Calendar

Events in January 2021

  • Tech Together Online: Tech for Reading Printed Text

    Tech Together Online: Tech for Reading Printed Text


    Jan 5

    Join the LightHouse Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times. Tech Together is a chance to share your knowledge and experience, as well as learn from other blind technology users. LightHouse Access Technology staff share tips and resources on each week’s topic. Then there is time for LightHouse students and friends to add to the conversation, as we all learn from each other.

    Topics are decided on a rolling basis as our community’s needs evolve during shelter in place.

    January 5: Tech for Reading Print Text

    We’ll discuss apps and techniques for reading printed text, such as paper mail, package directions, and image files with written text.

    Join us for one or all these conversations.

    RSVP online for the January 5 Tech Together.

    Or leave a voicemail at 510-925-2943. Online registration is preferred.

    Upcoming Topics
    January 12: All About File Storage
    January 19: Troubleshooting Your Tech
    January 26: Podcast and Audio Recording

    Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​

    Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​


    Jan 5

    Adults 55 and over are invited to participate in a 6 session course geared towards improving safety in movement for indoor and outdoor activities. Exercises performed during class will help students feel more ‘sure footed’ when navigating stairs, walking over uneven sidewalks, and moving around obstacles while using a white cane or dog guide. Exercises designed to ease the transition between sit-to-stand movements will also be incorporated.

    In addition to completing simple and dual task activities, participants will learn how to conduct an at home safety assessment, evaluate elements that improve footwear stability, and develop a personalized balance program. After the 6 session course, participants can expect to feel more self-assured in personal movement patterns and less anxious about falling.

    The classes will be taught via Zoom or phone at the following dates and times -
    • Week 1: Tuesday, January 5 and Thursday, January 7 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 2: Tuesday, January 12 and Thursday, January 14 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 3: Tuesday, January 19 and Thursday, January 21 from 3:30-4:45pm

    There are no costs associated with this course for adults 55 and over living in the following counties - Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity. For those adults living outside the noted counties, the course is 150.00, plus materials.

    To registration is currently closed for this class due to it being full with a waitlist.

    To learn about future offerings of this workshop, please email Marie Trudelle at mtrudelle@lighthouse-sf.org

  • Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​

    Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​


    Jan 7

    Adults 55 and over are invited to participate in a 6 session course geared towards improving safety in movement for indoor and outdoor activities. Exercises performed during class will help students feel more ‘sure footed’ when navigating stairs, walking over uneven sidewalks, and moving around obstacles while using a white cane or dog guide. Exercises designed to ease the transition between sit-to-stand movements will also be incorporated.

    In addition to completing simple and dual task activities, participants will learn how to conduct an at home safety assessment, evaluate elements that improve footwear stability, and develop a personalized balance program. After the 6 session course, participants can expect to feel more self-assured in personal movement patterns and less anxious about falling.

    The classes will be taught via Zoom or phone at the following dates and times -
    • Week 1: Tuesday, January 5 and Thursday, January 7 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 2: Tuesday, January 12 and Thursday, January 14 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 3: Tuesday, January 19 and Thursday, January 21 from 3:30-4:45pm

    There are no costs associated with this course for adults 55 and over living in the following counties - Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity. For those adults living outside the noted counties, the course is 150.00, plus materials.

    To registration is currently closed for this class due to it being full with a waitlist.

    To learn about future offerings of this workshop, please email Marie Trudelle at mtrudelle@lighthouse-sf.org

  • Enchanted Hills Camp Virtual Campfire

    Enchanted Hills Camp Virtual Campfire


    Jan 9

    Camp Director, Tony Fletcher will serve as your host and hopes you will be able join. The campfires are designed for all ages and will focus on camp updates, music, laughter and fun. Please RSVP if you are interested in attending and we are happy to provide the Zoom information. You will be able to use the same Zoom link for the campfires between January and May of 2021.

    The structure for the February campfire will be:

    • Welcome and camp music
    • Updates on camp building efforts
    • Summer camp program updates
    • Camper check-ins
    • Special acknowledgments of campers and staff that have passed
    • LightHouse Virtual Program Announcements
    • Breakout rooms for open discussion

    RSVP to Alyah Thomas at ehc@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7345.

  • Tech Together Online: All About File Storage

    Tech Together Online: All About File Storage


    Jan 12

    Join the LightHouse Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times. Tech Together is a chance to share your knowledge and experience, as well as learn from other blind technology users. LightHouse Access Technology staff share tips and resources on each week’s topic. Then there is time for LightHouse students and friends to add to the conversation, as we all learn from each other.

    Topics are decided on a rolling basis as our community’s needs evolve during shelter in place.

    January 12: All About File Storage

    Whether you need to back up your files, share files with others, or keep more data than your device will hold, cloud based file storage can be a useful tool in your toolbox. Come learn about options for accessible online storage.

    Join us for one or all these conversations.

    RSVP online for the January 12 Tech Together.

    Or leave a voicemail at 510-925-2943. Online registration is preferred.

    Upcoming Topics
    January 19: Troubleshooting Your Tech
    January 26: Podcast and Audio Recording

    iCanConnect Information Session for People who are DeafBlind

    iCanConnect Information Session for People who are DeafBlind


    Jan 12

    If you are a Deaf-Blind person in need of new technology and training to access email, social media, Zoom, or other distance telecommunication, this one’s for you. LightHouse’s iCanConnect (iCC) program is hosting a series of Q&A Sessions for interested community members and potential applicants with Nai Damato, the iCC access technology trainer, and Alyah Thomas, the program assistant. The iCanConnect program provides eligible, deaf-blind, low-income applicants of all ages with new technology, training, and support after training is complete. We can provide a range of equipment depending on individual need and skills, for example: iPhones with Braille displays; computers with screen readers and noise canceling headsets to hear JAWs; assistance with upgrading software such as ZoomText or JAWS; or providing braille displays to folks who can no longer hear the speech on the screen reader, but can read email using a braille display.

    If you or someone you know might be interested in the program, please join us at one of the following dates:

    January: Tuesday 1/12 from 3:00-4:00pm or Friday 1/15 from 12:00-1:00pm
    February: Friday 2/19 from 12:00-1:00pm
    March: Monday 3/15 from 3:00-4:00, Friday 3/19 from 12:00-1:00pm

    For more information about the program or to RSVP for an event, please email program assistant, Alyah Thomas, at athomas@lighthouse-sf.org

    Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​

    Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​


    Jan 12

    Adults 55 and over are invited to participate in a 6 session course geared towards improving safety in movement for indoor and outdoor activities. Exercises performed during class will help students feel more ‘sure footed’ when navigating stairs, walking over uneven sidewalks, and moving around obstacles while using a white cane or dog guide. Exercises designed to ease the transition between sit-to-stand movements will also be incorporated.

    In addition to completing simple and dual task activities, participants will learn how to conduct an at home safety assessment, evaluate elements that improve footwear stability, and develop a personalized balance program. After the 6 session course, participants can expect to feel more self-assured in personal movement patterns and less anxious about falling.

    The classes will be taught via Zoom or phone at the following dates and times -
    • Week 1: Tuesday, January 5 and Thursday, January 7 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 2: Tuesday, January 12 and Thursday, January 14 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 3: Tuesday, January 19 and Thursday, January 21 from 3:30-4:45pm

    There are no costs associated with this course for adults 55 and over living in the following counties - Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity. For those adults living outside the noted counties, the course is 150.00, plus materials.

    To registration is currently closed for this class due to it being full with a waitlist.

    To learn about future offerings of this workshop, please email Marie Trudelle at mtrudelle@lighthouse-sf.org

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

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


    Jan 12

    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:

    5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Connections, a semi-structured time to get to know chapter members
    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 Christina Daniels at ms.christina.daniels@gmail.com.

    *Please note, this group is not afflicted with LightHouse.

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

  • One Step Forward: O&M Drop-In Forum for Adults 55 and Over

    One Step Forward: O&M Drop-In Forum for Adults 55 and Over


    Jan 13

    One Step Forward is a 6-week drop-in open discussion forum for students new to orientation and mobility (O&M) who have questions or fears about orientation and mobility training or are simply curious and would like to connect, learn, and converse. Each week, students will engage with each other and LightHouse Orientation & Mobility Specialists Jennifer Huey and Sarah McIntyre, developing comfort and confidence through conversation about O&M. Topics will be planned for each conversation, but this discussion group is for you, so if an O&M topic is on your mind, bring it to the group! This is an opportunity to pose your personal thoughts and questions about learning skills for independent travel.

    Who should attend? This 6-week class is for LightHouse students 55 years and older who have not received O&M training, or who have received very little and are not currently participating in O&M training but are curious, “almost ready,” or maybe are ready but are waiting to begin in-person training. This group may also appeal to you if you are looking to connect with other peers who share an interest in O&M and want to discuss the benefits of training. The best thing is, you don’t need any O&M experience to participate!

    What to expect each week: Group conversation will focus on a planned topic, but there will also be time to ask questions that are relevant to you. Because this is a drop-in class, you can commit to just one class, all six, or as many as you want. The decision is yours! Participate if the topic is of interest or if you just want to connect and listen. All we ask is that you are open-minded and are interested in taking one step toward independent travel. This forum will use the Zoom platform, but any student with access to a telephone is welcome to join by calling in. Our goal is to make this program low-tech, user-friendly and approachable. The first meeting will be held December 9, 2020 from 10:00-11:00, and the planned topic is “Exploring Covid-safe strategies for navigating the holidays.”

    Dates for upcoming meetings and planned topics for conversation:
    December 9, 2020: Covid-safe holiday strategies
    January 13, 2021: Defining training goals and priorities: New year, new you!
    January 27, 2020: Training opportunities: Understanding the differences and intersection between LightHouse services
    February 10, 2021: O&M in and around the house: movement and tactile awareness
    February 24, 2021: O&M in and around the house: sound
    March 10, 2021: What’s stopping you? Exploring the white cane and potential barriers

    Class Details:
    When: December 9, 2020 – March 10, 2021. Six Wednesday morning meetings (Dec. 9; Jan. 13 & 27; Feb. 10 & 24; March 10).
    Time: 10:00 – 11:00 am
    How to Participate: Zoom, either via phone or the Zoom app
    Cost: It’s free!

    RSVP to Jennifer Huey at JHuey@lighthouse-sf.org or Sarah McIntyre at SMcIntyre@lighthouse-sf.org.

  • Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​

    Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​


    Jan 14

    Adults 55 and over are invited to participate in a 6 session course geared towards improving safety in movement for indoor and outdoor activities. Exercises performed during class will help students feel more ‘sure footed’ when navigating stairs, walking over uneven sidewalks, and moving around obstacles while using a white cane or dog guide. Exercises designed to ease the transition between sit-to-stand movements will also be incorporated.

    In addition to completing simple and dual task activities, participants will learn how to conduct an at home safety assessment, evaluate elements that improve footwear stability, and develop a personalized balance program. After the 6 session course, participants can expect to feel more self-assured in personal movement patterns and less anxious about falling.

    The classes will be taught via Zoom or phone at the following dates and times -
    • Week 1: Tuesday, January 5 and Thursday, January 7 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 2: Tuesday, January 12 and Thursday, January 14 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 3: Tuesday, January 19 and Thursday, January 21 from 3:30-4:45pm

    There are no costs associated with this course for adults 55 and over living in the following counties - Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity. For those adults living outside the noted counties, the course is 150.00, plus materials.

    To registration is currently closed for this class due to it being full with a waitlist.

    To learn about future offerings of this workshop, please email Marie Trudelle at mtrudelle@lighthouse-sf.org

  • iCanConnect Information Session for People who are DeafBlind

    iCanConnect Information Session for People who are DeafBlind


    Jan 15

    If you are a Deaf-Blind person in need of new technology and training to access email, social media, Zoom, or other distance telecommunication, this one’s for you. LightHouse’s iCanConnect (iCC) program is hosting a series of Q&A Sessions for interested community members and potential applicants with Nai Damato, the iCC access technology trainer, and Alyah Thomas, the program assistant. The iCanConnect program provides eligible, deaf-blind, low-income applicants of all ages with new technology, training, and support after training is complete. We can provide a range of equipment depending on individual need and skills, for example: iPhones with Braille displays; computers with screen readers and noise canceling headsets to hear JAWs; assistance with upgrading software such as ZoomText or JAWS; or providing braille displays to folks who can no longer hear the speech on the screen reader, but can read email using a braille display.

    If you or someone you know might be interested in the program, please join us at one of the following dates:

    January: Tuesday 1/12 from 3:00-4:00pm or Friday 1/15 from 12:00-1:00pm
    February: Friday 2/19 from 12:00-1:00pm
    March: Monday 3/15 from 3:00-4:00, Friday 3/19 from 12:00-1:00pm

    For more information about the program or to RSVP for an event, please email program assistant, Alyah Thomas, at athomas@lighthouse-sf.org

  • Get Moving: Orientation & Mobility for Independent Travel (for DOR Consumers)

    Get Moving: Orientation & Mobility for Independent Travel (for DOR Consumers)


    Jan 19

    This is a comprehensive 6-week 14-class virtual course on Zoom introducing students to foundational Orientation & Mobility concepts, skills, and current technologies for safe, independent travel and for gaining or retaining employment (this course is specifically for Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) Consumers. Students meet twice a week for two-hour classes andparticipate in two hours of pre-class assessment, Zoom procedures and outside class support.

    To participate students must have solid internet access and be able to access Zoom via phone and/or video and have computer skills to receive and read articles, watch videos and listen to podcasts. All students should expect weekly homework to be completed prior to class.

    The essential O&M lessons cover: the benefits of O&M training for travel and employment; overview of sensory, spatial & environmental awareness; orientation strategies and skills; tactile graphics; human guide; protective techniques; long cane basics; outdoor travel; street crossing sequence; intersection analysis; public transportation & trip planning; and introduction to electronic travel devices, GPS & wayfinding technologies.

    The course runs Tuesdays & Thursdays, January 19, 21, 27 & 28 and February 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23 & 25 from 10:00 am to noon.

    Registration deadline is January 8, 2021. To register for the course and hear about the fees and materials,  please contact Robert Alminana at ralminana@lighthouse-sf.org or Jennifer Huey at jhuey@lighthouse-sf.org and contact your DOR Counselor.

    Tech Together Online: Troubleshooting Your Tech

    Tech Together Online: Troubleshooting Your Tech


    Jan 19

    Join the LightHouse Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times. Tech Together is a chance to share your knowledge and experience, as well as learn from other blind technology users. LightHouse Access Technology staff share tips and resources on each week’s topic. Then there is time for LightHouse students and friends to add to the conversation, as we all learn from each other.

    Topics are decided on a rolling basis as our community’s needs evolve during shelter in place.

    January 19:

    If your device won’t talk, won’t connect, or doesn’t behave as expected, what are some first steps to try before frustration rises? The access tech team will share the basic steps we take to get tech back up and running when things don’t go as planned.

    Join us for one or all these conversations.

    RSVP online for the January 19 Tech Together.

    Or leave a voicemail at 510-925-2943. Online registration is preferred.

    Upcoming Topics
    January 26: Podcast and Audio Recording

    Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​

    Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​


    Jan 19

    Adults 55 and over are invited to participate in a 6 session course geared towards improving safety in movement for indoor and outdoor activities. Exercises performed during class will help students feel more ‘sure footed’ when navigating stairs, walking over uneven sidewalks, and moving around obstacles while using a white cane or dog guide. Exercises designed to ease the transition between sit-to-stand movements will also be incorporated.

    In addition to completing simple and dual task activities, participants will learn how to conduct an at home safety assessment, evaluate elements that improve footwear stability, and develop a personalized balance program. After the 6 session course, participants can expect to feel more self-assured in personal movement patterns and less anxious about falling.

    The classes will be taught via Zoom or phone at the following dates and times -
    • Week 1: Tuesday, January 5 and Thursday, January 7 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 2: Tuesday, January 12 and Thursday, January 14 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 3: Tuesday, January 19 and Thursday, January 21 from 3:30-4:45pm

    There are no costs associated with this course for adults 55 and over living in the following counties - Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity. For those adults living outside the noted counties, the course is 150.00, plus materials.

    To registration is currently closed for this class due to it being full with a waitlist.

    To learn about future offerings of this workshop, please email Marie Trudelle at mtrudelle@lighthouse-sf.org

  • Get Moving: Orientation & Mobility for Independent Travel (for DOR Consumers)

    Get Moving: Orientation & Mobility for Independent Travel (for DOR Consumers)


    Jan 21

    This is a comprehensive 6-week 14-class virtual course (Zoom) introducing students to foundational Orientation & Mobility concepts, skills, and current technologies for safe, independent travel and for gaining or retaining employment (this course is specifically for Department of Rehabilitation Consumers (DOR) consumers). Students meet twice a week for two-hour classes andparticipate in two hours of pre-class assessment, Zoom procedures and outside class support.

    To participate students must have solid internet access and be able to access Zoom via phone and/or video and have computer skills to receive and read articles, watch videos and listen to podcasts. All students should expect weekly homework to be completed prior to class.

    The essential O&M lessons cover: the benefits of O&M training for travel and employment; overview of sensory, spatial & environmental awareness; orientation strategies and skills; tactile graphics; human guide; protective techniques; long cane basics; outdoor travel; street crossing sequence; intersection analysis; public transportation & trip planning; and introduction to electronic travel devices, GPS & wayfinding technologies.

    Registration deadline is January 8, 2021. To register for the course and hear about the fees and materials,  please contact Robert Alminana at ralminana@lighthouse-sf.org or Jennifer Huey at jhuey@lighthouse-sf.org and contact your DOR Counselor.

    Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​

    Safe and Confident Movement for O&M Travel​


    Jan 21

    Adults 55 and over are invited to participate in a 6 session course geared towards improving safety in movement for indoor and outdoor activities. Exercises performed during class will help students feel more ‘sure footed’ when navigating stairs, walking over uneven sidewalks, and moving around obstacles while using a white cane or dog guide. Exercises designed to ease the transition between sit-to-stand movements will also be incorporated.

    In addition to completing simple and dual task activities, participants will learn how to conduct an at home safety assessment, evaluate elements that improve footwear stability, and develop a personalized balance program. After the 6 session course, participants can expect to feel more self-assured in personal movement patterns and less anxious about falling.

    The classes will be taught via Zoom or phone at the following dates and times -
    • Week 1: Tuesday, January 5 and Thursday, January 7 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 2: Tuesday, January 12 and Thursday, January 14 from 3:30-4:45pm
    • Week 3: Tuesday, January 19 and Thursday, January 21 from 3:30-4:45pm

    There are no costs associated with this course for adults 55 and over living in the following counties - Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity. For those adults living outside the noted counties, the course is 150.00, plus materials.

    To registration is currently closed for this class due to it being full with a waitlist.

    To learn about future offerings of this workshop, please email Marie Trudelle at mtrudelle@lighthouse-sf.org

  • Get Moving: Online O&M Class for Adults 55 and over

    Get Moving: Online O&M Class for Adults 55 and over


    Jan 25

    Back by popular demand, it’s our six-week online Orientation & Mobility course, Get Moving. This session is for Bay Area residents aged 55 and over.

    It’s a comprehensive course with two classes per week using the Zoom platform to introduce students to foundational O&M concepts, skills, and current technologies for safe and independent travel.

    The lessons are: Benefits of O&M Training; Overview of Sensory, Spatial & Environmental Awareness; Orientation Strategies and Skills; Tactile Graphics/TMAP; Human Guide; Protective Techniques; Long Cane Basics; Outdoor Travel; Street Crossing Sequence; Intersection Analysis; Public Transportation & Trip Planning; and Introduction to Electronic Travel Devices, GPS & Wayfinding Technologies.

    Mondays & Wednesdays: January 25 & 27; February 1, 3, 8, 10, 17, 22, 24; March 1, 3 & 8 from 10:00 am to noon (no class Presidents’ Day, February 15)

    RSVP by noon on Friday, January 15 to Chris Williams at Cwilliams@lighthouse-sf.org.

  • Get Moving: Orientation & Mobility for Independent Travel (for DOR Consumers)

    Get Moving: Orientation & Mobility for Independent Travel (for DOR Consumers)


    Jan 26

    This is a comprehensive 6-week 14-class virtual course on Zoom introducing students to foundational Orientation & Mobility concepts, skills, and current technologies for safe, independent travel and for gaining or retaining employment (this course is specifically for Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) Consumers. Students meet twice a week for two-hour classes andparticipate in two hours of pre-class assessment, Zoom procedures and outside class support.

    To participate students must have solid internet access and be able to access Zoom via phone and/or video and have computer skills to receive and read articles, watch videos and listen to podcasts. All students should expect weekly homework to be completed prior to class.

    The essential O&M lessons cover: the benefits of O&M training for travel and employment; overview of sensory, spatial & environmental awareness; orientation strategies and skills; tactile graphics; human guide; protective techniques; long cane basics; outdoor travel; street crossing sequence; intersection analysis; public transportation & trip planning; and introduction to electronic travel devices, GPS & wayfinding technologies.

    The course runs Tuesdays & Thursdays, January 19, 21, 27 & 28 and February 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23 & 25 from 10:00 am to noon.

    Registration deadline is January 8, 2021. To register for the course and hear about the fees and materials,  please contact Robert Alminana at ralminana@lighthouse-sf.org or Jennifer Huey at jhuey@lighthouse-sf.org and contact your DOR Counselor.

    Tech Together Online: Podcast and Audio Recording

    Tech Together Online: Podcast and Audio Recording


    Jan 26

    Join the LightHouse Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times. Tech Together is a chance to share your knowledge and experience, as well as learn from other blind technology users. LightHouse Access Technology staff share tips and resources on each week’s topic. Then there is time for LightHouse students and friends to add to the conversation, as we all learn from each other.

    Topics are decided on a rolling basis as our community’s needs evolve during shelter in place.

    January 26: Podcast and Audio Recording

    Whether you’re capturing content to share with the world, or catching audio pictures of daily life for your own memories, we’ll share some tips about recording, editing, and sharing audio content.

    Join us for one or all these conversations.

    RSVP online for the January 26 Tech Together.

    Or leave a voicemail at 510-925-2943. Online registration is preferred.

     

  • Get Moving: Online O&M Class for Adults 55 and over

    Get Moving: Online O&M Class for Adults 55 and over


    Jan 27

    Back by popular demand, it’s our six-week online Orientation & Mobility course, Get Moving. This session is for Bay Area residents aged 55 and over.

    It’s a comprehensive course with two classes per week using the Zoom platform to introduce students to foundational O&M concepts, skills, and current technologies for safe and independent travel.

    The lessons are: Benefits of O&M Training; Overview of Sensory, Spatial & Environmental Awareness; Orientation Strategies and Skills; Tactile Graphics/TMAP; Human Guide; Protective Techniques; Long Cane Basics; Outdoor Travel; Street Crossing Sequence; Intersection Analysis; Public Transportation & Trip Planning; and Introduction to Electronic Travel Devices, GPS & Wayfinding Technologies.

    Mondays & Wednesdays: January 25 & 27; February 1, 3, 8, 10, 17, 22, 24; March 1, 3 & 8 from 10:00 am to noon (no class Presidents’ Day, February 15)

    RSVP by noon on Friday, January 15 to Chris Williams at Cwilliams@lighthouse-sf.org.

    One Step Forward: O&M Drop-In Forum for Adults 55 and Over

    One Step Forward: O&M Drop-In Forum for Adults 55 and Over


    Jan 27

    One Step Forward is a 6-week drop-in open discussion forum for students new to orientation and mobility (O&M) who have questions or fears about orientation and mobility training or are simply curious and would like to connect, learn, and converse. Each week, students will engage with each other and LightHouse Orientation & Mobility Specialists Jennifer Huey and Sarah McIntyre, developing comfort and confidence through conversation about O&M. Topics will be planned for each conversation, but this discussion group is for you, so if an O&M topic is on your mind, bring it to the group! This is an opportunity to pose your personal thoughts and questions about learning skills for independent travel.

    Who should attend? This 6-week class is for LightHouse students 55 years and older who have not received O&M training, or who have received very little and are not currently participating in O&M training but are curious, “almost ready,” or maybe are ready but are waiting to begin in-person training. This group may also appeal to you if you are looking to connect with other peers who share an interest in O&M and want to discuss the benefits of training. The best thing is, you don’t need any O&M experience to participate!

    What to expect each week: Group conversation will focus on a planned topic, but there will also be time to ask questions that are relevant to you. Because this is a drop-in class, you can commit to just one class, all six, or as many as you want. The decision is yours! Participate if the topic is of interest or if you just want to connect and listen. All we ask is that you are open-minded and are interested in taking one step toward independent travel. This forum will use the Zoom platform, but any student with access to a telephone is welcome to join by calling in. Our goal is to make this program low-tech, user-friendly and approachable. The first meeting will be held December 9, 2020 from 10:00-11:00, and the planned topic is “Exploring Covid-safe strategies for navigating the holidays.”

    Dates for upcoming meetings and planned topics for conversation:
    December 9, 2020: Covid-safe holiday strategies
    January 13, 2021: Defining training goals and priorities: New year, new you!
    January 27, 2020: Training opportunities: Understanding the differences and intersection between LightHouse services
    February 10, 2021: O&M in and around the house: movement and tactile awareness
    February 24, 2021: O&M in and around the house: sound
    March 10, 2021: What’s stopping you? Exploring the white cane and potential barriers

    Class Details:
    When: December 9, 2020 – March 10, 2021. Six Wednesday morning meetings (Dec. 9; Jan. 13 & 27; Feb. 10 & 24; March 10).
    Time: 10:00 – 11:00 am
    How to Participate: Zoom, either via phone or the Zoom app
    Cost: It’s free!

    RSVP to Jennifer Huey at JHuey@lighthouse-sf.org or Sarah McIntyre at SMcIntyre@lighthouse-sf.org.

    Meet You At The House

    Meet You At The House


    Jan 27

    Pull up a comfy chair and join Community Outreach Coordinator, Sheri Albers, in the LightHouse virtual living room to talk about all things LightHouse! Have you been experiencing changes in your vision that have been affecting your daily life, but don’t know what to do? LightHouse of San Francisco is here to help. This is the perfect place to come and ask the questions that you need answers to.

    For the January meeting, our guest will be Kate Williams, LightHouse Director of the LightHouse Employment Services. The Employment Immersion virtual workshop is now being offered nationally on Zoom. Come talk to Kate about what her team has been doing to assist people who are blind or have low vision join the workforce. We will also have a member of our Adaptations Store on hand to let us know about the latest and greatest in blindness and low vision products on the market.

    RSVP to Sheri Albers at SAlbers@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7331.

  • Get Moving: Orientation & Mobility for Independent Travel (for DOR Consumers)

    Get Moving: Orientation & Mobility for Independent Travel (for DOR Consumers)


    Jan 28

    This is a comprehensive 6-week 14-class virtual course on Zoom introducing students to foundational Orientation & Mobility concepts, skills, and current technologies for safe, independent travel and for gaining or retaining employment (this course is specifically for Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) Consumers. Students meet twice a week for two-hour classes andparticipate in two hours of pre-class assessment, Zoom procedures and outside class support.

    To participate students must have solid internet access and be able to access Zoom via phone and/or video and have computer skills to receive and read articles, watch videos and listen to podcasts. All students should expect weekly homework to be completed prior to class.

    The essential O&M lessons cover: the benefits of O&M training for travel and employment; overview of sensory, spatial & environmental awareness; orientation strategies and skills; tactile graphics; human guide; protective techniques; long cane basics; outdoor travel; street crossing sequence; intersection analysis; public transportation & trip planning; and introduction to electronic travel devices, GPS & wayfinding technologies.

    The course runs Tuesdays & Thursdays, January 19, 21, 27 & 28 and February 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23 & 25 from 10:00 am to noon.

    Registration deadline is January 8, 2021. To register for the course and hear about the fees and materials,  please contact Robert Alminana at ralminana@lighthouse-sf.org or Jennifer Huey at jhuey@lighthouse-sf.org and contact your DOR Counselor.

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