Events in March 2023

More about YES Weekend Workshop (in-person)

Egg-stravaganza! Easter egg decorating for the Littles (in-person)

Egg-stravaganza! Easter egg decorating for the Littles (in-person)


Mar 3

Oh, the memories of an exciting Easter egg hunt!  Now's the chance to spread the fun. To help our Little Learners Program prepare for a beeping and tactile egg hunt later in March, we are hosting an egg decorating egg-stravaganza.  Join us in the craft room to bling a hundred eggs with all manner of tactile and sparkly things then fill them with Easter treats.

As we channel our inner Faberge volunteering to bring joy to the littles, we may enjoy a little friendly competition and some treats of our own.

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

EHC Virtual Campfire (online)

EHC Virtual Campfire (online)


Mar 3

These fun-filled evenings will consist of all your favorite real campfire traditions, including camp’s traditional opening campfire ceremony rituals, special guest performances, and singalongs. Campfire attendees will also be informed of rebuild updates and all other camp related program offerings.

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

Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)


Mar 3

We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. Our weekly gathering takes place Friday evenings at 8:00 pm., where we watch the next episode of our series and connect with your LightHouse and EHC friends. Now that we’ve watched all that we could from the world of Daredevil, our club will be switching things up and will start watching the new series, Wednesday, in early February. For those unfamiliar with the show, check out the trailer.

***Parents Please Note*** Wednesday is rated TV-14 for fear, language, and violence which means some content may not be suitable for kids under 14. IMDB has a parental guide that goes into greater detail about why the show received this rating. Read the Parent Guide for Wednesday.

Who: teens and young adults who are blind or are low vision

What: Wednesday with the Reel Escape Audio Description Club via Zoom

When: Friday evenings @ 8:00 pm

Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

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

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

  • YES Weekend Workshop (in-person)

    YES Weekend Workshop (in-person)

    (All day)
    Mar 3 Mar 5

    When: Friday March 3 at 3:00 pm to Sunday, March 5 at noon

    Where: LightHouse for the Blind Headquarters at 1155 Market Street in San Francisco

    Who: Blind and low-vision students between the ages of 16 and 22

    How do blind and low vision students access reading materials for both work and leisure? How does accessing reading materials tie into pre-employment preparedness skillsets? Join us this March for a workshop focused on all things literacy. Students who attend will not only gain resources and knowledge through exciting group activities, but will have the opportunity to assist with this year’s Northern California Braille Challenge, happening that weekend at LightHouse Headquarters. YES workshops are monthly weekend-long learning experiences for youth and young adults who are enthusiastic about realizing their dream careers, emphasizing the vocational enrichment of low vision and blind youth, providing access to a multifaceted array of mentorship, employment readiness skills, and alternative accessible techniques. Each YES workshop focuses on a specific theme and offers an array of self-advocacy, assistive technology, living skills, and soft skills curricula empowering students to strive toward future employment or post-secondary educational success. The weekend is spent learning from blind and low vision mentors, connecting with blind and low vision peers, and engaging in creative hands-on activities which further support youth to explore and achieve their individualized and professional goals.

    Objectives:

    • Students will have opportunities to network and practice work-readiness skills while volunteering during this year’s Braille Challenge event.
    • Participants will discuss literature access resources, and hear from peers and professionals on valuable suggestions and strategies.
    • Students will gain team-building and collaborative skillsets essential for workplace success during intergenerational group activities.
    • The over-night nature of the YES workshop provides opportunities for students to refine their workplace readiness soft skills including effective social and professional communication and independent living all while building community with their blind and low vision peers and mentors.

    Things to Bring:

  • A notetaking device or implement (braille note, pen, slate and stylus, phone with keyboard, laptop, etc.). You may be asked to complete activities electronically.
  • Necessities you may need such as any orientation and mobility tools to travel safely, money for transportation to and from the workshop, or personal medication.
  • If you are interested in participating in the March YES Weekend Workshop, please:

  • Contact your Department of Rehabilitation counselor to discuss workshop attendance and authorization.
  • Confirm attendance with Daisy Soto, Youth Services Coordinator by email at DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7328. If you have any questions or would like to pay for your participation in this workshop, contact DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org. Note: space for this program is limited and workshop attendance must be confirmed one week prior.
  • YES programs are, and will continue to be, in strict accordance with local, state and Center for Disease Control recommendations and guidelines.

    More about YES Weekend Workshop (in-person)

    2023 Northern California Regional Braille Challenge (in-person)

    2023 Northern California Regional Braille Challenge (in-person)


    Mar 4

    Each year, blind and low vision students, families, teachers, and community members from all over northern California gather for a day dedicated to braille literacy through the Northern California Regional Braille Challenge. At this gathering, blind and low vision youth demonstrate their braille skills in a series of contests ranging from reading and comprehension, speed and accuracy, spelling, proofreading, and tactile graphics. We’re pleased to announce that this year’s Northern California Regional Braille Challenge will be held in person at our LightHouse San Francisco headquarters.

    In addition to students showing their braille brilliance and competing with their peers, students will get the chance to learn from and meet blind and low vision mentors and role models such as our keynote speaker, Rachel Grider, a past Regional Braille Challenge winner who now teaches music to blind and low vision students.

    While students take part in this year’s challenge, parents will get the chance to learn about many different resources that can help their child along the path of independence, from experienced educators and blind and low vision mentors. Topics for parent workshops will include living skills, tech demonstrations, and a workshop hosted by staff and students dedicated to sharing information and addressing parents’ concerns about overnight and summer camp programs for blind and low vision youth. In addition to all the lessons and connections that will take place, the brand-new Bop It Button will be making an appearance and there will be a bop-off for students with prizes.

    Learn more about the Braille Challenge from the Braille Institute website.

    Who: Blind and low vision youth from Northern California in grades K-12, as well as their family and educators
    What: The 2023 Northern California Regional Braille Challenge
    When: Saturday, March 4, from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm
    Where: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired at 1155 Market St., San Francisco – directions to LightHouse San Francisco headquarters

    Register a student for the 2023 Northern California Regional Braille Challenge by March 1.

    For general information about the event, or to get involved, please contact Jamey Gump, Youth Services Coordinator, at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.

    This year’s 2023 Northern California Braille Challenge will be hosted by the LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, in collaboration with Vista Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired, California School for the Blind and Braille Institute of America.

    Simply Sinatra Concert to Benefit Enchanted Hills Camp (in-person)

    Simply Sinatra Concert to Benefit Enchanted Hills Camp (in-person)


    Mar 4

    After unfortunately having to cancel the January 7 performance, we’re thrilled to announce the rescheduling of the Simply Sinatra concert to benefit Enchanted Hills Camp (EHC) on Saturday March 4!

    These concerts are organized by Nancy and Steve Gill to support EHC. In 1997 their daughter, Anne, was in a car accident that caused blindness and a traumatic brain injury. Nancy and Steve were frustrated with the lack of programs that served people with multiple disabilities until they found out that EHC holds a yearly camp session for adults with developmental disabilities. Anne enjoyed her first time at EHC and has returned as a camper over the years. In 1999 Nancy and Steve organized the first concert to benefit EHC.

    The theme for the 2023 concert is “Simply Sinatra: The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Singer” and features Alex Perez and Steve Gill.

    Alex Perez has worked professionally with TheatreWorks as a choreographer, actor, and director. He has also performed and directed at Foothill College, San Jose Stage, Broadway by the Bay and the Globe Theatre in La Jolla.

    Steve Gill has performed professionally with American Musical Theater, TheatreWorks, San Jose Stage and West Bay Opera.

    Both Alex and Steve directed theatre at Menlo School.

    The concert takes place on Saturday, March 4 at 7:30 pm at the Martin Family Hall at the Menlo School located at 50 Valparaiso Ave., Atherton, 94027. A donation of $20 is requested.

    COVID-19 Safety & More Info

    All audience members are requested to wear masks and provide contact information in case the concert is cancelled.

    For more information about the concert, please contact Nancy Gill at gillnancyg@gmail.com or 650-948-4648.

    Get tickets to the Simply Sinatra Concert to benefit EHC. 

  • YES Weekend Workshop (in-person)

    YES Weekend Workshop (in-person)

    (All day)
    Mar 3 Mar 5

    When: Friday March 3 at 3:00 pm to Sunday, March 5 at noon

    Where: LightHouse for the Blind Headquarters at 1155 Market Street in San Francisco

    Who: Blind and low-vision students between the ages of 16 and 22

    How do blind and low vision students access reading materials for both work and leisure? How does accessing reading materials tie into pre-employment preparedness skillsets? Join us this March for a workshop focused on all things literacy. Students who attend will not only gain resources and knowledge through exciting group activities, but will have the opportunity to assist with this year’s Northern California Braille Challenge, happening that weekend at LightHouse Headquarters. YES workshops are monthly weekend-long learning experiences for youth and young adults who are enthusiastic about realizing their dream careers, emphasizing the vocational enrichment of low vision and blind youth, providing access to a multifaceted array of mentorship, employment readiness skills, and alternative accessible techniques. Each YES workshop focuses on a specific theme and offers an array of self-advocacy, assistive technology, living skills, and soft skills curricula empowering students to strive toward future employment or post-secondary educational success. The weekend is spent learning from blind and low vision mentors, connecting with blind and low vision peers, and engaging in creative hands-on activities which further support youth to explore and achieve their individualized and professional goals.

    Objectives:

    • Students will have opportunities to network and practice work-readiness skills while volunteering during this year’s Braille Challenge event.
    • Participants will discuss literature access resources, and hear from peers and professionals on valuable suggestions and strategies.
    • Students will gain team-building and collaborative skillsets essential for workplace success during intergenerational group activities.
    • The over-night nature of the YES workshop provides opportunities for students to refine their workplace readiness soft skills including effective social and professional communication and independent living all while building community with their blind and low vision peers and mentors.

    Things to Bring:

  • A notetaking device or implement (braille note, pen, slate and stylus, phone with keyboard, laptop, etc.). You may be asked to complete activities electronically.
  • Necessities you may need such as any orientation and mobility tools to travel safely, money for transportation to and from the workshop, or personal medication.
  • If you are interested in participating in the March YES Weekend Workshop, please:

  • Contact your Department of Rehabilitation counselor to discuss workshop attendance and authorization.
  • Confirm attendance with Daisy Soto, Youth Services Coordinator by email at DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7328. If you have any questions or would like to pay for your participation in this workshop, contact DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org. Note: space for this program is limited and workshop attendance must be confirmed one week prior.
  • YES programs are, and will continue to be, in strict accordance with local, state and Center for Disease Control recommendations and guidelines.

    More about YES Weekend Workshop (in-person)

  • LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)


    Mar 6

    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 2 – April 13, 2023.

    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 this form: https://forms.office.com/r/MsNHzhK3Hc

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we can only complete tax years 2019, 2020, and 2021 in March). 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

    COVID-19 Requirements:

    Masks must be worn at all times.

    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. Thank you.

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

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


    Mar 6

    What does it really mean to be a person who is blind or who has low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, will lead this call-in forum to discuss the many day-to-day ins and outs of blindness, from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies. There's always a lively crowd sharing their own experiences, so make a cup of coffee (or tea), sit in your favorite chair, and call in to chat about the business of blindness.

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

    Vison: Peer-Led Support Group (online)

    Vison: Peer-Led Support Group (online)


    Mar 6

    March dates: March 6 & 20

    Vision is a solutions-based and peer-led support group. Every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, we discuss different topics and share our experiences, thoughts, and knowledge. We are people with similar experiences who genuinely want to support one another in all aspects of living independently with our changing vision.

    RSVP online for Vision Peer-Led Support Group or call 415-694-7607.

  • Tech Together: March 2023 (online)

    Tech Together: March 2023 (online)


    Mar 7

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

    March 7: Make the Most of Screen Magnification
    We'll take a look at the magnification features of our mobile devices and computers. Whether you use magnification every day or every once in a while, you won’t want to miss this helpful overview.

    RSVP online for Make the Most of Screen Magnification or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 14: Open Forum
    Do you have a favorite tech tip or trick to share? Do you have questions about your tech setup? Do you have ideas about future Tech Together events? Join the Access Technology team for a fun and freeform discussion where we can all nerd out and learn about tech, together.

    RSVP online for Open Forum or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 21: What's New in the World of Access Technology: Updates from CSUN
    We'll share updates and insights after the 38th annual CSUN Assistive Technology conference.

    RSVP online for Updates from CSUN or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 28: Outstanding Standalone Magnification Devices
    We'll have a discussion on standalone magnification solutions. We'll dive into desktop and portable devices, and zoom in on the options that will optimize your visual experience.

    RSVP online for Outstanding Standalone Magnification Devices or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

  • Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)


    Mar 8

    Each Wednesday morning we offer a series of short, meditation-based practices for relaxation and stress reduction. The group is appropriate for both beginners and advanced practitioners and instruction is provided in all aspects of the practice. Instructor Jeffrey Schneider has more than 40 years of meditation and teaching experience. It is a virtual class using the Zoom platform—everyone is welcome as little or often as they like. Dial in, find a comfortable position, breathe deeply, clear your head, and de-stress.

    RSVP to Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

    Gratitude VIBES: March 2023 (online)

    Gratitude VIBES: March 2023 (online)


    Mar 8

    Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Each week a participant presents something that invigorates them. Gratitude is associated with greater happiness and can help you feel more positive emotions, recognize and relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. Individual shares and a gratitude exercise follow presentations.

    March’s theme is: Welcome Spring!

    March 1: Spring Music
    March 8: Calligraphy kanji “flower”: symbolic of the life & death cycle
    March 15: Spring Flowers: Tulips
    March 22: Earth Medicine
    March 29: Spring Food

    RSVP online for Gratitude VIBES or contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707.

  • LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)


    Mar 9

    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 2 – April 13, 2023.

    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 this form: https://forms.office.com/r/MsNHzhK3Hc

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we can only complete tax years 2019, 2020, and 2021 in March). 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

    COVID-19 Requirements:

    Masks must be worn at all times.

    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. Thank you.

    Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    Little Learners Playgroup (online)


    Mar 9

    Bring your giggles and wiggles to Little Learners weekly Zoom Playgroup, Thursdays from 9:30am - 10:15am. Enjoy fun activities with your little one, ages 0-6, while learning strategies to support your child's visual, sensory, motor and concept development. Connect with other families who understand and share your experience raising a child who is blind, has low vision, or Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Weekly activities are designed to be accessible for all, and to build upon monthly themes that you can integrate into your family routines. All are welcome!

    For more information or to register, please email Jacqueline Barden at littlelearners@lighthouse-sf.org or call 415-694-7657. Meet you in the Zoom Room!

    Create In Community Art Class: March 2023 (in-person)

    Create In Community Art Class: March 2023 (in-person)


    Mar 9

    Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco (1155 Market) to explore a different art process, style or media each moth 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 a variety of painted and textured papers that we will later use as collage materials to create colorful and tactile artworks.

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

  • Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)


    Mar 10

    We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. Our weekly gathering takes place Friday evenings at 8:00 pm., where we watch the next episode of our series and connect with your LightHouse and EHC friends. Now that we’ve watched all that we could from the world of Daredevil, our club will be switching things up and will start watching the new series, Wednesday, in early February. For those unfamiliar with the show, check out the trailer.

    ***Parents Please Note*** Wednesday is rated TV-14 for fear, language, and violence which means some content may not be suitable for kids under 14. IMDB has a parental guide that goes into greater detail about why the show received this rating. Read the Parent Guide for Wednesday.

    Who: teens and young adults who are blind or are low vision

    What: Wednesday with the Reel Escape Audio Description Club via Zoom

    When: Friday evenings @ 8:00 pm

    Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

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

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

  • College Spaces From Different Places (in-person)

    College Spaces From Different Places (in-person)


    Mar 11

    Where: We will be meeting in San Francisco at LightHouse Headquarters by 11:00 pm, and plan to return by 4:00 pm.

    San Francisco is filled with interesting spaces to explore, and this March we’re inviting all College Spaces members to join us for a day in Chinatown. Cool shops and great food are only some of the things that await us, and we are excited to explore this part of the city with you all!

    Remember to bring your Clipper cards, money for any shopping and food you might want, and meet us at LightHouse Headquarters by 11:00 am.

    College Spaces from Different Places is a peer-led student organization which cultivates connections and community for all undergraduate college students. This group is designed by and for students who are blind and who have low vision 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!

    RSVP by March 9 to Daisy Soto at DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org 415-694-7328. You may also contact Daisy with any questions.

    Memorial for LightHouse Volunteer Liz Klein (online)

    Memorial for LightHouse Volunteer Liz Klein (online)


    Mar 11

    Please join us to celebrate the life of longtime LightHouse volunteer Elizabeth Klein on Saturday, March 11 via the Zoom platform. Liz passed away in early January this year at the age of 79. We will be spending the time sharing memories from everyone on the call.

    Liz was a member of the San Francisco CCB chapter for over 25 years and after retiring, she generously volunteered her time to our chapter, the East Bay Center for the Blind, the San Francisco LightHouse and numerous events.

    I know there are many of you who can fill in the many years of Liz's life and we'd love to hear from you. – Frank Welte

    Date: Saturday, March 11, 2023

    Time: 11:00 am to noon, longer if we hadn't heard from everyone.

    The Zoom room will say San Francisco Chapter Chat.

    Note: When you join the Zoom meeting, you will be in a waiting room. Please be patient as we admit everyone.

    Virtual doors open at 10:45 am

    Join Zoom Meeting for Liz Klein Memorial. (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84292516501)

    One tap mobile

    +16699006833,,84292516501#

    Phone: 1-669-900-6833

    Meeting ID: 84292516501

  • SIX the Musical Haptic Pre-Show Tour and Audio Described Performance (in-person)

    SIX the Musical Haptic Pre-Show Tour and Audio Described Performance (in-person)


    Mar 12

    Head across the street from the Lighthouse HQ to the Orpheum Theater at 1192 Market St. San Francisco, for a pre-show haptic experience and audio described matinee performance. SIX the Musical is a retelling of the stories of King Henry the VIII's six wives as a pop concert in which all six queens try to one-up each other's woes they endured with the king.

    The BroadwaySF website says, "From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!"

    Learn more about SIX the Musical at the BroadwaySF page.

    Tickets are $55. We have a block of 20 tickets available. Please note that our seats are further back this time due to the popularity of the show and proximity of the date.

    RSVP online for SIX the Musical haptic tour/audio described performance or call Maia Scott at 415-694-7608. Maia will contact you to ask for number of tickets you would like (2 max) and whether you will need a headset, plus talk about how to collect payment

    Lions LightHouse Concert Humanitarian Aid for Turkey and Syria (in-person)

    Lions LightHouse Concert Humanitarian Aid for Turkey and Syria (in-person)


    Mar 12

    This is a fundraiser for Humanitarian aid for earthquake victims of turkey and Syria by the Lions clubs international Foundation.

    5:00 pm to 6:00 pm - Wine reception/finger food
    6:00 pm - Concert

    The donation for admission is:

    $100 for VIP seats
    $50 for general seats

    Pay by PayPal to: svcyberlions@gmail.com or Venmo to: 415-699-9299

    All proceeds will distribute through Lions Clubs International Foundation

    There will be an intermission with light food and drinks

    RSVP to svcyberlions@gmail.com.

    Directions to LightHouse San Francisco

  • LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (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 2 – April 13, 2023.

    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 this form: https://forms.office.com/r/MsNHzhK3Hc

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we can only complete tax years 2019, 2020, and 2021 in March). 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

    COVID-19 Requirements:

    Masks must be worn at all times.

    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. Thank you.

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

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


    Mar 13

    What does it really mean to be a person who is blind or who has low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, will lead this call-in forum to discuss the many day-to-day ins and outs of blindness, from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies. There's always a lively crowd sharing their own experiences, so make a cup of coffee (or tea), sit in your favorite chair, and call in to chat about the business of blindness.

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

    Toastmasters (online)

    Toastmasters (online)


    Mar 13

    We are one month closer to officially starting our LightHouse Chapter! Supported by experienced Toastmasters mentors, we will host a meeting with two LightHouse participants as featured speakers. Toastmasters is a place to develop skills of self-empowerment. It's a place to practice public speaking, improve communication, and build leadership skills.

    RSVP online for Toastmasters or contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707.

  • Tech Together: March 2023 (online)

    Tech Together: March 2023 (online)


    Mar 14

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

    March 7: Make the Most of Screen Magnification
    We'll take a look at the magnification features of our mobile devices and computers. Whether you use magnification every day or every once in a while, you won’t want to miss this helpful overview.

    RSVP online for Make the Most of Screen Magnification or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 14: Open Forum
    Do you have a favorite tech tip or trick to share? Do you have questions about your tech setup? Do you have ideas about future Tech Together events? Join the Access Technology team for a fun and freeform discussion where we can all nerd out and learn about tech, together.

    RSVP online for Open Forum or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 21: What's New in the World of Access Technology: Updates from CSUN
    We'll share updates and insights after the 38th annual CSUN Assistive Technology conference.

    RSVP online for Updates from CSUN or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 28: Outstanding Standalone Magnification Devices
    We'll have a discussion on standalone magnification solutions. We'll dive into desktop and portable devices, and zoom in on the options that will optimize your visual experience.

    RSVP online for Outstanding Standalone Magnification Devices or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

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

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


    Mar 14

    The National Federation of the Blind is a nationwide community of members that believe blind people can live the lives they want. We meet online via Zoom with the following schedule:

    6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – Virtual Happy (Half) Hour
    6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Chapter Meeting

    To RSVP, contact President Bobbi Pompey at bobbipompey@gmail.com or 336-988-6375.

  • Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)


    Mar 15

    Each Wednesday morning we offer a series of short, meditation-based practices for relaxation and stress reduction. The group is appropriate for both beginners and advanced practitioners and instruction is provided in all aspects of the practice. Instructor Jeffrey Schneider has more than 40 years of meditation and teaching experience. It is a virtual class using the Zoom platform—everyone is welcome as little or often as they like. Dial in, find a comfortable position, breathe deeply, clear your head, and de-stress.

    RSVP to Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

    Gratitude VIBES: March 2023 (online)

    Gratitude VIBES: March 2023 (online)


    Mar 15

    Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Each week a participant presents something that invigorates them. Gratitude is associated with greater happiness and can help you feel more positive emotions, recognize and relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. Individual shares and a gratitude exercise follow presentations.

    March’s theme is: Welcome Spring!

    March 1: Spring Music
    March 8: Calligraphy kanji “flower”: symbolic of the life & death cycle
    March 15: Spring Flowers: Tulips
    March 22: Earth Medicine
    March 29: Spring Food

    RSVP online for Gratitude VIBES or contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707.

  • LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)


    Mar 16

    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 2 – April 13, 2023.

    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 this form: https://forms.office.com/r/MsNHzhK3Hc

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we can only complete tax years 2019, 2020, and 2021 in March). 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

    COVID-19 Requirements:

    Masks must be worn at all times.

    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. Thank you.

    Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    Little Learners Playgroup (online)


    Mar 16

    Bring your giggles and wiggles to Little Learners weekly Zoom Playgroup, Thursdays from 9:30am - 10:15am. Enjoy fun activities with your little one, ages 0-6, while learning strategies to support your child's visual, sensory, motor and concept development. Connect with other families who understand and share your experience raising a child who is blind, has low vision, or Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Weekly activities are designed to be accessible for all, and to build upon monthly themes that you can integrate into your family routines. All are welcome!

    For more information or to register, please email Jacqueline Barden at littlelearners@lighthouse-sf.org or call 415-694-7657. Meet you in the Zoom Room!

    Create In Community Art Class: March 2023 (in-person)

    Create In Community Art Class: March 2023 (in-person)


    Mar 16

    Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco (1155 Market) to explore a different art process, style or media each moth 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 a variety of painted and textured papers that we will later use as collage materials to create colorful and tactile artworks.

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

    Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)

    Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)


    Mar 16

    Tecnología para Todos, es un espacio en donde los usuarios comparten sus conocimientos y experiencias. Cada mes conversamos sobre distintos servicios, aplicaciones y dispositivos disponibles para personas ciegas y con baja visión. ¡Te esperamos!

    Para registrarse, contacten a Jeffrey Colon JColon@lighthouse-sf.or o 415-694-7323.

    Join the LightHouse’s monthly access Technology Spanish meeting. Tecnología para todos is a space where users share their knowledge and experience. Each month, we talk about services, applications and devices available for blind and low vision users.

    This event will be conducted using the Zoom platform. You can connect to Zoom using a computer, an app, or by dialing in from any phone. Zoom meeting details will be provided when you rsvp by email to: JColon@lighthouse-sf.org or by calling 415-694-7323.

  • Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)


    Mar 17

    We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. Our weekly gathering takes place Friday evenings at 8:00 pm., where we watch the next episode of our series and connect with your LightHouse and EHC friends. Now that we’ve watched all that we could from the world of Daredevil, our club will be switching things up and will start watching the new series, Wednesday, in early February. For those unfamiliar with the show, check out the trailer.

    ***Parents Please Note*** Wednesday is rated TV-14 for fear, language, and violence which means some content may not be suitable for kids under 14. IMDB has a parental guide that goes into greater detail about why the show received this rating. Read the Parent Guide for Wednesday.

    Who: teens and young adults who are blind or are low vision

    What: Wednesday with the Reel Escape Audio Description Club via Zoom

    When: Friday evenings @ 8:00 pm

    Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

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

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

  • CCB San Francisco Chapter monthly meeting (hybrid)

    CCB San Francisco Chapter monthly meeting (hybrid)


    Mar 18

    The CCB San Francisco Chapter holds its regular meetings on the third Saturday of the month. In March, our meeting will start at 10:00 AM as we join a program about racial equity being presented by Inclusive Diversity of California, a statewide special interest affiliate of the California Council of the Blind, followed by our regular business meeting at 11:30 AM. This event will take place virtually on Zoom and in person at the LightHouse Multipurpose Room, 1155 Market Street, 10th floor. All are welcome.

    RSVP to President Vita Zavoli at VZavoli@gmail.com or 510-846-4080.

  • LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)


    Mar 20

    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 2 – April 13, 2023.

    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 this form: https://forms.office.com/r/MsNHzhK3Hc

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we can only complete tax years 2019, 2020, and 2021 in March). 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

    COVID-19 Requirements:

    Masks must be worn at all times.

    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. Thank you.

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

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


    Mar 20

    What does it really mean to be a person who is blind or who has low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, will lead this call-in forum to discuss the many day-to-day ins and outs of blindness, from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies. There's always a lively crowd sharing their own experiences, so make a cup of coffee (or tea), sit in your favorite chair, and call in to chat about the business of blindness.

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

    SFMTA Collaborates on San Francisco Active Communities Plan (online)

    SFMTA Collaborates on San Francisco Active Communities Plan (online)


    Mar 20

    The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) is seeking input and feedback from LightHouse community members on how biking, scooting and rolling should develop in San Francisco, and how these modes of transit can be an asset to people with disabilities. This online forum will be facilitated by Christopher Kidd, Transportation Planner of Complete Streets, and other members of SFMTA and is part of the San Francisco Active Communities Plan which seeks to expand transit options in a way that benefits underserved populations.

    Learn more about the SFMTA Active Communities Plan.

    To receive the Zoom link, please RSVP to Sheri Albers, Community Outreach Specialist, at SAlbers@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7331

    Vison: Peer-Led Support Group (online)

    Vison: Peer-Led Support Group (online)


    Mar 20

    March dates: March 6 & 20

    Vision is a solutions-based and peer-led support group. Every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, we discuss different topics and share our experiences, thoughts, and knowledge. We are people with similar experiences who genuinely want to support one another in all aspects of living independently with our changing vision.

    RSVP online for Vision Peer-Led Support Group or call 415-694-7607.

  • Tech Together: March 2023 (online)

    Tech Together: March 2023 (online)


    Mar 21

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

    March 7: Make the Most of Screen Magnification
    We'll take a look at the magnification features of our mobile devices and computers. Whether you use magnification every day or every once in a while, you won’t want to miss this helpful overview.

    RSVP online for Make the Most of Screen Magnification or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 14: Open Forum
    Do you have a favorite tech tip or trick to share? Do you have questions about your tech setup? Do you have ideas about future Tech Together events? Join the Access Technology team for a fun and freeform discussion where we can all nerd out and learn about tech, together.

    RSVP online for Open Forum or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 21: What's New in the World of Access Technology: Updates from CSUN
    We'll share updates and insights after the 38th annual CSUN Assistive Technology conference.

    RSVP online for Updates from CSUN or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 28: Outstanding Standalone Magnification Devices
    We'll have a discussion on standalone magnification solutions. We'll dive into desktop and portable devices, and zoom in on the options that will optimize your visual experience.

    RSVP online for Outstanding Standalone Magnification Devices or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    30% & Growing (in-person)

    30% & Growing (in-person)


    Mar 21

    30% & Growing heads over the Bay Bridge into Berkeley! This month we will be gathering for drinks and socializing at Triple Rock Brewing (1920 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704), a local Berkeley classic. Come out and enjoy food, drinks and comradery with others who are blind and low vision in different stages of their career. For those interested, there will be a group meeting at Lighthouse and traveling to Triple Rock together. Contact Andrew Martinez at AMartinez@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7642 for more details.

  • Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)


    Mar 22

    Each Wednesday morning we offer a series of short, meditation-based practices for relaxation and stress reduction. The group is appropriate for both beginners and advanced practitioners and instruction is provided in all aspects of the practice. Instructor Jeffrey Schneider has more than 40 years of meditation and teaching experience. It is a virtual class using the Zoom platform—everyone is welcome as little or often as they like. Dial in, find a comfortable position, breathe deeply, clear your head, and de-stress.

    RSVP to Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

    Gratitude VIBES: March 2023 (online)

    Gratitude VIBES: March 2023 (online)


    Mar 22

    Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Each week a participant presents something that invigorates them. Gratitude is associated with greater happiness and can help you feel more positive emotions, recognize and relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. Individual shares and a gratitude exercise follow presentations.

    March’s theme is: Welcome Spring!

    March 1: Spring Music
    March 8: Calligraphy kanji “flower”: symbolic of the life & death cycle
    March 15: Spring Flowers: Tulips
    March 22: Earth Medicine
    March 29: Spring Food

    RSVP online for Gratitude VIBES or contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707.

    Meet You At The House (online)

    Meet You At The House (online)


    Mar 22

    Pull up a comfy chair and join Community Outreach Specialist Sheri Albers in the LightHouse virtual living room to talk about all things LightHouse! Have you been experiencing changes in your vision that have been affecting your daily life, but did not know who to talk to? LightHouse in San Francisco may have the solutions you have been looking for. This is a safe place to bring the questions that you have been wanting to ask. As always, Raqi from the Adaptations Store will be on hand to let us know what is new in the world of low vision and blindness products.

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

  • LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)


    Mar 23

    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 2 – April 13, 2023.

    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 this form: https://forms.office.com/r/MsNHzhK3Hc

    This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we can only complete tax years 2019, 2020, and 2021 in March). 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

    COVID-19 Requirements:

    Masks must be worn at all times.

    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. Thank you.

    Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    Little Learners Playgroup (online)


    Mar 23

    Bring your giggles and wiggles to Little Learners weekly Zoom Playgroup, Thursdays from 9:30am - 10:15am. Enjoy fun activities with your little one, ages 0-6, while learning strategies to support your child's visual, sensory, motor and concept development. Connect with other families who understand and share your experience raising a child who is blind, has low vision, or Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Weekly activities are designed to be accessible for all, and to build upon monthly themes that you can integrate into your family routines. All are welcome!

    For more information or to register, please email Jacqueline Barden at littlelearners@lighthouse-sf.org or call 415-694-7657. Meet you in the Zoom Room!

    Introductory Tactile Map Workshop (in-person)

    Introductory Tactile Map Workshop (in-person)


    Mar 23

    LightHouse’s Rehabilitation Services and Media and Accessible Design departments are teaming up to present this free course on learning to read tactile maps.

    This workshop takes place at LightHouse East Bay in the Osher Conference Room. The address is Ed Roberts Campus, 3075 Adeline Street, Berkeley, 94703. 

    What will you learn?

    • The value of tactile maps for route planning and awareness of environmental features.
    • Systematic strategies in your approach to exploration of tactile maps.
    • How symbols, line types, labels, and distance, direction, and environmental features are used in interpreting maps.
    • Tactile discrimination techniques for map reading.
    • Greater orientation to new environments.
    • How to order more maps.
    • In addition to the training, each student will take home free TMAPs of their residential area and of the LightHouse East Bay neighborhood at 3075 Adeline, as well as a tactile map of the Ashby BART Station and a tactile BART system map.

    Prerequisites:

    • Functional use of intermediate braille is required.
    • Students must be aged 16 or up.

    LightHouse Braille Instructor, Divina Carlson; Senior Accessible Media and Braille Specialist, Frank Welte; Orientation & Mobility Specialist, Sarah McIntyre and tactile map aficionado, Jerry Kuns, will be facilitating this introductory training in the practical use of TMAP, tactile maps and tactile BART maps for Bay Area travelers. It must be noted that Jerry states he isn’t happier than when he has a good cappuccino in one hand and a tactile map in the other!

    Come join us in learning the language of tactile maps. To attend, please contact Briana Kusuma, at BKusuma@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7335 no later than Friday, March 17. In your email, please provide Briana your full name, phone number and your residential address, so that we can produce your home map prior to the training.

    Space is limited to 15 participants. Additional registrants will be placed on a waiting list. We will consider scheduling an additional session if there is sufficient interest. Students may attend with their TVI or O&M teacher. Because this is an in-person activity, we are requesting that you provide proof of vaccination upon entry and wear a mask during the event.

    This course is made possible thanks to a grant from the Federal Transportation Administration.

    Create In Community Art Class: March 2023 (in-person)

    Create In Community Art Class: March 2023 (in-person)


    Mar 23

    Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco (1155 Market) to explore a different art process, style or media each moth 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 a variety of painted and textured papers that we will later use as collage materials to create colorful and tactile artworks.

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

  • Inclusive Innovations: The Future of Accessible Work (hybrid)

    Inclusive Innovations: The Future of Accessible Work (hybrid)


    Mar 24

    A black background with the words "Inclusive Innovations: / The Future of Accessible Work / Friday, March 24, 2023/ Register now/ InIn" in white and yellow text. The Envision logo and the LightHouse logo appear at the bottom of the image

    LightHouse is pleased to partner with Envision for Inclusive Innovations, a free disruptive tech event at LightHouse San Francisco headquarters on March 24.

    Disruptive technology is an innovation that significantly alters the way that consumers, industries, or businesses operate, bringing about major changes in people’s lives. Inclusive Innovations was created to focus attention and understanding on the future of workplace accessibility for employees who are blind or who have low vision.

    Representatives from across industry, technology, and employees who are blind and who have low vision, will come together to discuss ideas and share insights on the latest technology trends, new workplace practices, and the role of Inclusive Innovation in shaping the future of workplace accessibility, inclusivity and happiness.

    Guests will also be able to meet innovators and try out the next generation of assistive technologies firsthand.

    The event includes introductory remarks, a panel discussion, audience Q&A, a tech fair and networking drinks and bites.

    Speakers include:

    Vanessa Vigar - Chief Marketing Officer, Envision
    Sharon Giovinazzo - CEO, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
    Mike May - Chief Evangelist GoodMaps, Sendero Group Founder and author
    Karthik Kannan - Chief Technology Officer & Founder, Envision
    Iolanda Antunes - Enterprise Product Manager, LinkedIn
    Hoby Wedler, - Ph. D. Blind Entrepreneur, chemist, sensory expert and educator
    John Gassman - Guest Reservations, Walt Disney
    Hunter Benedict - Product Manager at Google

    There will be 5-minute demos from the following innovators:

    Be My Eyes
    Goodmaps
    Aira
    Rebokeh
    Envision

    What: Inclusive Innovations: Creating Workplace Accessibility and Happiness
    When: Friday, March 24, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm Pacific
    Where: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 1155 Market St. San Francisco (Directions to LightHouse San Francisco)
    RSVP: Register for Inclusive Innovations for free

    Can’t make it in person? You may register for the Inclusive Innovations webinar to hear the panel.

    Don’t miss your chance to connect and network with some of the greatest minds in assistive technology!

    Creators' Space - Accessible Comics with Rachel Lanzerotti (in-person)

    Creators' Space - Accessible Comics with Rachel Lanzerotti (in-person)


    Mar 24

    Creators' Space welcomes Rachel “Rae” Lanzerotti to share their accessible comic work in progress.  After vision loss in 2020, Rae started making audio-graphic memoirs, and their autobiographical comics received awards in the 2022 Accessible Comics Competition. Rae shares their story, “Embodied,” which uses image, sound, and texture. Come listen, read, discuss and be part of an exploratory practice of making your own simple comic, no experience needed!

    RSVP by March 23 to Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608

    Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)


    Mar 24

    We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. Our weekly gathering takes place Friday evenings at 8:00 pm., where we watch the next episode of our series and connect with your LightHouse and EHC friends. Now that we’ve watched all that we could from the world of Daredevil, our club will be switching things up and will start watching the new series, Wednesday, in early February. For those unfamiliar with the show, check out the trailer.

    ***Parents Please Note*** Wednesday is rated TV-14 for fear, language, and violence which means some content may not be suitable for kids under 14. IMDB has a parental guide that goes into greater detail about why the show received this rating. Read the Parent Guide for Wednesday.

    Who: teens and young adults who are blind or are low vision

    What: Wednesday with the Reel Escape Audio Description Club via Zoom

    When: Friday evenings @ 8:00 pm

    Where: anywhere you can access a zoom meeting

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

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

  • Celebrate Spring 2023: Beeping Egg Hunts and More (in-person)

    Celebrate Spring 2023: Beeping Egg Hunts and More (in-person)


    Mar 25

    Celebrate Spring with LightHouse Little Learners! Families who have a young child experiencing blindness, low vision, or disabilities including visual impairment are invited to join us for a fun afternoon of activities for all abilities including: tactile and beeping egg hunts, crafts, bubbles, music, cookie decorating, face painting, flower planting, and more!  Thank you to our friends at Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael for hosting this event. The event takes place at the Guide Dogs campus at 350 Los Ranchitos Rd., San Rafael. Come on by to meet a dog guide puppy-in-training, too! Please RSVP with the number of adults and children in your family who will attend.

    RSVP by March 17. Register online for Beeping Egg Hunts and More! You may also contact Karen Thompson at KThompson@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7695.

  • LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)


    Mar 27

    Appointments for the 2023 Tax Season are full.

    If you do not currently have an appointment and wish to be placed on the waiting list, you may call and leave your full name and phone number at 415 – 694 – 7648. There is no guarantee that we will be able to schedule you.

    If you would like to find other free tax filing services, we recommend looking at:

    While AARP’s Tax Season will close on April 13, the deadline to file both federal and state taxes has been extended to October 15, 2023.

    If You have an appointment

    If you have questions, please call 415 – 694 - 7648

    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

    COVID-19 Requirements:

    Masks must be worn at all times.

    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. Thank you.

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

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


    Mar 27

    What does it really mean to be a person who is blind or who has low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, will lead this call-in forum to discuss the many day-to-day ins and outs of blindness, from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies. There's always a lively crowd sharing their own experiences, so make a cup of coffee (or tea), sit in your favorite chair, and call in to chat about the business of blindness.

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

    Talkin’ About Books: Braiding Sweetgrass (online)

    Talkin’ About Books: Braiding Sweetgrass (online)


    Mar 27

    In honor of Earth Month, we will read and discuss Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. As a botanist and professor of plant ecology, Wall Kimmerer has spent a career learning how to ask questions of nature using the tools of science. As a Potawatomi woman, she learned from elders, family, and history that the Potawatomi, as well as a majority of other cultures indigenous to this land, consider plants and animals to be our oldest teachers. This book is on the National Library Service Braille and Audio Reading Download website. The book number is DB92274.

    RSVP online for Talkin' About Books or contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707.

  • Tech Together: March 2023 (online)

    Tech Together: March 2023 (online)


    Mar 28

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

    March 7: Make the Most of Screen Magnification
    We'll take a look at the magnification features of our mobile devices and computers. Whether you use magnification every day or every once in a while, you won’t want to miss this helpful overview.

    RSVP online for Make the Most of Screen Magnification or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 14: Open Forum
    Do you have a favorite tech tip or trick to share? Do you have questions about your tech setup? Do you have ideas about future Tech Together events? Join the Access Technology team for a fun and freeform discussion where we can all nerd out and learn about tech, together.

    RSVP online for Open Forum or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 21: What's New in the World of Access Technology: Updates from CSUN
    We'll share updates and insights after the 38th annual CSUN Assistive Technology conference.

    RSVP online for Updates from CSUN or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    March 28: Outstanding Standalone Magnification Devices
    We'll have a discussion on standalone magnification solutions. We'll dive into desktop and portable devices, and zoom in on the options that will optimize your visual experience.

    RSVP online for Outstanding Standalone Magnification Devices or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

  • Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)


    Mar 29

    Each Wednesday morning we offer a series of short, meditation-based practices for relaxation and stress reduction. The group is appropriate for both beginners and advanced practitioners and instruction is provided in all aspects of the practice. Instructor Jeffrey Schneider has more than 40 years of meditation and teaching experience. It is a virtual class using the Zoom platform—everyone is welcome as little or often as they like. Dial in, find a comfortable position, breathe deeply, clear your head, and de-stress.

    RSVP to Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

    Gratitude VIBES: March 2023 (online)

    Gratitude VIBES: March 2023 (online)


    Mar 29

    Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Each week a participant presents something that invigorates them. Gratitude is associated with greater happiness and can help you feel more positive emotions, recognize and relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. Individual shares and a gratitude exercise follow presentations.

    March’s theme is: Welcome Spring!

    March 1: Spring Music
    March 8: Calligraphy kanji “flower”: symbolic of the life & death cycle
    March 15: Spring Flowers: Tulips
    March 22: Earth Medicine
    March 29: Spring Food

    RSVP online for Gratitude VIBES or contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707.

  • LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)


    Mar 30

    Appointments for the 2023 Tax Season are full.

    If you do not currently have an appointment and wish to be placed on the waiting list, you may call and leave your full name and phone number at 415 – 694 – 7648. There is no guarantee that we will be able to schedule you.

    If you would like to find other free tax filing services, we recommend looking at:

    While AARP’s Tax Season will close on April 13, the deadline to file both federal and state taxes has been extended to October 15, 2023.

    If You have an appointment

    If you have questions, please call 415 – 694 - 7648

    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

    COVID-19 Requirements:

    Masks must be worn at all times.

    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. Thank you.

    Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    Little Learners Playgroup (online)


    Mar 30

    Bring your giggles and wiggles to Little Learners weekly Zoom Playgroup, Thursdays from 9:30am - 10:15am. Enjoy fun activities with your little one, ages 0-6, while learning strategies to support your child's visual, sensory, motor and concept development. Connect with other families who understand and share your experience raising a child who is blind, has low vision, or Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Weekly activities are designed to be accessible for all, and to build upon monthly themes that you can integrate into your family routines. All are welcome!

    For more information or to register, please email Jacqueline Barden at littlelearners@lighthouse-sf.org or call 415-694-7657. Meet you in the Zoom Room!

    Create In Community Art Class: March 2023 (in-person)

    Create In Community Art Class: March 2023 (in-person)


    Mar 30

    Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco (1155 Market) to explore a different art process, style or media each moth 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 a variety of painted and textured papers that we will later use as collage materials to create colorful and tactile artworks.

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

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