tips and tricks for using Zoom both as a participant and as a meeting moderator.

RSVP to Tech Together: Making the Most of Zoom Meetings

Feb 8: The World Of Accessible Reading
Winter is the perfect season to curl up with a good book. Whether you like nonfiction or novels, join the access technology team and we'll discuss the applications and tools you can use to read, as well as what's new in the world of accessible reading.

RSVP to Tech Together: The World of Accessible Reading

Feb 15: What's New in Windows 11?
Windows 11 was released to the general public on October 5th, 2021. Join the access technology team and we'll discuss the updates and changes to the windows operating system.

RSVP to Tech Together: What's New in Windows 11

Feb 22: Top Tech Tricks
Join the access technology team and we'll share our favorite strategies, techniques and tricks for working with our tech either at work or in our daily lives. Bring your favorite top tech tricks to share!

RSVP to Tech Together: Top Tech Tricks

Feb 2(1 event)


Feb 2

The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together course is composed of essential topics recommended for all participants who are new to low vision.

Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.

The virtual course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

It is a comprehensive skills training distance course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the virtual six-session course, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Thereafter, participants can be eligible for individualized Low Vision Therapy lessons.

The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

Week 1: Monday, January 24 and Wednesday, January 26 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Week 2: Monday, January 31 and Wednesday, February 2 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Week 3: Monday, February 7 and Wednesday, February 9 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.

Please RSVP by Monday, January 10 to receive class materials in time for the first class on Monday, January 24. To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Certified Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org. The class is limited to ten students; once the class limit is reached, all other students will be placed on a waitlist for the next available class (date TBA).

Feb 3(2 events)


Feb 3

This course is designed to offer foundational Orientation & Mobility knowledge, concepts, and skills in a friendly, small group atmosphere. It is intended for any individual who is new to blind and low vision skills training; waiting for one-on-one services; or would benefit from developing their existing skills with an in-depth O&M training refresher.

To RSVP, please contact Robert Alminana at ralminana@lighthouse-sf.org or Jennifer Huey jhuey@lighthouse-sf.org. Registration deadline is Tuesday, January 11.


Feb 3

LightHouse is partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Tuesdays and Thursdays from February 1 – April 15. Appointments are required and they can be made for 10 am, 11:15 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415 – 694 – 7648 or completing this form: https://forms.office.com/r/GfZJ4wRnGV

Due to the “red” level of COVID-19 spread that the CDC has determined SF to be in, this will be a “same day drop off” structure. Tax payers will come to 1155 and drop off their materials with AARP tax preparers. They will then wait in MPR C or Reception while their taxes are being prepared. They may leave but it is preferred that they stay. The appointments are scheduled for one hour and fifteen minutes and most taxes will be able to be completed in that time.

This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and CA state tax returns for the tax years 2021, 2020, and 2019 (note: each year requires a separate appointment). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or SF residency.

Please bring with you: 

  • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
  • A copy of your social security card
  • A copy of your photo ID
  • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check

COVID-19 Requirements:

  • Masks must be worn at all times. The Centers for Disease Control and the State of California are recommending that you double mask or wear an N95 mask. LightHouse will provide a second disposable mask if needed to ensure your safety and the safety of our staff and volunteers.
  • We will be practicing physical distancing at this location

There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers, these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

If you have any questions, please call 415 -694 -7648. Thank you.

Feb 4(1 event)


Feb 4

We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. After an awesome year of films, we are going to switch things up, and starting in the fall of 2021 the program is going to offer to options for the many ages of youth we work with. Our Friday evening series will be geared for teen and young adult as we watch the amazon series, Daredevil. Our weekly showing will start at 8:00 pm but we will have plenty of time after to connect with your EHC and LightHouse friends.

Who: Teen and young adult who are blind or are low vision
What: Audio description media club via Zoom
When: Fridays evenings in February @ 8:00 pm (excluding February 18th)
Where: Anywhere you can access a zoom meeting
RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program

If you are interested in signing up for the Reel Escape Audio Description Club, please contact Jamey Gump by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

Feb 5(2 events)


Feb 5

The Lowenfeld-Akeson Symposium is held every winter to educate service providers, families and students about new developments in the fields of pediatric ophthalmology, neurology and early childhood education of children who are blind or have low vision. It is named after two leading lights in the field of early childhood development, Dr. Berthold Lowenfeld and educator Nancy Akeson. For the past 26 years a number of California-based organizations in this field co-host the symposium and LightHouse is extremely proud to be one of this year’s hosts.

LightHouse board Chair Dr. Sharon Sacks, is a longtime and key organizer of this annual event to help inform professionals and families about best practices in the field of early education, from birth to seven years of age, of children who are blind, deafblind, have low vision or cerebral visual impairment.

This year’s Symposium is entitled “Digging Deeper: Exploring prematurity from visual diagnosis to active learning.” Distinguished speakers will be:

William V. Good, MD, Senior Clinical Research Scientist at the Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute (SKERI), who will speak on The ABCs of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)

Douglas Fredrick, MD, Director of the Elk’s Children Eye Clinic at the Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health Sciences University, who will speak on Cortical Visual Impairment in the Premature Infant: Seeing In/Looking Out

Patty Obrzut, MS, OTR/L, Assistant Director of the Pendrickton Center for Blind Children, who will speak on Active Learning: Promoting independence and learning in children with multiple special needs

There will be Q&A sessions with each of our presenters.

This event is taking place on Saturday, February 5 over Zoom, from 9.00 am to 3:00 pm. If you are a professional in the early development field, a student interested in the area or a family of a child who is blind or has low vision, this stimulating and thought-provoking event is for you.

The cost is $20 for families and students, and $40 for professionals.

Join a supportive cohort of interested people to learn the latest thinking in this field. You can register here: https://tinyurl.com/bucz64zj

If you have any questions concerning this year’s event, please email at LowenfeldAkeson@gmail.com or call, Jacqueline Barden, at 415-694-7366.


Feb 5

Grab your wands, cauldrons, and your Harry Potter knowledge and join your LightHouse friends for our new student driven Harry Potter Club. This monthly gathering of happy Harry Potter enthusiast will gather during the afternoon of the first Saturday of each month for all sorts of Harry Potter awesomeness.

In 2021 the club met monthly to compare and contrast the original 7 books to the 8 movies. Starting in February 2022 the club will continue our exploration of the Harry Potter world by reading and watching the Fantastic Beasts series. The first two movies of this series will be hosted via zoom, however it is our hope that it will be safe to gather in person for the release of the third move is this series as it comes out in April.

February 5 - Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
March 5 - Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald
April TBD - Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore

Who: Blind and low vision youth from all over. Families should be aware the Harry Potter Books are for youth that are at least in 5th or 6th grade, however a couple of the Harry Potter movies are rated PG-13 and may not be appropriate for all.
What: Harry Potter book and audio description movie club
When: 1:00 pm of the first Saturday of the month (see dates above)
Where: Anywhere you can access a Zoom meeting
RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program
Parents & Guardians: we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired does not support discriminatory or hateful speech in any form. We stand by the LGBTQ+ community and all fans who found a home in the Harry Potter series and will work to provide a safe space for fans.
If you are interested in signing up for the Harry Potter Club, please contact Jamey Gump by email at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

The events for the upcoming week are read aloud on our event hotline every Friday, which can be accessed by calling 415-694-7325. For more information about visiting the Adaptations Store, head to our shop page.

The LightHouse is scent-free. Please abstain from wearing colognes, perfumes, or other scented products. Additionally, coffee must be securely lidded at all times and citrus should not be peeled on the premises. Thanks for supporting our efforts to respect chemical sensitivities!

SDS safety dataClick here for our cleaning product safety data sheets (SDS) and ingredient information.

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