Calendar

LightHouse will be closed on Monday, May 27 for the Memorial Day holiday.

Events in May 2024

  • EHC Virtual Campfire with Guest Bob Wilson (online)

    EHC Virtual Campfire with Guest Bob Wilson (online)


    May 1

    Singer, guitarist Bob Wilson from Pleasant Hill, CA will share stories of attending Enchanted Hills in the 1950's including the very first summer camp opened in 1950. Bob also had the opportunity to attend camping programs with Rose Resnick and Nina Brandt before Enchanted Hills Camp was opened. Please join us for this exciting evening of residential camping history.

    RSVP to Andrew Martinez at AMartinez@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7642.

  • Make Art Activation with Museum of Craft and Design (in-person)

    Make Art Activation with Museum of Craft and Design (in-person)


    May 2

    Museum of Craft & Design visits the Lighthouse every month with their Mobile Make program to bring us crafting projects inspired by the exhibits currently on view at their Third Street museum.  Current exhibits include Mr. Roboto featuring robot rendered art and Indiefolk featuring works in a diverse variety of media from the Pacific Northwest. Join us to explore a new project every month featuring repurposed materials to functional objects to take home.

    RSVP to Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.

  • Blind Gamer Meetup: A Conversation and Demonstration of Accessible Video Gaming (in-person)

    Blind Gamer Meetup: A Conversation and Demonstration of Accessible Video Gaming (in-person)


    May 4

    Over the years, video gaming has continued to grow even more popular, quickly becoming a part of everyday society. However, for those that are blind or have low vision, many of these games that our sighted friends play have had very limited accessibility features for the visual aspects of the games. In recent years Sony and other large video gaming platforms and the studios that create the hugely popular games many of us have heard about have made progress in adding features that can help those that are blind or have low vision gain access to the latest games our friends are playing.

    To help our community learn about what’s new in accessible gaming, and allow a space for them to connect with peers, LightHouse’s Youth Program would like to invite you to our next Blind Gamer Meetup.

    Join us on for an inclusive and exciting gaming gathering designed for individuals of all ages who are blind or have low vision. The agenda promises an enriching experience, starting with engaging conversations and captivating demonstrations of accessible video gaming, followed by a thrilling adventure of video game exploration with your peers where we take turns playing popular games with accessibility features turned on. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and immerse yourself in the world of accessible video games!

    Parents please note: Some of the games we will be demonstrating and talking about are designed for an older audience. Youth that are under 18 years old may only join our event with parent or guardian permission.

    Who: Blind and low vision gamers of all ages
    What: Interactive conversation and demonstration of current accessibility features in video game systems and gaming world for blind and low
    When: Saturday, May 4th from 1:00 pm to 5:00pm
    Where: 10th floor of the LightHouse Headquarters, 1155 Market St., San Francisco
    RSVP: Contact Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372

    World Labyrinth Day @ Earle Baum Center (in-person)

    World Labyrinth Day @ Earle Baum Center (in-person)


    May 4

    Every year on the first Saturday in May thousands of people around the globe participate in World Labyrinth Day as a moving meditation for world peace and celebration of the labyrinth experience.

    Enjoy our uniquely accessible Labyrinth at Earle Baum Center Campus, specifically designed to accommodate travelers using white canes, guide dogs, human guides and most wheelchairs.

     

  • The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)


    May 6

    What does it mean to be blind or low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, leads this call-in forum to discuss the day-to-day ins and outs of blindness—from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies.

    RSVP for The Business of Blindness online or to Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***


    May 6

    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 being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual 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 portion of the course is six classes over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory class with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour classes which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists. Included in the course: a pre-course assessment one week prior to the start of the course, ongoing support during the course, one in-person half-day group lesson, and one individualized lesson for a total of 8 lessons.

    It is a comprehensive skills training course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the 6 virtual classes, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Class 7 is a half-day, in-person Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration at the San Francisco LightHouse Headquarters. Thereafter, participants are eligible for Class 8, an individualized Low Vision Therapy lesson.

    The six virtual classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing (independent Zoom video skills required for all virtual classes), best viewed on a large screen 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 of April 29: Course Introduction and Pre-Course Assessment by Zoom video call

    Six online classes Mondays & Wednesdays: May 6, 8, 13, 15, 20 & 22, from 9:45 am to 12:15 pm

    In-person class Wednesday, June 5 at LightHouse Headquarters in San Francisco from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm: Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration. There will be a hour break for provided lunch and further peer interaction.

    By June 26: In-person individualized follow-up low vision skills lesson tailored to the unique needs of each participant

    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.

    The registration for this course is currently closed. All interested parties need to have a Low Vision Evaluation completed within one year prior to the start of any low vision course. Please contact Esmerelda Soto at 415-694-7323 or by email at ESoto@lighthouse-sf.org for any questions and planning for a LightHouse Services Orientation and Assessment day. Any appropriate Low Vision course referrals will then be placed on our waitlist for the next available class (dates TBA).

  • Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***


    May 8

    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 being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual 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 portion of the course is six classes over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory class with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour classes which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists. Included in the course: a pre-course assessment one week prior to the start of the course, ongoing support during the course, one in-person half-day group lesson, and one individualized lesson for a total of 8 lessons.

    It is a comprehensive skills training course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the 6 virtual classes, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Class 7 is a half-day, in-person Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration at the San Francisco LightHouse Headquarters. Thereafter, participants are eligible for Class 8, an individualized Low Vision Therapy lesson.

    The six virtual classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing (independent Zoom video skills required for all virtual classes), best viewed on a large screen 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 of April 29: Course Introduction and Pre-Course Assessment by Zoom video call

    Six online classes Mondays & Wednesdays: May 6, 8, 13, 15, 20 & 22, from 9:45 am to 12:15 pm

    In-person class Wednesday, June 5 at LightHouse Headquarters in San Francisco from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm: Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration. There will be a hour break for provided lunch and further peer interaction.

    By June 26: In-person individualized follow-up low vision skills lesson tailored to the unique needs of each participant

    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.

    The registration for this course is currently closed. All interested parties need to have a Low Vision Evaluation completed within one year prior to the start of any low vision course. Please contact Esmerelda Soto at 415-694-7323 or by email at ESoto@lighthouse-sf.org for any questions and planning for a LightHouse Services Orientation and Assessment day. Any appropriate Low Vision course referrals will then be placed on our waitlist for the next available class (dates TBA).

  • Create In Community (in-person)

    Create In Community (in-person)


    May 9

    Enter a place of curiosity and discovery with likeminded people.  Learn how to make both functional and fanciful things while acquiring new hacks to measure and manage materials with little or no sight. Experimentation, problem solving and good conversation pair nicely with found objects, clay, fun papers and other materials to create one of a kind, DIY items for fun and function.

    This month, May, let’s break out he air-dry clay and explore hand building techniques to create sculptures and vessels.

    No RSVPs needed. For questions, contact Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.

    1155 Performance Salon featuring “Cold Refuge” film screening (in-person)

    1155 Performance Salon featuring “Cold Refuge” film screening (in-person)


    May 9

    Local documentary filmmaker Judy Irving presents a film about open water swimmers and the life stories that motivate them to swim in the bay.  Following the film screening, stay for a Q&A session with the filmmaker, sound designer and one of the featured swimmers, Corvin Baazan, a deaf-blind athlete.  Camp director and swimmer Tony Fletcher will also interview Corvin about his experience doing Ironman triathlons, among other adventures.

    RSVP to Mai Scott at MScott@lightouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.

  • Meet Me in the Kitchen (in-person)

    Meet Me in the Kitchen (in-person)


    May 10

    “Meet me in the kitchen,” is a five-week course designed to empower LightHouse students with the non-visual techniques needed to prepare and present delicious meals independently. This course is created and taught by Bobbi Pompey, a Independent Living Skills Specialist with a passion for cooking and teaching. Each week you will learn non-visual kitchen skills, general cooking tips and tricks, and prepare a snack or meal.

    Skills You Will Learn Include:

    • Organizing, labeling, and preparing your kitchen and work space
    • Measuring wet and dry ingredients
      Using knives, kitchen appliances, blindness/low vision gadgets and other “tools of the trade”
    • Understanding how to build flavor profiles, decipher lingo used in recipes, and determine the doneness of food
    • Serving, garnishing, and presenting meals with multiple dishes to friends and family, and other guests

      Course Schedule:

    • Session 1: May 10 - Welcome and Course Overview
      This session will include staff/student introductions, a course overview, a tour of the kitchen, and an introduction to basic techniques for navigating a kitchen. Class will conclude with a lesson on pouring and spreading and the preparation of a snack.
    • Session 2, May 17 - Cracking the Code
      By the end of this session, you will understand how to decipher common recipe lingo, develop delicious flavor profiles with spices stock a pantry with basic staples, and shop for groceries independently. Techniques for measuring will be used to create a spice rub and/or basic sauce.
    • Session 3: May 24 - Getting the Job Done
      Knife skills are the main focus of this session. Students will make a simple one-pot soup and learn to determine when food is done.
    • Session 4: May 31 - Learning to Spin All the Plates
      This class marks the transition into the more advanced portion of the course. Labeling, organizing, blindness devices, kitchen gadgets, and the use of small appliances will be covered as ways to add efficiency to meal preparation. You will prepare a three part meal during this session.
    •  No class June 7
    • Session 5: June 14 - Putting On the Finishing Touches
      Taking all the skills of previous classes you will learn to; serve yourself, serve others, set a table, and decorate and/or garnish a meal.

    Spots in this fun and educational course are limited, so secure your participation by contacting Bobbi Pompey, BPompey@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7613 by April 26.

  • The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)


    May 13

    What does it mean to be blind or low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, leads this call-in forum to discuss the day-to-day ins and outs of blindness—from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies.

    RSVP for The Business of Blindness online or to Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***


    May 13

    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 being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual 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 portion of the course is six classes over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory class with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour classes which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists. Included in the course: a pre-course assessment one week prior to the start of the course, ongoing support during the course, one in-person half-day group lesson, and one individualized lesson for a total of 8 lessons.

    It is a comprehensive skills training course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the 6 virtual classes, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Class 7 is a half-day, in-person Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration at the San Francisco LightHouse Headquarters. Thereafter, participants are eligible for Class 8, an individualized Low Vision Therapy lesson.

    The six virtual classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing (independent Zoom video skills required for all virtual classes), best viewed on a large screen 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 of April 29: Course Introduction and Pre-Course Assessment by Zoom video call

    Six online classes Mondays & Wednesdays: May 6, 8, 13, 15, 20 & 22, from 9:45 am to 12:15 pm

    In-person class Wednesday, June 5 at LightHouse Headquarters in San Francisco from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm: Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration. There will be a hour break for provided lunch and further peer interaction.

    By June 26: In-person individualized follow-up low vision skills lesson tailored to the unique needs of each participant

    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.

    The registration for this course is currently closed. All interested parties need to have a Low Vision Evaluation completed within one year prior to the start of any low vision course. Please contact Esmerelda Soto at 415-694-7323 or by email at ESoto@lighthouse-sf.org for any questions and planning for a LightHouse Services Orientation and Assessment day. Any appropriate Low Vision course referrals will then be placed on our waitlist for the next available class (dates TBA).

    Toastmasters: LightHouse Visionaries (online)

    Toastmasters: LightHouse Visionaries (online)


    May 13

    LightHouse Visionaries provides blind and visually impaired people with a supportive and fun environment to develop public speaking and leadership skills, empowering us to enhance our personal and professional lives.

    Toastmasters is a place to develop skills of self-empowerment. It's a place to practice public speaking, improve communication, and build leadership skills. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month.

    RSVP online for Toastmasters, or contact Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

  • Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***


    May 15

    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 being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual 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 portion of the course is six classes over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory class with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour classes which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists. Included in the course: a pre-course assessment one week prior to the start of the course, ongoing support during the course, one in-person half-day group lesson, and one individualized lesson for a total of 8 lessons.

    It is a comprehensive skills training course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the 6 virtual classes, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Class 7 is a half-day, in-person Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration at the San Francisco LightHouse Headquarters. Thereafter, participants are eligible for Class 8, an individualized Low Vision Therapy lesson.

    The six virtual classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing (independent Zoom video skills required for all virtual classes), best viewed on a large screen 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 of April 29: Course Introduction and Pre-Course Assessment by Zoom video call

    Six online classes Mondays & Wednesdays: May 6, 8, 13, 15, 20 & 22, from 9:45 am to 12:15 pm

    In-person class Wednesday, June 5 at LightHouse Headquarters in San Francisco from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm: Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration. There will be a hour break for provided lunch and further peer interaction.

    By June 26: In-person individualized follow-up low vision skills lesson tailored to the unique needs of each participant

    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.

    The registration for this course is currently closed. All interested parties need to have a Low Vision Evaluation completed within one year prior to the start of any low vision course. Please contact Esmerelda Soto at 415-694-7323 or by email at ESoto@lighthouse-sf.org for any questions and planning for a LightHouse Services Orientation and Assessment day. Any appropriate Low Vision course referrals will then be placed on our waitlist for the next available class (dates TBA).

  • Create In Community (in-person)

    Create In Community (in-person)


    May 16

    Enter a place of curiosity and discovery with likeminded people.  Learn how to make both functional and fanciful things while acquiring new hacks to measure and manage materials with little or no sight. Experimentation, problem solving and good conversation pair nicely with found objects, clay, fun papers and other materials to create one of a kind, DIY items for fun and function.

    This month, May, let’s break out he air-dry clay and explore hand building techniques to create sculptures and vessels.

    No RSVPs needed. For questions, contact Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.

  • Meet Me in the Kitchen (in-person)

    Meet Me in the Kitchen (in-person)


    May 17

    “Meet me in the kitchen,” is a five-week course designed to empower LightHouse students with the non-visual techniques needed to prepare and present delicious meals independently. This course is created and taught by Bobbi Pompey, a Independent Living Skills Specialist with a passion for cooking and teaching. Each week you will learn non-visual kitchen skills, general cooking tips and tricks, and prepare a snack or meal.

    Skills You Will Learn Include:

    • Organizing, labeling, and preparing your kitchen and work space
    • Measuring wet and dry ingredients
      Using knives, kitchen appliances, blindness/low vision gadgets and other “tools of the trade”
    • Understanding how to build flavor profiles, decipher lingo used in recipes, and determine the doneness of food
    • Serving, garnishing, and presenting meals with multiple dishes to friends and family, and other guests

      Course Schedule:

    • Session 1: May 10 - Welcome and Course Overview
      This session will include staff/student introductions, a course overview, a tour of the kitchen, and an introduction to basic techniques for navigating a kitchen. Class will conclude with a lesson on pouring and spreading and the preparation of a snack.
    • Session 2, May 17 - Cracking the Code
      By the end of this session, you will understand how to decipher common recipe lingo, develop delicious flavor profiles with spices stock a pantry with basic staples, and shop for groceries independently. Techniques for measuring will be used to create a spice rub and/or basic sauce.
    • Session 3: May 24 - Getting the Job Done
      Knife skills are the main focus of this session. Students will make a simple one-pot soup and learn to determine when food is done.
    • Session 4: May 31 - Learning to Spin All the Plates
      This class marks the transition into the more advanced portion of the course. Labeling, organizing, blindness devices, kitchen gadgets, and the use of small appliances will be covered as ways to add efficiency to meal preparation. You will prepare a three part meal during this session.
    •  No class June 7
    • Session 5: June 14 - Putting On the Finishing Touches
      Taking all the skills of previous classes you will learn to; serve yourself, serve others, set a table, and decorate and/or garnish a meal.

    Spots in this fun and educational course are limited, so secure your participation by contacting Bobbi Pompey, BPompey@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7613 by April 26.

  • Study Hall (Presented by Emily Hansel (in-person)

    Study Hall (Presented by Emily Hansel (in-person)


    May 18

    MPACt Center for Art & Dance1625 Bush Street, San Francisco

    Study Hall, inspired by a series of public conversations on cultivating equitable workplaces, is performed by four dancer-choreographers who share an interest in forging new models for safety, equity, and sustainability in our contemporary dance field. In its final form, Study Hall can accurately be described as both carefully crafted and highly unplanned. Treading the line between set choreography and improvisational score, Study Hall exemplifies both the world building and dismantling that the artists crave.

    The haptic access tour at 6:45pm followed by audio described performance at 7:30pm.

    Tickets: $15-$55, plus NOTAFLOF

    Call 415-404-9596 to reserve an audio description headset and reserve a spot in the haptic tour.

    Buy tickets for Study Hall. You may also contact Emily at emily@emilyhansel.me.

  • The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)


    May 20

    What does it mean to be blind or low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, leads this call-in forum to discuss the day-to-day ins and outs of blindness—from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies.

    RSVP for The Business of Blindness online or to Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***


    May 20

    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 being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual 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 portion of the course is six classes over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory class with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour classes which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists. Included in the course: a pre-course assessment one week prior to the start of the course, ongoing support during the course, one in-person half-day group lesson, and one individualized lesson for a total of 8 lessons.

    It is a comprehensive skills training course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the 6 virtual classes, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Class 7 is a half-day, in-person Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration at the San Francisco LightHouse Headquarters. Thereafter, participants are eligible for Class 8, an individualized Low Vision Therapy lesson.

    The six virtual classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing (independent Zoom video skills required for all virtual classes), best viewed on a large screen 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 of April 29: Course Introduction and Pre-Course Assessment by Zoom video call

    Six online classes Mondays & Wednesdays: May 6, 8, 13, 15, 20 & 22, from 9:45 am to 12:15 pm

    In-person class Wednesday, June 5 at LightHouse Headquarters in San Francisco from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm: Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration. There will be a hour break for provided lunch and further peer interaction.

    By June 26: In-person individualized follow-up low vision skills lesson tailored to the unique needs of each participant

    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.

    The registration for this course is currently closed. All interested parties need to have a Low Vision Evaluation completed within one year prior to the start of any low vision course. Please contact Esmerelda Soto at 415-694-7323 or by email at ESoto@lighthouse-sf.org for any questions and planning for a LightHouse Services Orientation and Assessment day. Any appropriate Low Vision course referrals will then be placed on our waitlist for the next available class (dates TBA).

  • Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (hybrid) **Registration Closed***


    May 22

    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 being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual 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 portion of the course is six classes over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory class with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour classes which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists. Included in the course: a pre-course assessment one week prior to the start of the course, ongoing support during the course, one in-person half-day group lesson, and one individualized lesson for a total of 8 lessons.

    It is a comprehensive skills training course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the 6 virtual classes, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Class 7 is a half-day, in-person Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration at the San Francisco LightHouse Headquarters. Thereafter, participants are eligible for Class 8, an individualized Low Vision Therapy lesson.

    The six virtual classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing (independent Zoom video skills required for all virtual classes), best viewed on a large screen 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 of April 29: Course Introduction and Pre-Course Assessment by Zoom video call

    Six online classes Mondays & Wednesdays: May 6, 8, 13, 15, 20 & 22, from 9:45 am to 12:15 pm

    In-person class Wednesday, June 5 at LightHouse Headquarters in San Francisco from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm: Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration. There will be a hour break for provided lunch and further peer interaction.

    By June 26: In-person individualized follow-up low vision skills lesson tailored to the unique needs of each participant

    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.

    The registration for this course is currently closed. All interested parties need to have a Low Vision Evaluation completed within one year prior to the start of any low vision course. Please contact Esmerelda Soto at 415-694-7323 or by email at ESoto@lighthouse-sf.org for any questions and planning for a LightHouse Services Orientation and Assessment day. Any appropriate Low Vision course referrals will then be placed on our waitlist for the next available class (dates TBA).

  • Create In Community (in-person)

    Create In Community (in-person)


    May 23

    Enter a place of curiosity and discovery with likeminded people.  Learn how to make both functional and fanciful things while acquiring new hacks to measure and manage materials with little or no sight. Experimentation, problem solving and good conversation pair nicely with found objects, clay, fun papers and other materials to create one of a kind, DIY items for fun and function.

    This month, May, let’s break out he air-dry clay and explore hand building techniques to create sculptures and vessels.

    No RSVPs needed. For questions, contact Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.

  • Meet Me in the Kitchen (in-person)

    Meet Me in the Kitchen (in-person)


    May 24

    “Meet me in the kitchen,” is a five-week course designed to empower LightHouse students with the non-visual techniques needed to prepare and present delicious meals independently. This course is created and taught by Bobbi Pompey, a Independent Living Skills Specialist with a passion for cooking and teaching. Each week you will learn non-visual kitchen skills, general cooking tips and tricks, and prepare a snack or meal.

    Skills You Will Learn Include:

    • Organizing, labeling, and preparing your kitchen and work space
    • Measuring wet and dry ingredients
      Using knives, kitchen appliances, blindness/low vision gadgets and other “tools of the trade”
    • Understanding how to build flavor profiles, decipher lingo used in recipes, and determine the doneness of food
    • Serving, garnishing, and presenting meals with multiple dishes to friends and family, and other guests

      Course Schedule:

    • Session 1: May 10 - Welcome and Course Overview
      This session will include staff/student introductions, a course overview, a tour of the kitchen, and an introduction to basic techniques for navigating a kitchen. Class will conclude with a lesson on pouring and spreading and the preparation of a snack.
    • Session 2, May 17 - Cracking the Code
      By the end of this session, you will understand how to decipher common recipe lingo, develop delicious flavor profiles with spices stock a pantry with basic staples, and shop for groceries independently. Techniques for measuring will be used to create a spice rub and/or basic sauce.
    • Session 3: May 24 - Getting the Job Done
      Knife skills are the main focus of this session. Students will make a simple one-pot soup and learn to determine when food is done.
    • Session 4: May 31 - Learning to Spin All the Plates
      This class marks the transition into the more advanced portion of the course. Labeling, organizing, blindness devices, kitchen gadgets, and the use of small appliances will be covered as ways to add efficiency to meal preparation. You will prepare a three part meal during this session.
    •  No class June 7
    • Session 5: June 14 - Putting On the Finishing Touches
      Taking all the skills of previous classes you will learn to; serve yourself, serve others, set a table, and decorate and/or garnish a meal.

    Spots in this fun and educational course are limited, so secure your participation by contacting Bobbi Pompey, BPompey@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7613 by April 26.

  • Create In Community (in-person)

    Create In Community (in-person)


    May 30

    Enter a place of curiosity and discovery with likeminded people.  Learn how to make both functional and fanciful things while acquiring new hacks to measure and manage materials with little or no sight. Experimentation, problem solving and good conversation pair nicely with found objects, clay, fun papers and other materials to create one of a kind, DIY items for fun and function.

    This month, May, let’s break out he air-dry clay and explore hand building techniques to create sculptures and vessels.

    No RSVPs needed. For questions, contact Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.

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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