Calendar

Events in June 2022

  • Book Discussion: Fairest: A Memoir (online)

    Book Discussion: Fairest: A Memoir (online)


    Jun 7

    In celebration of Pride Month, join The LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Talking Books and Braille Center for a 3-week book study that examines one of the most deeply introspective memoirs on the market (Teen Vogue, 2020). Meredith Talusan’s Fairest: A Memoir is a raw, unfiltered look at race, class, sexuality, gender, and so much more. Talusan navigates through the complexities of growing up as a young kid with albinism in a rural community in the Philippines, who grew up to become a Harvard graduate, an artist and activist questioning the boundaries of gender, and discovering her place within the gay community.

    Send your RSVP to Sabrina at sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org. Please RSVP to register and receive the event link and study guide.

    Reader Discretion advised: This book contains scenes of a sexual nature and strong language.

  • Lunch at Orphan Andy's (in-person)

    Lunch at Orphan Andy's (in-person)


    Jun 10

    To kick off San Francisco's Pride celebration, let's do lunch in the Castro and take in the scene afterward! We will meet at LightHouse HQ with your Clipper card and some cash, and we will head down to Muni for a short ride to our destination, Orphan Andy's, a diner located at the corner of Castro and Market, just across the street from the Muni station. Time and interest pending, we can even visit Cliff's Hardware, one of the coolest stores of its kind where you can find curiosities amidst the regular necessities.

    Send your RSVPs to Maia at Mscott@lighthouse-sf.org. Please RSVP by Thursday, June 9.

  • National Federation of the Blind: San Francisco Chapter Meeting (online)

    National Federation of the Blind: San Francisco Chapter Meeting (online)


    Jun 14

    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 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – Virtual Happy (Half) Hour
    6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Chapter Meeting

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

    Book Discussion: Fairest: A Memoir (online)

    Book Discussion: Fairest: A Memoir (online)


    Jun 14

    In celebration of Pride Month, join The LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Talking Books and Braille Center for a 3-week book study that examines one of the most deeply introspective memoirs on the market (Teen Vogue, 2020). Meredith Talusan’s Fairest: A Memoir is a raw, unfiltered look at race, class, sexuality, gender, and so much more. Talusan navigates through the complexities of growing up as a young kid with albinism in a rural community in the Philippines, who grew up to become a Harvard graduate, an artist and activist questioning the boundaries of gender, and discovering her place within the gay community.

    Send your RSVP to Sabrina at sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org. Please RSVP to register and receive the event link and study guide.

    Reader Discretion advised: This book contains scenes of a sexual nature and strong language.

  • 30% & Growing

    30% & Growing


    Jun 16

    30% & Growing makes its inaugural excursion out and about this month. We will converge upon Mel's Diner, 801 Mission Street near 4th Street across from the Westfield Center. Mel's is a 50's style diner complete with jukeboxes and serves an assortment of American fare and comfort food. Bring your work-related stories and your appetite for an evening of good food and great company!

    Send your RSVP to Maia at mscott@lighthouse-sf.org. Please RSVP by noon on Thursday, June 16.

  • Farmers Market Friday (in-person)

    Farmers Market Friday (in-person)


    Jun 17

    There's nothing like the smell of fresh fruits and vegetables converging with the aroma of baked goods and a hint of salty sea water. The Farmer's market at the Ferry building showcases a wide variety of produce and locally sourced edibles and artisan goods. It's definitely a treat for the senses. Bring your reusable bags and shopping list to partake of all the offerings. Volunteers will accompany us to describe offerings as we enjoy the fresh air and fresh produce.

    Please RSVP to Maia at Mscott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.

    Please Note: To request a volunteer to accompany you through the farmer's market, please RSVP no later than Friday, June 10.

  • CCB San Francisco Chapter Monthly Meeting (in-person)

    CCB San Francisco Chapter Monthly Meeting (in-person)


    Jun 18

    The San Francisco Chapter of the California Council of the Blind meets on the third Saturday of the month from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Our June meeting will take place on Zoom and also in person at the LightHouse Multipurpose room, 1155 Market Street, 10th floor, San Francisco, CA 94103. All are invited to attend. for more information contact Vita Zavoli by Email at vzavoli@gmail.com or by phone at (510) 846-4080.
  • EHC Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    EHC Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    (All day)
    Jun 20 Jun 24

    Enchanted Hills Camp Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    Program Description

    The Enchanted Hills Camp (EHC) Summer Leadership Summit focuses on developing blind/low vision leaders in an immersive training environment through soft-skills development and exploration of careers in such fields as educational, customer service, and other social or recreational job opportunities. Our training takes place through discussion, role modeling and practice under the supervision of LightHouse staff and experienced EHC Summer Administration staff. Upon completion of the Summer Leadership Summit, participants will walk away with a better understanding of how to be an effective self-advocate as well as further developed social and independent living skills that will better prepare them for transition and post-secondary education program options in the future. In addition, the Summer Leadership Summit program will help develop the soft skills, strong work ethic, and leadership essential for successful in future employment working with peers, supervisors, and students of all ages

    The program will start with a week of training where participants will take part in job site readiness exercises and activities that will allow participants to develop leadership skills and soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, time management, and conflict resolution skills that will help participants prepare to become a counselor-in training (CIT) during the summer programs at EHC. In the second week of the series, participants will be assigned to a group of youth campers as a CIT. During this immersive opportunity, the participants will apply their new skills learned in the first week of the series with the support and supervision from summer Camp Counselors and experienced camp administration. Throughout the program CITs will also participate in discussions with blind/low vision leaders from the greater blind community as well as successfully employed adults about career opportunities, blindness philosophy, life hacks, and many other topics important to students as they become adults.

    The Summer Leadership Summit at EHC is designed for teens ages 16-18 years old who are blind or low vision and are serious about improving their leadership skills by learning to work with children in a rigorous camp setting. As part of the program application process, students must complete LightHouse’s student intake form, conduct an interview with program staff and commit to participating fully in the program at EHC. We welcome perspective participants that possess a variety of previous camping experiences or an interest in exploring the social and recreational work profession to consider applying. Additional information about how to apply can be found below in this announcement.

    Week 1 (June 20th – 24th): Leadership Development and Staff Training
    Week 2 (July 11th – 16th): Counselor in Training Practicum

    Program Objectives
    Participants will be able to:

    • Actively participate in leadership training seminars throughout the program
    • Be a positive role-model for campers
    • Participate in the development and implementation of program activities designed specifically for blind campers
    • Assist Counselors and Area Leaders with management of campers, enforcing rules and instructions during activities
    • Promote Independence and motivate campers to use non-visual techniques
    • Incorporate active participation in camp meals, clean-up, and other daily functions through fun activities
    • Communicate with staff about problems or issues that arise with campers
    • Adapt all activities so that all campers can participate fully, regardless of their level of vision
    • Work with counselors to resolve disciplinary issues that arise with campers
    • Be active participants and assist staff during specialist, program, and group time
    • Assist campers in being successful with games, projects, and activities
    • Facilitate independence in camper participation
    • Facilitate a safe and healthy environment for campers
    • Assist in leading activities during leisure time for campers
    • Assist in the set-up and facilitation of camp events such as theme days
    • Demonstrate independent travel skills and assist when needed as an escort for campers needing extra assistance
    • Read from suggested best practices reading list prior to summer assignment
    • Assume additional, reasonable responsibilities as assigned by the counselors, Area Leaders, and administrative team
    • Adhere to the policies established in the EHC Staff Handbook

    Program outcomes:

    • Each participant will receive 30+ hours of training to be an effective counselor and develop interpersonal soft skills that can be essential in many aspects of life and future employment
    • Each participant will take part in 30+ hours of observing and implementing concepts learned during the first week to be an effective CIT during the Youth Session of EHC
    • Each participant will receive 10+ hours of Individual and group per-employment transition skills discussions that will support their self-advocacy goals necessary for future transition services, post-secondary educational programs, or employment
    • Each participant will receive 10+ hours of job coaching on their role as councilors in training and help address any barriers for future employment
    • Each participant will receive 20+ hours of adjustment to blindness training to support the development of critical social and independent living skills during the Teen Session of EHC

    Participant Outcomes
    Through practice, self-reflection and staff coaching, participants will develop and implement the following:

    • Leadership skills that can be applied in many aspects of life and employment
    • Strong work ethic
    • Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills
    • A blindness-positive philosophy and effective self-advocacy skills
    • Knowledge that will better prepare them for transition services and post-secondary education program options

    Participation Expectations
    Participants must be ready to adhere to the below responsibilities and expectations:

    • Adhere to all LightHouse Covid-19 safety protocols. At this time this includes proof that you have an update-to-date Covid-19 vaccine, mask requirements in public indoor spaces and other safety protocols set by LightHouse Executive leadership team.

    ***Please note - these requirements are subject to change***

    • Attend and engage in all sessions
    • Complete all tasks as requested
    • Be prepared to pitch in and help fellow campers when required
    • Be polite and respectful at all times

    Summer Leadership Summit Program Fee
    We are asking prospective participants that are eligible to DOR services to work with their counselor to get authorization to attend the program. The total authorization fee for the program is $3,000.00. This fee covers $100 a day for food and housing fees, as well as $150 a day for training fees, totaling $250 a day for 12 days. Additional support from DOR for transportation may be necessary for prospective participants that live outside the Bay Area. Limited scholarship opportunities are available for those that are not eligible for DOR services.

    Application and Selection Process
    Each prospective participant must complete the application process and be selected from a pool of competitive applicants. To start this process prospective participants must send an email to youth@lighthouse-sf.org that includes the following:

    • Why do you wish to participate in the Summer Leadership Summit?
    • What experience do you have that makes you qualified to be a participant in the Summer Leadership Summit?
    • What qualities do you possess that makes you stand out from other Summer Leadership Summit candidates?
    • Name and contact information for both a professional or personal reference as well as your most recent TVI and O&M Instructors

    Once your interest email has been received, LightHouse staff will work with prospective participants to schedule an interview and any necessary Living Skills and or Orientation and Mobility evaluations. Prospective students who are new to LightHouse services will also need to complete our student intake form and student registration process before they will be considered for the program. To complete the LightHouse Student registration process please start by submitting the Student Intake Form here.

    For further information about the Summer Leadership Summit, please don't hesitate to contact Jamey Gump, Youth Services Coordinator, by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

  • EHC Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    EHC Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    (All day)
    Jun 20 Jun 24

    Enchanted Hills Camp Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    Program Description

    The Enchanted Hills Camp (EHC) Summer Leadership Summit focuses on developing blind/low vision leaders in an immersive training environment through soft-skills development and exploration of careers in such fields as educational, customer service, and other social or recreational job opportunities. Our training takes place through discussion, role modeling and practice under the supervision of LightHouse staff and experienced EHC Summer Administration staff. Upon completion of the Summer Leadership Summit, participants will walk away with a better understanding of how to be an effective self-advocate as well as further developed social and independent living skills that will better prepare them for transition and post-secondary education program options in the future. In addition, the Summer Leadership Summit program will help develop the soft skills, strong work ethic, and leadership essential for successful in future employment working with peers, supervisors, and students of all ages

    The program will start with a week of training where participants will take part in job site readiness exercises and activities that will allow participants to develop leadership skills and soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, time management, and conflict resolution skills that will help participants prepare to become a counselor-in training (CIT) during the summer programs at EHC. In the second week of the series, participants will be assigned to a group of youth campers as a CIT. During this immersive opportunity, the participants will apply their new skills learned in the first week of the series with the support and supervision from summer Camp Counselors and experienced camp administration. Throughout the program CITs will also participate in discussions with blind/low vision leaders from the greater blind community as well as successfully employed adults about career opportunities, blindness philosophy, life hacks, and many other topics important to students as they become adults.

    The Summer Leadership Summit at EHC is designed for teens ages 16-18 years old who are blind or low vision and are serious about improving their leadership skills by learning to work with children in a rigorous camp setting. As part of the program application process, students must complete LightHouse’s student intake form, conduct an interview with program staff and commit to participating fully in the program at EHC. We welcome perspective participants that possess a variety of previous camping experiences or an interest in exploring the social and recreational work profession to consider applying. Additional information about how to apply can be found below in this announcement.

    Week 1 (June 20th – 24th): Leadership Development and Staff Training
    Week 2 (July 11th – 16th): Counselor in Training Practicum

    Program Objectives
    Participants will be able to:

    • Actively participate in leadership training seminars throughout the program
    • Be a positive role-model for campers
    • Participate in the development and implementation of program activities designed specifically for blind campers
    • Assist Counselors and Area Leaders with management of campers, enforcing rules and instructions during activities
    • Promote Independence and motivate campers to use non-visual techniques
    • Incorporate active participation in camp meals, clean-up, and other daily functions through fun activities
    • Communicate with staff about problems or issues that arise with campers
    • Adapt all activities so that all campers can participate fully, regardless of their level of vision
    • Work with counselors to resolve disciplinary issues that arise with campers
    • Be active participants and assist staff during specialist, program, and group time
    • Assist campers in being successful with games, projects, and activities
    • Facilitate independence in camper participation
    • Facilitate a safe and healthy environment for campers
    • Assist in leading activities during leisure time for campers
    • Assist in the set-up and facilitation of camp events such as theme days
    • Demonstrate independent travel skills and assist when needed as an escort for campers needing extra assistance
    • Read from suggested best practices reading list prior to summer assignment
    • Assume additional, reasonable responsibilities as assigned by the counselors, Area Leaders, and administrative team
    • Adhere to the policies established in the EHC Staff Handbook

    Program outcomes:

    • Each participant will receive 30+ hours of training to be an effective counselor and develop interpersonal soft skills that can be essential in many aspects of life and future employment
    • Each participant will take part in 30+ hours of observing and implementing concepts learned during the first week to be an effective CIT during the Youth Session of EHC
    • Each participant will receive 10+ hours of Individual and group per-employment transition skills discussions that will support their self-advocacy goals necessary for future transition services, post-secondary educational programs, or employment
    • Each participant will receive 10+ hours of job coaching on their role as councilors in training and help address any barriers for future employment
    • Each participant will receive 20+ hours of adjustment to blindness training to support the development of critical social and independent living skills during the Teen Session of EHC

    Participant Outcomes
    Through practice, self-reflection and staff coaching, participants will develop and implement the following:

    • Leadership skills that can be applied in many aspects of life and employment
    • Strong work ethic
    • Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills
    • A blindness-positive philosophy and effective self-advocacy skills
    • Knowledge that will better prepare them for transition services and post-secondary education program options

    Participation Expectations
    Participants must be ready to adhere to the below responsibilities and expectations:

    • Adhere to all LightHouse Covid-19 safety protocols. At this time this includes proof that you have an update-to-date Covid-19 vaccine, mask requirements in public indoor spaces and other safety protocols set by LightHouse Executive leadership team.

    ***Please note - these requirements are subject to change***

    • Attend and engage in all sessions
    • Complete all tasks as requested
    • Be prepared to pitch in and help fellow campers when required
    • Be polite and respectful at all times

    Summer Leadership Summit Program Fee
    We are asking prospective participants that are eligible to DOR services to work with their counselor to get authorization to attend the program. The total authorization fee for the program is $3,000.00. This fee covers $100 a day for food and housing fees, as well as $150 a day for training fees, totaling $250 a day for 12 days. Additional support from DOR for transportation may be necessary for prospective participants that live outside the Bay Area. Limited scholarship opportunities are available for those that are not eligible for DOR services.

    Application and Selection Process
    Each prospective participant must complete the application process and be selected from a pool of competitive applicants. To start this process prospective participants must send an email to youth@lighthouse-sf.org that includes the following:

    • Why do you wish to participate in the Summer Leadership Summit?
    • What experience do you have that makes you qualified to be a participant in the Summer Leadership Summit?
    • What qualities do you possess that makes you stand out from other Summer Leadership Summit candidates?
    • Name and contact information for both a professional or personal reference as well as your most recent TVI and O&M Instructors

    Once your interest email has been received, LightHouse staff will work with prospective participants to schedule an interview and any necessary Living Skills and or Orientation and Mobility evaluations. Prospective students who are new to LightHouse services will also need to complete our student intake form and student registration process before they will be considered for the program. To complete the LightHouse Student registration process please start by submitting the Student Intake Form here.

    For further information about the Summer Leadership Summit, please don't hesitate to contact Jamey Gump, Youth Services Coordinator, by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

    Book Discussion: Fairest: A Memoir (online)

    Book Discussion: Fairest: A Memoir (online)


    Jun 21

    In celebration of Pride Month, join The LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Talking Books and Braille Center for a 3-week book study that examines one of the most deeply introspective memoirs on the market (Teen Vogue, 2020). Meredith Talusan’s Fairest: A Memoir is a raw, unfiltered look at race, class, sexuality, gender, and so much more. Talusan navigates through the complexities of growing up as a young kid with albinism in a rural community in the Philippines, who grew up to become a Harvard graduate, an artist and activist questioning the boundaries of gender, and discovering her place within the gay community.

    Send your RSVP to Sabrina at sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org. Please RSVP to register and receive the event link and study guide.

    Reader Discretion advised: This book contains scenes of a sexual nature and strong language.

  • EHC Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    EHC Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    (All day)
    Jun 20 Jun 24

    Enchanted Hills Camp Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    Program Description

    The Enchanted Hills Camp (EHC) Summer Leadership Summit focuses on developing blind/low vision leaders in an immersive training environment through soft-skills development and exploration of careers in such fields as educational, customer service, and other social or recreational job opportunities. Our training takes place through discussion, role modeling and practice under the supervision of LightHouse staff and experienced EHC Summer Administration staff. Upon completion of the Summer Leadership Summit, participants will walk away with a better understanding of how to be an effective self-advocate as well as further developed social and independent living skills that will better prepare them for transition and post-secondary education program options in the future. In addition, the Summer Leadership Summit program will help develop the soft skills, strong work ethic, and leadership essential for successful in future employment working with peers, supervisors, and students of all ages

    The program will start with a week of training where participants will take part in job site readiness exercises and activities that will allow participants to develop leadership skills and soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, time management, and conflict resolution skills that will help participants prepare to become a counselor-in training (CIT) during the summer programs at EHC. In the second week of the series, participants will be assigned to a group of youth campers as a CIT. During this immersive opportunity, the participants will apply their new skills learned in the first week of the series with the support and supervision from summer Camp Counselors and experienced camp administration. Throughout the program CITs will also participate in discussions with blind/low vision leaders from the greater blind community as well as successfully employed adults about career opportunities, blindness philosophy, life hacks, and many other topics important to students as they become adults.

    The Summer Leadership Summit at EHC is designed for teens ages 16-18 years old who are blind or low vision and are serious about improving their leadership skills by learning to work with children in a rigorous camp setting. As part of the program application process, students must complete LightHouse’s student intake form, conduct an interview with program staff and commit to participating fully in the program at EHC. We welcome perspective participants that possess a variety of previous camping experiences or an interest in exploring the social and recreational work profession to consider applying. Additional information about how to apply can be found below in this announcement.

    Week 1 (June 20th – 24th): Leadership Development and Staff Training
    Week 2 (July 11th – 16th): Counselor in Training Practicum

    Program Objectives
    Participants will be able to:

    • Actively participate in leadership training seminars throughout the program
    • Be a positive role-model for campers
    • Participate in the development and implementation of program activities designed specifically for blind campers
    • Assist Counselors and Area Leaders with management of campers, enforcing rules and instructions during activities
    • Promote Independence and motivate campers to use non-visual techniques
    • Incorporate active participation in camp meals, clean-up, and other daily functions through fun activities
    • Communicate with staff about problems or issues that arise with campers
    • Adapt all activities so that all campers can participate fully, regardless of their level of vision
    • Work with counselors to resolve disciplinary issues that arise with campers
    • Be active participants and assist staff during specialist, program, and group time
    • Assist campers in being successful with games, projects, and activities
    • Facilitate independence in camper participation
    • Facilitate a safe and healthy environment for campers
    • Assist in leading activities during leisure time for campers
    • Assist in the set-up and facilitation of camp events such as theme days
    • Demonstrate independent travel skills and assist when needed as an escort for campers needing extra assistance
    • Read from suggested best practices reading list prior to summer assignment
    • Assume additional, reasonable responsibilities as assigned by the counselors, Area Leaders, and administrative team
    • Adhere to the policies established in the EHC Staff Handbook

    Program outcomes:

    • Each participant will receive 30+ hours of training to be an effective counselor and develop interpersonal soft skills that can be essential in many aspects of life and future employment
    • Each participant will take part in 30+ hours of observing and implementing concepts learned during the first week to be an effective CIT during the Youth Session of EHC
    • Each participant will receive 10+ hours of Individual and group per-employment transition skills discussions that will support their self-advocacy goals necessary for future transition services, post-secondary educational programs, or employment
    • Each participant will receive 10+ hours of job coaching on their role as councilors in training and help address any barriers for future employment
    • Each participant will receive 20+ hours of adjustment to blindness training to support the development of critical social and independent living skills during the Teen Session of EHC

    Participant Outcomes
    Through practice, self-reflection and staff coaching, participants will develop and implement the following:

    • Leadership skills that can be applied in many aspects of life and employment
    • Strong work ethic
    • Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills
    • A blindness-positive philosophy and effective self-advocacy skills
    • Knowledge that will better prepare them for transition services and post-secondary education program options

    Participation Expectations
    Participants must be ready to adhere to the below responsibilities and expectations:

    • Adhere to all LightHouse Covid-19 safety protocols. At this time this includes proof that you have an update-to-date Covid-19 vaccine, mask requirements in public indoor spaces and other safety protocols set by LightHouse Executive leadership team.

    ***Please note - these requirements are subject to change***

    • Attend and engage in all sessions
    • Complete all tasks as requested
    • Be prepared to pitch in and help fellow campers when required
    • Be polite and respectful at all times

    Summer Leadership Summit Program Fee
    We are asking prospective participants that are eligible to DOR services to work with their counselor to get authorization to attend the program. The total authorization fee for the program is $3,000.00. This fee covers $100 a day for food and housing fees, as well as $150 a day for training fees, totaling $250 a day for 12 days. Additional support from DOR for transportation may be necessary for prospective participants that live outside the Bay Area. Limited scholarship opportunities are available for those that are not eligible for DOR services.

    Application and Selection Process
    Each prospective participant must complete the application process and be selected from a pool of competitive applicants. To start this process prospective participants must send an email to youth@lighthouse-sf.org that includes the following:

    • Why do you wish to participate in the Summer Leadership Summit?
    • What experience do you have that makes you qualified to be a participant in the Summer Leadership Summit?
    • What qualities do you possess that makes you stand out from other Summer Leadership Summit candidates?
    • Name and contact information for both a professional or personal reference as well as your most recent TVI and O&M Instructors

    Once your interest email has been received, LightHouse staff will work with prospective participants to schedule an interview and any necessary Living Skills and or Orientation and Mobility evaluations. Prospective students who are new to LightHouse services will also need to complete our student intake form and student registration process before they will be considered for the program. To complete the LightHouse Student registration process please start by submitting the Student Intake Form here.

    For further information about the Summer Leadership Summit, please don't hesitate to contact Jamey Gump, Youth Services Coordinator, by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

    Panel Discussion: My Disability is the Reason I'm so Flexible in the First place (online)

    Panel Discussion: My Disability is the Reason I'm so Flexible in the First place (online)


    Jun 22

    My Disability is the Reason I'm so Flexible in the First place

    In a 2020 interview, Meredith Talusan said, "you know you can't do anything else you're capable of if you let the world define your normalcy, so when it tries to mark you as deviant, you fight back with your mind, your most flexible body part."

    Join The LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Talking Books and Braille Center for a discussion based on Meredith Talusan's article, "My Very Special Abilities: How My Disability Made Me Flexible." Panel members will discuss their experiences as Blind and Visually Impaired People in the LGBTQ+ community. This panel discussion follows a three-week book study of Talusan's book, Fairest: A Memoir.

    Register, receive the event link and submit questions for the panelists.

    Please RSVP to sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org
    Article Link: My Very Special Abilities: How My Disability Made Me Flexible 

  • EHC Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    EHC Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    (All day)
    Jun 20 Jun 24

    Enchanted Hills Camp Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    Program Description

    The Enchanted Hills Camp (EHC) Summer Leadership Summit focuses on developing blind/low vision leaders in an immersive training environment through soft-skills development and exploration of careers in such fields as educational, customer service, and other social or recreational job opportunities. Our training takes place through discussion, role modeling and practice under the supervision of LightHouse staff and experienced EHC Summer Administration staff. Upon completion of the Summer Leadership Summit, participants will walk away with a better understanding of how to be an effective self-advocate as well as further developed social and independent living skills that will better prepare them for transition and post-secondary education program options in the future. In addition, the Summer Leadership Summit program will help develop the soft skills, strong work ethic, and leadership essential for successful in future employment working with peers, supervisors, and students of all ages

    The program will start with a week of training where participants will take part in job site readiness exercises and activities that will allow participants to develop leadership skills and soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, time management, and conflict resolution skills that will help participants prepare to become a counselor-in training (CIT) during the summer programs at EHC. In the second week of the series, participants will be assigned to a group of youth campers as a CIT. During this immersive opportunity, the participants will apply their new skills learned in the first week of the series with the support and supervision from summer Camp Counselors and experienced camp administration. Throughout the program CITs will also participate in discussions with blind/low vision leaders from the greater blind community as well as successfully employed adults about career opportunities, blindness philosophy, life hacks, and many other topics important to students as they become adults.

    The Summer Leadership Summit at EHC is designed for teens ages 16-18 years old who are blind or low vision and are serious about improving their leadership skills by learning to work with children in a rigorous camp setting. As part of the program application process, students must complete LightHouse’s student intake form, conduct an interview with program staff and commit to participating fully in the program at EHC. We welcome perspective participants that possess a variety of previous camping experiences or an interest in exploring the social and recreational work profession to consider applying. Additional information about how to apply can be found below in this announcement.

    Week 1 (June 20th – 24th): Leadership Development and Staff Training
    Week 2 (July 11th – 16th): Counselor in Training Practicum

    Program Objectives
    Participants will be able to:

    • Actively participate in leadership training seminars throughout the program
    • Be a positive role-model for campers
    • Participate in the development and implementation of program activities designed specifically for blind campers
    • Assist Counselors and Area Leaders with management of campers, enforcing rules and instructions during activities
    • Promote Independence and motivate campers to use non-visual techniques
    • Incorporate active participation in camp meals, clean-up, and other daily functions through fun activities
    • Communicate with staff about problems or issues that arise with campers
    • Adapt all activities so that all campers can participate fully, regardless of their level of vision
    • Work with counselors to resolve disciplinary issues that arise with campers
    • Be active participants and assist staff during specialist, program, and group time
    • Assist campers in being successful with games, projects, and activities
    • Facilitate independence in camper participation
    • Facilitate a safe and healthy environment for campers
    • Assist in leading activities during leisure time for campers
    • Assist in the set-up and facilitation of camp events such as theme days
    • Demonstrate independent travel skills and assist when needed as an escort for campers needing extra assistance
    • Read from suggested best practices reading list prior to summer assignment
    • Assume additional, reasonable responsibilities as assigned by the counselors, Area Leaders, and administrative team
    • Adhere to the policies established in the EHC Staff Handbook

    Program outcomes:

    • Each participant will receive 30+ hours of training to be an effective counselor and develop interpersonal soft skills that can be essential in many aspects of life and future employment
    • Each participant will take part in 30+ hours of observing and implementing concepts learned during the first week to be an effective CIT during the Youth Session of EHC
    • Each participant will receive 10+ hours of Individual and group per-employment transition skills discussions that will support their self-advocacy goals necessary for future transition services, post-secondary educational programs, or employment
    • Each participant will receive 10+ hours of job coaching on their role as councilors in training and help address any barriers for future employment
    • Each participant will receive 20+ hours of adjustment to blindness training to support the development of critical social and independent living skills during the Teen Session of EHC

    Participant Outcomes
    Through practice, self-reflection and staff coaching, participants will develop and implement the following:

    • Leadership skills that can be applied in many aspects of life and employment
    • Strong work ethic
    • Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills
    • A blindness-positive philosophy and effective self-advocacy skills
    • Knowledge that will better prepare them for transition services and post-secondary education program options

    Participation Expectations
    Participants must be ready to adhere to the below responsibilities and expectations:

    • Adhere to all LightHouse Covid-19 safety protocols. At this time this includes proof that you have an update-to-date Covid-19 vaccine, mask requirements in public indoor spaces and other safety protocols set by LightHouse Executive leadership team.

    ***Please note - these requirements are subject to change***

    • Attend and engage in all sessions
    • Complete all tasks as requested
    • Be prepared to pitch in and help fellow campers when required
    • Be polite and respectful at all times

    Summer Leadership Summit Program Fee
    We are asking prospective participants that are eligible to DOR services to work with their counselor to get authorization to attend the program. The total authorization fee for the program is $3,000.00. This fee covers $100 a day for food and housing fees, as well as $150 a day for training fees, totaling $250 a day for 12 days. Additional support from DOR for transportation may be necessary for prospective participants that live outside the Bay Area. Limited scholarship opportunities are available for those that are not eligible for DOR services.

    Application and Selection Process
    Each prospective participant must complete the application process and be selected from a pool of competitive applicants. To start this process prospective participants must send an email to youth@lighthouse-sf.org that includes the following:

    • Why do you wish to participate in the Summer Leadership Summit?
    • What experience do you have that makes you qualified to be a participant in the Summer Leadership Summit?
    • What qualities do you possess that makes you stand out from other Summer Leadership Summit candidates?
    • Name and contact information for both a professional or personal reference as well as your most recent TVI and O&M Instructors

    Once your interest email has been received, LightHouse staff will work with prospective participants to schedule an interview and any necessary Living Skills and or Orientation and Mobility evaluations. Prospective students who are new to LightHouse services will also need to complete our student intake form and student registration process before they will be considered for the program. To complete the LightHouse Student registration process please start by submitting the Student Intake Form here.

    For further information about the Summer Leadership Summit, please don't hesitate to contact Jamey Gump, Youth Services Coordinator, by email at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

  • EHC Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    EHC Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    (All day)
    Jun 20 Jun 24

    Enchanted Hills Camp Summer Leadership Summit 2022: Leadership and Counselor in Training Program

    Program Description

    The Enchanted Hills Camp (EHC) Summer Leadership Summit focuses on developing blind/low vision leaders in an immersive training environment through soft-skills development and exploration of careers in such fields as educational, customer service, and other social or recreational job opportunities. Our training takes place through discussion, role modeling and practice under the supervision of LightHouse staff and experienced EHC Summer Administration staff. Upon completion of the Summer Leadership Summit, participants will walk away with a better understanding of how to be an effective self-advocate as well as further developed social and independent living skills that will better prepare them for transition and post-secondary education program options in the future. In addition, the Summer Leadership Summit program will help develop the soft skills, strong work ethic, and leadership essential for successful in future employment working with peers, supervisors, and students of all ages

    The program will start with a week of training where participants will take part in job site readiness exercises and activities that will allow participants to develop leadership skills and soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, time management, and conflict resolution skills that will help participants prepare to become a counselor-in training (CIT) during the summer programs at EHC. In the second week of the series, participants will be assigned to a group of youth campers as a CIT. During this immersive opportunity, the participants will apply their new skills learned in the first week of the series with the support and supervision from summer Camp Counselors and experienced camp administration. Throughout the program CITs will also participate in discussions with blind/low vision leaders from the greater blind community as well as successfully employed adults about career opportunities, blindness philosophy, life hacks, and many other topics important to students as they become adults.

    The Summer Leadership Summit at EHC is designed for teens ages 16-18 years old who are blind or low vision and are serious about improving their leadership skills by learning to work with children in a rigorous camp setting. As part of the program application process, students must complete LightHouse’s student intake form, conduct an interview with program staff and commit to participating fully in the program at EHC. We welcome perspective participants that possess a variety of previous camping experiences or an interest in exploring the social and recreational work profession to consider applying. Additional information about how to apply can be found below in this announcement.

    Week 1 (June 20th – 24th): Leadership Development and Staff Training
    Week 2 (July 11th – 16th): Counselor in Training Practicum

    Program Objectives
    Participants will be able to:

    • Actively participate in leadership training seminars throughout the program
    • Be a positive role-model for campers
    • Participate in the development and implementation of program activities designed specifically for blind campers
    • Assist Counselors and Area Leaders with management of campers, enforcing rules and instructions during activities
    • Promote Independence and motivate campers to use non-visual techniques
    • Incorporate active participation in camp meals, clean-up, and other daily functions through fun activities
    • Communicate with staff about problems or issues that arise with campers
    • Adapt all activities so that all campers can participate fully, regardless of their level of vision
    • Work with counselors to resolve disciplinary issues that arise with campers
    • Be active participants and assist staff during specialist, program, and group time
    • Assist campers in being successful with games, projects, and activities
    • Facilitate independence in camper participation
    • Facilitate a safe and healthy environment for campers
    • Assist in leading activities during leisure time for campers
    • Assist in the set-up and facilitation of camp events such as theme days
    • Demonstrate independent travel skills and assist when needed as an escort for campers needing extra assistance
    • Read from suggested best practices reading list prior to summer assignment
    • Assume additional, reasonable responsibilities as assigned by the counselors, Area Leaders, and administrative team
    • Adhere to the policies established in the EHC Staff Handbook

    Program outcomes:

    • Each participant will receive 30+ hours of training to be an effective counselor and develop interpersonal soft skills that can be essential in many aspects of life and future employment
    • Each participant will take part in 30+ hours of observing and implementing concepts learned during the first week to be an effective CIT during the Youth Session of EHC
    • Each participant will receive 10+ hours of Individual and group per-employment transition skills discussions that will support their self-advocacy goals necessary for future transition services, post-secondary educational programs, or employment
    • Each participant will receive 10+ hours of job coaching on their role as councilors in training and help address any barriers for future employment
    • Each participant will receive 20+ hours of adjustment to blindness training to support the development of critical social and independent living skills during the Teen Session of EHC

    Participant Outcomes
    Through practice, self-reflection and staff coaching, participants will develop and implement the following:

    • Leadership skills that can be applied in many aspects of life and employment
    • Strong work ethic
    • Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills
    • A blindness-positive philosophy and effective self-advocacy skills
    • Knowledge that will better prepare them for transition services and post-secondary education program options

    Participation Expectations
    Participants must be ready to adhere to the below responsibilities and expectations:

    • Adhere to all LightHouse Covid-19 safety protocols. At this time this includes proof that you have an update-to-date Covid-19 vaccine, mask requirements in public indoor spaces and other safety protocols set by LightHouse Executive leadership team.

    ***Please note - these requirements are subject to change***

    • Attend and engage in all sessions
    • Complete all tasks as requested
    • Be prepared to pitch in and help fellow campers when required
    • Be polite and respectful at all times

    Summer Leadership Summit Program Fee
    We are asking prospective participants that are eligible to DOR services to work with their counselor to get authorization to attend the program. The total authorization fee for the program is $3,000.00. This fee covers $100 a day for food and housing fees, as well as $150 a day for training fees, totaling $250 a day for 12 days. Additional support from DOR for transportation may be necessary for prospective participants that live outside the Bay Area. Limited scholarship opportunities are available for those that are not eligible for DOR services.

    Application and Selection Process
    Each prospective participant must complete the application process and be selected from a pool of competitive applicants. To start this process prospective participants must send an email to youth@lighthouse-sf.org that includes the following:

    • Why do you wish to participate in the Summer Leadership Summit?
    • What experience do you have that makes you qualified to be a participant in the Summer Leadership Summit?
    • What qualities do you possess that makes you stand out from other Summer Leadership Summit candidates?
    • Name and contact information for both a professional or personal reference as well as your most recent TVI and O&M Instructors

    Once your interest email has been received, LightHouse staff will work with prospective participants to schedule an interview and any necessary Living Skills and or Orientation and Mobility evaluations. Prospective students who are new to LightHouse services will also need to complete our student intake form and student registration process before they will be considered for the program. To complete the LightHouse Student registration process please start by submitting the Student Intake Form here.

    For further information about the Summer Leadership Summit, please don't hesitate to contact Jamey Gump, Youth Services Coordinator, 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.

X