San Diego Sept 07 – Dec 17 Fall 2021

FREE Remote Learning Services.

Attend free online workshops, classes and one-on-one sessions from the comfort of your home.

Algunos de nuestros programas y servicios se ofrecen en español favor de llamar para más información.

Programs, Workshops and Class Catalog Before taking a class, learn how to live well with Low Vision.

Low Vision Consultation Helping You During COVID-19 If your vision is affecting your ability While we continue to adapt due to to perform daily tasks, Braille COVID-19, our virtual Low Vision Institute’s Low Vision Rehabilitation one-on-one session is an service can help you. opportunity to connect with you remotely and discover what Braille Losing vision doesn’t mean giving Institute programming would best up on your life activities, it means meet your needs. learning new ways to do them. Our free virtual Low Vision consultation Geared towards those who are new includes personalized one-on-one to our services, or haven't used our appointments with our Low Vision services in some time, once Specialists. They will work with you completed you will have access to over the phone or by video to our online classes and workshops. maximize your remaining vision by: At a later date, a follow up • Assessing your particular needs. appointment will be made for a magnifier and reading & writing and • Exploring devices that can help lighting assessment. you accomplish everyday tasks like reading, watching TV, and more.

Maximize your To learn more or to schedule a free one-on-one appointment with one remaining vision. of our Low Vision Specialists, call 1-800-BRAILLE (272-4553). Receive one-on-one services with a live consultant by phone or video chat.

Connection Pointe Orientation and Mobility Join us at Connection Pointe for Go on an adventure! Seriously. Our one-on-one training on the latest in Orientation and Mobility Specialists assistive technology. will teach you how to get around with a white cane, guide dog, and Learn how to use VoiceOver, text more. readers, Seeing AI, and other useful apps. We have computers, iPhones, You will have the confidence to Android devices, and iPads for you navigate your home, neighborhood to practice with, or bring your own and the world. device to learn on. For family members and friends, we’ll teach you the proper techniques of how to be a sighted guide so you can assist your loved one wherever they may go. “Taking classes from my home is more convenient and I can socialize and meet new people.” – Lilia M.

Library Services Personal Connections Our library offers access to over By focusing on your specific goals, 100,000 books and magazines in an Independent Living Skills every genre and for every age in instructor can work with you hardcopy, audio or digital. remotely, using video conferencing We will teach you how to use our or the telephone, to address online audiobook service BARD challenges you may be having in (Braille and Audio Reading Download), these areas: kitchen confidence and so you can download books and safety, household item marking and magazines to your computer or labeling, and other daily living skills mobile device, anywhere, anytime. directly impacted by vision loss. Attend Braille Institute classes and workshops from the comfort of your home.

While Braille Institute Centers Benefits remain temporarily closed due to • Convenient and within the COVID-19, we are bringing free comfort of your home. classes and services to you within the comfort and safety of your • Free and easy access using your home. computer, tablet or phone. • Variety of courses and offerings Utilizing the Teams to choose from. platform for our distance learning classes, you can participate using • Live instructor/consultant you your computer, tablet or phone. can speak with. “I really enjoy the online experience; it has been probably just as good as face-to-face.” – Ron P.

How Does It Work? Virtual One-on-One Sessions and Tele Services Braille Institute instructors will provide you with an online link or These sessions are conducted by a phone number that will be used to Braille Institute consultant for connect to a live session. You will services such as Low Vision, be able to speak with the instructor Orientation and Mobility, and other participants. Technology training, and Child Development. Online Workshops and Classes Join a 1-1.5 hour session taught by instructors on a range of subjects such as Make Technology Work For You, Cooking Without Looking, Fall Prevention, Understanding Vision Loss and more.

San Diego Free Remote Classes. Monday Through Friday Online class availability, times and days may be changed throughout the term. Braille Institute classes are free thanks to our generous donors, unless specified. Register for classes at 858-404-5021.

Life Skills personal experiences relating to vision loss, along with the coping Learn simple adaptive techniques to strategies, that are helpful to regain support activities of daily living so a person’s confidence and that you can feel more confident and independence. The group reviews able to address your most topics such as denial, anger, fundamental needs. acceptance, and living a positive Independent Living Skills and productive life with vision loss. This is a safe and confidential group Every Tuesday 10.00am - 11.00am where feelings are shared with each En Español other. Every Friday 1.00 – 2.00pm Instructors: Vicki and Gigi Healing Mind and Body Teams Every Tuesday 1.00 - 2.00pm Low vision and blind students will Instructors: Sheila and Fred explore a variety of daily living skills Teams to maintain an independent lifestyle Visually impaired adults practice including money identification and techniques to keep mind and body organization, marking and labeling, healthy and alert during these organizing, banking, shopping and challenging times. more. English as a Second Language Living With Vision Loss Every Thursday 11.00am - 12.00pm Every Tuesday 10.00 - 11.00am Instructor: Michele Instructor: Kat Teams Teams Improve your ESL communication This class will allow you to share your skills for personal and professional Connection Pointe instructor are success. available Monday through Friday. Call 858-329-3530. Conversational French Every Thursday 2.30 - 3.30pm Teching In Instructor: Linda Every Monday 1.00 – 2.00pm Teams Instructor: Bradley This is a highly interactive, fun way to En Español learn to speak French. It is helpful to Every Monday 10.00 – 11.00am have a recording device and to have Instructor: Daniel had some background in the French Teams language. This is a weekly virtual computer lab Orientation and Mobility Essentials with guided topics and discussions regulated, driven and supported by Every Friday 11.00am – 12.00pm your Connection Pointe team. Instructor: Keema Participants have the opportunity for Teams training, to share information, and Please join us for weekly topics support one another. The focus will presented on the of O&M for be on technology and accessibility. safe and efficient travel skills. Visually impaired students share and learn Low Vision Accessibility for My together. Technology Every Wednesday Technology 11.00am - 12.00pm Instructor: Bradley Whatever your degree of vision loss Teams there is technology to help you live with greater ease. Discover how to Smartphones (such as Samsung use the latest and most user-friendly Galaxy phones), tablets (such as devices and apps through one-on-one iPads), and computers have become training at Connection Pointe. a familiar part of our daily lives. Many of you may have used these Virtual One-On-One for the past decade or more. Monday-Friday by appointment However, how will you continue 9.00am - 3.00pm using this technology as you begin Teams experiencing vision loss? This Virtual one-on-one accessible introductory course will cover all the technology sessions with a low-vision accessibility features already available on your devices to Clichés and Proverbs help you continue an independent life. Every Wednesday 1.00 – 2.00pm Critical Thinking Instructor: Mary Teams In our discussion classes, we invite you to have meaningful engagement Listen and respond to fun popular with a wide variety of subject matter clichés in conversation, movies, —some of it current and timely and books and more. some of it looking at cultural history Getting Help in context. Connecting and interacting with others in a classroom is a There is evidence that it is healing powerful way to combat social to mind, body, and spirit when we isolation and loneliness. Come share and connect with others who connect with new ideas and new are also experiencing and adjusting friends. to vision loss. Our support groups and classes teach coping strategies Trivia and techniques to relax and better Every Wednesday manage stress. 11.00am – 12.00pm or 2.00 – 3.00pm Young Adult Group Instructor: Mary Teams Sept 10, Oct 8, Nov 12 and Dec 10 2.00 – 3.00pm Join this fun and interactive class as Instructor: Bradley we listen to different musical genres Teams and discuss them. Listen to golden oldies as well as popular music of This class will meet monthly and is today. for visually impaired young adults. These sessions create a space for socialization and connection while history of America. Enjoy lively preparing for next steps toward an conversations with fellow history independent life. Curriculum will be buffs. shaped by participating students. Join Welcome to Your Library and together we will create the program that helps you. Every Friday 1.00 – 2.00pm Instructor: Julius Reading and Writing Teams Not being able to read or write In this 7-week class, experience the standard print does not need to be a Braille Institute Library program. barrier to accessing literature or Students will become a library nonfiction. We have classes that subscriber, learn how to check on encourage exploring audio books and book availability, conduct book learning the braille code, which searches, learn about Braille and enables one to continue enjoying Audio Reading Download (BARD) books, magazines, and newspapers. and BARD mobile. Curriculum repeats after 7 weeks. Braille Reading and Writing Book Club Monday – Thursday 10.00am – 12.00pm Sept 17, Oct 15, Nov 19, Dec 17 Teams 1.00 – 2.30pm Instructor: Wanda Beginning level students will learn to Teams read and write Grade 1 Braille, alphabet, numbers, and punctuation This monthly class is for visually signs. Intermediate level students will impaired students interested in learn to read and write Grade 2 virtual travel to amazing places and Braille. In addition, students will learn through time. Meet other reading to use the braillers, slate and stylus, enthusiasts who share a passion for and Braille dictionaries. novels and incredible fiction and non-fiction stories. Enjoy lively US History Book Club discussions. Talking books are Every Monday 1.00 – 2.00pm provided by the Braille Institute Instructor: Hiram Library or through BARD. Teams Join visually impaired students as we read and discuss a wide range of works focused on the ever-fascinating Staying Active Wonderful Chair Yoga Exercising can be a challenge if one Every Wednesday 10.00 – 11.00am has a visual impairment, but there are Instructor: Tracy easy adaptations that make fitness Teams both possible and fun. With the You don’t need to be physically fit or support of our fitness program active to take up yoga. This class participants can also build enough includes gentle stretching, breathing confidence to participate in and laughter. mainstream exercise and movement opportunities on their own. Tip Tap Tunes Blind Rhythm Every Thursday 10.00 – 11.00am Instructor: DJ Groove Every Tuesday 10.00 – 11.00am Teams Instructor: Shon Teams In this class, students request the title track of their favorite records. Have Visually impaired students dance and fun reminiscing, singing, and tapping get fit with R&B and Hip Hop group your feet to your favorite music. dance sessions led by a visually Engage in fun music trivia questions impaired instructor. and accumulate points. Winners Yoga for Visually Impaired receive small prizes at end of term. Every Tuesday 11.00 – 12.00pm Fitness Fun Instructor: Megan Sept 23, Oct 21, Nov 18, Dec 16 Teams 11.00am – 12.00am Join OG Yoga for a mindfulness Instructor: Fabiola based, gentle step-by-step Teams compassionate yoga practice. Braille We will focus on stretch and Institute has partnered with OG Yoga strengthening of all major muscle for several years to provide the groups to increase flexibility, healing power of yoga, and facilitating coordination and balance. All online breath work, supported poses, and exercises can be done from a seated meditation to help control internal position. stress, build strength, and develop equanimity in the face of extreme stressors such as the current global pandemic.

From San Diego Free Remote Workshops. Information about these, or other valuable free workshops hosted on Microsoft Teams, may be found by visiting our website BrailleInstitute.org/sandiego.

Call 858-452-1111 to register today.

Life Skills and effectively support safe travel with the white cane. Together we will Grooming For Success: Two Part review techniques and skills like Series upper-body and lower-body Sept 27, Oct 11 11.00am – 12.00pm protective techniques, hand trailing, Although it doesn’t say everything, direction taking, clearing a seat and appearance is the first shot at locating dropped objects. We will making a good impression and also consider tips and strategies for overcoming common stereotypes usage. And we can share thoughts, about blind and visually impaired ideas and experiences to learn from people. That’s why grooming plays each other. an important role. In Grooming for Fall Prevention for the Holidays Success, we will assess the level of knowledge you have about personal Nov 12 1.00 – 2.30pm appearance and ask each what you Let’s get together to discuss ways to wish to work on in regard to stay safe from falls this holiday personal grooming. In addition, we’ll season. We can stand strong for discuss clothing, hair styles, nail ourselves and for our friends and care, posture, body language, make- families. We will review the top tips up, hygiene, voice tone, and above for fall prevention so we can all all, confidence. safely enjoy this festive time of year. Guest Speaker: Nicole Bissett, Let’s share ideas and experiences to Bissett Productions build our knowledge of how to prevent falls this holiday season and Protective Techniques and beyond. Pre-cane Skills Oct 20 1.00 – 2.30pm Protective techniques can selectively Getting Help How to Stay Safe Online: Two Part Series Low Vision 101 Oct 13 & 27 1.00 – 2.00pm Sept 15, Oct 13, Nov 10, Dec 15 11.00am – 12.00pm Whether you’re shopping online, checking email, or browsing social Learn who, what, and the importance media, you should be aware of bad of Braille Institute’s Low Vision guys waiting to steal sensitive Program. Hear first-hand how our information. We will discuss free low vision consultation can help common threats and how to stay individuals with low vision and get safe online. an overview of our low vision services. Join Melissa Caruso the Reading Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant for our San Diego Center. Beyond BARD: Methods for Obtaining Audio Books: Two Part Technology Series Social Media Overview Nov 17, Dec 15 1.00 – 2.00pm Sept 29 1.00 – 2.00pm Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) is wonderful, but there are Explore what types of social media other ways to get audio books, both are out there that may interest you. free and paid. In this workshop we Learn what’s new and why or why you will explore commercial and local may not want to use social media. All library apps available to match your are welcome for this free, audio book download preference. informative online workshop. Community Resources Tips for Reading PDFs with a Screen Reader Is A Guide Dog Right For You? Oct 6 1.00 – 2.00pm Sept 10 & 30 11.00am – 12.00pm A Portable Document Format (PDF) Guide dog partners are trusted is a popular and safe way to share a friends that offer new opportunities document. For example, the Braille for interaction and greater Institute class catalog and many independence. Learn if a guide dog other publications are provided as a might be right for you. PDF. In this workshop, we will give Guest Speakers: Zack Gittlen, Guide you tips to help read a PDF with Dogs of America and Patti Robitaille, JAWS and NVDA, including what to Guide Dogs for the Blind do when it is not readable with a screen reader. Learn if The Department of Rehabilitation Can Help You Oct 1 1.00 – 2.00pm Join us in learning about obtaining and retaining employment and maximizing your ability to live independently. Guest Speaker: Bonnie Jimenez, CA Department of Rehabilitation Medication Safety/Script Talk Oct 26 11.00am – 12.00pm Talking, large print or braille prescription labels allow visually impaired people to safely and independently manage their prescription medications. In this workshop, learn about Script Talk and how it can help you. Guest Speaker: Sharla Glass, En-Vision America Stay Connected with California Telephone Access Program (CTAP) Nov 19 11.00am – 12.00pm Learn about free specialized phones that make it easier to hear, dial, and make calls. Over half a million Californians are enjoying these phones. At this workshop, learn if you qualify and how to enroll. Guest Speaker: Sandra Lambarri Johnson, CTAP From Southern California Free Remote Workshops. Using technology like Microsoft Teams, we are able to connect you with the best instructors from all over Southern California. Join any of these free online workshops offered by our various centers.

Call 1-800-BRAILLE (272-4553) to register.

Technology presentation. Learn about CP classes and upcoming workshops. We will also Learn Microsoft Teams discuss how and when to join these Sept 8, Oct 6, Nov 10, Dec 8 classes for our Winter session. 10.00 – 11.30am Hosted by: Los Angeles Center Microsoft Teams is a similar platform to Zoom. It offers many Delivery Services: Instacart and features and there are many ways to Online Shopping join meetings. In this workshop we Sept 14, Nov 9 2.00 – 3.00pm will highlight the easiest ways to join Sept 15 1.30 – 3.00pm and participate in Braille Institute meetings and classes using Teams. Learn how to use the Apps Grub Hub, It can be used on Apple and Android Instacart, and more on any device to devices as well as Macs and order food independently. Windows. Hosted by: Anaheim and Riverside Hosted by: Riverside Center Centers Meet and Greet Los Angeles Mac Accessibility Options for Low Connection Pointe Team Vision Users Sept 14 2.00 – 3.00pm Sept 17 2.00 – 3.00pm Join us and get to know our team of Learn how to make your Mac work for experts for an informative you and customize settings including screen magnification, display Join us for this online workshop adjustments and reading text aloud. where we get started with Amazon’s Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center smart assistant, Alexa! You will learn all the things you can accomplish iPhone and iPad Accessibility with Alexa and what devices Alexa Sept 29, Dec 1 1.00 – 2.00pm works with such as how to get information, be entertained and Oct 1 10.00 – 11.30am using voice commands. Demonstration of VoiceOver, screen Hosted by: Anaheim and Riverside magnification, apps, and voice Centers commands using Siri. Hosted by: Anaheim and Laguna Introduction to Hills Centers Oct 19 2.00 – 3.00pm What Can Your Apple Watch Do This workshop will describe the most For You? popular accessibility features of Windows and Microsoft Office. Oct 13 1.30 – 3.00pm Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Besides sending or receiving calls and using apps, you will learn about Delivery Services: Uber Eats the accessibility features like Oct 27 1.30 – 3.00pm Voiceover, Magnification, and Siri on your wrist. You will also discover Learn all about Uber Eats delivery Workout Tracking and how it can services. Find out what restaurants track your workout sessions monitor are available, how to get your heart rate, blood pressure, and prescriptions delivered, and how it detect irregularities in your health works with Voiceover. In addition, we condition. will cover what stores are open in the app and what benefits you get Hosted by: Anaheim Center with the Uber Eats pass. Using Social Media Hosted by: Anaheim Center Oct 15 10.00 – 11.30am Seeing AI App Learn how easy it is to join and Oct 29 10.00 - 11.30am manage your social media channels. Get social! Learn about a free app for iOS that narrates the world around you. Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center Seeing AI uses the device camera to Introducing Amazon Alexa audibly read text, identify people and objects, and audibly describes those Oct 18, Dec 6 2.00 – 3.00pm objects for people with visual Nov 10 1.30 – 3.00pm impairment. Also learn how to configure the app to technology additional equipment. Learn how to assistant Siri to locate and utilize use these apps including Seeing AI, each channel with ease. Voice OCR, and Voice Dream Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center Scanner. Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Shopping for the Holidays: Instacart, Markets and Online Exploring Clubhouse Shopping. Nov 16 2.00 – 3.30pm Nov 5 3.00 – 5.00pm Join us as we explore a brand-new Learn safer, easier ways to obtain social networking app that only your holiday groceries and gifts. We requires audio! This is the first audio will teach you how to order groceries chat app of its kind. We will and gifts using your computer, smart demonstrate how this app makes it phone, or tablet and have them accessible to all who are visionally delivered to your home. Find out impaired and blind. Participants will about holiday apps to help you need a smart phone. organize and get your gifts Hosted by: Los Angeles Center purchased, wrapped and shipped on time. You will also learn about the How Blind People See the many other delivery options from Internet your favorite stores and restaurants Nov 18 3.00 – 4.00pm that are quick, safe and convenient. Our Accessible Technology Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center Instructor will give tips and tricks on Make Technology Work For You how to search the web using screen readers. He will show you how to Nov 12 10.00 – 11.30am scan a page to find what you are Learn simple shortcuts, commands looking for and how to quickly and apps to use with your smart navigate through the world wide devices. We will discuss how web. technology can help you catch up Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center with communication in your daily life. “Alexa, I need help.” Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center Nov 23 1.00 – 2.00pm Optical Character Recognition Learn how Alexa can help with living (OCR) Apps skills in your home to make your life easier and more efficient. Nov 16 2.00 – 3.00pm Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center There are many free or low-cost options that don’t require any

Safe Traveling During the available for home entertainment. In Holidays With Tech this workshop we teach you how to Dec 1 10.00 – 11.00am make popcorn in the microwave. We will discuss the Roku which is an Learn how to adapt to holiday inexpensive device that you can plug schedule changes as they affect your into your TV to access movies and daily travel. We will provide shows with audio description. Netflix information on how to coordinate also allows you to play their your holiday travel safely, including selections with description and we what you need to know about will teach you how to do that as well. COVID-19 travel protocols. Our Then we will play a Netflix movie for Technology Specialist will teach you you to enjoy with your popcorn. how to use technology specifically for holiday travel using VoiceOver Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center and Apps. Introduction to Victor Reader Hosted by: Riverside Center Dec 10 10.00 – 11.30am Introduction to Smart Speakers An informative online workshop on Dec 1 10.00 – 11.30am all the wonderful features the Victor Reader has. The Victor Reader is a Smart speakers can be a lot of fun! handheld, versatile audio book Join us in discovering all the useful reader, music player, and digital features they have such as audio recorder. organizing your schedule, playing games, making calls and more. Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center Google Lookout Is There An App For That? Dec 10 2.00 – 3.00pm Dec 3 10.00 – 11.30am Learn about the free Android app from Google that allows you to read Discover all the useful apps available documents out loud, scan food and to those with low to no vision. We explore what objects are around you will discuss apps that can read with ease. short/long text, currencies and barcodes and more! Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center Technology Gifts for the Visually Impaired Popcorn and a Movie: The Roku and Netflix Accessibility Features Dec 14 2.00 – 3.00pm Dec 3 10.00 – 12.00pm This workshop will give you gift ideas for the visually impaired or There are many accessible features blind techies in your life. Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Holiday Movies with Audio description. The Disney Channel also Description allows you to play their selections Dec 15 1.30 – 3.00pm with description and we will teach you how to do that as well. Then we Holiday movie watching just got will play a Disney movie for you to better. Come and experience the enjoy with your popcorn. latest in audio-described movies. We'll demonstrate streaming Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center services; specifically, Netflix and Getting Help Disney+, and an introduction to the American Council of the Blind Understanding Vision Loss website, which has a fabulous Sept 10, 13 & 24, Oct 8 & 22, Nov 5, resource on everything about audio 15 & 19, Dec 3 &17 description, including cable 10.00am – 12.00pm company services, master movie and DVD lists, and performing arts. For those who are interested in learning about the basics of Hosted by: Anaheim Center blindness and visual impairment. Android Devices with Low Vision Hosted by: Coachella Valley and to No Vision Laguna Hills Centers Dec 17 10.00 – 11.30am Assistive Devices for Low Vision Learn about the accessibility Sept 10 3.00 – 5.00pm features an Android Device has to offer. We will discuss magnification, This workshop details the ins-and- Google voice assistant, talkback and out of low vision devices and how third-party apps that can help you. they can assist you in maintaining your independence. Everything from Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center simple handheld magnifiers to Popcorn and a Movie: The Closed Circuit Television Systems. Firestick and Disney Accessibility Learn how devices can maximize Features remaining vision and increase independence in reading, writing, Dec 17 10.00 – 12.00pm and managing medications and There are many accessible features finances. available for home entertainment. In Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center this workshop we teach you how to make popcorn in the microwave. We Non-24 Circadian Rhythm Sleep will discuss the Amazon Firestick, Wake Disorder which is an inexpensive device that Sept 16 3.00 – 5.00pm you can plug into your TV to access movies and shows with audio Sept 23, Nov 18 10.00am – 12.00pm Non-24 Circadian Rhythm Sleep Best Lighting For Your Sight Wake Disorder is a chronic condition Oct 15 3.00 – 5.00pm affecting mainly individuals who are totally blind but also those with For people with low vision, lighting is limited light perception. If you have a critical factor. Learn household difficulty falling asleep, difficulty lighting tips including glare control getting a full night’s sleep and/or and contrast enhancement for difficulty staying awake during the reading, managing finances, day, please join us! completing personal care, and meal preparation to help maintain safety Hosted by: Coachella Valley and and independence. Riverside Centers Guest Speaker: Shauna Jatho, Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center clinical nurse educator Lunch & Learn: Age-Related Diabetic Retinopathy and Healthy Macular Degeneration Living Tips Nov 3 12.00 – 1.00pm Sept 17 3.00 – 5.00pm Age-related macular degeneration Many people with diabetes have (AMD) remains the leading cause of experienced some form of vision vision loss and blindness in the loss related to this condition. Learn United States. In this presentation the importance of managing blood given by Dr. Heilweil from UCLA Eye sugars. We’ll provide tips on Health, he will discuss what AMD is, maintaining a healthy and active how it affects your vision and the lifestyle to maximize use of the latest progress in developing remaining vision. We will discuss treatments, causes, vitamins and delicious and healthy recipes along symptoms. with the benefits of eating Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center vegetables and fruits. Giving Up the Car Keys Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center Nov 5 1.00 – 2.30pm Meet the Riverside Staff When is the right time to give up the Sept 23, Oct 21, Nov 22 car keys? Are you and others safe? 2.00 – 3.00pm What options are available without a Introducing the Riverside Staff! Join car? How can you be independent us for this online meet and greet and safe without a car? All these where staff will introduce questions will be answered and themselves, discuss our free discussed in this workshop. programs and services, and Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center upcoming online presentations. Hosted by: Riverside Center

Tips for Staying Connected Life Skills During the Holidays Braille 101 Nov 17 1.00 – 2.30pm Sept 20, Nov 15 2.00 – 3.30pm Join us for this fun interactive workshop! You will learn about the In this workshop we will talk about and different ways you can continue how Braille began. Methods of to stay connected with your loved writing Braille, Uncontracted Braille, ones during the holidays. Contracted Braille, Braille literacy and Technology today. Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center Hosted by: Riverside Center Lunch & Learn: Diabetes and its Effect on Vision Loss Blind/Visually Impaired and Social Confidence Dec 1 12.00 – 1.00pm Sept 21 1.00 – 2.00pm This is an informative presentation Learn how to interact with “sight- for individuals interested to learn ees” and relate to your family and about Diabetic Retinopathy. Dr. Fuh friends in a healthy manner. This from UCLA Eye Health will talk about workshop involves tips on how to act the importance of checking your and on what resources are available blook sugar and how high/low blood in various social situations such as sugar levels affect vision. dining out, shopping, and traveling. Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center It also involves fun anecdotes to demonstrate how to handle awkward Advanced: Best Lighting For Your or difficult interactions. Sight Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Dec 3 3.00 – 5.00pm For people with low vision, lighting is Southern California Travelogue a critical factor. If you have attended Sept 27 3.00 – 4.00pm our Basic: Best Lighting for Your Learn and share about different Sight, join us for this advanced communities, how to get there with workshop as we go into more details adaptive tools and what to expect. about specific lighting for various Learn about the highlights of the tasks. The lumens and kelvin bulbs fantastic geographic diversity of will be reviewed to determine what California neighborhoods and works best for you. Learn more in discover new ones. We will also play depth household lighting tips to help fun games to see how well your know maintain safety and independence. Southern California. Hosted by: Coachella Valley Hosted by: Los Angeles Center Boost Your Confidence Through strategy for people with low vision. Personal Care The more contrast, the easier it is to Sept 29 1.00 – 2.00pm find and use objects, complete daily tasks, and remain independent. Learn How you care for yourself is the key simple methods to utilize contrast to how good you feel! In this techniques to maximize vision and workshop you will learn tips and safety in your home and outdoors. tricks to boost your confidence. We will discuss hydration, sleep, eating Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center healthy, and shopping for personal Traveling & Safety Tips for the care products when you are on a Holidays budget, etc. A special kit will be mailed to the first 15 students to Nov 16 1.00 – 2.30pm sign up. Keeping safe while traveling during Hosted by: Los Angeles Center the holiday can be quite a challenge. This workshop will provide you with all The Art of Aging Gracefully the tips you need to safely enjoy Oct 12 1.00 – 2.00pm traveling with your vision loss. We will discuss all forms of travel, including Learn food options and lifestyle tips by bus, train and plane. We will also to support aging healthily. The keys discuss tips on packing and checking to successful aging include into a hotel. accepting changes and finding meaningful activities. Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Traveling with Vision Loss Dental Care and the Impact on Dec 7 1.00 – 2.00pm Your Health Our Orientation and Mobility Oct 25 3.00 – 4.00pm Instructor and guest will discuss tips and tricks for making travel more In this workshop, you will learn how manageable. They will cover mobility to maintain good dental habits that challenges, as well as packing and boost your confidence and keep you planning techniques. healthy. Dental care does not need to be a tedious task; with the right Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center skills you are on your way to keeping Cooking your teeth healthy and strong. Hosted by: Los Angeles Center Healthy Eating Oct 22 10.00am – 12.00pm Basic Principals of Contrast Learn techniques for shopping, Nov 12 3.00 – 5.00pm preparing, and eating healthy! We will Using contrast is an essential coping discuss delicious and healthy recipes along with the benefits of eating Join us for this fun and creative fruits and vegetables. workshop; you will discover how easy Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center it is to make cute and practical gifts in a mason jar. Kit with recipes and Cooking in a Smart Home accessories included. Quantities are Sept 29, Nov 12 10.00am – 11.30am limited so register early. This informative workshop will Hosted by: Anaheim Center demonstrate how to incorporate Reading assistive technology using kitchen appliances. Participants will learn How to Access Free Audiobooks how to navigate devices and apps to Using the BARD App advance their cooking abilities. Sept 13, Nov 8 2.00 – 3.00pm Hosted by: Los Angeles Center Sept 17 10.00 – 11.30am More Than One Way to Brew a Pot Learn how to instantly download Sept 28 1.00 – 2.00pm audio books and magazines for free Learn the many different ways to using the Braille and Audio Reading prepare coffee and tea beverages Download (BARD) app. safely and efficiently. Hosted by: Laguna Hills and Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Riverside Centers Fun and Easy Ideas for Mason Jar All About Audiobooks Holiday Gifts Oct 5 2.00 – 3.00pm Dec 8 1.00 – 2.30pm Access the latest releases and old favorites through audiobook services such as a pen holder or decoration. including Braille and Audio Reading Hosted by: Los Angeles Center Download (BARD), Audible, Overdrive, and more! Learn about Staying Active what audiobook services are available to you, how to access them Basic Balance Exercises and how to find books you want to Sept 17 1.00 – 2.30pm read. Have you been sitting more than Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center usual during the pandemic and lost some of your balance? This Art workshop is to improve your balance Gathering from Nature: Garlands, with exercises. They are all Wreaths and Crowns done with a chair or next to a counter, none on the floor. A list of Sept 20 10.00 – 11.30am the exercises along with their First, from your own neighborhoods descriptions will be sent to you. and yards, you will gather a variety of Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center fresh flowers, found grasses, tender branches from trees— even available Community Resources herbs such as rosemary or lavender will work here. Then, we will gather Guide Dogs of the Desert online over Teams where you will Sept 16 2.00 – 3.00pm learn to bind together a floral project Learn all about Guide Dogs of the of your choosing: garlands, wreaths, Desert, including their eligibility or crowns. While this is a celebration requirements and application and of the natural world, artificial plants, what makes this guide dog school vines and any lace or other fabric stand out from the rest. notions may also be useful. Let the fun with flora begin! Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Hosted by: Los Angeles Center Coachella Valley Transportation Access and Rideshare Program Upcycling! Turning Trash Into Treasure Oct 25 1.00 – 3.00pm Oct 8 10.00 – 11.30am Join us as we discuss transportation options available to you from local This workshop is an introduction to agencies located in Coachella Valley. Upcycling, turning trash into treasure Uber, Lyft and GoGo Grandparent by taking an everyday object that are here for your transportation would normally be needs and an overview of each discarded/recycled and decorating it rideshare program will be discussed. to become a functional work of art Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center Guide Dogs and Caring for Them Go-Go Grandparent, Ride Share Oct 26 1.00 – 2.00pm Options Learn what it means to live with a Nov 15 1.00 – 2.30pm guide/services dog partner: how to Learn from our Orientation & look after them, how to balance work Mobility Specialist on how to make and play time, and the rights guide your life easier, obtaining dogs have in public settings. transportation, groceries, home Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center services and much more - built for older adults without a smartphone. Making Autonomous Driving Hosted by: Riverside Center Accessible Nov 9 1.00 – 2.00pm Guide Dogs for the Blind Explore the latest technology Dec 2 2.00 – 3.00pm advances surrounding navigation Learn about Guide Dogs for the such as with autonomous vehicles Blind, including their eligibility and other artificial intelligence requirements and application and platforms. what makes this guide dog school Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center different. Virtual Tour of the Santa Barbara Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Braille Institute Campus Nov 11 2.00 – 3.00pm Take a virtual tour of our beautiful Santa Barbara Center’s campus. Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Celebrating Orientation and Mobility during October! During the month of October, Braille Institute is raising awareness of Orientation & Mobility (O&M) by hosting free online workshops and events focused on everything that has to do with O&M!

2nd Annual Virtual Move-A-Thon Join us for the virtual Move-A-Thon How to Get Started which runs from October 1-29. The individual logging the most time in • Register at: their category will receive a custom BrailleInstitute.org/om white cane! We look forward to you • Set your personal goals. joining us in this healthy and fun way • Participate from anywhere, to promote physical activity among whether you stay indoors or take the visually impaired community. it outside; all activities are welcome! Be sure to register as an individual, and get your friends, family, or Record your time spent moving neighbors to join! Everyone who daily, beginning October 1 through registers, gets a free visor! October 29, at 12.00 pm PDT. Free Remote Orientation and Mobility Workshops Register for these free online workshops at BrailleInstitute.org/om.

Move-A-Thon Kick Off this is the workshop for you! We will Oct 1 1.00 – 2.00pm go over what necessitates the use of the cane, and what is best for Come join us virtually in this healthy the safety of others and yourself. and fun physical activity among the visually impaired and blind Hosted by: Laguna Hills Center community. Introduction to Soundscape Hosted by: All Centers Oct 8 1.00 – 2.30pm How to Use the Lazarillo App Learn about Microsoft Soundscape, Oct 8 11.00am – 12.00pm and its 3D audio technology, which enhances your awareness of what The Lazarillo app guides the traveler, is around you and helps you get who is blind or visually impaired, around and explore your through their city and building surroundings. environments with real-time voice messages and connects users with Hosted by: Anaheim Center businesses through accessible Real Talk: Interview with online shopping and notification Visually Impaired Athletes services! Oct 14 6.30 – 7.30pm Hosted by: Los Angeles Center If you’ve ever wondered what it’s Am I Ready for the White Cane? like to compete with little to no Oct 8 1.00 – 2.30pm sight, this is the workshop for you! Virtually meet two accomplished Do you wonder whether you should visually impaired athletes from the be using a white cane or not? Then USA Blind Hockey Team and India’s National Paralympic specialists and representatives Champion in the 100 and 200 from various schools and agencies. meters. Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Hosted by: San Diego Center Is A Guide Dog Right For You? White Cane Awareness Day Oct 28 1.00 – 2.00pm Oct 15 1.00 – 2.30pm Guide dog partners are trusted This is a day to celebrate “White friends that offer new opportunities Cane Awareness Day”. The Lions for interaction and greater Club will be joining us and sharing independence. Learn if a guide dog how they are “Knights for the Blind”. might be right for you. We will be reading the presidential Hosted by: Anaheim Center proclamation and sharing the history of White Cane Awareness Day along Move-A-Thon Finish Line with the White Cane Law. White Oct 29 1.00 – 2.00pm Cane users will share what the cane has done for them. Share your accomplishments with the rest of the event participants Hosted by: All Centers and hear experiences from a So You Want to be an Orientation diverse group of move-a-thon and Mobility Specialist? finishers! Oct 22 1.00 – 2.30pm Hosted by: All Centers Join us for a special opportunity to listen to Orientation and Mobility En español Talleres virtuales gratuitos. Usando tecnología como Microsoft Teams, podemos conectarlo con los mejores instructores de todo el sur de California. Únase a cualquiera de estos talleres online gratuitos que ofrecen nuestros diversos centros.

Llame al 1800-BRAILLE (272-4553) si tiene preguntas. Registrar aquí: BrailleInstitute.org/seminarios.

Compresión de la pérdida de ciudad o diferentes edificios con visión mensajes enviados en tiempo real y Oct 11, Dec 13 10.00am – 12.00pm conecta a las personas usando la aplicacion con negocios mediante la Presentado por Karla Corona, accesibilidad para hacer compras en instructora de Coachella Valley para linea y servicios de notificacion. adultos y jóvenes proporcionará Presentado por: Coachella Valley información a personas que estén Center interesados en aprender sobre los fundamentos de la ceguera y la Aumente su confianza a través del discapacidad visual. Karla también cuidado personal le informará sobre todos los Oct 13 1.00 – 2.00pm programas y servicios gratuitos que Braille tiene para ofrecer y cómo ¡Cómo te preocupas por ti mismo es puede participar en ellos. Esta es la clave de lo bien que te sientes! En una gran manera de comenzar su este taller aprenderás consejos y introducción a los servicios de trucos para aumentar tu confianza. Braille para usted, su familia y Hablaremos sobre la hidratación, el amigos. sueño, la alimentación saludable y la Presentado por: Coachella Valley compra de productos para el cuidado Center personal cuando tenga un presupuesto limitado, etc. Se enviará Orientación y Mobilidad para el por correo un kit especial a los mes del Baston Blanco: Como primeros 15 estudiantes que se usar la aplicacion Lazarillo inscriban. Oct 12 1.00 – 2.30pm Presentado por: Los Angeles Center Aprende a usar la aplicacion Lazarillo. La aplicacion de Lazarillo ayuda a guiar a las personas, sin vision o baja ter vision, por su El cuidado dental y el impacto en Comidas saludables su salud Nov 19 1.00 – 3.00pm Oct 26 1.00 – 2.00pm La instructora de habilidades para la En este taller, aprenderá a mantener vida independiente, Leticia buenos hábitos dentales que Hernandez del Centro de Coachella aumentan su confianza y lo Valley, le enseñará las técnicas para mantienen saludable. El cuidado comprar, preparar y comer dental no tiene por qué ser una saludablemente! Ella hablará sobre tarea tediosa; con las habilidades recetas deliciosas y saludables junto adecuadas, estará en camino de con los beneficios de comer frutas y mantener sus dientes sanos y verduras. fuertes. Presentado por: Coachella Valley Presentado por: Los Angeles Center Center Introducción Amazon Alexa Acceso al transporte y programas de viaje compartido del Valle de Nov 17 1.30 – 3.00pm Coachella ¡Únase a nosotros en este taller Nov 29 10.00am – 12.00pm gratuito donde comenzamos con la asistente inteligente de Amazon, Unase a nosotros mientras Alexa! Aprenderá todas las cosas discutimos las opciones que puede lograr con Alexa y con detransporte disponibles para usted qué dispositivos trabaja Alexa, cómo de las agencias locales ubicadas en obtener información, entretenerse y el Valle de Coachella. Los oradores usar comandos de voz. invitados proporcionarán información valiosa sobre sus Presentado por: Anaheim Center servicios de transporte. Uber, Lyft y GoGo Grandparent están aquí para sus necesidades de transporte y se discutirá una visión general de cada programa de viaje compartido. Presentado por: Coachella Valley Center

Braille Institute admits students and clients of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, age, religion and sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students and clients of Braille Institute. We do not discriminate against the foregoing in the administration of any of our policies or programs. Braille Institute San Diego 9635 Granite Ridge Drive, Suite 130 San Diego, CA 92123

Save The Date

Fall Remote Session Begins Thanksgiving (Closed) Tuesday, Sept 7 Thursday, Nov 25 and Friday, Nov 26 Fall Remote Session Ends Friday, Dec 17

For more information about Braille Institute San Diego classes and services, visit BrailleInstitute.org/sandiego or call 858-452-1111. Braille Institute Centers remain temporarily closed due to COVID-19. We are bringing online classes and services to you within the comfort and safety of your home.

1-800-BRAILLE (272-4553) BrailleInstitute.org