Calendar

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

The week's events

  • Access Day at the de Young Museum: Irving Penn (in-person)

    Access Day at the de Young Museum: Irving Penn (in-person)


    May 6

    Get complimentary admission by appointment for people with disabilities and their guests to visit the Irving Penn exhibition at the de Young museum.

    Highly descriptive tours for the blind and visually impaired will be offered at 11:00 and noon. Regular docent tours will be offered through the entire day.

     

    For more information, visit the website, email us at accessday@famsf.org, or call at 415-750-7678

    About the Exhibition

    Irving Penn celebrates the approximately seven-decade career of one of the twentieth century’s most talented and preeminent photographers, known for his pared-down aesthetic, extraordinary technical skill, and artistic experimentation with the medium. A superb photographer of style, Penn revolutionized fashion photography in the postwar period, using neutral backgrounds to emphasize models’ characters through their gestures and expressions.

    RSVP by April 29 for the Irving Penn Access Day. For more information, visit the website, email us at accessday@famsf.org, or call at 415-750-7678

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

    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).

  • The Blind Telephone Network (dial-in)

    The Blind Telephone Network (dial-in)


    May 7

    Announcing the Blind Telephone Network 2024 program

    The Blind Telephone network, originally founded by blind veterans, now is pleased to welcome all blind and low vision folks to join in phone calls will be held on Tuesday and Thursday of each week.

    Tuesdays programs are what we call chit chat and chew the fat. During these sessions, most topics are acceptable; however, we refrain from discussing politics and religion. Prayer requests are acceptable, but will not be done during the call. This is a time for socializing, and sharing our experiences with blindness, in order to help others develop independence and self-confidence.

    On Thursdays, we emphasize education, travel, technology, history, entertainment, and innovative role-models, etc.. These sessions will feature presenters on such topics as: Lewis and Clark expedition, Mt. Rushmore, railroad history and the mob museum in Las Vegas, Nevada.We encourage suggestions for topics or locations from our participants.

    All sessions last for one (1) hour and start on time.

    The call in number is: 605-475-5620, and the access code is: 3789127#. If you plan to save these numbers in your contacts, I recommend inserting two (2) commas between the main number and the access code.

    Those wishing to receive an e-mail reminder for upcoming sessions or links provided by the presenter, should:

    Send an e-mail to Doc Eudaly at deteacha@sbcglobal.net. Please put your full name, phone number, and email address in the body of your e-mail.

    Calls for 2024 will begin on Tuesday, January 9.

    For Thursday, January 11, our initial program will be on the FDR Memorial in Washington, DC.  We hope to hear you on these free telephone calls, where you can both learn and contribute

    On behalf of the founding members,

    Douglas “Doc” Eudaly, PH,D

    1-559-999-2625

     

    LightHouse Youth Listen and Lounge (online)

    LightHouse Youth Listen and Lounge (online)


    May 7

    Are you a teen or young adult who is blind, visually impaired, or low vision? Are you searching for an enjoyable and meaningful way to connect with peers who share your experiences? Look no further! Join The LightHouse Youth Program for our monthly social gathering over Zoom, where blind and low vision youth come together for an unforgettable evening of connection and camaraderie.

    Each month, we curate an exciting lineup of virtual activities, including games, trivia challenges, karaoke sessions, and more! But our gatherings are about more than just having fun; they're about fostering genuine connections within the blind and low vision community. Additionally, our events may feature special guest mentors or presenters who offer valuable insights and experiences, enriching our discussions and supporting personal growth.

    Most importantly, it's an opportunity for youth to connect with other blind and low vision individuals who understand their journey. Whether you are a trivia aficionado, a karaoke enthusiast, or simply eager to meet new friends, our monthly gatherings offer something for everyone.

    Mark your calendars for the First Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm, and RSVP with the LightHouse Youth team by emailing Youth@lighthouse-sf.org. Join us as we come together to laugh, learn, and forge lasting connections. Your seat at the virtual table awaits – we can't wait to meet you!

    Who: Blind and Low Vision Teens and Young Adults
    What: Monthly social gathering over Zoom where blind and low vision youth connect over games, trivia, karaoke, and other virtual activities, fostering lasting connections in the blind and low vision community
    When: First Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm (May 7th, June 4th, July, 2th, August 6th)
    Where: Anywhere you can access a zoom meeting
    RSVP: through our online RSVP form or by emailing the Youth Team at Youth@lighthouse-sf.org.

    If you're interested in our Listen and Lounge series, have questions about our Youth Programs, or would like to sign up for LightHouse services, please don't hesitate to reach out to our youth team at Youth@lighthouse-sf.org.

  • 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).

    Goalball with BORP (in-person)

    Goalball with BORP (in-person)


    May 8

    Bay Are Outreach and Recreation Program (BORP) Goalball Practice is a fun way to get exercise and meet new people. The practice is designed for beginners and experienced players. If you do not have your own equipment, we can provide you with both elbow and knee pads and eyeshades.

    When: Wednesdays, from 6:30pm - 9:00pm
    Where: The gym is located at 2100 Browning St. Berkeley

    For more details, please contact Brandon Young brandon@borp.org

    Please note - Proof of full vaccination is required and will be checked for new participants.

  • 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.

    The Blind Telephone Network (dial-in)

    The Blind Telephone Network (dial-in)


    May 9

    Announcing the Blind Telephone Network 2024 program

    The Blind Telephone network, originally founded by blind veterans, now is pleased to welcome all blind and low vision folks to join in phone calls will be held on Tuesday and Thursday of each week.

    Tuesdays programs are what we call chit chat and chew the fat. During these sessions, most topics are acceptable; however, we refrain from discussing politics and religion. Prayer requests are acceptable, but will not be done during the call. This is a time for socializing, and sharing our experiences with blindness, in order to help others develop independence and self-confidence.

    On Thursdays, we emphasize education, travel, technology, history, entertainment, and innovative role-models, etc.. These sessions will feature presenters on such topics as: Lewis and Clark expedition, Mt. Rushmore, railroad history and the mob museum in Las Vegas, Nevada.We encourage suggestions for topics or locations from our participants.

    All sessions last for one (1) hour and start on time.

    The call in number is: 605-475-5620, and the access code is: 3789127#. If you plan to save these numbers in your contacts, I recommend inserting two (2) commas between the main number and the access code.

    Those wishing to receive an e-mail reminder for upcoming sessions or links provided by the presenter, should:

    Send an e-mail to Doc Eudaly at deteacha@sbcglobal.net. Please put your full name, phone number, and email address in the body of your e-mail.

    Calls for 2024 will begin on Tuesday, January 9.

    For Thursday, January 11, our initial program will be on the FDR Memorial in Washington, DC.  We hope to hear you on these free telephone calls, where you can both learn and contribute

    On behalf of the founding members,

    Douglas “Doc” Eudaly, PH,D

    1-559-999-2625

     

  • 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 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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