Program Guide Spring 2008
Here is where you will find a list of LightHouse services and a calendar of classes.
Every individual who loses their vision is unique in the services they need. But every individual has one thing in common: the right to access services which enable them to live as independently as possible. At the LightHouse, we offer a full complement of training, educational and recreational programs, which help make independent living a reality for our clients.
If you are in need of or have questions about services, please contact:
- Client Services in San Francisco, East Bay, and greater Bay Area at 415-431-1481, or TTY: 415-431-4572.
- Client Services in Marin at 415-258-8496.
- Client Services in the North Coast at 707-268-5646.
Table of Contents
LightHouse Areas of Service
Rehabilitation Training Program
Adult Education and Recreation Program
LightHouse Youth Program
LightHouse Continuum of Services
LightHouse Calendar of Classes
Please note: Information subject to change.
Programs and Services are offered from these locations:
LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired and Adaptations, the LightHouse Store
214 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone 415-431-1481
TTY 415-431-4572
Adaptations Order Line: 888-400-8933
LightHouse of Marin and Adaptations, the LightHouse Store of Marin
1137 4th Street (between A & B Streets), San Rafael, CA 94901
Phone 415-258-8496
TTY 415-258-8499
LightHouse of the North Coast
2830 G Street, B-I Eureka, CA 95501
Phone 707-268-5646
Enchanted Hills Camp
3410 Mt. Veeder Road, Napa, CA 94558
Phone 707-224-4023
The LightHouse provides programs in five broad Service Areas:
1. Training and skills development enables individuals to adapt to living with vision loss in their daily environment and live independently at home, at work or in the community.
- Daily Living Skills Instruction: Living with Vision Loss Class, Cooking Skills Class, Braille Instruction
- Individual Orientation and Mobility Training (White Cane skills, access to public transportation, and orientation outside the home)
- Self Advocacy Training (how to ask for what you need)
2. Information and Resources connects individuals to local and state resources, enabling them to meet their needs:
- The LightHouse Vision Loss Resource Center (call-in Information and Referral at 1-888-400-8933)
- Resource Counseling (what is available to you in the community)
- Assistive Aids from Adaptations, the LightHouse Store (stores in San Francisco and San Rafael, mail and online ordering)
- Audio-Cassette and Descriptive Video Library
- The Lantern - a monthly consumer newsletter
- Volunteer Matching Services (offers personal support in activities which can benefit from sighted assistance, such as group shopping and reading email)
3. Employment and Technology trains individuals in such areas as computer skills and use of high and low technology, which enable equal access to job opportunities for blind or visually impaired individuals:
- Access Technology training
- Utilization of the Technology Lab, and computer and CCTV Kiosks
- Youth Employment Services and Internships
- Deaf-Blind Employment Services (call TTY 415-431-4572)
- LightHouse Industries and Digital Data Scan (Industrial Employment Programs where employment opportunities are often available. For more information, call 415-431-1481)
4. Access to Information connects individuals to the visual world of print.
- The LightHouse Website, www.lighthouse-sf.org
- News Reading Services (hear local news items over the air)
- Braille Transcription and Recording Services
5. Education, Recreation and Life-Long Learning is designed to increase educational and recreational opportunities for individuals with vision loss of all ages and backgrounds. Individuals can experience opportunities through:
- The Adult Education and Recreation Program (social activities, such as gardening, meditation and arts classes, for blind and visually impaired working-age adults and seniors, as well as an Evening and Weekend Events group for adults over 18).
- Youth Services (provides career development, education and recreation for youth ages 6 to 21)
- Enchanted Hills Summer Camp Program (a 311-acre camp in Napa, especially adapted to provide blind, visually impaired, Deaf-Blind and multi-disabled children, adults and seniors with a traditional summer camp experience)
LightHouse Rehabilitation Training Program
The LightHouse Rehabilitation Training Program helps individuals who are new to vision loss learn crucial tools, techniques and skills to perform daily life tasks more independently. Through the Living with Vision Loss (LVL) Class Series, Workshops or Individual Training, individuals can learn safe mobility in the home and the community, organizational skills, technology training and much more.
To Register for Instruction and Training:
- In San Francisco, East Bay and greater Bay Area, contact Jeff Carlson, MSW, 415-694-7314 or Linda Porelle, Social Worker, 415-694-7315.
- For services in Spanish in San Francisco, East Bay and Greater Bay Area, contact Patty Quinonez-Hudson, Vision Loss Specialist, at 415-694-7362.
- For the San Rafael and Marin area, contact Felicia Kramarz, Social Worker, at 415-258-8496.
- In the North Coast, please contact Janet Pomerantz, Social Worker at 707-268-5646.
LightHouse Rehabilitation Training Classes - Spring 2008
In San Francisco
Classes take place at the LightHouse, 214 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco.
Living with Vision Loss Class - Facilitated in English
Living with Vision Loss (LVL) is a 12 week class for visually impaired adults who are seeking basic, yet essential daily living skills to live confidently at home and in the community. Each week, topics such as magnification, home safety, organization skills and accessing print materials provide students solutions and strategies for living with vision loss.
Session 1
Date & time: Monday, January 14 to March 31, 2008; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Course fee: $720 (Class is provided at no cost to persons 55 years and over living in San Francisco, San Mateo or Marin counties)
Instructors: David Baioni, Divina Fontanilla
Session 2
Date & time: Wednesday, March 12 to May 28, 2008; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Course fee: $720 (Class is provided at no cost to persons 55 years and over living in San Francisco, San Mateo or Marin counties)
Instructors: David Baioni, Divina Fontanilla
Beginning Cooking Class - facilitated in English
This 5-week class is designed to give participants practice in preparing simple and nutritious food, focusing on safety in the kitchen and utilizing adaptive cooking equipment and techniques.
Session 1
Date & Time: Thursdays, January 31 to February 28, 2008; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fee: $300 (Class is provided at no cost to persons 55 years and over, living in San Francisco, San Mateo or Marin counties)
Instructor: David Baioni
Session 2
Date & Time: Thursdays, April 17 to May 15, 2008; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Fee: $300 (Class is provided at no cost to persons 55 years and over, living in San Francisco, San Mateo or Marin counties)
Instructor: David Baioni
In San Rafael
Classes take place at the LightHouse of Marin, 1137 4th Street between A & B Streets), in San Rafael.
Living with Vision Loss Class - Facilitated in English
Living with Vision Loss (LVL) is a 10 week class for visually impaired adults who are seeking basic, yet essential daily living skills to live confidently at home and in the community. Each week, topics such as magnification, home safety, organization skills and accessing print materials provide students solutions and strategies for living with vision loss.
Date & time: Wednesday, January 16 to March 19, 2008; 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Course fee: $500 (Class is provided at no cost to persons 55 years and over living in San Francisco, San Mateo or Marin counties)
Instructors: Dawn Leeflang and Joyce Lopez
Practical Tips for Men Adjusting to Vision Loss
This eight week series is for men who are experiencing vision loss. Topics include magnification, strategies for completing daily and household tasks, transportation, and learning about available training and resources. This group is limited to 10 participants. Call Jeff Carlson at 415-694-7314 to register.
Date & time: First Wednesday of each month; 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Course fee: Group is provided at no cost to persons 55 years and over living in San Francisco, San Mateo or Marin counties
Instructor: Jeff Carlson
Adjustment to Vision Loss Support Group:
Topics include learning advocacy and self-advocacy, peer support, learning about community resources and training.
Date:1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month, for 10 sessions beginning December 6th, 2007.
Time: 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Fee: Class is provided at no cost to persons 55 years and over living in San Francisco, San Mateo or Marin counties.
Location: Alma Via Assisted Living Facility; 515 Northgate Drive, San Rafael, CA. Call Felicia Kramarz at 415-258-8496 for more information.
Note: Schedule for East Bay classes to be announced.
In the North Coast
The LightHouse of the North Coast teaches Living with Vision Loss Workshops by request. Workshops are scheduled as needed by community groups or individuals. Topics vary per request and can be tailored to a group's particular vision loss needs. To schedule a workshop in your area, please call 707-268-5646.
For more information about services in Humboldt and Del Norte Counties, please refer to the most current vision loss resource guide, the Healthy
Download our Vision 2010 Resource Guide (PDF)
LightHouse Adult Education & Recreation Program
The LightHouse Adult Education & Recreation Program is designed to increase educational and recreational opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, with vision loss. The development of these skills is a fundamental building block to independence and self-determination.
Semester Fee
The Adult Education & Recreation Coordinator will collect a semester fee of $15 at the beginning of the semester.
Transportation
MedSam Transportation provides one-way or round trip group van service to LightHouse consumers who are not able to use public transportation. To use this service, participants must meet Paratransit qualifications and complete the Group Van Application form.
Transportation Fee: $1.65 per one-way trip, San Francisco residents only.
Nutrition Program
The LightHouse is a Senior Nutrition Site under the auspices of the San Francisco Department of Aging and Adult Services. Hot meals provided by Project Open Hand are available two days per week.
Evening and Weekend Events Group
The LightHouse has formed a new group for visually impaired adults 18 and older to meet on a regular basis. Meet new people and have fun in the process! The group will plan fun social and recreational activities, as well as serve as an additional source of support for working age adults who are blind or visually impaired. For more information contact Philip Kum at 415-694-7372 or email pkum@lighthouse-sf.org.
Adult Education and Recreation Classes - Spring 2008
Arts and Crafts
Beadwork, painting, sculpture, weaving and drawing for beginning to intermediate levels. The class works on projects for the annual "Holiday Bazaar" which is held in November. Proceeds of the bazaar benefit the Adult Education & Recreation Program.
Day and Time: Monday, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Instructor: Judy Cohen
Location: LightHouse - Elva Iacono Vergari Arts and Crafts Center
Fee: Cost of materials
Ceramics
Hand building techniques, coils, and slab construction are a few of the skills taught in this class designed for fun and learning. Bisque and glaze firings are included in this class.
Day and Time: Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Instructor: Mark Varvoutis
Location: LightHouse - Elva Iacono Vergari Arts and Crafts Center
Fee:Personal materials
Communication
The Communication Class for beginners encourages students to participate in a varied methodology: public speaking, written works, group discussion, games, individual and group problem solving. Occasional guest speakers.
Day and Time: Monday, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Instructor: Nicky Noyes
Day and Time: Wednesday, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Instructor:Robert Fitch
Location:LightHouse - Bothin Room
Fee: Cost of materials
Community Chorus
This class is open to all levels of performers. The choral group often performs for other nonprofit agencies. Musical selections range from secular, spiritual and popular and include tunes from all periods.
Day and Time: Monday, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Instructor: David Baioni
Location:LightHouse - Bothin Room
Exercise Class
Breathing and cardiovascular exercises for those who like to sweat.
Day and Time: Monday, 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Instructor: Michael Gordon
Location: LightHouse - Bothin Room
Gardening
Learn about organic gardening techniques through lectures and hands-on experience. Previous experience with gardening or agriculture is not necessary. This class, held in Golden Gate Park, is offered in cooperation with the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department. Van transportation will be provided. Participants will be picked up and dropped off at the LightHouse.
Day and Time: Thursday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Instructor: Ben Oude Kamphuis, call 415-242-1515
Location: Golden Gate Park
In the Community
In collaboration with the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, this program incorporates different outings and experiences outside the LightHouse facility. As a group, we explore various San Francisco and Bay Area sights. Trips include museum visits, shopping, movies and more. Transportation available upon request.
Day and Time: Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Instructor: Molly Irish
Location: San Francisco and Bay Area locations (TBA)
Fee: Varies
Meditation Class
Relaxation techniques, stress reduction and focused breathing are studied and practiced. Students of all levels are encouraged to join.
Day and Time: Wednesday, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Instructor: Gilda Chico
Location: LightHouse - Counseling Room A
Yoga
Basic breathing exercises, stretching motions and relaxation techniques are combined to give students a systematic means of reducing stress and tension.
Day and Time: Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Instructor: Nancy Yates
Location: LightHouse - Bothin Room
Adult Education and Recreation Special Events - Spring 2008
For monthly Activity Schedule Information please call 415-431-1481, extension #325.
January 2008
7th Start of Spring semester
9th Town Hall; 2 to 3 p.m.
11th Bingo and Dinner (TBA); 5 to 8 p.m., $5 per person
21st Closed (Holiday)
26th Francis Neer Forum; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., FREE, no food provided
February 2008
6th Town Hall; 2 to 3 p.m.
8th Bingo and Dinner (TBA); 5 to 8 p.m. $5 per person
18th Closed (Holiday)
23rd Francis Neer Forum; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., FREE, no food provided
29th Dinner and Dance; 5 to 8 p.m., $5 per person
March 2008
5th Town Hall 2 to 3 p.m.
7th Bingo & Dinner (TBA); 5 to 8 p.m., $5 per person
14th Indian Casino (one day trip)
22nd Francis Neer Forum; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., FREE, no food provided
April 2008
2nd Town Hall 2 to 3 p.m.
11th Bingo & Dinner (TBA); 5 to 8 p.m., $5 per person
26th Francis Neer Forum; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., FREE, no food provided
May 2008
7th Town Hall 2 to 3 p.m.
9th Bingo & Dinner (TBA); 5 to 8 p.m., $5 per person
LightHouse Youth Program
The mission of the LightHouse Youth Program is to support visually impaired youth between the ages of 6 and 21 through the provision of recreational activities, education support, career development and summer programs.
For registration information, please contact the Youth Services Coordinator at 415-694-7357.
Recreational Programs include:
- Indoor rock climbing
- After school classes in arts and crafts and cooking, using adaptive techniques for people who are blind or visually impaired,
- Saturday outings to recreational programs such as ski trips.
Please check the LightHouse website at www.lighthouse-sf.org for current class listings.
Educational Support includes:
- After school tutoring in Braille and other subjects, such as math or English.
- College Preparation support for admissions and financial aid applications.
- Classes in Adaptive Technology and basic Daily Living Skills.
Career Development includes:
- Career Workshops, focusing on Vocational Training. These inter-agency collaborative group workshops provide career assessment, job search skills, and train youth in work-appropriate adaptive technologies.
- Paid and Volunteer Internships provide unique learning experiences for youth in a supportive and nurturing professional environment.
- Career Counseling and Case Management provide structural career and post secondary educational planning, including job search assistance and education and career mapping on a one-on-one basis.
Summer Programs include:
Enchanted Hills Camp
For more than 50 years, Enchanted Hills Camp has enabled blind and visually impaired individuals to achieve independence and self confidence in a traditional camp setting. Camp opportunities include:
- Elementary, Junior High and High School Sessions. Peer support for visually impaired youth in age-appropriate sessions.
- Family Camp. An opportunity for the entire family, sighted and visually impaired, to experience camp.
- Deaf-Blind Session. Communication skills training, career development and social support in a session exclusively for Deaf-Blind individuals.
Youth Day Camp
The LightHouse Youth Program, in collaboration with Project Insight, provides fun and educational summer activities. This program is a month long alternative program to traditional camp, offering swimming, hiking, arts and crafts classes, nature and conservation activities, and day trips.
LightHouse Continuum of Services
If you are interested in receiving any of the direct training and services of the LightHouse you must contact the LightHouse office near you to begin your registration process. To assist you in understanding what services you may be interested in or eligible for, please read below the continuum of services the LightHouse has to offer. Please note, not all locations are able to offer identical services, however LightHouse staff will direct you to services that most meet your interests and needs.
What services can you expect from the LightHouse?
I. If you are significantly visually impaired or blind and are experiencing problems in some or all of the following issues related to living independently:
- Being able to read print such as the mail
- Writing with pen and paper, or with a computer
- Getting around your home, or around town by yourself safely
- Doing household chores and daily tasks that you have used your vision to assist you with in the past
- Getting meals ready and grocery shopping
- You can receive hands-on training to teach you to be as independent as you want at home and at work.
2. If you have low vision and you have some useable vision (for example, you can read headlines on newspapers, bill boards, or view people close-up, but they are blurred), contact the LightHouse about receiving a "Low Vision Evaluation." This evaluation is in addition to your regular eye exam, usually preformed by an Optometrist who specializes in Low Vision. A Low Vision Exam will provide you with information and training regarding the best magnification, lighting, contrast and strategies for you to maximize your usable vision.
3. If you want to work OR you feel that you are unable to maintain the duties of your current job due to your vision loss, you may be eligible for training, job placement, technology instruction and other ancillary services through the California State Department of Rehabilitation. The LightHouse can direct you to the nearest office.
4. If you are a person under the age of 21 and you have a vision loss, you are eligible to participate in the LightHouse's summer camping program at Enchanted Hills Camp and our youth recreation, education and vocational programs. The LightHouse can also connect you with other community educational, recreational and family programs.
5. If you want to receive supportive counseling or peer support regarding your vision loss and how it affects your life, you can get involved in peer support service or individual support services sponsored by the LightHouse or you can be referred to resources in your community.
6. If you want to get involved with community and statewide issues that affect persons with vision loss and persons with disabilities, we can connect you with an advocacy organization.
7. If you are an individual who has both vision and hearing loss, the LightHouse can provide communication skills training, independent living skills and referrals to additional community resources.
8. If you need print information made accessible to you, the LightHouse can provide the access services to have your print information made available in Braille or on cassette tape.
9. If you need a tool or adaptive aid to assist you in completing your day to day activities, Adaptations, the LightHouse Store offers such aids online or in person in two locations, San Francisco and San Rafael.
10. If you simply have a question regarding phone numbers or names of services that may be available, you can contact the LightHouse Vision Loss Resource Center at 1-888-400-8933.
LightHouse Calendar of Classes Spring 2008
For all program inquiries and updated special events, call 415-431-1481.
Orientation to Services in San Francisco:
First Friday of each month from 9:30 to 11 a.m.
In Marin:
Last Tuesday of each month from 9:30 to 11 a.m.
In the North Coast:
Please call the North Coast office to schedule an appointment.
Adult Education and Recreational Program
January 17, 2008 to May 23, 2008
Mondays
11 a.m. to 12 p.m. . Community Chorus
11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Exercise Class
12 to 1 p.m. Senior Nutrition Program (lunch)
1 to 3 p.m. Bible Study
1 to 3 p.m. Communication
10:30 to 12 p.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. Arts and Crafts
Tuesdays
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Gardening Class
Wednesdays
11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Yoga
12 to 1 p.m. Senior Nutrition Program (lunch)
1 to 2 p.m. Meditation
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. Ceramics/Arts and Crafts
1 to 3 p.m. Communication
Thursdays
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Gardening Class
Rehabilitation Training Classes - Spring 2008
January 14 to May 28, 2008
For registration and fee inquiries for all classes and workshops, contact Client Services at 415-431-1481.
San Francisco Classes
Held at the LightHouse, 214 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco
Class: Living With Vision Loss (English)
Session 1
Dates: January 14 to March 31, 2008, Mondays
T ime: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Session 2
Dates: March 12 to May 28, 2008, Wednesdays
Time: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Class: Cooking Class
Session 1
Dates: January 31 to February 28, 2008, Thursdays
Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Session 2
Dates: April 17 to May 15, 2008, Thursdays
Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Youth Program Spring Schedule: Feb. 1st, 2008 to May 30, 2008
For information contact the Youth Program Coordinator at 415-694-7357.
Tuesdays - Thursdays
3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
.After School Tutorial (appointment required)
Dates: February 1st to May 30th, 2008
Fridays (1st Friday of the month)
4 to 9 p.m.
Indoor Rock Climbing
Dates: February 1st to May 30th, 2008
Saturdays
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Saturday Outings (Activities TBA)
Dates: February 16th to May 24th, 2008
Youth Internships
Mondays through Saturdays (Schedule TBA)
Dates: February 1st to May 30th, 2008
Special Programming:
Cross Country Ski Trip January 19, 2008 (Day Trip)
Downhill Ski Trip January 25th - 26th, 2008 (Overnight Trip)
Braille Challenge - Regional Level
Saturday, February 9, 2008, 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Youth Summit 2008 - Techno-Static “Let's Get Technical”
April 11-13, 2008, (all day and overnight)
Enchanted Hills Camp Schedule 2008
Applications for EHC 2008 are now available!
Please call 415-694-7334 for information.
Provider's Weekend: May 16 - May 18
Deaf/Blind Session: June 14 - June 17
Staff Training: June 13 - June 18
Alumni and Adult Session: June 19 - June 25
Family Camp: June 26 - June 29
Special Needs: June 30 - July 5
Elementary Session: July 6 - July 12
Veteran Session: July 16 - July 19
Jr. High Session: July 20 - July 27
High School: July 31 - Aug. 9
Family Camp II: Aug. 13 - Aug. 16
LightHouse Vision Loss Resource Center (VLRC)
The LightHouse connects you with answers.
Call us toll free at 1-888-400-8933.
Upcoming VLRC Seminars at the LightHouse in San Francisco:
January 28, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.; Adaptive Diabetic Devices
Paul Raskin from the Vista Center will be speaking about accessible diabetic devices for the blind and visually impaired.
March 7, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.; Technology Seminar on Reading Machines
Come see the latest in Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTVs), hand held video magnifiers, and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) text to speech. Several companies will be showing their products.
Low Vision Clinic at the LightHouse
Learn Practical Solutions to Make Reading Easier!
The UC Berkeley Low Vision Clinic provides Low Vision exams every Friday at the LightHouse in San Francisco.
Low-vision specialists determine how much functional vision you have and recommend strategies and techniques for using your remaining eyesight.
Call Carleigh Kude at 415-694-7318 to set up an appointment or learn more.
LightHouse Volunteer Program
Open a door. Open a letter. Open your mind.
Enrich your life as a Personal Services Volunteer for the LightHouse.
- Vision Loss Awareness training provided
- Simple acts can foster independence
- One-on-one learning experience
- Opportunities throughout the Bay Area
Other Bay Area volunteer opportunities are available including:
AIS Reading Radio Program, Adult and Youth Ed/Rec Dept, Deaf-Blind Program (sign language and tactile signing), EHC Summer Camp in Napa, General Office Support, Weekend Ed/Rec Program.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please call 415-694-7371.in the San Francisco Bay Area or call 707-268-5646 in the North Coast.
Access To Information Services (AIS)
Providing people who are blind or visually impaired access to the printed word
AIS Radio: Broadcasting 24 hours a day, AIS Radio delivers local Bay Area news, magazines, literature, and information via the Second Audio Program (SAP) of KTVU Television Channel 2, and can be heard on the internet at http://lighthouse-sf.org/services/ais/lighthouse2.m3u.
Visit our audio archive at: http://www.lighthouse-sf.net/audio_archive/.
TV Listings and Shopping Ads:
Listen to TV listings and Shopping ads by phone! To listen to shopping ads, dial 415-294-3623. To hear TV listings, dial 415-294-3624.
Production of Braille, Audio, and other Alternative Formats: Braille Translation and Audio Recordingservices are provided to LightHouse clients, businesses, non-profit and government agencies. Volunteers also record print material not available from the Library of Congress or Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic. Typical requests include appliance owner's manuals, classroom handouts, magazine articles etc. For more information, contact AIS at 415- 431-1481 or AIS@lighthouse-sf.org.
