Laguna Hills 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. Laguna Hills 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 949-330-5062.

Life Skills and your senses to navigate daily activities. Learn simple adaptive techniques to support activities of daily living so Independent Living Skills and that you can feel more confident and Home Management able to address your most Eight week series beginning Sept 13 fundamental needs. Every Monday 10.00 - 11.30am or 1.00 – 2.30pm Rights and Resources En Español Eight week series beginning Sept 8 1.00 – 2.30pm Every Wednesday 10.00 - 11.30am Instructor: Julie and Emily Instructor: Julie S. Teams and Telephone Teams and Telephone Manage everyday tasks with simple Introduction to Braille Institute’s solutions. With in-depth instruction education programs and community in personal care, organizing, agencies providing services for the shopping, cooking, home safety and visually impaired. maintenance. Sensory Awareness Orientation and Mobility Six week series beginning Sept. 9 Five week series beginning Nov 5 Every Thursday 10.00 - 11.30am Every Friday 10.00 - 11.30am En Español Instructor: Lea Ann 10.00 – 11.30am Teams Instructors: Emily and Julie Learn the basics of Orientation and Teams Mobility. It will include Human Learn to use visualization techniques Guide, Protective Skills, and cane techniques. Orientation and Mobility Cooking Roundtable Learn simple adaptive techniques to Second Friday of every month support activities of daily living so beginning Sept 10 that you can feel more confident 4th Friday 1.00 - 2.30pm and able to address your most Instructor: Lea Ann and Haw fundamental needs Teams and Telephone Healthy Living and Cooking with This is for students to discuss Diabetes different Orientation and Mobility Eight week series beginning Sept 7 topics. Every Tuesday 10.00 - 11.30am Technology Instructor: Julie S. Teams Whatever your degree of vision loss Learn fun and smart new ways to there is technology to help you live take control of your diabetes. with greater ease. Discover how to use the latest and most user-friendly Getting Help devices and apps through one-on-one There is evidence that it is healing training at Connection Pointe. to mind, body, and spirit when we iOS VoiceOver and App share and connect with others who Exploration: Advanced are also experiencing and adjusting to vision loss. Our support groups Every Tuesday 10.00 - 11.30am and classes teach coping strategies Instructor: Bob and techniques to relax and better Teams manage stress. Navigating your cellphone such as making calls, checking voice mail and Peer Support Group more. Every Tuesday 1.00 - 2.30pm Instructor: Linda Victor Reader Stream: Beginner Teams and Telephone Every Thursday 10.00 - 11.30am Build confidence and share Instructor: Bob experiences. Teams Learn how to download audio books Artistic Endeavors from National Library Services using The arts fulfill the important and the Victor Reader Stream, listen to fundamental human need for radio stations, create notes and more! creative expression, but they are also Teams a powerful way to develop tactile and Art kits are not provided. Please problem-solving skills; they stimulate come prepared with your own art and maintain visual memory and supplies and project ideas. promote self-confidence. Our rich Experiment with your art projects offering of visual and musical arts and develop your at-home studio classes leads to more fulfilled lives space. Receive in-depth feedback and greater independence. and virtual assistance on your Moments in Art History: More current works in progress from the Great Masters instructor. Discuss options for Every Monday 1.00 - 2.30pm participating in art exhibitions and Instructor: Erin publications. Highly recommended Teams for students who have already taken Mixed Media Art Studio. Whether you are brand new to art or love working in the studio, Moments Your Artistic and Creative In Art History takes you behind the Journey scenes into the lives of the world’s Four week series beginning Sept. 10 most influential artists and artworks. Every Friday 1.00 - 2.30pm Be inspired by how art and creativity Instructor: Erin shape countries, cultures, and daily Teams life of past and present. This mini-series will take you Mixed Media Art Studio through a series of exercises, Every Tuesday 10.00 - 11.30am projects, and in-class discussions Instructor: Erin designed to reignite and expand Teams your unique version of creativity. Learn tips and techniques for Reading and Writing expressing yourself through art at home using materials in kits you’ll Not being able to read or write receive through the mail. Gain ideas standard print does not need to be a for how to recycle and repurpose barrier to accessing literature or household items into one-of-a-kind nonfiction. We have classes that works of art. encourage exploring audio books and learning the braille code, which Studio Art Independent Study enables one to continue enjoying Every Thursday 1.00 - 2.30pm books, magazines, and newspapers. Instructor: Erin Introduction to Poetry powerful way to combat social Every Wednesday 1.00 - 2.30pm isolation and loneliness. Come Instructor: Erin connect with new ideas and new Teams friends. A creative writing course that The World Is Our Oyster encourages your inner poet as you Every Monday 1.00 - 2.30pm explore forms from around the globe. Instructor: Anne, Volunteer Each student is welcome to use Teams whatever method of writing or note- This is a weekly discussion group taking that works best. centering on upbeat, Braille Reading and Writing noncontroversial subjects. Topics Every Thursday 10.00 - 11.30am will be decided upon by the Instructor: Maria B participating students. Teams and Telephone This class will cover the alphabet, numbers, punctuation, abbreviations, symbols and writing. Book Club First Wednesday of Month 1.00 - 2.30pm Instructor: Anne, Volunteer Teams Reading a variety of books, sharing opinions, and discussing the literature. Critical Thinking In our discussion classes, we invite you to have meaningful engagement with a wide variety of subject matter —some of it current and timely and some of it looking at cultural history in context. Connecting and interacting with others in a classroom is a From Laguna Hills Free Remote Workshops. Information about these, or other valuable free workshops hosted on Microsoft Teams, may be found by visiting our website BrailleInstitute.org/lagunahills. Call 949-330-5062 to register today.

Technology and apps to use with your smart devices. We will discuss how iPhone and iPad Accessibility technology can help you catch up Oct 1 10.00 – 11.30am with communication in your daily Demonstration of VoiceOver, screen life. magnification, apps, and voice Introduction to Smart Speakers commands using Siri. Dec 1 10.00 – 11.30am Using Social Media Smart speakers can be a lot of fun! Oct 15 10.00 – 11.30am Join us in discovering all the useful Learn how easy it is to join and features they have such as manage your social media channels. organizing your schedule, playing Get social! games, making calls and more. Seeing AI App Is There An App For That? Oct 29 10.00 - 11.30am Dec 3 10.00 – 11.30am Learn about a free app for iOS that Discover all the useful apps available narrates the world around you. to those with low to no vision. We Seeing AI uses the device camera to will discuss apps that can read audibly read text, identify people and short/long text, currencies and objects, and audibly describes those barcodes and more! objects for people with visual Introduction to Victor Reader impairment. Also learn how to configure the app to technology Dec 10 10.00 – 11.30am assistant Siri to locate and utilize An informative online workshop on each channel with ease. all the wonderful features the Victor Make Technology Work For You Reader has. The Victor Reader is a handheld, versatile audio book Nov 12 10.00 – 11.30am reader, music player, and digital Learn simple shortcuts, commands audio recorder. Android Devices with Low Vision Life Skills to No Vision Traveling & Safety Tips for the Dec 17 10.00 – 11.30am Holidays Learn about the accessibility Nov 16 1.00 – 2.30pm features an Android Device has to offer. We will discuss magnification, Keeping safe while traveling during Google voice assistant, talkback and the holiday can be quite a challenge. third-party apps that can help you. This workshop will provide you with all the tips you need to safely enjoy Getting Help traveling with your vision loss. We will discuss all forms of travel, Understanding Vision Loss including by bus, train and plane. We Sept 10 & 24, Oct 8 & 22, will also discuss tips on packing and Nov 5 & 19, Dec 3 &17 checking into a hotel. 10.00 – 11:30am Reading For those who are interested in learning about the basics of How to Access Free Audiobooks blindness and visual impairment. Using the BARD App Giving Up the Car Keys Sept 17 10.00 – 11.30am Nov 5 1.00 – 2.30pm Learn how to instantly download audio books and magazines for free When is the right time to give up the using the Braille and Audio Reading car keys? Are you and others safe? Download (BARD) app. What options are available without a car? How can you be independent Introduction to Victor Reader and safe without a car? All these Dec 10 10.00 – 11.30am questions will be answered and discussed in this workshop. An informative online workshop on all the wonderful features the Victor Tips for Staying Connected Reader has. The Victor Reader is a During the Holidays handheld, versatile audio book Nov 17 1.00 – 2.30pm reader, music player, and digital audio recorder. Join us for this fun interactive workshop! You will learn about the Android Devices with Low Vision and different ways you can continue to No Vision to stay connected with your loved Dec 17 10.00 – 11.30am ones during the holidays. Learn about the accessibility features an Android Device has to offer. We will discuss magnification, Google voice assistant, talkback and third-party apps that can help you. Staying Active Basic Balance Exercises Sept 17 1.00 – 2.30pm Have you been sitting more than usual during the pandemic and lost some of your balance? This workshop is to improve your balance with basic exercises. They are all done with a chair or next to a counter, none on the floor. A list of the exercises along with their descriptions will be sent to you.

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 Besides sending or receiving calls adjustments and reading text aloud. and using apps, you will learn about Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center the accessibility features like Voiceover, Magnification, and Siri on Social Media Overview your wrist. You will also discover Sept 29 1.00 – 2.00pm Workout Tracking and how it can track your workout sessions monitor Explore what types of social media your heart rate, blood pressure, and are out there that may interest you. detect irregularities in your health Learn what’s new and why or why you condition. may not want to use social media. All are welcome for this free, Hosted by: Anaheim Center informative online workshop. How to Stay Safe Online: Two Part Hosted by: San Diego Center Series iPhone and iPad Accessibility Oct 13 & 27 1.00 – 2.00pm Sept 29, Dec 1 1.00 – 2.00pm Whether you’re shopping online, checking email, or browsing social Demonstration of VoiceOver, screen media, you should be aware of bad magnification, apps, and voice guys waiting to steal sensitive commands using Siri. information. We will discuss Hosted by: Anaheim Center common threats and how to stay safe online. Tips for Reading PDFs with a Screen Reader Hosted by: San Diego Center Oct 6 1.00 – 2.00pm Introducing Amazon Alexa A Portable Document Format (PDF) Oct 18, Dec 6 2.00 – 3.00pm is a popular and safe way to share a Nov 10 1.30 – 3.00pm document. For example, the Braille Institute class catalog and many Join us for this online workshop other publications are provided as a where we get started with Amazon’s PDF. In this workshop, we will give smart assistant, Alexa! You will learn you tips to help read a PDF with all the things you can accomplish JAWS and NVDA, including what to with Alexa and what devices Alexa do when it is not readable with a works with such as how to get screen reader. information, be entertained and using voice commands. Hosted by: San Diego Center Hosted by: Anaheim and Riverside What Can Your Apple Watch Do Centers For You? Oct 13 1.30 – 3.00pm Introduction to Optical Character Recognition Oct 19 2.00 – 3.00pm (OCR) Apps This workshop will describe the most Nov 16 2.00 – 3.00pm popular accessibility features of There are many free or low-cost Windows and Microsoft Office. options that don’t require any Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center additional equipment. Learn how to use these apps including Seeing AI, Delivery Services: Uber Eats Voice OCR, and Voice Dream Oct 27 1.30 – 3.00pm Scanner. Learn all about Uber Eats delivery Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center services. Find out what restaurants Exploring Clubhouse are available, how to get prescriptions delivered, and how it Nov 16 2.00 – 3.30pm works with Voiceover. In addition, we Join us as we explore a brand-new will cover what stores are open in social networking app that only the app and what benefits you get requires audio! This is the first audio with the Uber Eats pass. chat app of its kind. We will Hosted by: Anaheim Center demonstrate how this app makes it accessible to all who are visionally Shopping for the Holidays: impaired and blind. Participants will Instacart, Markets and Online need a smart phone. Shopping. Hosted by: Los Angeles Center Nov 5 3.00 – 5.00pm How Blind People See the Learn safer, easier ways to obtain Internet your holiday groceries and gifts. We will teach you how to order groceries Nov 18 3.00 – 4.00pm and gifts using your computer, smart Our Accessible Technology phone, or tablet and have them Instructor will give tips and tricks on delivered to your home. Find out how to search the web using screen about holiday apps to help you readers. He will show you how to organize and get your gifts scan a page to find what you are purchased, wrapped and shipped on looking for and how to quickly time. You will also learn about the navigate through the world wide many other delivery options from web. your favorite stores and restaurants Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center that are quick, safe and convenient. Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center “Alexa, I need help.” you to enjoy with your popcorn. Nov 23 1.00 – 2.00pm Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center Learn how Alexa can help with living Google Lookout skills in your home to make your life easier and more efficient. Dec 10 2.00 – 3.00pm Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Learn about the free Android app from Google that allows you to read Safe Traveling During the documents out loud, scan food and Holidays With Tech explore what objects are around you Dec 1 10.00 – 11.00am with ease. Learn how to adapt to holiday Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center schedule changes as they affect your Technology Gifts for the Visually daily travel. We will provide Impaired information on how to coordinate your holiday travel safely, including Dec 14 2.00 – 3.00pm what you need to know about This workshop will give you gift COVID-19 travel protocols. Our ideas for the visually impaired or Technology Specialist will teach you blind techies in your life. how to use technology specifically Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center for holiday travel using VoiceOver and Apps. Holiday Movies with Audio Description Hosted by: Riverside Center Dec 15 1.30 – 3.00pm Popcorn and a Movie: The Roku Holiday movie watching just got and Netflix Accessibility Features better. Come and experience the Dec 3 10.00 – 12.00pm latest in audio-described movies. There are many accessible features We'll demonstrate streaming available for home entertainment. In services; specifically, Netflix and this workshop we teach you how to Disney+, and an introduction to the make popcorn in the microwave. We American Council of the Blind will discuss the Roku which is an website, which has a fabulous inexpensive device that you can plug resource on everything about audio into your TV to access movies and description, including cable shows with audio description. Netflix company services, master movie and also allows you to play their DVD lists, and performing arts. selections with description and we Hosted by: Anaheim Center will teach you how to do that as well. Then we will play a Netflix movie for Popcorn and a Movie: The remaining vision and increase Firestick and Disney Accessibility independence in reading, writing, Features and managing medications and Dec 17 10.00 – 12.00pm finances. There are many accessible features Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center available for home entertainment. In Low Vision 101 this workshop we teach you how to make popcorn in the microwave. We Sept 15, Oct 13, Nov 10, Dec 15 will discuss the Amazon Firestick, 11.00am – 12.00pm which is an inexpensive device that Learn who, what, and the importance you can plug into your TV to access of Braille Institute’s Low Vision movies and shows with audio Program. Hear first-hand how our description. The Disney Channel also free low vision consultation can help allows you to play their selections individuals with low vision and get with description and we will teach an overview of our low vision you how to do that as well. Then we services. Join Melissa Caruso the will play a Disney movie for you to Certified Occupational Therapy enjoy with your popcorn. Assistant for our San Diego Center. Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center Hosted by: San Diego Center Getting Help Non-24 Circadian Rhythm Sleep Wake Disorder Understanding Vision Loss Sept 16 3.00 – 5.00pm Sept 13, Nov 15 Sept 23, Nov 18 10.00am – 12.00pm 10.00am – 12.00pm For those who are interested in Non-24 Circadian Rhythm Sleep learning about the basics of Wake Disorder is a chronic condition blindness and visual impairment. affecting mainly individuals who are Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center totally blind but also those with Assistive Devices for Low Vision limited light perception. If you have difficulty falling asleep, difficulty Sept 10 3.00 – 5.00pm getting a full night’s sleep and/or This workshop details the ins-and- difficulty staying awake during the out of low vision devices and how day, please join us! they can assist you in maintaining Hosted by: Coachella Valley and your independence. Everything from Riverside Centers simple handheld magnifiers to Guest Speaker: Shauna Jatho, Closed Circuit Television Systems. clinical nurse educator Learn how devices can maximize

Diabetic Retinopathy and Healthy Lunch & Learn: Age-Related Living Tips Macular Degeneration Sept 17 3.00 – 5.00pm Nov 3 12.00 – 1.00pm Many people with diabetes have Age-related macular degeneration experienced some form of vision (AMD) remains the leading cause of loss related to this condition. Learn vision loss and blindness in the the importance of managing blood United States. In this presentation sugars. We’ll provide tips on given by Dr. Heilweil from UCLA Eye maintaining a healthy and active Health, he will discuss what AMD is, lifestyle to maximize use of the how it affects your vision and the remaining vision. We will discuss latest progress in developing delicious and healthy recipes along treatments, causes, vitamins and with the benefits of eating symptoms. vegetables and fruits. Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center Lunch & Learn: Diabetes and its Meet the Riverside Staff Effect on Vision Loss Sept 23, Oct 21, Nov 22 Dec 1 12.00 – 1.00pm 2.00 – 3.00pm This is an informative presentation Introducing the Riverside Staff! Join for individuals interested to learn us for this online meet and greet about Diabetic Retinopathy. Dr. Fuh where staff will introduce from UCLA Eye Health will talk about themselves, discuss our free the importance of checking your programs and services, and blook sugar and how high/low blood upcoming online presentations. sugar levels affect vision. Hosted by: Riverside Center Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Best Lighting For Your Sight Advanced: Best Lighting For Your Oct 15 3.00 – 5.00pm Sight For people with low vision, lighting is Dec 3 3.00 – 5.00pm a critical factor. Learn household For people with low vision, lighting is lighting tips including glare control a critical factor. If you have attended and contrast enhancement for our Basic: Best Lighting for Your reading, managing finances, Sight, join us for this advanced completing personal care, and meal workshop as we go into more details preparation to help maintain safety about specific lighting for various and independence. tasks. The lumens and kelvin bulbs Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center will be reviewed to determine what works best for you. Learn more in depth household lighting tips to help will assess the level of knowledge maintain safety and independence. you have about personal appearance Hosted by: Coachella Valley and ask each what you wish to work on in regard to personal grooming. Life Skills In addition, we’ll discuss clothing, hair styles, nail care, posture, body Braille 101 language, make-up, hygiene, voice Sept 20, Nov 15 2.00 – 3.30pm tone, and above all, confidence. In this workshop we will talk about Hosted by: San Diego Center how Braille began. Methods of Guest Speaker: Nicole Bissett, writing Braille, Uncontracted Braille, Bissett Productions Contracted Braille, Braille literacy and Technology today. Southern California Travelogue Hosted by: Riverside Center Sept 27 3.00 – 4.00pm Learn and share about different Blind/Visually Impaired and communities, how to get there with Social Confidence adaptive tools and what to expect. Sept 21 1.00 – 2.00pm Learn about the highlights of the Learn how to interact with “sight- fantastic geographic diversity of ees” and relate to your family and California neighborhoods and friends in a healthy manner. This discover new ones. We will also play workshop involves tips on how to act fun games to see how well your know and on what resources are available Southern California. in various social situations such as Hosted by: Los Angeles Center dining out, shopping, and traveling. It also involves fun anecdotes to Boost Your Confidence Through demonstrate how to handle awkward Personal Care or difficult interactions. Sept 29 1.00 – 2.00pm Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center How you care for yourself is the key to how good you feel! In this Grooming For Success: Two Part workshop you will learn tips and Series tricks to boost your confidence. We Sept 27, Oct 11 11.00am – 12.00pm will discuss hydration, sleep, eating healthy, and shopping for personal Although it doesn’t say everything, care products when you are on a appearance is the first shot at budget, etc. A special kit will be making a good impression and mailed to the first 15 students to overcoming common stereotypes sign up. about blind and visually impaired people. In Grooming for Success, we Hosted by: Los Angeles Center The Art of Aging Gracefully Fall Prevention for the Holidays Oct 12 1.00 – 2.00pm Nov 12 1.00 – 2.30pm Learn food options and lifestyle tips Let’s get together to discuss ways to to support aging healthily. The keys stay safe from falls this holiday to successful aging include season. We can stand strong for accepting changes and finding ourselves and for our friends and meaningful activities. families. We will review the top tips for Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center fall prevention so we can all safely enjoy this festive time of year. Let’s Protective Techniques and share ideas and experiences to build Pre-cane Skills our knowledge of how to prevent falls Oct 20 1.00 – 2.30pm this holiday season and beyond. Protective techniques can selectively Hosted by: San Diego Center and effectively support safe travel Basic Principals of Contrast with the white cane. Together we will review techniques and skills like Nov 12 3.00 – 5.00pm upper-body and lower-body Using contrast is an essential coping protective techniques, hand trailing, strategy for people with low vision. direction taking, clearing a seat and The more contrast, the easier it is to locating dropped objects. We will find and use objects, complete daily also consider tips and strategies for tasks, and remain independent. Learn usage. And we can share thoughts, simple methods to utilize contrast ideas and experiences to learn from techniques to maximize vision and each other. safety in your home and outdoors. Hosted by: San Diego Center Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center Dental Care and the Impact on Traveling with Vision Loss Your Health Dec 7 1.00 – 2.00pm Oct 25 3.00 – 4.00pm Our Orientation and Mobility In this workshop, you will learn how Instructor and guest will discuss tips to maintain good dental habits that and tricks for making travel more boost your confidence and keep you manageable. They will cover mobility healthy. Dental care does not need challenges, as well as packing and to be a tedious task; with the right planning techniques. skills you are on your way to keeping Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center your teeth healthy and strong. Hosted by: Los Angeles Center Cooking Reading Healthy Eating How to Access Free Audiobooks Oct 22 10.00am – 12.00pm Using the BARD App Learn techniques for shopping, Sept 13, Nov 8 2.00 – 3.00pm preparing, and eating healthy! We Learn how to instantly download will discuss delicious and healthy audio books and magazines for free recipes along with the benefits of using the Braille and Audio Reading eating fruits and vegetables. Download (BARD) app. Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center Hosted by: Riverside Center Cooking in a Smart Home All About Audiobooks Sept 29, Nov 12 10.00am – 11.30am Oct 5 2.00 – 3.00pm This informative workshop will Access the latest releases and old demonstrate how to incorporate favorites through audiobook services assistive technology using kitchen including Braille and Audio Reading appliances. Participants will learn Download (BARD), Audible, how to navigate devices and apps to Overdrive, and more! Learn about advance their cooking abilities. what audiobook services are Hosted by: Los Angeles Center available to you, how to access them and how to find books you want to More Than One Way to Brew a Pot read. Sept 28 1.00 – 2.00pm Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Learn the many different ways to Beyond BARD: Methods for prepare coffee and tea beverages Obtaining Audio Books: Two Part safely and efficiently. Series Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Nov 17, Dec 15 1.00 – 2.00pm Fun and Easy Ideas for Mason Jar Braille and Audio Reading Download Holiday Gifts (BARD) is wonderful, but there are Dec 8 1.00 – 2.30pm other ways to get audio books, both free and paid. In this workshop we Join us for this fun and creative will explore commercial and local workshop; you will discover how easy library apps available to match your it is to make cute and practical gifts audio book download preference. in a mason jar. Kit with recipes and accessories included. Quantities are Hosted by: San Diego Center limited so register early. Hosted by: Anaheim Center Art for interaction and greater independence. Learn if a guide dog Gathering from Nature: Garlands, might be right for you. Wreaths and Crowns Hosted by: San Diego Center Sept 20 10.00 – 11.30am Guest Speakers: Zack Gittlen, Guide First, from your own neighborhoods Dogs of America and Patti Robitaille, and yards, you will gather a variety of Guide Dogs for the Blind fresh flowers, found grasses, tender branches from trees— even available Guide Dogs of the Desert herbs such as rosemary or lavender Sept 16 2.00 – 3.00pm will work here. Then, we will gather Learn all about Guide Dogs of the online over Teams where you will Desert, including their eligibility learn to bind together a floral project requirements and application and of your choosing: garlands, wreaths, what makes this guide dog school or crowns. While this is a celebration stand out from the rest. of the natural world, artificial plants, vines and any lace or other fabric Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center notions may also be useful. Let the Learn if The Department of fun with flora begin! Rehabilitation Can Help You Hosted by: Los Angeles Center Oct 1 1.00 – 2.00pm Upcycling! Turning Trash Into Join us in learning about obtaining Treasure and retaining employment and Oct 8 10.00 – 11.30am maximizing your ability to live independently. This workshop is an introduction to Upcycling, turning trash into treasure Hosted by: San Diego Center by taking an everyday object that Guest Speaker: Bonnie Jimenez, CA would normally be Department of Rehabilitation discarded/recycled and decorating it Coachella Valley Transportation to become a functional work of art Access and Rideshare Program such as a pen holder or decoration. Oct 25 1.00 – 3.00pm Hosted by: Los Angeles Center Join us as we discuss transportation Community Resources options available to you from local agencies located in the Coachella Is A Guide Dog Right For You? Valley. Guest speakers will provide Sept 10 & 30 11.00am – 12.00pm valuable information on their transportation services. Uber, Lyft Guide dog partners are trusted and GoGo Grandparent are here for friends that offer new opportunities your transportation needs and an overview of each rideshare program Take a virtual tour of our beautiful will be discussed. Santa Barbara Center’s campus. Hosted by: Coachella Valley Center Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Medication Safety/Script Talk Go-Go Grandparent, Ride Share Oct 26 11.00am – 12.00pm Options Talking, large print or braille Nov 15 1.00 – 2.30pm prescription labels allow visually Learn from our Orientation & impaired people to safely and Mobility Specialist on how to make independently manage their your life easier, obtaining prescription medications. In this transportation, groceries, home workshop, learn about Script Talk services and much more - built and how it can help you. better for older adults without a Hosted by: San Diego Center smartphone. Guest Speaker: Sharla Glass, Hosted by: Riverside Center En-Vision America Stay Connected with California Guide Dogs and Caring for Them Telephone Access Program Oct 26 1.00 – 2.00pm (CTAP) Learn what it means to live with a Nov 19 11.00am – 12.00pm guide/services dog partner: how to Learn about free specialized phones look after them, how to balance work that make it easier to hear, dial, and and play time, and the rights guide make calls. Over half a million dogs have in public settings. Californians are enjoying these Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center phones. At this workshop, learn if you qualify and how to enroll. Making Autonomous Driving Hosted by: San Diego Center Accessible Guest Speaker: Sandra Lambarri Nov 9 1.00 – 2.00pm Johnson, CTAP Explore the latest technology Guide Dogs for the Blind advances surrounding navigation such as with autonomous vehicles Dec 2 2.00 – 3.00pm and other artificial intelligence Learn about Guide Dogs for the platforms. Blind, including their eligibility Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center requirements and application and what makes this guide dog school Virtual Tour of the Santa Barbara different. Braille Institute Campus Hosted by: Santa Barbara Center Nov 11 2.00 – 3.00pm 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 Institute tiene para ofrecer y ¡Cómo te preocupas por ti mismo es cómo puede participar en ellos. Esta la clave de lo bien que te sientes! En es 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 Bastón 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 visión o con baja visión, 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 conversamos las opciones de que puede lograr con Alexa y con transporte disponibles para usted de qué dispositivos trabaja Alexa, cómo las agencias locales ubicadas en el obtener información, entretenerse y 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 Laguna Hills 24411 Ridge Route Drive, Ste. 110 Laguna Hills, CA 92653

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 Laguna Hills classes and services, visit BrailleInstitute.org/lagunahills or call 949-330-5062. 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