Calendar

Events in March 2024

  • 2024 Northern California Regional Braille Challenge (in-person)

    2024 Northern California Regional Braille Challenge (in-person)


    Mar 2

    Save the Date! The California School for the Blind (CSB) is excited to announce that they will be hosting the 2024 Northern California Regional Braille Challenge on Saturday, March 2! Mark your calendars for this engaging event showcasing the talents of our students. Please see the linked Braille Challenge brochure for more information regarding the challenge and how to register your student.

    WHAT – the 2024 Northern California Regional Braille Challenge
    WHEN – From 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday, March 2nd, 2024
    WHERE – California School for the Blind
    500 Walnut Ave. Fremont, CA 94536

    More info on the Northern California Regional Braille Challenge.

    Register your student for the Northern California Regional Braille Challenge..

  • AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)

    AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)


    Mar 4

    LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27. 

    Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.

    Please bring with you:

    • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
    • A copy of your social security card
    • A copy of your photo ID
    • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.

    Out of Scope:

    If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.

    • If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
    • If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
    • If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
    • If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return.  You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
    • If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.

    There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

    If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)


    Mar 4

    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 online for Coffee with Mike or to Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607

  • EHC Virtual Campfire (online)

    EHC Virtual Campfire (online)


    Mar 6

    These fun-filled evenings will consist of Enchanted Hills Camp updates, songs, alumni check-ins and LightHouse information and resources. All are welcome to join.

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

  • AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)

    AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)


    Mar 7

    LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27. 

    Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.

    Please bring with you:

    • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
    • A copy of your social security card
    • A copy of your photo ID
    • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.

    Out of Scope:

    If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.

    • If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
    • If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
    • If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
    • If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return.  You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
    • If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.

    There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

    If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org

    Museum of Craft & Design MAKE Art Activation (in-person)

    Museum of Craft & Design MAKE Art Activation (in-person)


    Mar 7

    Nearly every month, the Museum of Craft and Design brings their Mobile Make Art programming direct to Lighthouse HQ, at 1155 Market, 11th floor in San Francisco, featuring projects inspired by their latest exhibition on view at their Third Street museum and adapted for eyes-free crafting. This season, two new exhibits will be on view, including one exploring robot assisted art and artworks from the Pacific Northwest. Visit each month’s MAKE activation to discover a new project every time.

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

    Art Experience Class – Sari Silk Cordage at Earle Baum Center (in-person)

    Art Experience Class – Sari Silk Cordage at Earle Baum Center (in-person)


    Mar 7

    The class is designed to show us how to make cordage from sari silk strips; we will take home a necklace, bracelet, or ankle bracelet, or more.

    We will decorate our cordage with beads, silk tassels, or an ornament of our choice.

    Twist the silk strips and overlap. Easy!  Fun!  Beautiful!

    Materials cost: $20.00 per person. You may also pay it forward for another participant.

    Location: Classroom 3 on EBC campus

    Contact: Patricia 707-479-8321 to RSVP

     

    LightHouse Board Meeting Open to the Public (virtual)

    LightHouse Board Meeting Open to the Public (virtual)


    Mar 7

    Members of the public are invited to attend the Thursday, March 7th meeting of the Board of Directors of San Francisco’s LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. This meeting will be a virtual meeting held via Zoom and runs from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm Pacific.

    30 minutes will be reserved for public comment, and members of the public will have up to three minutes to comment. If you would like to reserve a slot to speak, please complete the LightHouse Public Comment and RSVP Sign Up form. Please submit your comments as far in advance as possible. Comments must be received before noon Pacific on Wednesday, March 6th to be included in  the agenda.

    If you would like to attend the virtual meeting, please fill LightHouse Public Comment and RSVP Sign Up formWhether you plan to have a public comment or not, you will need to fill out this form to get the Zoom info.  Zoom information will be emailed to you closer to the date of the board meeting.

    Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Teens and Young Adults: Stranger Things (online)

    Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Teens and Young Adults: Stranger Things (online)


    Mar 7

    Are you looking for a thrilling escape into the world of science fiction and mystery? Look no further! The Reel Escape Audio Description Club is back this fall, bringing together blind and low vision teens and young adults for an exciting social gathering over an audio-described TV show.

    We'll be embarking on an unforgettable journey into the 1980s with the popular Netflix series Stranger Things. This captivating show revolves around a group of kids in a small town, facing supernatural mysteries, government conspiracies, and the enigmatic powers of a mysterious girl with psychokinetic abilities.

    Every Thursday evening at 8:00 pm, join us via Zoom to watch the latest episode of Stranger Things and connect with your LightHouse and EHC friends. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of excitement and adventure while enjoying the company of like-minded peers.

    Check out the official Stranger Things trailer.

    Parents, Please Take Note: Stranger Things is rated TV-14 for horror elements and language, which may not be suitable for kids under 17. While Seasons 1-3 were rated TV-14, Season 4 received a TV-MA rating. For more detailed information, you can check the Stranger Things Parental Guide. If you are under 18 and wish to join this series, we kindly request your parent or guardian to contact a LightHouse Youth Team member with written permission for your participation.

    RVSP to Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.

  • Create a Sacred Space Toolkit: A Collaboration with Root Division (in-person)

    Create a Sacred Space Toolkit: A Collaboration with Root Division (in-person)


    Mar 9

    Where: Lighthouse HQ, 1155 Market, San Francisco 11th floor craft room

    What makes space sacred for you? Is it a place for meditation, feeling a sense of love and belonging, a place that informs deep memory or a connection to the earth?

    Interdisciplinary artist and labyrinth facilitator Maia Scott will share some of her favorite art, writing and movement prompts to help you create a portable resource for opening or holding sacred space.  You will take home a held meditation labyrinth and a book full of collected and shared ideas like; a middle fold altar, poems or invocations for setting intentions, movement mantra processes to embody your intention, plus additional ideas shared and generated by our creative circle.

    Afterward, walk around the block to Mission near seventh to experience Crip’d Ecologies, an art show exploring the juxtaposition of disability and environmental justice where Maia has an installation which includes elements created by Lighthouse students.

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

  • AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)

    AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)


    Mar 11

    LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27. 

    Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.

    Please bring with you:

    • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
    • A copy of your social security card
    • A copy of your photo ID
    • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.

    Out of Scope:

    If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.

    • If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
    • If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
    • If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
    • If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return.  You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
    • If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.

    There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

    If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)


    Mar 11

    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 online for Coffee with Mike or to Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607

    Music and Poetry at Earle Baum Center (hybrid)

    Music and Poetry at Earle Baum Center (hybrid)


    Mar 11

    Music and Poetry Group is offered on the second and fourth Monday of the month.

    If you wish to have your favorite music, song, poem or an original work, presented at the group, celebrating all styles and eras, please submit your selection to Patricia 4 days prior to the group.   We will ask for a brief introduction to your choice, we will all listen together with time for discussion.

    There is a $20.00 fee each month with payment due prior to the 2nd Monday of each month. Please register online or call our office at to register.

    Music and Poetry class at EBC is presented by Patricia Jefferson, Vision Rehabilitation Instructor, who has a lifelong passion for music and poetry. To RSVP, please contact Patricia at jefferson@earlebaum.org or 707-523-3222.

     

    Toastmasters: LightHouse Visionaries (online)

    Toastmasters: LightHouse Visionaries (online)


    Mar 11

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

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

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

  • AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)

    AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)


    Mar 13

    LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27. 

    Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.

    Please bring with you:

    • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
    • A copy of your social security card
    • A copy of your photo ID
    • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.

    Out of Scope:

    If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.

    • If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
    • If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
    • If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
    • If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return.  You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
    • If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.

    There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

    If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org

  • AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)

    AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)


    Mar 14

    LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27. 

    Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.

    Please bring with you:

    • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
    • A copy of your social security card
    • A copy of your photo ID
    • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.

    Out of Scope:

    If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.

    • If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
    • If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
    • If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
    • If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return.  You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
    • If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.

    There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

    If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org

    Create In Community Arts Classes (in-person)

    Create In Community Arts Classes (in-person)


    Mar 14

    Where: Lighthouse HQ, 1155 Market, San Francisco 11th floor craft room

    Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco at 1155 Market to explore a different art process, style or media each month while connecting with fellow creatives. These are exploratory, process-oriented classes that invite you to work at whatever level you are, be it first timer to expert.

    This March, we will create small but mighty as we make postcard sized and smaller art works to gift and trade through Free Little Art Galleries (FLAGs) in the Bay Area.  This thriving art movement makes art accessible to many people but may be challenging for our community to access since the little galleries (much like the little libraries) are located randomly and spread out. A FLAG in Oakland will trade with us so we can experience the joy of gifting culture with like-minded strangers.

    RSVP not required. If it’s your first time or if you have questions, contact Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.

    Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Teens and Young Adults: Stranger Things (online)

    Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Teens and Young Adults: Stranger Things (online)


    Mar 14

    Are you looking for a thrilling escape into the world of science fiction and mystery? Look no further! The Reel Escape Audio Description Club is back this fall, bringing together blind and low vision teens and young adults for an exciting social gathering over an audio-described TV show.

    We'll be embarking on an unforgettable journey into the 1980s with the popular Netflix series Stranger Things. This captivating show revolves around a group of kids in a small town, facing supernatural mysteries, government conspiracies, and the enigmatic powers of a mysterious girl with psychokinetic abilities.

    Every Thursday evening at 8:00 pm, join us via Zoom to watch the latest episode of Stranger Things and connect with your LightHouse and EHC friends. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of excitement and adventure while enjoying the company of like-minded peers.

    Check out the official Stranger Things trailer.

    Parents, Please Take Note: Stranger Things is rated TV-14 for horror elements and language, which may not be suitable for kids under 17. While Seasons 1-3 were rated TV-14, Season 4 received a TV-MA rating. For more detailed information, you can check the Stranger Things Parental Guide. If you are under 18 and wish to join this series, we kindly request your parent or guardian to contact a LightHouse Youth Team member with written permission for your participation.

    RVSP to Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.

  • AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)

    AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)


    Mar 18

    LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27. 

    Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.

    Please bring with you:

    • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
    • A copy of your social security card
    • A copy of your photo ID
    • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.

    Out of Scope:

    If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.

    • If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
    • If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
    • If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
    • If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return.  You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
    • If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.

    There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

    If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)


    Mar 18

    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 online for Coffee with Mike or to Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607

  • AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)

    AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)


    Mar 21

    LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27. 

    Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.

    Please bring with you:

    • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
    • A copy of your social security card
    • A copy of your photo ID
    • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.

    Out of Scope:

    If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.

    • If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
    • If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
    • If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
    • If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return.  You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
    • If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.

    There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

    If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org

    Create In Community Arts Classes (in-person)

    Create In Community Arts Classes (in-person)


    Mar 21

    Where: Lighthouse HQ, 1155 Market, San Francisco 11th floor craft room

    Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco at 1155 Market to explore a different art process, style or media each month while connecting with fellow creatives. These are exploratory, process-oriented classes that invite you to work at whatever level you are, be it first timer to expert.

    This March, we will create small but mighty as we make postcard sized and smaller art works to gift and trade through Free Little Art Galleries (FLAGs) in the Bay Area.  This thriving art movement makes art accessible to many people but may be challenging for our community to access since the little galleries (much like the little libraries) are located randomly and spread out. A FLAG in Oakland will trade with us so we can experience the joy of gifting culture with like-minded strangers.

    RSVP not required. If it’s your first time or if you have questions, contact Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.

    Art Experience Class – Sari Silk Cordage at Earle Baum Center (in-person)

    Art Experience Class – Sari Silk Cordage at Earle Baum Center (in-person)


    Mar 21

    The class is designed to show us how to make cordage from sari silk strips; we will take home a necklace, bracelet, or ankle bracelet, or more.

    We will decorate our cordage with beads, silk tassels, or an ornament of our choice.

    Twist the silk strips and overlap. Easy!  Fun!  Beautiful!

    Materials cost: $20.00 per person. You may also pay it forward for another participant.

    Location: Classroom 3 on EBC campus

    Contact: Patricia 707-479-8321 to RSVP

     

  • AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)

    AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)


    Mar 25

    LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27. 

    Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.

    Please bring with you:

    • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
    • A copy of your social security card
    • A copy of your photo ID
    • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.

    Out of Scope:

    If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.

    • If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
    • If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
    • If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
    • If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return.  You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
    • If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.

    There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

    If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)

    The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)


    Mar 25

    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 online for Coffee with Mike or to Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607

    Music and Poetry at Earle Baum Center (hybrid)

    Music and Poetry at Earle Baum Center (hybrid)


    Mar 25

    Music and Poetry Group is offered on the second and fourth Monday of the month.

    If you wish to have your favorite music, song, poem or an original work, presented at the group, celebrating all styles and eras, please submit your selection to Patricia 4 days prior to the group.   We will ask for a brief introduction to your choice, we will all listen together with time for discussion.

    There is a $20.00 fee each month with payment due prior to the 2nd Monday of each month. Please register online or call our office at to register.

    Music and Poetry class at EBC is presented by Patricia Jefferson, Vision Rehabilitation Instructor, who has a lifelong passion for music and poetry. To RSVP, please contact Patricia at jefferson@earlebaum.org or 707-523-3222.

     

    Voices of the Community (online)

    Voices of the Community (online)


    Mar 25

    Do you want a voice in planning adult programming at the LightHouse? Your input is crucial for our success. Join our quarterly meeting to help craft programs that suit your interests and needs!

    RSVP online for Voices of the Community or to Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607

  • AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)

    AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)


    Mar 27

    LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27. 

    Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.

    Please bring with you:

    • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
    • A copy of your social security card
    • A copy of your photo ID
    • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.

    Out of Scope:

    If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.

    • If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
    • If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
    • If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
    • If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return.  You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
    • If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.

    There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

    If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org

  • AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)

    AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)


    Mar 28

    LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27. 

    Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.

    Please bring with you:

    • Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
    • A copy of your social security card
    • A copy of your photo ID
    • If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.

    Out of Scope:

    If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.

    • If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
    • If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
    • If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
    • If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
    • If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
    • If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return.  You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
    • If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.

    There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.

    If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org

    Create In Community Arts Classes (in-person)

    Create In Community Arts Classes (in-person)


    Mar 28

    Where: Lighthouse HQ, 1155 Market, San Francisco 11th floor craft room

    Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco at 1155 Market to explore a different art process, style or media each month while connecting with fellow creatives. These are exploratory, process-oriented classes that invite you to work at whatever level you are, be it first timer to expert.

    This March, we will create small but mighty as we make postcard sized and smaller art works to gift and trade through Free Little Art Galleries (FLAGs) in the Bay Area.  This thriving art movement makes art accessible to many people but may be challenging for our community to access since the little galleries (much like the little libraries) are located randomly and spread out. A FLAG in Oakland will trade with us so we can experience the joy of gifting culture with like-minded strangers.

    RSVP not required. If it’s your first time or if you have questions, contact Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.

  • Egg-stravaganza! Tactile Egg Decorating for the Littles (in-person)

    Egg-stravaganza! Tactile Egg Decorating for the Littles (in-person)


    Mar 29

    Where: Lighthouse HQ, 1155 Market, San Francisco 11th floor craft room

    In preparation for the beeping egg hunt for the littles, magic will happen as our community transforms your average hinged egg into miniature haptic works of art bursting full of fun things.  Watch out, Fabergé, if it’s anything like last year, you’ve got some hot competition.  We created over 100 last year.  Can we break the record?  All the eggs will be carefully transported to Guide Dogs for the Blind’s beautiful campus where the joyous hunt and the real magic takes place.

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

    Intergenerational Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club: Hidden Figures (hybrid)

    Intergenerational Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club: Hidden Figures (hybrid)


    Mar 29

    This month we invite LightHouse students of all ages to celebrate Women's History Month by watching the award-winning film Hidden Figures, a film about three brilliant African American women at NASA - Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson. They played pivotal roles in launching America's first astronaut into orbit. Their journey vividly illustrates the determination and resilience required to overcome the racial and gender prejudices of the early 1960s.

    Join us in person at LightHouse Headquarters in San Francisco at 1155 Market or by anywhere you can access a Zoom meeting. Guests that wish to join in person will gather on the 11th floor for popcorn. After the film we will have space to talk about the film, the themes it addressed, or just connect with your LightHouse friends.

    Watch the official Hidden Figures trailer

    RSVP: Contact Jamey Gump by email at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372

  • Two-Day Storytelling Workshop with Author M. Leona Godin (in-person)

    Two-Day Storytelling Workshop with Author M. Leona Godin (in-person)


    Mar 30

    Where: Lighthouse HQ, 1155 Market, San Francisco, 11th Floor
    Cost: $100

    Saturday, March 30 & Sunday, March 31

    During this intensive weekend workshop, writer and performer Leona Godin will guide students through writing and performance exercises to craft personal narratives. We’ll consider creative non-fiction for the page and for the stage, for example the personal essay, Moth-style storytelling, and memoir. Students will also be encouraged to prepare a short piece for performance during the public story slam Saturday afternoon.

    About the Instructor: Dr. M. Leona Godin is the author of There Plant Eyes: A Personal and Cultural History of Blindness (Pantheon, 2021), and the founder of Aromatica Poetica, an arts and culture laboratory for the advancement of smell and taste. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, Playboy, O Magazine, Literary Hub, and others. Her storytelling appearances include: RISK!; Story Collider; The MOTH Mainstage; TALE; and Turn Me Into Gold (Back Pocket Media). Her first storytelling solo show, “SIGHTED PEOPLE SUCK!,” Debuted at Under St. Marks Theater in November 2023 and she’s currently performing “Becoming Blind (as a Bat)” at Olfactory Art Keller. As a New York Public Library 2023-24 Diamonstein-Spielvogel Fellow, she’s working on a series of essays about image description and photography.

    Saturday Schedule:
    • 10:00 AM: check-in, introductions, and notes on short, personal narrative. Beginning, middle, and end, sure, but what else makes a compelling story? How do you make the personal universal? We’ll talk about elements that can guide your choices when crafting a story. What’s the difference between an anecdote and a story? A premise and a story? How do I show, not tell?
    • 12:00 PM: Lunch
    • 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Writing is a solitary business, except when it’s not! Oftentimes authors are called upon to read their work. This may present some challenges to some newly low-vision writers. However, whether you are a seasoned public reader or brand-new, whether you’ll be reading your own work or asking someone else to read for you, we’ll talk about how to select and prepare an excerpt. For those who would like to try their hand at Moth-style storytelling, we’ll talk about how to remain loose while still being mindful of the time. Storytelling in front of a live audience is also a great way to gain reader fans. We’ll listen to and discuss some examples.
    • 4:00 - 6:00 PM: Storytelling Slam (see below)
    • 6:30 PM: Dinner

    Sunday Schedule:
    • 8:30 AM: Breakfast
    • 9:00 AM: Spinning out the story. We’ll consider strategies for connecting stories to create longer narratives. We’ll discuss nonfiction forms such as the lyric essay and memoir and consider how different genres allow different facets of a story to emerge. We’ll also talk about publishing: how to submit your work; where to submit your work; how not to be crushed by disappointment. And finally, we’ll talk about how to develop a sustainable and sustaining daily writing practice.
    • 11:30 AM: Pack up and check out of rooms
    • 12:00 PM: Lunch
    • 1:00 PM: Workshop ends

    RSVP online for Two-Day Storytelling Workshop with Author M. Leona Godin or to Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

    1155 Performance Salon: Story Slam featuring author M. Leona Godin (in-person)

    1155 Performance Salon: Story Slam featuring author M. Leona Godin (in-person)


    Mar 30

    Where: Lighthouse HQ, 1155 Market, San Francisco 10th floor multipurpose room

    Experience the thrill of live storytelling at our upcoming Story Slam hosted by Leona Godin and featuring … you! Just put your name in the hat for a chance to tell (or read) a five-minute story. Each storyteller will have five minutes to share their narrative, crafted around a theme specially chosen for the event. With ten coveted performance slots available, five will be drawn from our exclusive weekend storytelling workshop with Leona (see above or LightHouse Calendar), while the remaining five will be selected from the audience. We will announce the theme in our March 2024 Guide to Adult Programs at the LightHouse. 

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

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

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

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

X