San Francisco LIghthouse’s Upcoming Events

Note that this calendar for the blindness community has events online as well as those held at the San Francisco Lighthouse building. If interested in attending any of these opportunities or want to RSVP, call the number accompanying each.

Perhaps, these events might spur ideas you might have for your group of friends or local gathering place for all things blindness.

LightHouse Logo
October 2023
LightHouse Monthly Planner
LightHouse News in Brief
Near LightHouse headquarters tomorrow? Why not drop in on our first-ever 1155 Performance Salon. Our headliner is Jorge Ellington and the Esencia Latin Jazz Ensemble. Plus, there will be a special showing of the work of blind photographer Ted Tahquechi with audio descriptions in the artist’s own voice provided by QR code. The event takes place on Thursday, September 28 at 5:00 pm at our 1155 Market St. San Francisco headquarters. If you have questions, contact Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608. See you there!

Support LightHouse programs by purchasing a Bop It Button as part of Bop It creator Dan Klitsner’s Bop It for Good campaign. Bop It is a uniquely interactive game that can be played on equal terms whether you are blind or sighted. For every Bop It Button purchased, one will be donated to LightHouse. Purchase yours today from our Adaptations Store.
Sales, Canes, and Bridges – Oh My!

Photo: A view of the Golden Gate Bridge from the bridge’s footpath
October is Blindness Awareness Month, and LightHouse is celebrating in a big way! As many of our community members already know, we are leading a White Cane Day march across the Golden Gate Bridge on Sunday, October 15! (Details listed below.)

We are thrilled with the enthusiastic response to this event, but due to a very high volume of RSVPs, space on the shuttle from LightHouse headquarters to the Sausalito Vista Point is very limited! We will be closing the RSVP form on Sunday, October 1 to ensure that all who have formally RSVP’d will have a seat on the shuttle and will be provided a lunch at the picnic after-party at Crissy Field. That being said, we still warmly welcome all interested parties to join us! Just please note that those who sign up after October 1 will need to arrange their own transportation to the Vista Point. We cannot wait to celebrate White Cane Day with you all on Sunday the 15th!

White Cane Day Golden Gate Bridge March
8:30 am – Meet at LightHouse HQ, 1155 Market Street, 10th Floor, San Francisco
8:45am – Busses will depart from LightHouse HQ to Sausalito Vista Point
10:00 am – Official start of White Cane Day Golden Gate Bridge March
10:30 am – Buses will depart from LightHouse HQ to Crissy Field (for those who cannot physically participate in the march but want to join the picnic at Crissy Field)
11:00 am – Meet at West Bluff Picnic Area at Crissy Field for our Community Celebration and Picnic after the march (limited parking available at picnic area)
1:30 pm – Buses will depart from West Bluff Picnic Area to return to LightHouse HQ
RSVP by October 1: Please complete this Microsoft Form to RSVP

But wait… there’s more!

Adaptations October Sale!
In observation of Blindness Awareness Month and White Cane Day, we’re celebrating all month long! Enjoy 10% off all white canes and cane accessories from Adaptations! Stock up on all your favorite cane-related products online or in-person all 31 days of October! Start shopping and saving starting October 1!

You Cane Give: Used Cane Fundraiser
After you stock up on new canes from Adaptations, what to do with those old, out-of-use canes? This year, as part of our White Cane Day celebration, we are partnering with You Cane Give to collect used canes and help them find homes with other blind folks around the world who are in need of one. To donate your cane, please feel free to bring it with you on the day of our march across the bridge or drop it off at the designated bin at LightHouse reception anytime in the month of October. To learn more about You Cane Give, click here.
Now, here’s a full listing of events happening at LightHouse in October. You may also view October events on the LightHouse online calendar.
Access Technology Training

Photo: A composite of a braille display and Zoom icon
Tech Together (online)

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

October 3: Open Forum
Do you have a favorite tech tip or trick to share? Do you have questions about your tech setup? Do you have ideas about future Tech Together events? Join the Access Technology team for a fun and freeform discussion where we can all nerd out and learn about tech, together.

Tuesday, October 3, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

RSVP online for Open Forum or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.

October 10: Let’s Label It
From the file cabinet to the kitchen pantry, from low-tech to high-tech, join the Access Technology team and we’ll discuss ways you can label anything and everything in your life.

Tuesday, October 10, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

RSVP online for Let’s Label It or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.

October 17: Be My AI
Be My Eyes is a volunteer-powered visual recognition app that can enhance independence in all areas of life. Recently, Be My Eyes has rolled out a new image recognition tool powered by generative AI. Join the Access Technology team and we’ll discuss the ups, downs, and interesting intricacies of this new and exciting feature.

Tuesday, October 17, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

RSVP online for Be My AI or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.

October 24: Accessible Emergency Preparedness
The LightHouse Access Technology team is honored and delighted to welcome Sheela Gunn-Cushman of the Center for Independent Living (CIL) as a guest presenter for Tech Together! Sheela, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for CIL, will be joining us to discuss safety planning and emergency preparedness resources and strategies through the lens of accessibility.

Tuesday, October 24, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

RSVP online for Accessible Emergency Preparedness or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.

October 31: Troubleshooting Tech Terror
This October, Tech Together Tuesday falls on the spookiest day of the year. What better time to discuss troubleshooting strategies for when your devices do the unexpected? Join the Access Technology team for tips and strategies for turning technical nightmares into setups that work like a dream. Also, come ready to share funny stories about experiences with tech gone weird!

Tuesday, October 31, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

RSVP online for Troubleshooting Tech Terror or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.

Introduction to Accessible Wayfinding (online)

Take your travel to the next level with Introduction to Accessible Wayfinding. Join Kacie Cappello and Fernando Macias from the Access Technology department, and Orientation & Mobility Specialists, Jennifer Huey and Jenna Whitelaw, to explore the tools and techniques for navigating safely and confidently through our opening, changing world.

We’ll discuss how native iPhone functionality like Siri and the Compass app can help you orient to your surroundings. You will learn route-planning strategies using Apple Maps and Google Maps, and how to get public transportation information from apps like Moovit and LiveBart. You will hear accessible apps like BlindSquare in action and try features out for yourself.

Whether you’re rediscovering your favorite coffee shop, or preparing for your next great adventure, you’ll be ready to boldly go where you’ve always wanted to go!

Thursdays, October 5, 12, 19 & 26 and November 2 & 9, from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm

RSVP by October 2 to AT@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-431-1481.

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

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

jueves, 5 y 19 de octubre del 2 al 4 pacifico

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

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

Thursdays, October 5 & 19, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

RSVP to Jeffrey Colon at JColon@LightHouse-sf.org or 415-694-7323.
Enchanted Hills Camp

Photo: A composite of a Zoom icon and a campfire
EHC Virtual Campfire (online)

These fun-filled evenings will consist of Enchanted Hills Camp updates, songs, alumni check-ins and LightHouse information and resources. All are welcome to join.

Wednesday, October 4, from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm

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

Photo: LightHouse Youth and staff explore the redwoods of Enchanted Hills Camp at a previous Sensing the Seasons
Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Teen and Young Adult: Stranger Things (online)

Are you looking for a thrilling escape into the world of science fiction and mystery? Look no further! The Reel Escape Audio Description Club is back this fall, bringing together blind and low vision teens and young adults for an exciting social gathering over an audio-described TV show.

We’ll be embarking on an unforgettable journey into the 1980s with the popular Netflix series Stranger Things. This captivating show revolves around a group of kids in a small town facing supernatural mysteries, government conspiracies, and the enigmatic powers of a mysterious girl with psychokinetic abilities.

Every Thursday evening at 8:00 pm, join us via Zoom to watch the latest episode of Stranger Things and connect with your LightHouse and EHC friends. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of excitement and adventure while enjoying the company of like-minded peers.

Check out the official Stranger Things trailer.

Parents, Please Take Note: Stranger Things is rated TV-14 for horror elements and language, which may not be suitable for kids under 17. While Seasons 1-3 were rated TV-14, Season 4 received a TV-MA rating. For more detailed information, you can check the Stranger Things Parental Guide. If you are under 18 and wish to join this series, we kindly request your parent or guardian to contact a LightHouse Youth Team member with written permission for your participation.

Thursdays, October 5, 12, 19 & 26 from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm

RSVP to Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.

Sensing the Seasons on the Road: From the Trees to Seas (in-person)

Sensing the Seasons is back! This time we hit the road and take our nature-based recreation retreat on the road to Monterey and the surrounding areas for our latest adventures as we explore nature from the trees to the seas. This always popular weekend in the woods partners with our friends and nature educators from WOLF (Web of Life Field School) in a series of weekend programs where they can gain access to nature knowledge. In addition to our Naturalist experts, the weekend will be led by blind and low vision staff and chaperons that lead students through the fun-filled activities and help participants gain a deeper connection to their blind and low vision friends and community.

The adventure-packed itinerary that includes a visit to the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, an exhilarating night hike, kayaking in the scenic Moss Landing and a campfire at Monte Toyon where we will stay for the weekend is taking place over the third weekend in October (Friday, October 20 – Sunday October 22). Thanks to a generous grant from the California State Coastal Conservancy, the overnight weekend and all its activities are free for blind and low-vision teens and young adults. Those interested in signing up for one of the limited spaces on this trip are asked to RSVP with all necessary forms by Friday October 6.

Who: Teens and Young Adults who are blind or have low vision
Cost: This program is free for blind and low-vision youth and teens thanks to a generous grant from the California State Coastal Conservancy

Friday, October 20 through Sunday, October 22

RSVP: Please contact Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372 no later than Friday, October 6
LightHouse Little Learners

Photo: A little girl who is a wheelchair user expresses delight as her sister, who is standing next to her, blows bubbles
Photo Credit: Emmalaine Berry Photography
Little Learners Playgroup (online)

Bring your giggles and wiggles to Little Learners weekly Zoom Playgroup. Enjoy fun activities with your little one, ages 0-7, while learning strategies to support your child’s visual, sensory, motor and concept development, in either English or Spanish. Connect with other families who understand and share your experience raising a child who is blind, has low vision, or CVI (Cortical Visual Impairment). Weekly activities are designed to be accessible for all, and to build upon monthly themes that you can integrate into your family routines. All are welcome!

Thursdays, October 5, 12, 19 & 26, from 9:30 am to 10:15 am

RSVP to Jacqueline Barden at littlelearners@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7366.
Arts, Entertainment & Community

Photo: A bingo card with braille and large raised numbers
The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike (online)

What does it mean to be blind or low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, leads this call-in forum to discuss the many day-to-day ins and outs of blindness—from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies.

Mondays, October 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, from 9:30 am to noon

RSVP online for Coffee with Mike Cole or to Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

Museum of Craft & Design Mobile Make Art Activation (in-person)

The Museum of Craft & Design (MCD) returns for a series of monthly artmaking sessions featuring projects, processes and prompts inspired by their latest exhibitions. Whether you craft, build, paint, garden, sew or sculpt at any experience level, MCD’s Mobile Make art activations are sure to push your envelope or meet you in your happy place. Come to the craft room on the 11th floor of LightHouse San Francisco HQ for good times with great people.

Thursday, October 5, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm

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

Toastmasters: LightHouse Visionaries (online)

LightHouse Visionaries provides blind and visually impaired people with a supportive and fun environment to develop public speaking and leadership skills, empowering us to enhance our personal and professional lives.

Toastmasters is a place to develop skills of self-empowerment. It’s a place to practice public speaking, improve communication, and build leadership skills.

Mondays, October 9 & 23, from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm

RSVP online for Toastmasters, or contact Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.

Visionarios (hybrid)

This Spanish speaking social group involves discussions, guest speakers, and group activities. This group meets twice a month. Meetings on the second Tuesday are in-person and meetings on the fourth Tuesday are virtual.

Tuesdays, October 10 & 24, from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm

RSVP to Esmeralda Soto at Esoto@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7323.

Create in Community: Art class (in-person)

Let’s gather in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco at 1155 Market to explore a different art process, style or media each moth while connecting with fellow creatives. These are exploratory, process-oriented classes that invite you to work at whatever level you are, be it first timer to expert.

During the month of October, celebrate white Cane Day, Blindness Awareness Month and any other identity or truth you wish to share out loud. From producing signs for the White Cane Day bridge walk to speaking out about identity, be prepared to create out-LOUD.

Thursdays, October 12 & 26, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm

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

White Cane Whimsy: WCD Swag Production (in-person)

What do you get when you cross a lollipop stick, a couple bits of tape, a snippet of string and a single bead? Believe it or not, they create the coolest DIY lapel pin ever. Help LightHouse celebrate mobility empowerment and independence by joining together to create white cane lapel pins that may be given out during the forthcoming Golden Gate Bridge walk. No experience necessary to help out, just a bit of volunteer mindedness, a love of supporting good community and interest in making things.

Friday, October 13, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm

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

30% and Growing (in-person)

As the October air gets cooler and the leaves begin to turn, join friends inside for drinks and conversations. This month 30% and Growing will be meeting at Tap in Lounge in Berkeley (2012 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley), a bar and restaurant with New York Style pizza and Indian style appetizers. Come out and enjoy food, drinks and comradery with others who are blind and low vision, as we navigate different aspects of the workforce.

Friday, October 20, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

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

LightHouse Goes Rock Climbing (in-person)

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

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

Sunday, October 22, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

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

Bingo (in-person)

In-person bingo is coming back to LightHouse! Get ready for a festive and spooky afternoon with new and old friends. Win prizes, have snacks and dress up for great Halloween fun. Whether you’re a bingo fanatic or just looking for a chilling good time, our Halloween Bingo event promises a wickedly entertaining evening that’s perfect for everyone. We will be gathering at LightHouse (1155 Market St) at 1:00pm and wrapping up our festivities at 3:00pm.

Saturday, October 28, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

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

Voices of the Community (online)

Do you want a voice in planning adult programming at LightHouse? Your input is crucial for our success. Join our quarterly meeting to help craft programs that suit your interests and needs!

Monday, October 30, from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm

RSVP online for Voices of the Community or to Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.
Health & Wellness

Photo: Meditation bells
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The Calendar follows:

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