Events in February 2023

SunSunday MonMonday TueTuesday WedWednesday ThuThursday FriFriday SatSaturday
Jan 29
Jan 30(1 event)

7:00 pm: Talkin' About Books: Have Dog, Will Travel: A Poet's Journey (online)

7:00 pm: Talkin' About Books: Have Dog, Will Travel: A Poet's Journey (online)

–
Jan 30

In a lyrical love letter to guide dogs everywhere, a blind poet shares his delightful story of how a guide dog changed his life and helped him discover a newfound appreciation for travel and independence.

Stephen Kuusisto was born legally blind—but he was also raised in the 1950s and taught to deny his blindness in order to "pass" as sighted. Stephen attended public school, rode a bike, and read books pressed right up against his nose. As an adult, he coped with his limited vision by becoming a professor in a small college town, memorizing routes for all of the places he needed to be. Then, at the age of thirty-eight, he was laid off. With no other job opportunities in his vicinity, he would have to travel to find work.

This is how he found himself at Guiding Eyes, paired with a Labrador named Corky. In this vivid and lyrical memoir, Stephen Kuusisto recounts how an incredible partnership with a guide dog changed his life and the heart-stopping, wondrous adventure that began for him in midlife. Profound and deeply moving, this is a spiritual journey, the story of discovering that life with a guide dog is both a method and a state of mind.

RSVP to Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707.
Jan 31(3 events)

10:30 am: BART Safety Training (in-person)

10:30 am: BART Safety Training (in-person)

–
Jan 31

Join LightHouse and the BART Accessibility Team at the Oakland 19th Street BART station, upper level, for a BART Safety Training.

Are you a regular BART commuter, or do you only use it when you absolutely have to? Have you ever thought about what would happen if you were to accidently fall into the tracks on a BART platform? Do you know how to contact the operator for help while on a BART train? What do you do if there are no seats available?

This event will give you the opportunity to inspect a full-scale model of the track with the elusive “third rail”, along with the cubby area under the platform where one can remain safe if a train were coming. We will have a hands-on experience in a BART car to check out the seating arrangements, the door to transfer to the next car, and the location of all the safety features. The LightHouse Media and Accessible Design Lab staff will also be on hand to show you the tactile BART station maps that are available for you to order.

RSVP is strongly encouraged to ensure attendees have an opportunity to access all aspects of the presentation. To RSVP or if you have additional questions, contact Sheri Albers at SAlbers@lighthouse-sf.org, or 415-694-7331.

12:00 pm: Museum of Craft & Design Descriptive & Interactive Tour (in-person)

12:00 pm: Museum of Craft & Design Descriptive & Interactive Tour (in-person)

–
Jan 31

Visit the Museum of Craft and Design in San Francisco for an exclusive tour of current exhibitions including BULL.MELATIC: Proxistant Vision which is the culmination of an innovative, art and technology research project that explores the impact of new aerial imaging technologies and their influence and power in everyday life. Staff members will take us on a descriptive tour of current exhibitions, invite us to hold and touch artifacts created by the exhibiting artists using similar techniques and walk us through an art making experience inspired by the work on display in their galleries.

Museum of Craft and Design is located at 2569 3rd Street, right on the San Francisco Muni Bus T Line with stops nearby.

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

2:00 pm: Tech Together: January 2023 (online)

2:00 pm: Tech Together: January 2023 (online)

–
Jan 31

January 17: Fabulous File Storage

Whether you need to back up your files, share files with others, or keep more data than your device will hold, cloud-based file storage can be a useful tool in your toolbox. Join the Access Technology team, and we'll discuss options for accessible online storage.

RSVP online for Fabulous File Storage or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

January 24: Meeting Up and Making Friends

Join the Access Technology team, and we'll discuss accessible ways to find meetups, make friends, and enjoy events in a reopening world.

RSVP online for Meeting Up and Making Friends or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

January 31: Take a Ride

Join the Access Technology team, and we'll take a tour of popular rideshare applications. We'll also discuss strategies for safety and smooth sailing while you're on the road.

RSVP online for Take a Ride or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

 
Feb 1(3 events)

(All day): Enchanted Hills Camp Summer 2023 Sessions Registration Opens

(All day): Enchanted Hills Camp Summer 2023 Sessions Registration Opens

(All day)
Feb 1

Enchanted Hills Camp (EHC) is back for a full summer of camp sessions this summer! Registration will open on February 1, with more info to follow. For now, check out the different sessions that will be offered.

  • Changing Vision, Changing Life: Sunday, June 4 – Friday, June 9
  • Little Learners: Friday, June 9 – Sunday, June 11
  • Family Camp I: Thursday, June 15 – Sunday, June 18
  • Adult Session: Monday, June 26 – Saturday, July 1
  • Adults with Developmental Disabilities: Monday, July 3 – Saturday, July 8
  • Youth Session: Monday, July 10 – Saturday, July 15
  • Teen Session: Monday, July 17 – Saturday, July 29
  • Family Camp II: Wednesday, August 2 – Saturday, August 5
  • Music/STEM Camp:  Monday, August 7 – Sunday, August 13

9:30 am: Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

9:30 am: Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

–
Feb 1

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.

1:00 pm: Gratitude VIBES (online)

1:00 pm: Gratitude VIBES (online)

–
Feb 1

Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. This solutions-based group can help you feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity and build strong relationships. Previous sessions included demonstrations of poetry, music, drumming, visualization, Chinese and Japanese calligraphy, self-care, gardening, and employment journeys. These are followed by individual check-ins.

Our February 2023 theme is Relationships. Students will present on the following topics:

February 1: Relationships between animals and people
February 8: Relationships with friends
February 15: Relationships with people we have not met yet
February 22: Relationships and love

RSVP to Sabrina Bolus at sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707

 
Feb 2(4 events)

9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

–
Feb 2

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.

9:30 am: Little Learners Playgroup (online)

9:30 am: Little Learners Playgroup (online)

–
Feb 2

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!

11:00 am: Create In Community Art Class (in-person)

11:00 am: Create In Community Art Class (in-person)

–
Feb 2

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 month 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.

2:00 pm: Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)

2:00 pm: Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)

–
Feb 2

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 our 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.

RSVP to Jeffrey Colon at JColon@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7323
Feb 3(3 events)

(All day): YES Weekend Workshop: Let's Talk Travel (in-person)

(All day): YES Weekend Workshop: Let's Talk Travel (in-person)

(All day)
Feb 3 – Feb 5

Where: LightHouse Headquarters (1155 Market Street in San Francisco)

February 3 at 4:00 pm through February 5 at noon

Whether it’s for work, recreation, or a multitude of other reasons, independent travel is a significant part of the transition student experience. Join us this February for a weekend all about the importance of travel, filled with conversations with mentors and professionals, and plenty of opportunities to try out your independent navigation skills throughout San Francisco.

Youth Employment Services (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.

  • Hear from blind and low-vision professionals on why strong orientation and mobility skills matter, and how they have utilized them for work as well as fun. Students will get opportunities to ask questions and get advice.
  • Students will participate in conversations about canes, dog guides, and the benefits of each. They will come away with stronger understandings on what mobility aids they might like to utilize in the future.
  • Participants will have multiple opportunities to practice route-planning techniques, explore San Francisco’s public transit systems and get hands-on experience of navigating around one of the busiest cities, all with the support of blind and low-vision mentors and staff.
  • 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 February YES Weekend Workshop, please:

  • Contact your Department of Rehabilitation counselor to discuss workshop attendance and authorization. The cost for this workshop is $950 and includes all activities, food, and lodging for the weekend.
  • 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 Daisy. Note: Space for this program is limited and workshop attendance must be confirmed one week prior.

    • Please note: Proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 plus boosters when applicable is required to join this event.

    5:00 pm: EHC Virtual Campfire (online)

    5:00 pm: EHC Virtual Campfire (online)

    –
    Feb 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.

    8:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    8:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    –
    Feb 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.
    Feb 4(3 events)

    (All day): YES Weekend Workshop: Let's Talk Travel (in-person)

    (All day): YES Weekend Workshop: Let's Talk Travel (in-person)

    (All day)
    Feb 3 – Feb 5

    Where: LightHouse Headquarters (1155 Market Street in San Francisco)

    February 3 at 4:00 pm through February 5 at noon

    Whether it’s for work, recreation, or a multitude of other reasons, independent travel is a significant part of the transition student experience. Join us this February for a weekend all about the importance of travel, filled with conversations with mentors and professionals, and plenty of opportunities to try out your independent navigation skills throughout San Francisco.

    Youth Employment Services (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.

  • Hear from blind and low-vision professionals on why strong orientation and mobility skills matter, and how they have utilized them for work as well as fun. Students will get opportunities to ask questions and get advice.
  • Students will participate in conversations about canes, dog guides, and the benefits of each. They will come away with stronger understandings on what mobility aids they might like to utilize in the future.
  • Participants will have multiple opportunities to practice route-planning techniques, explore San Francisco’s public transit systems and get hands-on experience of navigating around one of the busiest cities, all with the support of blind and low-vision mentors and staff.
  • 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 February YES Weekend Workshop, please:

  • Contact your Department of Rehabilitation counselor to discuss workshop attendance and authorization. The cost for this workshop is $950 and includes all activities, food, and lodging for the weekend.
  • 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 Daisy. Note: Space for this program is limited and workshop attendance must be confirmed one week prior.

    • Please note: Proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 plus boosters when applicable is required to join this event.

    8:30 am: 27th Annual Lowenfeld-Akeson Early Years Symposium (in-person)

    8:30 am: 27th Annual Lowenfeld-Akeson Early Years Symposium (in-person)

    –
    Feb 4

    Ready, Set, Learn!: Supporting Sleep, Sensory Needs, and Readiness to Learn in Young Children with Vision Loss

    This event takes place at the California School for the Blind at 500 Walnut Ave. in Fremont, California. (A remote option will be made available in the event of a public health emergency.) Morning refreshments and lunch will be provided. We strongly urge attendees to wear masks while indoors to create a safe space for our families and community members who are immunocompromised.

    Speakers:

    • Rafael Pelayo, MD
    • Christopher Russell, MS, TVI
    • The 2023 Dr. William and Ruth ("Roo") Silverman Award for Excellence in Community Partnership will be presented.
    • A parent panel will be held in the afternoon.
    • Requests for accommodation must be made on or before January 4, 2023.
    • The Lowenfeld-Akeson Symposium is sponsored by LightHouse Little Learners (LLL), the California Association of Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (CAPVI), California Deafblind Services (CDBS) and the California School for the Blind (CSB).

    Register for the Lowenfeld-Akeson Symposium.

    12:00 pm: Black History, Black Brilliance Event at Macy's (in-person)

    12:00 pm: Black History, Black Brilliance Event at Macy's (in-person)

    –
    Feb 4

    Macy's Union Square in San Francisco kicks off a month of instore happenings featuring Black entrepreneurs and artists showcased throughout their multi-level store.  We have the opportunity to enjoy lunch in the basement food court, listen to a panel of artists and entrepreneurs talk about their work, tour some of the art on view with live descriptions, and peruse local vendors selling their wares.

    12:00 pm - Lunch in the basemen food court.

    1:00 pm - Panel of black artists and entrepreneurs.

    2:15 pm - Tour of art and vendor visit.

    Let's meet at the main entrance across from the Union Square Plaza.  The address is 170 O'Farrell Street (Nearest Cross Street is Powell and a few blocks walk from Powell Street Station.)

    Scent alert - Note that we may be convening in or near areas of the store that feature cosmetics and fragrances.

    RSVP to Maia Scott by Saturday, February 4 at 11:00 am at: Mscott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608
    Feb 5(1 event)

    (All day): YES Weekend Workshop: Let's Talk Travel (in-person)

    (All day): YES Weekend Workshop: Let's Talk Travel (in-person)

    (All day)
    Feb 3 – Feb 5

    Where: LightHouse Headquarters (1155 Market Street in San Francisco)

    February 3 at 4:00 pm through February 5 at noon

    Whether it’s for work, recreation, or a multitude of other reasons, independent travel is a significant part of the transition student experience. Join us this February for a weekend all about the importance of travel, filled with conversations with mentors and professionals, and plenty of opportunities to try out your independent navigation skills throughout San Francisco.

    Youth Employment Services (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.

  • Hear from blind and low-vision professionals on why strong orientation and mobility skills matter, and how they have utilized them for work as well as fun. Students will get opportunities to ask questions and get advice.
  • Students will participate in conversations about canes, dog guides, and the benefits of each. They will come away with stronger understandings on what mobility aids they might like to utilize in the future.
  • Participants will have multiple opportunities to practice route-planning techniques, explore San Francisco’s public transit systems and get hands-on experience of navigating around one of the busiest cities, all with the support of blind and low-vision mentors and staff.
  • 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 February YES Weekend Workshop, please:

  • Contact your Department of Rehabilitation counselor to discuss workshop attendance and authorization. The cost for this workshop is $950 and includes all activities, food, and lodging for the weekend.
  • 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 Daisy. Note: Space for this program is limited and workshop attendance must be confirmed one week prior.

    • Please note: Proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 plus boosters when applicable is required to join this event.
    Feb 6(2 events)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    –
    Feb 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.

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    –
    Feb 6

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

    Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.

    The virtual course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

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

    The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

    Week 1: Monday, February 6 and Wednesday, February 8 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 2: Monday, February 13 and Wednesday, February 15 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 3: Wednesday, February 22 and Monday, February 27 (due to the President’s Day Holiday observance Monday, February 20) – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.

    Currently this course registration is closed, however we are accepting referrals for our waitlist for our next available class (dates TBA). To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Certified Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org  The class is limited to ten students.
    Feb 7(2 events)

    2:00 pm: Tech Together: February 2023 (online)

    2:00 pm: Tech Together: February 2023 (online)

    –
    Feb 7

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

    February 7: The World of Accessible Reading

    Winter is the perfect season to curl up with a good book. Whether you like nonfiction or novels, join the access technology team, and we'll discuss the applications and tools you can use to read, as well as what's new in the world of accessible reading.

    RSVP online for The World of Accessible Reading or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    February 14: Exploring eReaders

    The National Library Service has developed digital Braille EReaders for use by library patrons, and these are now available in the state of California. Join the Access Technology team, and we'll discuss and explore these devices. Braille-readers and book-lovers won't want to miss this one!

    RSVP online for Exploring eReaders or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    February 28: Virtual Meeting Platforms

    Join the Access Technology team as we explore and discuss the accessibility and usability of popular meeting platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet.

    RSVP online for Virtual Meeting Platforms or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    7:00 pm: College Spaces from Different Places (online)

    7:00 pm: College Spaces from Different Places (online)

    –
    Feb 7

    Is getting involved in your community and volunteering some of your time a New Year’s resolution you’ve been considering? Have you been part of a memorable volunteering experience, or do you want to get some ideas about how to get more involved?  Join us this February for our first meeting of 2023, where we’ll be talking about all things volunteerism. Bring some stories to share, a friend, and questions for your peers!

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

    To RSVP, ask questions or to be part of future College Spaces from Different Places gatherings, contact Daisy Soto DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org 415-694-7328 to learn more.

    Please RSVP by February 3, 2023 to receive the Zoom link.

    NOTE: The Zoom link to join will be distributed the morning of the meetup. All blind/low vision college students are welcome, and you DO NOT need any authorizations from the DOR to join.
    Feb 8(3 events)

    9:30 am: Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    9:30 am: Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    –
    Feb 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.

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    –
    Feb 8

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

    Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.

    The virtual course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

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

    The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

    Week 1: Monday, February 6 and Wednesday, February 8 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 2: Monday, February 13 and Wednesday, February 15 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 3: Wednesday, February 22 and Monday, February 27 (due to the President’s Day Holiday observance Monday, February 20) – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.

    Currently this course registration is closed, however we are accepting referrals for our waitlist for our next available class (dates TBA). To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Certified Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org  The class is limited to ten students.

    1:00 pm: Gratitude VIBES (online)

    1:00 pm: Gratitude VIBES (online)

    –
    Feb 8

    Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. This solutions-based group can help you feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity and build strong relationships. Previous sessions included demonstrations of poetry, music, drumming, visualization, Chinese and Japanese calligraphy, self-care, gardening, and employment journeys. These are followed by individual check-ins.

    Our February 2023 theme is Relationships. Students will present on the following topics:

    February 1: Relationships between animals and people
    February 8: Relationships with friends
    February 15: Relationships with people we have not met yet
    February 22: Relationships and love

    RSVP to Sabrina Bolus at sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707

     
    Feb 9(3 events)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    –
    Feb 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.

    9:30 am: Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    9:30 am: Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    –
    Feb 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!

    11:00 am: Create In Community Art Class (in-person)

    11:00 am: Create In Community Art Class (in-person)

    –
    Feb 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 month 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.
    Feb 10(1 event)

    8:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    8:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    –
    Feb 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.
    Feb 11(1 event)

    7:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club: One Night in Miami (online)

    7:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club: One Night in Miami (online)

    –
    Feb 11

    It’s time for another intergenerational Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club. This time around, our February gathering has chosen to recognize Black History Month by selecting a film with historical significance. The film we have chosen is One Night in Miami, a fictional account of one incredible night where icons Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Sam Cooke, and Jim Brown gathered discussing their roles in the Civil Rights Movement and cultural upheaval of the 60s. The night’s featured film starts after we get a chance to learn a little bit about who has joined us. After the film we will have space to talk about the film or just connect with your LightHouse friends.

    View trailer for One Night in Miami.

    If you have any questions, would like to RSVP for this event, or know of someone that would like to get registered with us as a student, please email me at JGump@lighthouse-of.org or call 415-694-7372
    Feb 12
    Feb 13(3 events)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    –
    Feb 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.

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    –
    Feb 13

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

    Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.

    The virtual course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

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

    The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

    Week 1: Monday, February 6 and Wednesday, February 8 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 2: Monday, February 13 and Wednesday, February 15 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 3: Wednesday, February 22 and Monday, February 27 (due to the President’s Day Holiday observance Monday, February 20) – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.

    Currently this course registration is closed, however we are accepting referrals for our waitlist for our next available class (dates TBA). To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Certified Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org  The class is limited to ten students.

    5:00 pm: Toaster masters Planning Meeting (online)

    5:00 pm: Toaster masters Planning Meeting (online)

    –
    Feb 13

    LightHouse has an exciting opportunity to start our very own Toastmasters club! What is Toastmasters? We’re glad you asked! Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, the organization has over 280,000 members in more than 14,700 clubs in 144 countries across the globe.

    Toastmasters is a place to develop skills of self-empowerment. It's a place to practice public speaking, improve communication, and build leadership skills. Whether you are embarking on a career that will regularly require speechmaking or if you are simply looking to build confidence and find your voice in casual social settings, Toastmasters can teach you the skills to lead a more empowering life.

    In order to be considered an official Toastmasters club, we’ll need to recruit 20 members. On Monday, February 13, we’ll be holding a club planning meeting. We will discuss the next steps for developing LightHouse Toastmasters. David Chan, LightHouse student and former Board member, was the speaker at last month’s demo meeting and has agreed to be our first official club mentor! Join David and the rest of the (hopefully!) soon-to-be LightHouse Toastmasters members this Monday. 

    Agenda Topics

    • Welcome, a recap of the demonstration and meeting purpose
    • Process for Club and membership activation
    • Membership commitment level
    • Role of Mentors
    • Q&A

    RSVP: Please contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607
    Feb 14(2 events)

    2:00 pm: Tech Together: February 2023 (online)

    2:00 pm: Tech Together: February 2023 (online)

    –
    Feb 14

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

    February 7: The World of Accessible Reading

    Winter is the perfect season to curl up with a good book. Whether you like nonfiction or novels, join the access technology team, and we'll discuss the applications and tools you can use to read, as well as what's new in the world of accessible reading.

    RSVP online for The World of Accessible Reading or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    February 14: Exploring eReaders

    The National Library Service has developed digital Braille EReaders for use by library patrons, and these are now available in the state of California. Join the Access Technology team, and we'll discuss and explore these devices. Braille-readers and book-lovers won't want to miss this one!

    RSVP online for Exploring eReaders or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    February 28: Virtual Meeting Platforms

    Join the Access Technology team as we explore and discuss the accessibility and usability of popular meeting platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet.

    RSVP online for Virtual Meeting Platforms or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    6:00 pm: National Federation of the Blind: San Francisco Chapter Meeting (online)

    6:00 pm: National Federation of the Blind: San Francisco Chapter Meeting (online)

    –
    Feb 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.
    Feb 15(3 events)

    9:30 am: Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    9:30 am: Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    –
    Feb 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.

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    –
    Feb 15

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

    Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.

    The virtual course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

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

    The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

    Week 1: Monday, February 6 and Wednesday, February 8 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 2: Monday, February 13 and Wednesday, February 15 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 3: Wednesday, February 22 and Monday, February 27 (due to the President’s Day Holiday observance Monday, February 20) – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.

    Currently this course registration is closed, however we are accepting referrals for our waitlist for our next available class (dates TBA). To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Certified Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org  The class is limited to ten students.

    1:00 pm: Gratitude VIBES (online)

    1:00 pm: Gratitude VIBES (online)

    –
    Feb 15

    Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. This solutions-based group can help you feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity and build strong relationships. Previous sessions included demonstrations of poetry, music, drumming, visualization, Chinese and Japanese calligraphy, self-care, gardening, and employment journeys. These are followed by individual check-ins.

    Our February 2023 theme is Relationships. Students will present on the following topics:

    February 1: Relationships between animals and people
    February 8: Relationships with friends
    February 15: Relationships with people we have not met yet
    February 22: Relationships and love

    RSVP to Sabrina Bolus at sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707

     
    Feb 16(4 events)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    –
    Feb 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.

    9:30 am: Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    9:30 am: Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    –
    Feb 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!

    11:00 am: Create In Community Art Class (in-person)

    11:00 am: Create In Community Art Class (in-person)

    –
    Feb 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 month 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.

    2:00 pm: Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)

    2:00 pm: Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)

    –
    Feb 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 our 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.

    RSVP to Jeffrey Colon at JColon@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7323
    Feb 17(1 event)

    8:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    8:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    –
    Feb 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.
    Feb 18(3 events)

    10:30 am: California Council of the Blind Chapter Meeting San Francisco Chapter Meeting (online)

    10:30 am: California Council of the Blind Chapter Meeting San Francisco Chapter Meeting (online)

    –
    Feb 18

    The San Francisco Chapter of the California Council of the Blind meets on the third Saturday of the month from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. All are invited to attend.

    For more info, contact Vita Zavoli by at VZavoli@gmail.com or 510-846-4080.

    1:00 pm: Dear Evan Hansen Audio-Described Performance (in-person)

    1:00 pm: Dear Evan Hansen Audio-Described Performance (in-person)

    –
    Feb 18

    Dear Evan Hansen is a musical that follows Evan Hansen, a high school senior with social anxiety "who invents an important role for himself in a tragedy that he did not earn". It won six Tony Awards, including best musical.

    The audio-described performance takes place at the Orpheum Theatre at 1192 Market, San Francisco.

    To purchase ADA tickets, call 888-746-1799 or fax your order to 415-581-2121. For fax orders, please include the show name, number of tickets, date and time of show, credit card, and daytime contact information. Tickets may also be purchased at the Orpheum or Golden Gate Theatre box office at 1 Taylor St. in San Francisco.

    In addition to purchasing a ticket, a headset must be reserved by requesting a headset ticket. With the reserved headset ticket, you may pick up the headset in the lobby of the theatre on the way to your seat.

    Read more about Dear Evan Hansen in San Francisco.

    1:00 pm: Polishing in the Park: LightHouse Student Woodworkers Club at Lake Merritt (in-person)

    1:00 pm: Polishing in the Park: LightHouse Student Woodworkers Club at Lake Merritt (in-person)

    –
    Feb 18

    Polishing in the Park, a wood polishing club for youth, takes place once a month at different parks around the Bay Area. With each gathering, participants will have time dedicated to updating others about their projects and learning a little about that month’s mentor. Most importantly there will be time to polish with your blind and low vision friends. Students who sign up for the program will receive the basic materials and equipment to get started with wood polishing. Those who remain active in the program and improve their skills will become eligible for additional raw materials that they can turn into art or gifts for loved ones.

    February's event takes place at the Lake Merritt Amphitheater @ Lake Merritt in Oakland, near the intersection of Lake Merritt Blvd and 11th St.

    RSVP to Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372. Light refreshments and polishing supplies will be provided for those students who RSVP by Friday, February 17.
    Feb 19
    Feb 20(1 event)

    (All day): Presidents' Day Holiday (LightHouse closed)

    (All day): Presidents' Day Holiday (LightHouse closed)

    (All day)
    Feb 20

    Feb 21
    Feb 22(4 events)

    9:30 am: Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    9:30 am: Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    –
    Feb 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.

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    –
    Feb 22

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

    Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.

    The virtual course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

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

    The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

    Week 1: Monday, February 6 and Wednesday, February 8 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 2: Monday, February 13 and Wednesday, February 15 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 3: Wednesday, February 22 and Monday, February 27 (due to the President’s Day Holiday observance Monday, February 20) – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.

    Currently this course registration is closed, however we are accepting referrals for our waitlist for our next available class (dates TBA). To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Certified Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org  The class is limited to ten students.

    1:00 pm: Gratitude VIBES (online)

    1:00 pm: Gratitude VIBES (online)

    –
    Feb 22

    Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. This solutions-based group can help you feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity and build strong relationships. Previous sessions included demonstrations of poetry, music, drumming, visualization, Chinese and Japanese calligraphy, self-care, gardening, and employment journeys. These are followed by individual check-ins.

    Our February 2023 theme is Relationships. Students will present on the following topics:

    February 1: Relationships between animals and people
    February 8: Relationships with friends
    February 15: Relationships with people we have not met yet
    February 22: Relationships and love

    RSVP to Sabrina Bolus at sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707

     

    2:00 pm: Meet You At The House (online)

    2:00 pm: Meet You At The House (online)

    –
    Feb 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.

    To RSVP, contact Sheri Albers at 415-694-7331, or email salbers@lighthouse-sf.org.
    Feb 23(3 events)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    –
    Feb 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.

    9:30 am: Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    9:30 am: Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    –
    Feb 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!

    11:00 am: Create In Community Art Class (in-person)

    11:00 am: Create In Community Art Class (in-person)

    –
    Feb 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 month 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.
    Feb 24(2 events)

    6:00 pm: 30% & Growing (in-person)

    6:00 pm: 30% & Growing (in-person)

    –
    Feb 24

    Join us as we get back into the community for good drinks, conversations, and reconnecting with friends. 30% & Growing is a great place to gather after a long day to converse with others who are blind or have low vision, and are in different stages of their career. Stay connected and come on out!

    This month we will be meeting at Upcider (1160 Polk St 2nd floor, San Francisco, CA 94109) a cider house in the Lower Nob Hill area of San Francisco. The event will run from 6:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m. For those interested, we will be gathering at Lighthouse San Francisco at 1155 Market, at 5:15 pm and will take  public transportation as a group.

     

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

     

    8:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    8:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    –
    Feb 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.
    Feb 25(1 event)

    10:00 am: MAD Lab Presentation at 2023 ACB off Maryland Convention (online)

    10:00 am: MAD Lab Presentation at 2023 ACB off Maryland Convention (online)

    –
    Feb 25

    LightHouse Senior Accessible Media and Braille Specialist, Frank Welte, will represent MAD Lab as part of a panel presentation about braille resources, which will take place at the 2023 Convention of the ACB of Maryland.
    Feb 26(2 events)

    11:00 am: Lighthouse Goes Rock Climbing (in-person)

    11:00 am: Lighthouse Goes Rock Climbing (in-person)

    –
    Feb 26

    Discover the sport of rock-climbing with the always fun and supportive volunteers at ParaCliffHangers. There’s no better way to get moving and stay active, than hanging off the side of an indoor rock wall. All ages and skill levels are welcome, and no prior experience is needed. Equipment can be rented upon arriving for $10.

    We will be meeting at Lighthouse San Francisco at 1155 Market at 11:00 am and heading over on BART as a group. The event starts at noon.

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

    1:00 pm: Mean Girls Audio-Described Performance (in-person)

    1:00 pm: Mean Girls Audio-Described Performance (in-person)

    –
    Feb 26

    Mean Girls is a musical that’s based off the hit 2004 film.

    Summary: Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the wild and vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. How will this naïve newbie rise to the top of the popularity pecking order?

    The audio-described performance takes place at the Golden Gate Theatre box office at 1 Taylor St. in San Francisco.

    To purchase ADA tickets, call 888-746-1799 or fax your order to 415-581-2121. For fax orders, please include the show name, number of tickets, date and time of show, credit card, and daytime contact information. Tickets may also be purchased at the Orpheum or Orpheum Theatre at 1192 Market, San Francisco.

    In addition to purchasing a ticket, a headset must be reserved by requesting a headset ticket. With the reserved headset ticket, you may pick up the headset in the lobby of the theatre on the way to your seat.

    Read more about Mean Girls in San Francisco.
    Feb 27(4 events)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    –
    Feb 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 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.

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    9:45 am: The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together (online) - Registration Closed

    –
    Feb 27

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

    Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.

    The virtual course is divided into six lessons over three weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory lesson with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour lessons which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists.

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

    The classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Standard Time):

    Week 1: Monday, February 6 and Wednesday, February 8 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 2: Monday, February 13 and Wednesday, February 15 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    Week 3: Wednesday, February 22 and Monday, February 27 (due to the President’s Day Holiday observance Monday, February 20) – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

    If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.

    Currently this course registration is closed, however we are accepting referrals for our waitlist for our next available class (dates TBA). To register please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 or Certified Low Vision Therapist, Gina di Grazia at gdigrazia@lighthouse-sf.org  The class is limited to ten students.

    1:00 pm: Voices (online)

    1:00 pm: Voices (online)

    –
    Feb 27

    Would you like to collaborate with LightHouse Adult Program Coordinators to answer important questions about your past, current, and future interests? What are your favorite LightHouse programs? What would you like more of? How can we continue to improve?

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

    6:00 pm: VISION Peer-led Support Group (online)

    6:00 pm: VISION Peer-led Support Group (online)

    –
    Feb 27

    VISION is a peer-led drop-in support group. Every other Monday, we meet to 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. This is the inaugural meeting.

    RSVP to Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707.
    Feb 28(1 event)

    2:00 pm: Tech Together: February 2023 (online)

    2:00 pm: Tech Together: February 2023 (online)

    –
    Feb 28

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

    February 7: The World of Accessible Reading

    Winter is the perfect season to curl up with a good book. Whether you like nonfiction or novels, join the access technology team, and we'll discuss the applications and tools you can use to read, as well as what's new in the world of accessible reading.

    RSVP online for The World of Accessible Reading or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    February 14: Exploring eReaders

    The National Library Service has developed digital Braille EReaders for use by library patrons, and these are now available in the state of California. Join the Access Technology team, and we'll discuss and explore these devices. Braille-readers and book-lovers won't want to miss this one!

    RSVP online for Exploring eReaders or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.

    February 28: Virtual Meeting Platforms

    Join the Access Technology team as we explore and discuss the accessibility and usability of popular meeting platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet.

    RSVP online for Virtual Meeting Platforms or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7618.
    Mar 1(2 events)

    9:30 am: Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    9:30 am: Stress Reeducation & Meditation (Virtual)

    –
    Mar 1

    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.

    1:00 pm: Gratitude VIBES: March 2023 (online)

    1:00 pm: Gratitude VIBES: March 2023 (online)

    –
    Mar 1

    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.
    Mar 2(4 events)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    9:30 am: LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)

    –
    Mar 2

    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.

    9:30 am: Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    9:30 am: Little Learners Playgroup (online)

    –
    Mar 2

    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!

    11:00 am: Create In Community Art Class: March 2023 (in-person)

    11:00 am: Create In Community Art Class: March 2023 (in-person)

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    Mar 2

    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.

    2:00 pm: Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)

    2:00 pm: Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)

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    Mar 2

    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.
    Mar 3(4 events)

    (All day): YES Weekend Workshop (in-person)

    (All day): 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.

    4:00 pm: Egg-stravaganza! Easter egg decorating for the Littles (in-person)

    4:00 pm: Egg-stravaganza! Easter egg decorating for the Littles (in-person)

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    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.

    5:00 pm: EHC Virtual Campfire (online)

    5:00 pm: 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.

    8:00 pm: Reel Escape Audio Description Club; Wednesday Netflix Series (online)

    8:00 pm: 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.
    Mar 4(1 event)

    (All day): YES Weekend Workshop (in-person)

    (All day): 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.

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