Calendar

Events in April 2021

  • Reel Escape: Audio-Described Movie Club

    Reel Escape: Audio-Described Movie Club


    Apr 1

    To help you break up the routine and escape for some fun, join your friends for our weekly Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club. This weekly remote social gathering of blind and low vision youth takes place over zoom on Thursday afternoons at 4:00 pm. Films will be family-friendly and have audio descriptions enabled. Join us each week to help choose future films. Past films have included: Toy Story, Frozen, Inside out, Minions, Lion King and many other classics.

    Who: Students under 18 that are Blind or have Low Vision
    What: Audio Description Movie Club via Zoom
    When: Thursday afternoons @ 4:00 pm Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting
    RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program

    Parents & Guardians, we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

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

    Reel Escape: Audio-Described Movie Club: The One and Only Ivan

    Reel Escape: Audio-Described Movie Club: The One and Only Ivan


    Apr 1

    To help you break up the routine and escape for some fun, join your friends for our weekly Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club. This weekly remote social gathering of blind and low vision youth takes place over zoom on Thursday afternoons at 4:00 pm. Films will be family-friendly and have audio descriptions enabled. Join us each week to help choose future films. Past films have included: Toy Story, Frozen, Inside out, Minions, Lion King and many other classics.

    Who: Students under 18 that are Blind or have Low Vision
    What: Audio Description Movie Club via Zoom
    When: Thursday afternoons @ 4:00 pm Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting
    RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program

    Parents & Guardians, we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

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

  • Harry Potter Club

    Harry Potter Club


    Apr 3

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

    In January we will start the club off right with a kick-off party!  Where we will learn more about our Harry Potter friends by taking part in some house sorting and house competitions. Followed by a presentation from our friends at the Talking Books and Braille Center at the San Francisco Public Library about one way you might be able to access the Harry Potter book series. In February we will start watching the Harry Potter movie series and compare each of the movies and books in order. We will continue in this fashion with another installment of the Harry Potter series each month with a short break for summer. To best prepare for each month’s program we ask that you read the corresponding book before we watch the movie.

    Don’t have the book?  Don’t worry! There are options. First is the NLS free braille and talking book library service. If you are not signed up with the NLS please start the process at https://www.loc.gov/programs/national-library-service-for-the-blind-and-print-disabled/about-this-service/?cid=loc-ppc_s=google_c=talking-book-library_ag=talking-book_kw=library-of-congress-talking-books.You may also subscribe to Learning Ally, who has audio versions of all the Harry Potter books. To create an account with Learning Ally, please visit - https://learningally.org/About-Us/Join. Join us for the kick-off event in December to learn more and ask questions.

    2021 Dates

    January 2 – Club Kick-off Party!

    February 6 – Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001)

    March 6 – Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)

    April 3  – Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)

    May 1  – Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)

    June, July & August – Summer Break

    September 4th – Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)

    October 2 – Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009)

    November 6 – Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010)

    December 4 – Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011)

    Who: Blind and low vision youth from all over that are under 18 or that are still in high school. Families should be aware the Harry Potter Books are for youth that are at least in 5th or 6th grade, however a couple of the Harry Potter movies are rated PG-13 and may not be appropriate for all.

    What: Harry Potter book and audio description movie club

    When: 1:00 pm of the first Saturday of the month (see dates above)

    Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

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

    Parents & Guardians: we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

    Anti-Discrimination Statement: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired does not support discriminatory or hateful speech in any form. We stand by the LGBTQ+ community and all fans who found a home in the Harry Potter series and will work to provide a safe space for fans.

    If you are interested in signing up for the Harry Potter Club, please contact Jamey Gump by email at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

  • Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together


    Apr 5

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

    Adult clients of their state Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) are invited to participate in a six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision and practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work and school environments. The course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

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

    The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing (preferred) or phone at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

    Week 1:

    Monday, March 29 and Wednesday, March 31 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 2:

    Monday, April 5 and Wednesday, April 7 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 3:

    Monday, April 12 and Wednesday, April 14 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Please RSVP by Monday, March 1 to coordinate authorization through your DOR counselor and to be able to receive class materials in time for the first class on Monday, March 29.  To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org  The class is limited to ten students.

  • Tech Together Online: Accessing Health Data

    Tech Together Online: Accessing Health Data


    Apr 6

    Join the LightHouse Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times.

    Does your doctor’s office have online scheduling, charts or test results? Do you need to access health information like weight or blood pressure? While your doctor is your best source of health advice, your Access Technology team will share what we know about the landscape of accessible health information and connected health devices.

    RSVP for Tech Together Online: Accessing Health Data or leave a voicemail at 1-415-694-7618. Online registration is preferred.

    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.

    Not So Bored Game Night (online)

    Not So Bored Game Night (online)


    Apr 6

    Each week students from the Lighthouse Youth Program gather for our virtual Not So Bored Game Night. A weekly evening of fun and games for Blind and low vision youth from all over. Games start at 7:00 pm on Tuesday evenings and will include trivia contests, scavenger hunts and other interactive games that will have youth making friends. In addition, the LightHouse staff each week’s games will be led by a guest mentor that will also share insight into their education, career and life as a person who is blind or has low vision.

    Who: students under 18 that are blind or have low vision
    What: weekly game night and guest mentor spotlight via zoom When: Tuesday evenings from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
    Where: Anywhere you can access a Zoom meeting
    RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program
    Parents & Guardians: we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

    If you are interested in signing up for the Not So Bored Game Night, please contact Jamey Gump by email at youth@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

  • Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together


    Apr 7

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

    Adult clients of their state Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) are invited to participate in a six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision and practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work and school environments. The course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

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

    The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing (preferred) or phone at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

    Week 1:

    Monday, March 29 and Wednesday, March 31 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 2:

    Monday, April 5 and Wednesday, April 7 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 3:

    Monday, April 12 and Wednesday, April 14 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Please RSVP by Monday, March 1 to coordinate authorization through your DOR counselor and to be able to receive class materials in time for the first class on Monday, March 29.  To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org  The class is limited to ten students.

  • Tactile Diagram Intersection Workshop

    Tactile Diagram Intersection Workshop


    Apr 8

    If you’re a resident of San Francisco who is blind or has low vision, we invite you to join us for a free Tactile Diagram Workshop. Get an overview of the streets of San Francisco with tactile intersection diagrams designed in-house by LightHouse’s Media and Accessible Design Lab. Learn about San Francisco’s “left turn calming” intersections designed to slow drivers as they make left turns. Plus, our Orientation & Mobility Specialists will go over other types of intersections as well. Participants will receive a free copy of the Tactile Intersection Diagrams booklet before this workshop to help support learning.

    This workshop is possible thanks to a Safety – It’s Your Turn  grant from the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA). For more information about the Safety – It’s Your Turn campaign visit VisionZeroSF.org/leftturns.

    Thursday, April 8 from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm

    RSVP by April 2 to Briana Kusuma at BKusuma@lighthouse-sf.org. Briana will send one copy of the booklet via Free Matter for the Blind and sign you up for participation in the workshop.

    Reel Escape: Audio-Described Movie Club

    Reel Escape: Audio-Described Movie Club


    Apr 8

    To help you break up the routine and escape for some fun, join your friends for our weekly Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club. This weekly remote social gathering of blind and low vision youth takes place over zoom on Thursday afternoons at 4:00 pm. Films will be family-friendly and have audio descriptions enabled. Join us each week to help choose future films. Past films have included: Toy Story, Frozen, Inside out, Minions, Lion King and many other classics.

    Who: Students under 18 that are Blind or have Low Vision
    What: Audio Description Movie Club via Zoom
    When: Thursday afternoons @ 4:00 pm Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting
    RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program

    Parents & Guardians, we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

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

  • Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together


    Apr 12

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

    Adult clients of their state Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) are invited to participate in a six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision and practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work and school environments. The course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

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

    The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing (preferred) or phone at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

    Week 1:

    Monday, March 29 and Wednesday, March 31 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 2:

    Monday, April 5 and Wednesday, April 7 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 3:

    Monday, April 12 and Wednesday, April 14 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Please RSVP by Monday, March 1 to coordinate authorization through your DOR counselor and to be able to receive class materials in time for the first class on Monday, March 29.  To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org  The class is limited to ten students.

    Monthly Mentor Mondays: Planning for What’s Next

    Monthly Mentor Mondays: Planning for What’s Next


    Apr 12

    Monthly Mentor Mondays Second Monday of the month @ 7:00pm

    Lighthouse Youth Program knows how important connecting with peers and mentors that also happen to be blind or low vision can be on the students we work with. To help the youth connect with our community of excellent mentors and allow time for them to ask questions that can help them along their journey we host our Monthly Mentor Monday’s series, in which Lighthouse staff lead a panel of young blind leaders through a conversation about topics important to the success of youth that are blind or have low vision. Each month a new group college-aged and young adult mentors will share their thoughts, stories and advice about that month’s topic and address any questions that the youth might have. Topics of our monthly panel will include subjects such as advocacy, career exploration, social interaction, self-determination, assistive technology and recreation and leisure with a focus on the additional experiences we encounter during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    2021 Dates & Themes

    January 11 – Setting Goals and Problem Solving: In our January meeting we will talk about how other blind and low vision student set and achieve their goals and more importantly how we resolve any issues that come up during our journey.

    February 8– Advocating your needs and addressing other people’s misperceptions: With Valentine’s day just around the corner we invite you to join our panel as we talk about how we as blind or low vision students can interact successfully with our pears and loved ones. Our February panel will also discuss how they educate our communities about any misperception’s others may have about us as blind or low vision students.

    March 8th – Cooking, Nutrition and Living Independently: During our March gathering we will be talking about food, cooking and living independently as blind or low vision students. Join us as this month’s panel shares recipes and wisdom about how to access the food you want that will keep you a happy and healthy student.

    April 12 – Planning for what’s next: Join us in April as our panel of blind and low vision students share their insights and answer your questions about how to set oneself up for success in the next academic year.

    May 10 – Recreation and getting involved: As summer approaches join our May panel to learn about ways other blind and low vision mentors found their hobbies/interest and how they made their recreation accessible.

    Who: students in middle or high school that are blind or have low vision

    What: monthly panel of successful mentors that are blind or have low vision

    When: second Monday of the month from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm

    Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

    RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP with Jamey Gump by 5:00 pm the Friday before the event
    If you have any questions or would like to sign up for the Monthly Mentor Mondays, please contact, Jamey Gump at youth@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.

  • Tech Together Online: Let's Talk Google Docs

    Tech Together Online: Let's Talk Google Docs


    Apr 13

    Join the LightHouse Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times.

    It’s a word processor, that lives in a web browser. It’s a powerful tool for building documents with other people. We’ll cover the concepts and settings you’ll need to access Google Docs with a screen reader.

    RSVP for Tech Together Online: Let's Talk Google Docs or leave a voicemail at 1-415-694-7618. Online registration is preferred.

    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.

    College Spaces From Different Places: Effective Study Environments

    College Spaces From Different Places: Effective Study Environments


    Apr 13

    College Spaces from Different Places
    Meeting 5: Effective Study Environments: from Stations to Systems

    When: Tuesday, April 13, from 7:00-8:30 PM

    Continue to join us for the next installment of College Spaces from Different Places! We will swap tips on how best to create and access an effective study environment including systems, platforms, and equipment. This month, our very own, Gene Kim, will facilitate this interesting and practical conversation.

    College Spaces from Different Places is a peer led student organization which cultivates connections and community for all undergraduate college students. College Spaces from Different Places is a group designed by and for low vision and blind students to have fun, build community, and share in our struggles and accomplishments. Many undergrads are currently missing out on forming social connections on their own college campus. Therefore, joining College Spaces from Different Places will give you an opportunity to come together with others from across the state. Leave your books and syllabi behind and join us!

    If you have any questions or would like to be part of future College Spaces from Different Places gatherings, contact Ann Wai-Yee Kwong, Transition Program Manager at akwong@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone/text at 415-484-8377 to learn more. Please RSVP by April 9, 2021 to receive the Zoom link.

    NOTE: The Zoom link to join will be distributed the morning of the meetup. All blind/low vision college students are welcome, and you DO NOT need any authorizations from the DOR to join.

    Not So Bored Game Night (online)

    Not So Bored Game Night (online)


    Apr 13

    Each week students from the Lighthouse Youth Program gather for our virtual Not So Bored Game Night. A weekly evening of fun and games for Blind and low vision youth from all over. Games start at 7:00 pm on Tuesday evenings and will include trivia contests, scavenger hunts and other interactive games that will have youth making friends. In addition, the LightHouse staff each week’s games will be led by a guest mentor that will also share insight into their education, career and life as a person who is blind or has low vision.

    Who: students under 18 that are blind or have low vision
    What: weekly game night and guest mentor spotlight via zoom When: Tuesday evenings from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
    Where: Anywhere you can access a Zoom meeting
    RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program
    Parents & Guardians: we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

    If you are interested in signing up for the Not So Bored Game Night, please contact Jamey Gump by email at youth@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

  • Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together

    Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together


    Apr 14

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

    Adult clients of their state Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) are invited to participate in a six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision and practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work and school environments. The course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

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

    The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing (preferred) or phone at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

    Week 1:

    Monday, March 29 and Wednesday, March 31 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 2:

    Monday, April 5 and Wednesday, April 7 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 3:

    Monday, April 12 and Wednesday, April 14 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Please RSVP by Monday, March 1 to coordinate authorization through your DOR counselor and to be able to receive class materials in time for the first class on Monday, March 29.  To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org  The class is limited to ten students.

  • Reel Escape: Audio-Described Movie Club

    Reel Escape: Audio-Described Movie Club


    Apr 15

    To help you break up the routine and escape for some fun, join your friends for our weekly Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club. This weekly remote social gathering of blind and low vision youth takes place over zoom on Thursday afternoons at 4:00 pm. Films will be family-friendly and have audio descriptions enabled. Join us each week to help choose future films. Past films have included: Toy Story, Frozen, Inside out, Minions, Lion King and many other classics.

    Who: Students under 18 that are Blind or have Low Vision
    What: Audio Description Movie Club via Zoom
    When: Thursday afternoons @ 4:00 pm Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting
    RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program

    Parents & Guardians, we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

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

  • 2021 CTEBVI Youth Institute

    2021 CTEBVI Youth Institute


    Apr 16

    2021 CTEBVI Youth Institute
    Friday, April 16th and Saturday, April 17th

    With the CTEBVI convention going virtual, the Youth Institute will be doing the same, opening the door for many of the youth who might not have been able to attend an in-person conference to join us and gain the experiences of learning about the many resources, connections and new equipment that come together at the CTEBVI annual conference. The Youth Institute is your ticket as a blind and low vision student to learning about all of this and everything else the conference has to offer while having fun with your blind and low vision peers.

    Our modified virtual schedule will allow you to learn, connect, and enhance your CTEBVI conference experience without spending your entire Saturday on zoom. Programming starts Friday evening with a kick-off event at 5:30 p.m. PDT. This will include an introduction and appropriately themed happy hour and social for both youth and parents. Our Saturday program will be broken up into age groups, with elementary and middle school youth in the morning and teens in the afternoon. Below you will find information about the agenda and the program options you will be choosing from when you register for the event in the below Google Form. Please be sure to sign-up by Friday, April 2nd so that our friends at Braille Institute have time to mail you a bag of program supplies and conference gifts.

    2021 Youth Institute registration form: http://bit.ly/ctebvi21-youthinstitute

    2021 Youth Institute Program Agenda
    Friday, April 16, 2021, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. PDT – Youth Institute Kickoff Event (All ages)
    - Welcome & Introductions, Keynote Speakers, and Happy Hour Breakout Rooms!
    Saturday, April 17, 2021, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PDT -- Elementary and Middle School. Two available Sessions: Student Success Panel and Simple Cooking at Home.
    - Student Success Panel – LightHouse’s Transitions Program Manager, Ann Kwong will lead a panel of students discussing the challenges and success other blind and low vision students and their teachers have had during distance learning.
    - Simple Cooking at Home – Students will learn about and make simple and tasty recipes they can make by themselves at home from blind and low vision mentors.
    Saturday, April 17, 2021, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. PDT -- Elementary and Middle School. Three Available Sessions: App Swap, Art Swap, and Talent Swap.
    - App Swap – Priscilla Jimenez, a blind mentor that is an access tech tester and enthusiast will lead students in an interactive discussion about their favorite smart apps, devices, and technology that they use to access the world.
    - Art Swap – Sculptures, Painters and creators of all types are invited to take part in our virtual origami lesson taught by blind mom, life coach and artist, LisaMaria Martinez. After our accessible art lesson students will get a chance to take part in a show and tell, where they can share all the awesome art they have created at home.
    - Talent Swap – Musician, poets, singers, dancers, and other talented youth are invited to share their skill in our student Talent Swap led by DJ CJ or as students at the UC San Diego’s Office for Students with Disabilities know him as Jimmy Cong.
    Saturday, April 17, 2021, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. PDT -- Teen Students. Two available Sessions: College Success Panel and Interview Basics.
    - College Success Panel – LightHouse’s Youth Program Assistant, Daisy Soto and leaders from the College Spaces Different Places program will lead panel discussion addressing their experience in college during covid-19 and how youth can best prepare for the future.
    - Interview Basics – LightHouse’s Transitions Program Manager, Ann Kwong leads an interactive conversation about interview strategies before students get the chance to participate in mock interviews with other students.
    Saturday, April 17, 2021, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. PDT -- Teen Students. Three sessions available. App Swap, Talent Swap, and Shopping and Fashion Swap.
    - App Swap – Priscilla Jimenez, a blind mentor that is an access tech tester and enthusiast will lead students in an interactive discussion about their favorite smart apps, devices, and technology that they use to access the world.
    - Talent Swap – Musician, poets, singers, dancers, and other talented youth are invited to share their skill in our student Talent Swap led by DJ CJ or as students at the UC San Diego’s Office for Students with Disabilities know him as Jimmy Cong.
    - Shopping and Fashion Swap – Students will learn about alternative techniques that other blind and low vision mentors use to access the stores they want, while looking good.
    Saturday, April 17, 2021, 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. PDT -- Social Hour with Music Trivia (all ages)
    - To wrap up the Youth Institute we will host a social hour where youth can connect with your blind or low vision peers or challenge your new friends in some awesomely amusing music trivia.

    If you have any questions about this year’s Youth Institute, please email Jamey Gump at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or call him at 415-694-7372.

  • 2021 CTEBVI Youth Institute

    2021 CTEBVI Youth Institute


    Apr 17

    2021 CTEBVI Youth Institute
    Friday, April 16th and Saturday, April 17th

    With the CTEBVI convention going virtual, the Youth Institute will be doing the same, opening the door for many of the youth who might not have been able to attend an in-person conference to join us and gain the experiences of learning about the many resources, connections and new equipment that come together at the CTEBVI annual conference. The Youth Institute is your ticket as a blind and low vision student to learning about all of this and everything else the conference has to offer while having fun with your blind and low vision peers.

    Our modified virtual schedule will allow you to learn, connect, and enhance your CTEBVI conference experience without spending your entire Saturday on zoom. Programming starts Friday evening with a kick-off event at 5:30 p.m. PDT. This will include an introduction and appropriately themed happy hour and social for both youth and parents. Our Saturday program will be broken up into age groups, with elementary and middle school youth in the morning and teens in the afternoon. Below you will find information about the agenda and the program options you will be choosing from when you register for the event in the below Google Form. Please be sure to sign-up by Friday, April 2nd so that our friends at Braille Institute have time to mail you a bag of program supplies and conference gifts.

    2021 Youth Institute registration form: http://bit.ly/ctebvi21-youthinstitute

    2021 Youth Institute Program Agenda
    Friday, April 16, 2021, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. PDT – Youth Institute Kickoff Event (All ages)
    - Welcome & Introductions, Keynote Speakers, and Happy Hour Breakout Rooms!
    Saturday, April 17, 2021, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PDT -- Elementary and Middle School. Two available Sessions: Student Success Panel and Simple Cooking at Home.
    - Student Success Panel – LightHouse’s Transitions Program Manager, Ann Kwong will lead a panel of students discussing the challenges and success other blind and low vision students and their teachers have had during distance learning.
    - Simple Cooking at Home – Students will learn about and make simple and tasty recipes they can make by themselves at home from blind and low vision mentors.
    Saturday, April 17, 2021, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. PDT -- Elementary and Middle School. Three Available Sessions: App Swap, Art Swap, and Talent Swap.
    - App Swap – Priscilla Jimenez, a blind mentor that is an access tech tester and enthusiast will lead students in an interactive discussion about their favorite smart apps, devices, and technology that they use to access the world.
    - Art Swap – Sculptures, Painters and creators of all types are invited to take part in our virtual origami lesson taught by blind mom, life coach and artist, LisaMaria Martinez. After our accessible art lesson students will get a chance to take part in a show and tell, where they can share all the awesome art they have created at home.
    - Talent Swap – Musician, poets, singers, dancers, and other talented youth are invited to share their skill in our student Talent Swap led by DJ CJ or as students at the UC San Diego’s Office for Students with Disabilities know him as Jimmy Cong.
    Saturday, April 17, 2021, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. PDT -- Teen Students. Two available Sessions: College Success Panel and Interview Basics.
    - College Success Panel – LightHouse’s Youth Program Assistant, Daisy Soto and leaders from the College Spaces Different Places program will lead panel discussion addressing their experience in college during covid-19 and how youth can best prepare for the future.
    - Interview Basics – LightHouse’s Transitions Program Manager, Ann Kwong leads an interactive conversation about interview strategies before students get the chance to participate in mock interviews with other students.
    Saturday, April 17, 2021, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. PDT -- Teen Students. Three sessions available. App Swap, Talent Swap, and Shopping and Fashion Swap.
    - App Swap – Priscilla Jimenez, a blind mentor that is an access tech tester and enthusiast will lead students in an interactive discussion about their favorite smart apps, devices, and technology that they use to access the world.
    - Talent Swap – Musician, poets, singers, dancers, and other talented youth are invited to share their skill in our student Talent Swap led by DJ CJ or as students at the UC San Diego’s Office for Students with Disabilities know him as Jimmy Cong.
    - Shopping and Fashion Swap – Students will learn about alternative techniques that other blind and low vision mentors use to access the stores they want, while looking good.
    Saturday, April 17, 2021, 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. PDT -- Social Hour with Music Trivia (all ages)
    - To wrap up the Youth Institute we will host a social hour where youth can connect with your blind or low vision peers or challenge your new friends in some awesomely amusing music trivia.

    If you have any questions about this year’s Youth Institute, please email Jamey Gump at jgump@lighthouse-sf.org or call him at 415-694-7372.

  • Tech Together Online: Braille, On Display

    Tech Together Online: Braille, On Display


    Apr 20

    Join the LightHouse Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times.

    A refreshable Braille display is a big investment. It’s important to consider the size and ergonomics of the display, what smart features it might have, and how it integrates with other devices and services you use. We’ll share what the current Braille display landscape has available on all of these fronts.

    RSVP for Tech Together Online: Braille, On Display or leave a voicemail at 1-415-694-7618. Online registration is preferred.

    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.

     

    Not So Bored Game Night (online)

    Not So Bored Game Night (online)


    Apr 20

    Each week students from the Lighthouse Youth Program gather for our virtual Not So Bored Game Night. A weekly evening of fun and games for Blind and low vision youth from all over. Games start at 7:00 pm on Tuesday evenings and will include trivia contests, scavenger hunts and other interactive games that will have youth making friends. In addition, the LightHouse staff each week’s games will be led by a guest mentor that will also share insight into their education, career and life as a person who is blind or has low vision.

    Who: students under 18 that are blind or have low vision
    What: weekly game night and guest mentor spotlight via zoom When: Tuesday evenings from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
    Where: Anywhere you can access a Zoom meeting
    RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program
    Parents & Guardians: we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

    If you are interested in signing up for the Not So Bored Game Night, please contact Jamey Gump by email at youth@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

  • Home Accessibility Assessment Workshop

    Home Accessibility Assessment Workshop


    Apr 21

    You’re spending more time at home than ever before, so why not learn how to make your home environment more accessible? LightHouse’s Rehabilitation Department presents a 2-day Home Accessibility Workshop for adults who want to improve the safety and overall accessibility of their home.

    Join Orientation & Mobility Specialists Sarah McIntyre and Jennifer Huey for a 2-part Zoom workshop on home accessibility. Learn how to make a room-by-room assessment of your home, identify possible safety hazards, and brainstorm possible solutions that you can implement to increase the overall safety and accessibility of your home.

    This workshop is open to adult residents of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, West Contra Costa, and East Marin Counties who are non-DOR consumers. If you’re a consumer of DOR and would like to attend, contact Sarah McIntyre for more details. This workshop will use the Zoom platform; participants with access to a telephone are welcome to join by calling in.

    Dates: Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. and Friday, April 23, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. PST.

    Participants are required to register for both dates. Contact Sarah McIntyre to register: smcintyre@lighthouse-sf.org.

    Registration deadline is Friday, April 16 by 5:00 p.m. PST.

  • Reel Escape: Audio-Described Movie Club

    Reel Escape: Audio-Described Movie Club


    Apr 22

    To help you break up the routine and escape for some fun, join your friends for our weekly Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club. This weekly remote social gathering of blind and low vision youth takes place over zoom on Thursday afternoons at 4:00 pm. Films will be family-friendly and have audio descriptions enabled. Join us each week to help choose future films. Past films have included: Toy Story, Frozen, Inside out, Minions, Lion King and many other classics.

    Who: Students under 18 that are Blind or have Low Vision
    What: Audio Description Movie Club via Zoom
    When: Thursday afternoons @ 4:00 pm Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting
    RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program

    Parents & Guardians, we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

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

  • Home Accessibility Assessment Workshop

    Home Accessibility Assessment Workshop


    Apr 23

    You’re spending more time at home than ever before, so why not learn how to make your home environment more accessible? LightHouse’s Rehabilitation Department presents a 2-day Home Accessibility Workshop for adults who want to improve the safety and overall accessibility of their home.

    Join Orientation & Mobility Specialists Sarah McIntyre and Jennifer Huey for a 2-part Zoom workshop on home accessibility. Learn how to make a room-by-room assessment of your home, identify possible safety hazards, and brainstorm possible solutions that you can implement to increase the overall safety and accessibility of your home.

    This workshop is open to adult residents of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, West Contra Costa, and East Marin Counties who are non-DOR consumers. If you’re a consumer of DOR and would like to attend, contact Sarah McIntyre for more details. This workshop will use the Zoom platform; participants with access to a telephone are welcome to join by calling in.

    Dates: Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. and Friday, April 23, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. PST.

    Participants are required to register for both dates. Contact Sarah McIntyre to register: smcintyre@lighthouse-sf.org.

    Registration deadline is Friday, April 16 by 5:00 p.m. PST.

    Stanford University presents TMAP with Dr. Joshua Miele

    Stanford University presents TMAP with Dr. Joshua Miele


    Apr 23

    On the afternoon of the 5th anniversary of the David Rumsey Map Center at Stanford University, please join us for a talk by special guest Dr. Joshua Miele who will talk about his story as a blind cartographer.

    Joshua will use the creation of TMAP – Tactile Maps Automated Production – to frame the broader landscape of how tactile maps and graphics can be used by blind people to understand many kinds of spatial information. He will discuss the power of touch as a spatial precept, as well as the design constraints on tactile representations that are surprising and challenging to most visual designers. Key topics include historical techniques for creating tactile maps, examples and counterexamples of tactile map use cases, and promising technologies for expanding the availability of accessible maps in the future.

    When: Friday April 23, 2021, 3:00 p.m. PST

    Where: Zoom

    RSVP: Please register using this form

    Real-time captioning will be provided for this event. If you need any other disability-related accommodation, please contact the David Rumsey Map Center by emailing rumseymapcenter@stanford.edu. Requests should be made by April 16.

  • Tech Together Online: Computer Maintenance and Security

    Tech Together Online: Computer Maintenance and Security


    Apr 27

    Join the LightHouse Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times.

    Regular maintenance and good security practices can save you many frustrations. We’ll share tips and best practices for accessible ways to keep your computer running smoothly.

    RSVP for Tech Together: Computer Maintenance and Security or leave a voicemail at 1-415-694-7618. Online registration is preferred.

    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.

     

    Not So Bored Game Night (online)

    Not So Bored Game Night (online)


    Apr 27

    Each week students from the Lighthouse Youth Program gather for our virtual Not So Bored Game Night. A weekly evening of fun and games for Blind and low vision youth from all over. Games start at 7:00 pm on Tuesday evenings and will include trivia contests, scavenger hunts and other interactive games that will have youth making friends. In addition, the LightHouse staff each week’s games will be led by a guest mentor that will also share insight into their education, career and life as a person who is blind or has low vision.

    Who: students under 18 that are blind or have low vision
    What: weekly game night and guest mentor spotlight via zoom When: Tuesday evenings from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
    Where: Anywhere you can access a Zoom meeting
    RSVP: Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm of the day before the program
    Parents & Guardians: we’d love your help getting your children connected to our virtual program, however, once they have joined, we ask that you please give them the space to participate individually.

    If you are interested in signing up for the Not So Bored Game Night, please contact Jamey Gump by email at youth@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.

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

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

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

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