Riverside | Classes

Four women cooking and prepping food

Welcome Students!

Braille Institute offers three varieties of classes depending on the class offering: on-site, remotely online, and at times a hybrid class will be offered where some students will visit the center hosting the class while other students will join remotely online. We look forward to the next semester with you in attendance!

On-Site Classes for Braille Institute Students: To maintain health and safety practices, visits to Braille Institute centers and on-site classes are limited to registered students, and/or by appointment.

  • Weekly classes in person at our centers for Braille Institute students
  • Classes take place over multiple weeks during a semester
  • Students must have completed a Low Vision assessment or have been on-boarded by a Braille Institute Specialist

Remote Classes For Braille Institute Students

  • Weekly classes conducted online for Braille Institute students
  • Classes take place over multiple weeks during a semester
  • Students must have completed a Low Vision assessment or have been on-boarded by a Braille Institute Specialist

All classes are provided FREE OF CHARGE to our students and community thanks to the generosity of our donors.

On-Site Classes

On-Site classes are held in person over multiple weeks during the semester period and attended weekly. Classes are for individuals who are presently students of Braille Institute. In order to become a student, you must complete a low vision assessment or have been on-boarded by a Braille Institute Intake Specialist.

To register for classes at Riverside, contact the Registrar at 951-787-8800.

Art

The arts not only fulfill the important and fundamental human need for creative expression, but they are also a powerful way to develop tactile and problem- solving skills; they stimulate and maintain visual memory and promote self-confidence.

Quilting by Hand

Mondays 2 – 3 pm
(7 wks, starts Sept 04 & Oct 30)

Hand Piecing a Quilt Top. Learn to hand sew, mark for alignment and complete your very own quilt top, made by you.

Instructor: Alicia

Stay within the Lines & Relax at the Same Time

Fridays 10 – 11 am
(7 wks, starts Sept 08 & Nov 03)

Learn about adult coloring; a healthy way to relieve stress and decrease anxiety while using tactile lines to create your art.

Instructor: Amanda

Reading & Writing

Not being able to read or write standard print does not need to be a barrier to accessing literature or nonfiction. We have classes that encourage exploring audio books and learning the braille code, which enables you to continue enjoying books, magazines and newspapers.

Braille

Tuesdays 10 – 11 am
(7 wks, starts Sept 05 & Oct 31 )

Receive an introduction to the history of Braille, methods of writing and common uses in your everyday life. Learn the Braille alphabet, numbers, and punctuation.

Instructor: Kelly

Remote Class Descriptions

Technology & Communications

Whatever your degree of vision loss there is technology to help you live with greater ease. Discover how to use the latest and most user-friendly devices and apps through one-on-one training at Connection Pointe.

Mondays

Apps for Out ‘n’ About

Mondays 10 – 11 am
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Explore Apple & Google maps: search for places, turn-by-turn guidance for
transit or walking. Blindness specific apps with street names and points of interest. Usually meet virtually; opportunities to walk around BIA in person using class apps.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Daniel

Keyboard for VoiceOver on iPad

Mondays 10 – 11:30 am
(8 wks, starts Oct 23)

Discover how a Bluetooth keyboard with your iPad enhances VoiceOver skills. From basic text editing to website navigation, learn what is possible with keyboard commands.

Held by Laguna Hills Center
Instructor: Salvador

Technology News and Support Group

Mondays 1 – 2 pm

(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Round table discussion on mainstream and adaptive technology.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Nikki

Keyboard for VoiceOver on iPhone

Mondays 1 – 2:30 pm
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Discover how a Bluetooth keyboard with your iPhone enhances VoiceOver skills. From basic text editing to website navigation, learn what’s possible when using keyboard commands.

Held by Laguna Hills Center
Instructor: Salvador

Fusion for Beginners

Mondays 1:30 – 3 pm
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Learn visual settings that make it easier to see your mouse pointer, text cursor, and screen easier to see. Also control the read aloud feature and hear all items on the screen.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Beverly

Introduction to VoiceOver

Mondays 2 – 3 pm
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Learn how iPhone’s Voice Over gestures can allow you to hear everything on your screen. We’ll focus on how VoiceOver works with your Phone, Messages, Mail, and YouTube apps.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Skylar

Tuesdays

Browsing the Internet with Fusion/JAWS

Tuesdays 10 – 11:30 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

(Prerequisite: Fusion/JAWS)

If you have JAWS or Fusion, learn to use keyboard commands to explore various topics such as navigating web pages, reading PDF documents, bookmarking favorite websites, and downloading and saving files to your Windows computer.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Beverly

Basic Editing & Formatting with No or Low Vision

Tuesdays 1 – 2 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Learn document editing and formatting basics: create, save and retrieve a document. Must have mastery of the keyboard. Home computer with MS WORD required.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Nikki

Deep Dive into iPhone & iPad

Tuesdays 2 – 3 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Ever wondered what the apps that come with your iPhone or iPad can do? How about taking control of the settings to customize your device based on your needs.Join us as we take a deep dive on everything that comes with your device.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Nikki

Intro to iPhone & iPad

Tuesdays 2 – 3 pm
(7 wks, starts Sept 05 & Oct 31 )

Take your ability to use the iPhone or iPad to the next level as we explore accessibility features for blind and visually impaired users.

Held by Riverside Center
Instructor: Kelly

Wednesdays

Microsoft Office Tips & Support

Wednesdays 10 – 11 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Learn to find what you want in Microsoft Word’s ribbons and context menus. We’ll also go over the basics of Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Skylar

YouTube App for iOS

Wednesdays 10 – 11:30 am
(7 wks, starts Sept 06)

Learn how to find, view, and save videos on one of the world’s most popular apps. YouTube isn’t just about music and entertainment. Discover an app with over 800 million videos!

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Beverly

Intro to Amazon Alexa

Wednesdays 10 – 11:30 am
(7 wks, starts Sept 06)

Learn Amazon Alexa devices and all they offer such as the Alexa Voice Assistant on the Echo Shows, Fire TV, Tablets, Show and Tel, NFB Newsline, Bookshare, and more.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Hugo

Windows Accessibility for Low Vision

Wednesdays 10 – 11:30 am
(7 wks, starts Oct 25)

Check out Windows accessibility options including magnifier, enlarging your mouse pointer, high contrast color settings, and solid color desktop backgrounds. Learn how to use your voice with Cortana and Dictation.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Beverly

All about the eReader

Wednesdays 10 am – 12 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Learn eReader basics and features and how to download audio books from National Library Services, and much more. Basic braille and an eReader are required.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Earth

Grupo de apoyo y noticias tecnológicas

Miércoles 11 am – 12 pm
(15 semanas, empieza el 06 de septiembre)

Mesa redonda sobre tecnología convencional y adaptativa.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Daniel

Windows Basic with JAWS or NVDA

Wednesdays 1 – 2 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Learn to navigate desktop, Start Menu, Taskbar, Notification area, and much more. Students must have mastery of the keyboard and have a Windows computer.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Nikki

Victor Reader

Wednesdays 2 – 3 pm
(7 wks, starts Sept 06 & Nov 01 )

Learn how the Victor Reader Stream can give you access to books, magazines, local newspapers and much more.

Held by Riverside Center
Instructor: Kelly

Grupo Usuario de Android

Miércoles 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 semanas, empieza el 06 de septiembre)

Unete con nosotros mientras discutimos noticias y applicaiones para Android. Tambien cubriremos como aprovechar al maximo el Talkback y el assistente de Google.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Jose

Thursdays

E-Reader

Thursdays 10 – 11 am
(7 wks, starts Sept 07 & Nov 02)

Learn eReader basics and features and how to download audio books from National Library Services, and much more. Basic braille and an eReader are required.

Held by Riverside Center
Instructor: Kelly

JAWS Basics

Thursdays 10 – 11 am
(7 wks, starts Sept 07)

Learn how JAWS can help you hear everything on the screen, including websites and Word documents. Adjust settings so JAWS speaks at your own speed.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Skylar

Advanced JAWS

Thursdays 10 – 11 am
(7 wks, starts Oct 26)

Master JAWS commands to find what you want on a website quickly, format Word documents, and read PDFs.

Held by Santa Barabra Center
Instructor: Skylar

Q & A: iPhone & iPad VoiceOver

Thursdays 10 – 11:30 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Using VoiceOver on iPhone or iPad, navigate the device even if you can’t see the screen. Make calls, check voicemail, get the weather and more.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Hugo

BARD & Victor Reader Stream

Thursdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Learn the Victor Reader basics by connecting to the BARD library service. A Victor Reader is required and used during classes.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Nikki & Denise

Exploring Accessible Games & Social Apps

Thursdays 10 am – 12 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Learn social networking apps and games with the iPhone/iPad using VoiceOver. Each week, learn and explore a new app. Prerequisites: Have a smart phone and email address.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Earth

Deep Dive into iPhone & iPad

Thursdays 2 – 4 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Ever wondered what the apps that come with your iPhone or iPad can do? How about taking control of the settings to customize your device based on your needs. Join us as we take a deep dive on everything that comes with your device.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Earth

Fridays

Q & A: iPhone & iPad VoiceOver en Español

Viernes 10 – 11:30 am
(15 semanas, empieza el 08 de septiembre)

Con VoiceOver en tu iPhone o iPad, puedes navegar por el dispositivo incluso si no puedes ver la pantalla. Aprendiendo lo básico, podrá hacer llamadas, consultar el correo de voz, obtener el clima y mucho más.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Hugo

VoiceOver on Mac OS

Fridays 10 – 11:30 am
(8 wks, starts Oct 27)

Let’s explore Mac OS with VoiceOver. Learn useful keyboard commands to help you navigate the screen and understand its structure.

Held by Laguna Hills Center
Instructor: Salvador

Victor Reader Stream en Español

Viernes 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 semanas, empieza el 08 de septiembre)

Imagina tener las últimas novelas, revistas, tu música favorita, acceso a más de 36.000 estaciones de radio web, películas descritas por audio, herramientas de referencia en línea y contenido multimedia enriquecido, tus propias grabaciones de voz y textos, todo en la palma de tu mano.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Hugo

Android User Group

Fridays 2 – 3:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 08)

Let’s explore the Accessibility features found in Android phones. Join this interactive group and learn how Android users perform everyday tasks in their phones with the help of magnification, voice commands or TalkBack.

Held by Laguna Hills Center
Instructor: Salvador

Technology News & Support Group

Fridays 2 – 4 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 08)

Discuss the latest news on technology, deals, and services. Questions about the latest tech trend? Want to discuss a unique experience with a device? This group is for you.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Earth

Art

The arts not only fulfill the important and fundamental human need for creative expression, but they are also a powerful way to develop tactile and problem-solving skills; they stimulate and maintain visual memory and promote self-confidence.

Tuesdays

Art & Reading

Tuesdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Create art projects based on assigned readings available on BARD. Students may seek assistance from the Braille Institute Library to access braille and audiobooks on BARD.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Simone

Thursdays

Writers’ Circle

Thursdays 10 – 11 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Discuss the writing process, share your work, and get peer support and encouragement on your projects. Guest speakers will help provide guidance for your writing.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Elena

Basketry

Thursdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Learn the basics of basketry, creating functional works of art. In this virtual class, participants will receive a kit of basic materials to get started.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Simone

Fridays

Creative Writing & Storytelling

Fridays 10 – 11 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 08)

Find your creative voice and build confidence while expressing your thoughts and ideas in your own way. This class aids in daily living skills, builds community, and empowers.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: KT

Music

Our music classes can help students acquire new skills and build upon past experiences with music. With subjects including music performance, theory and analysis, digital production, and listening/appreciation, music classes offer something for music lovers of all skill levels.

Mondays

International Music

Mondays 10 – 11 am
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Listen and learn about music from all around the world.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Fay

Rock Legends

Mondays 11 am – 12 pm
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Unforgettable and mythic artists, come learn more about the people and music that make Rock & Roll so exciting.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Fay

Let’s Talk Music

Mondays 1 – 2 pm
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Join this interactive, music appreciation class as we listen to different musical genres and discuss them. Listen to golden oldies as well as music of today.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Mary

Wednesdays

Poetry of Rock

Wednesdays 10 – 11 am
(12 wks, starts Sept 06)

Explore timeless songs and share memories or reflections you have in relationship with them.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Gail

Intro to Classical Music

Wednesdays 11 am – 12 pm
(12 wks, starts Sept 06)

In this class we’ll listen to and talk about various aspects of what’s broadly termed “classical” music in an easy informal setting.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Gail

Greatest Hits from Bach to Rock

Wednesdays 1 – 3 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Listen to familiar and new songs, while learning about the people and stories behind the music. Decide on music featured each week – Big Band, Country, Rock and Roll – anything goes!

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Stan

Thursdays

Tip Tap Tunes

Thursdays 11 am – 12 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

In this music appreciation class, students request their favorite records and have fun listening, reminiscing, and learning about popular music with classmates.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: DJ Mc Boogie

Cooking

Learn simple adaptive techniques to be able to support activities of daily living so that you can feel more confident and be able to address your most fundamental needs.

Mondays

Microwave and Convection Oven Cooking

Mondays 10 – 11 am
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Learn how to best use these handy kitchen appliances for fast, efficient, and tasty food preparation.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Kt

Cocinar en Microondas

Los Lunes 11 am – 12 pm
(14 semanas, empieza el 11 de septiembre)

A través de instrucciones descriptivas aprende las técnicas para usar el microondas y preparar recetas sanas, sencillas de forma segura y exitosa. Una gran manera de practicar tus habilidades de cocinar sin usar una estufa.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Wendy

Tuesdays

Cooking with an Instant Pot and Air Fryer

Tuesdays 10 – 11:30 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Through demonstrations, descriptive instructions, and by preparing simple recipes, learn to use these flexible multi-cookers with their many user-friendly features and myriad applications.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Mindy

Wednesdays

Basic Cooking without Looking

Wednesdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(6 wks, starts Sept 06)

Learn safety tips and practical techniques to help you continue to cook with low vision or no vision. For students who are new to cooking and want to learn basic skills.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Emily

Thursdays

Beginning Adaptive Cooking

Thursdays 10 – 11:30 am
(7 wks, starts Sept 07 & Nov 02)

Through demonstration and descriptive instructions, learn adaptive cooking techniques to prepare simple recipes safely and successfully.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Mindy

Cooking with Ease

Thursdays 1 – 2 pm
(15 weeks starts Sep 11 )

Use different appliances, meal prep, one-pan dinners, meals in a mug, along with safety tips and hacks.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Leticia

Reading and Writing

Not being able to read or write standard print does not need to be a barrier to accessing literature or nonfiction. We have classes that encourage exploring audio books and learning the braille code, which enables you to continue enjoying books, magazines and newspapers.

Mondays

Braille Reading and Writing

Mondays 9 – 10 am
10 – 11am
11 am – 12 pm

(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught via one-on-one lessons only.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Sharon

Braille Reading and Writing

Mondays through Fridays 10 am – 3 pm
(15 wks, starts May 01, weekly appointments scheduled at time of registration)

Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught via one-on-one lessons only.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Monique

US History

Mondays 1 – 2 pm
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Join visually impaired students to read and discuss a wide range of works focused on the ever-fascinating history of America. Enjoy lively conversations with fellow history buffs.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Hiram

Tuesdays

Book Club

8:30 – 9:30 am
(3rd Tuesday of each month, Sept – Dec)

Mysteries, memoirs, contemporary and classic fiction, come read audio and braille books, in various genres and discuss their themes and the art of writing.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Monique

Braille Reading & Writing

Tuesdays 9 – 10 am
10 -11 am
11 am -12 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation, and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught in one-on-one lessons only.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Sharon

Radio Drama

Tuesdays 10 – 11 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Survey course of “Old-Time Radio” shows, primarily from the “gold age” of radio: 1930-1960. Includes Mystery, Detective, Horror, Science Fiction, Western, Romance, Literary, and Comedy.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Paul

Braille Reading & Writing

Tuesdays 10 am – 3 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Weekly appointment scheduled at the time of registration.

Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught via one-on-one lessons only.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Monique

Braille Reading & Writing

Tuesdays 1 – 2 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation, and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught in one-on-one lessons only.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Sharon

Wednesdays

Writing & Recording Your Memoir & Oral History

Wednesdays 11 – 12 pm
(7 wks, starts Sept 06)

Learn how to shape your story and share it with others as a written memoir or recorded oral history.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Melissa

Braille Reading & Writing

Wednesdays 11 am – 3 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Weekly appointment scheduled at the time of registration.

Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught via one-on-one lessons only.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Monique

Santa Barbara Book Club

Wednesdays 1 – 2 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Read a variety of books, share your opinions on the stories, and discuss books as literature.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Lillian

Book Buffet

Wednesdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(1st Wednesday of each month)

Read and discuss books from a variety of genres, both fiction and non-fiction. Books are suggested and selected by the class members.

Held by Laguna Hills Center
Instructor: Anne

Great Adventure Books

3rd Wednesday of the month 1 – 2:30 pm
(starts Sept 20)

Read a variety of books, share your opinions on the stories, and discuss books as literature.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Yanci

Inspirandote y Creciendo con la Literatura

Miércoles 1 – 2:30 pm
(empieza el 27 de septiembre, el 25 de octubre, el 22 de noviembre)

Leeremos y discutiremos literatura que ayudara a su crecimiento personal.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Yanci

Thursdays

Braille Reading & Writing

Thursdays 10 – 11:30 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Learn the basics of reading and writing the alphabet, numbers, symbols, indicators, and uncontracted and contracted Braille.

Held by Laguna Hills Center
Instructor: Maria

Braille Reading & Writing

Thursdays 9 – 10 am
10 – 11 am
11 am – 12 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation, and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught in one-on-one lessons only.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Sharon

Braille Reading & Writing

Thursdays 11 am – 3 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Weekly appointment scheduled at the time of registration.

Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught via one-on-one lessons only.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Monique

Conviviendo y Leyendo

Jueves 11 am – 12 pm
(empieza el 21 de septiembre, el 19 de octubre, el 16 de noviembre y el 14 de
diciembre)

Los estudiantes que comparten la pasión por la literatura se reúnen una vez al mes para discutir la lectura y otros recursos. Los estudiantes que participen escogeran los libros en anticipo. Se recomienda el uso de la aplicación móvil
de BARD. La Biblioteca del Instituto Braille proporcionará libros hablados y maquinas lectores de libros para quienes los requieran.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Melissa

Fridays

Read to Live, Live to Read

Fridays 10 – 11:00 am
(Sept 22, Oct 20, Nov 17, Dec 15)

Students who love reading adventures, mysteries, romance, and fantasy are welcome in this class. The curriculum is decided by participating students. BARD is encouraged.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Carrie

Braille Reading and Writing

Fridays 10 – 11:30 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 08)

Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation and abbreviations.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Maria

Braille Reading and Writing

Fridays 10 am – 12 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 08)

Weekly appointment scheduled at the time of registration.

Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught via one-on-one lessons only.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Monique

San Diego Book Club

Fridays 1 – 3 pm
(Sept 22, Oct 20, Nov 17, Dec 15)

Students who share a passion for literature and critical thinking meet monthly for lively discussions. The curriculum is decided by participating students. BARD is encouraged.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Dennis & Theresa

Connect with Other Readers

Fridays 2 – 3 pm
(1st Friday of the Month Sept 08, Oct 06, Nov 03, Dec 01)

Once a month, come together with the Braille Institute Library community to share what you have been reading, seek book suggestions, and give reading recommendations.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Elena

Life Skills

Learn simple adaptive techniques to support activities of daily living so you can feel more confident and address your most fundamental needs.

Mondays

Out & About

Mondays 1 – 2 pm
(Sept 11, Sept 25, Oct 16, Nov 06, Nov 27, Dec 11 )

Students meet virtually, choose destinations, and make navigation plans. BIA Staff meets students at first trip, and second trip students make on their own. Put skills into action.

Held by Coachella Valley Center
Instructor: Letty

Home & Personal Management

Mondays 1 – 2 pm
(7 wks, starts Sept 11 & Oct 30)

Learn how to make your home a safe and welcoming haven with tips and adaptive techniques for better organization and maintenance.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Kt

Habilidades de vida Independiente

Lunes 1 – 2:30 pm
(7 semanas, empieza el 30 de octubre)

Logra las tareas cotidianas con soluciones sencillas e instrucciones detalladas sobre el cuidado personal, la organización, las compras, la cocina, la seguridad y el mantenimiento del.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Emily

Independent Living Skills

Mondays 1 – 2:30 pm
(8 wks, starts Oct 16)

Learn better living tips and techniques. Lessons on marking, labeling, money, shopping, note-taking, kitchen skills, dining, cleaning, managing clothing, medications and personal care.

Held by Laguna Hills Center
Instructor: Julie

Conciencia Sensorial

Los Lunes 2 – 3 pm
(7 semanas, empieza el 11 de septiembre y el 30 de octubre)

Aprende técnicas para mejorar tus sentidos y aplicarlas más conscientemente en tus rutinas diarias.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Wendy

Tuesdays

Memory Enhancement

Tuesdays 10 – 11 am
(7 wks, starts Sept 05 & Oct 31 )

Understand how your memory functions, master techniques for improving your brain’s ability to recall information and learn strategies to help you improve focus when you can’t rely on your vision to help you recall where you left your keys!

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Manuele

Rights & Resources

Tuesdays 1 – 2 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

There are many social service agencies and non-profits offering support to address myriad needs. Come discover which resources are available to you in your community.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Manuele

Thursdays

Sensory Awareness

Thursdays 11 am – 12 pm
(7 wks, starts Sept 07 & Nov 02)

Learn techniques to enhance your senses and more consciously apply them in your daily routines.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Manuele

Memory Enhancement

Thursdays 1 – 2 pm
(7 wks, starts Sept 07 & Nov 02)

Understand how your memory functions, master techniques for improving your brain’s ability to recall information and learn strategies to help improve focus without vision.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Manuele

Mejora de la Memoria

Los Jueves 1 – 2 pm
(7 semanas, empieza el0 7 de septiembre & el 02 de noviembre)

Aprende cómo funciona tu memoria, domina las técnicas para mejorar la capacidad de tu cerebro para recordar y aprende estrategias para ayudarte a mejorar tu enfoque cuando no puedas confiar en tu visión. ¡Té ayuda a recordar dónde dejaste tus llaves!

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Wendy

Independent Living Skills

Thursdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(7 wks, starts Sept 07 & Nov 02)

Learn simple solutions to help better manage everyday tasks; including instruction in personal care, organizing, shopping, cooking, home safety and maintenance.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Mindy

Rights & Resources

Thursdays 2 – 3 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

There are many social service agencies and non-profits offering support to address myriad needs. Come discover which resources are available to you in your community.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Manuele

Derechos y Recursos

Los Jueves 2 – 3 pm
(15 semanas, empieza el 07 de septiembre)

Hay muchas agencias de servicios sociales y organizaciones sin fines de lucro que ofrecen apoyo para abordar innumerables necesidades. Venga a descubrir qué recursos están disponibles para usted en su comunidad.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Wendy

Fridays

Maximizing Your Vision: Daily Living Skills

Fridays 10 – 11 am
(7 wks, starts Sept 15)

Low vision students explore a variety of daily living skills to maintain an independent lifestyle. Students must be registered and evaluated by Low Vision OT before enrolling.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Melissa

Orientation Strategies

Fridays 11 am – 12 pm
(Every other week, starts Sept 15)

Low vision students explore a variety of daily living skills to maintain an independent lifestyle. Students must be registered and evaluated by Low Vision OT before enrolling.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Adrienn

Health & Wellness

There is evidence that it is healing to mind, body and spirit when we share and connect with others who are experiencing and adjusting to vision loss. Our support groups and classes teach coping strategies and techniques to relax and better manage stress.

Mondays

Yoga & Tai Chi

Mondays 10 – 11 am
(14 wks, starts Sept 04)

Learn a Chinese martial art practice that helps to increase flexibility, coordination, and balance for your health and wellbeing.

Held by Riverside Center
Instructor: Michael

Ventura County Support Group

Mondays 10 – 11 am
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Sharing coping strategies and personal perspectives. Discuss addressing and rise above challenges. Class features various guest speakers from Ventura County.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Toni & Linda

Las Personas con Artritis Pueden Hacer Ejercicio (PACE)

Los Lunes 10 – 11 am
(14 semanas, empieza el 11 de septiembre)

Ejercicio en grupo para un entrenamiento cardiovascular.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Wendy

Healthy Living Class

Monday 10 – 11:30 am
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Lead a healthier, happier life in this fun and interactive class. Led by a registered nurse, share ideas to decide topics for the class, such as disaster preparedness, importance of good sleep, nutrition tips.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Beth

Women’s Peer Support Group

Mondays 10 – 11: 30 am
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

A peer women’s support group to build confidence and share experiences.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Gerry

Stress Management

Mondays 11 am – 12 pm
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Learn and practice techniques for relaxation to better manage stress in daily life.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Kt

Grupo de Apoyo para Mujeres: Vivir con Pérdida de la Visión

Los Lunes 1 – 2 pm
(14 semanas, empieza el 11 de septiembre)

Comparte tus experiencias y estrategias de afrontamiento relacionadas con la pérdida de la visión. Este grupo de apoyo tiene como objetivo explorar temas sobre la negación, el coraje, el estrés, la aceptación y cómo enfocarse para vivir una vida positiva y productiva con la pérdida de la visión.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Wendy

Support Group

Monday 1 – 2:30 pm
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Build confidence and share experiences with your fellow peers.

Held by Laguna Hills Center
Instructor: Linda

Tuesdays

Yoga for VI

Tuesdays 11 am – 12 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Join a mindfulness based, gentle step-by-step compassionate yoga practice. Experience the healing power of yoga, and facilitating breath work, supported poses, and meditation to help control internal stress, build strength, and develop equanimity in the face of extreme stressors.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Megan

Grupo de Apoyo de Mujeres

Los Martes 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 semanas, empieza el 05 de septiembre)

Grupo de apoyo de mujeres para generar confianza y compartir experiencias.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Emily

Healing Mind & Body

Tuesdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Visually impaired adults practice techniques to keep the mind and body healthy and alert during these challenging times.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Sheila & Fred

Living with Diabetes Support Group

Tuesdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Eat well and make healthier food choices to help control blood sugar. This class also allows peers to share how they navigate diabetes with low or no vision.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Mindy

Peer Support Connections

Tuesdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Come together and support each other in coping with vision loss.

Held by Laguna Hills Center
Instructor: Volunteer

Young at Heart

Tuesdays 2 – 3 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Stay vital and connected in the world by working on building more confidence and honing better communication skills. A class for anyone of any age.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Manuele

Wednesdays

Peer Support

Wednesdays 10 – 11 am
(7 wks, starts Sept 06 & Nov 01 )

Do you have a question about sight loss? Or do you just want a friendly voice to talk to about living a fulfilling life with low vision? Join in and participate in learning more about living well with low vision.

Held by Riverside Center
Instructor: Kelly

Social Skills and Building Confidence

Wednesdays 10 – 11 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Come together for peer support on how to build social skills and confidence while blind or visually impaired.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Linda

Women’s Health Class

Wednesdays 10 – 11:30 am
(7 wks, starts Oct 25)

Focus on topics related to women’s mind/body health like grief, medical health, mindfulness and meditation, clothing/make-up, and blind-etiquette with family & friends.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Jan & Andrea

Support Connections

Wednesdays 1 – 2 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Still working or have recently left the workforce? Group members support each other in coping with vision loss and maintaining social, work, and dating lives.

Ages 30-65.

Held by Coachella Valley Center
Instructor: Stella

Support Connections (Ages 65 +)

Wednesdays 2 – 3 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Still working or have recently left the workforce? Group members support each other in coping with vision loss and maintaining social, work, and dating lives.

Ages 65 and over.

Held by Coachella Valley Center
Instructor: Stella

Thursdays

Grupo de Apoyo Facilitado por Hispanohablantes en Asociación con
Joslyn Wellness Center

Jueves 8:40 – 9:40 am
10 – 11 am
(15 semanas, empieza el 07 de septiembre)

Grupo de discusión facilitado en cómo avanzar en la vida con la visión disminuida. Los temas incluyen conducir el bastón blanco, ansiedad / angustia, hablar con la familia, sobrellevar la situación y cualquier problema de pérdida de la visión que le preocupe. El facilitador capacitado profesionalmente lo ayudará a encontrar soluciones para sobrellevar eficazmente su pérdida de visión.

Held by Coachella Valley Center
Instructor: Gladys

Vision Loss INSIGHT

Thursdays 10 – 11 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

There is true power in being part of a supportive community. Connect with others who are facing similar challenges while you learn to live and thrive with
vision loss.

Held by Coachella Valley Center
Instructor: Tom

Living with Vision Loss Support Group

Thursdays 10 – 11 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

This support group is meant to explore topics on denial, anger, stress, acceptance and how to work towards living a positive and productive life with vision loss.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Toni & Nelly

Peer Support Group

Thursdays 10 – 11:30 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Peer support group for those who are new to vision loss; learn coping skills, learn how to build confidence and share experiences.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Carrie

Blind Rhythm

Thursdays 1 – 2 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Visually impaired students dance and get fit with R&B and Hip-Hop group dance sessions led by a visually impaired instructor.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Shon

Viviendo con la Perdida de Vision

Jueves 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 semanas, empieza el 07 de septiembre)

Serie de discusión para desarrollar la fuerza emocional.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Emily

Mindful Living (Mindfulness)

Thursdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Mindfulness helps health and wellness; studies show that daily mindfulness practice can help lower blood pressure, increase stress and pain tolerance, and manage symptoms of depression and/or anxiety.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Eric

Healthy Living

Thursdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(7 wks, bi-weekly, starts Sept 07)

Eat well and make healthier food choices. This class also allows peers to share how they navigate diabetes and other health issues with low or no vision.

Held by Laguna Hills Center
Instructor: Julie

Peer Support Connections

Thursdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 05)

Come together and support each other in coping with vision loss.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Sheila

Fridays

Men’s Support Group

Fridays 10 – 11:30 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 08)

Peer men’s support group to build confidence and share experiences.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Richard

Santa Barbara Men’s Support Group

Friday 11 am – 12 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 08)

Share your experiences, coping skills and vision loss strategies. Topics on denial, anger, stress, acceptance, and living a positive and productive life with vision loss.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Travis

Move to the Music

Fridays 1 – 2 pm
(8 wks, starts Sept 08)

Learn expressive and spontaneous movement inspired by a variety of music, including music from the ’60s and ’70s.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Jean

Young Adult Group

1 Friday per month 2 – 3 pm
(Sept 22, Oct 20, Nov 17, Dec 15)

Join a supportive community of young adults to discuss a variety of topics including living and thriving with vision loss.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Wanda

Critical Thinking

These classes offer meaningful engagement with a wide variety of subject matter. Connecting and interacting with others in a classroom is a powerful way to combat social isolation and loneliness. Come connect with new ideas and new friends.

Mondays

Explore Guinness World Records

Mondays 10 – 11 am
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Explore the fascinating and incredible world of records from human achievements to extremes of the natural world.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Mary

Trivial Pursuit

Mondays 11 am – 12 pm
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Exercise your mind with a series of tough, brain-bending questions.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Cindy

Talk Foodie to Me

Mondays 11 am – 12 pm
(14 wks, starts Sept 11 )

Join in on conversations, if you enjoy eating food, talking about food, and planning food adventures, this class is for you! The goal of the class is to learn about different types of foods while challenging your knowledge of food with some fun trivia questions.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Mary

Tuesdays

Dungeons & Dragons

Tuesdays 1 – 3 pm
(7 wks, starts Sept 05)

A world of storytelling, magic, mayhem, and fun. Led by long-time D&D player, Scott Ogden, create a world, characters, and a mission with seven weeks to reach victory! The class is limited to a maximum of ten people on a first-come, first served basis.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Scott

Wednesdays

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Wednesdays 10 – 11 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Improve your ESL communication skills for personal and professional success.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Elvia

National Geographic

Wednesdays 10 – 11 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Explore the uncommon history of common things.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Mary

Trivia

Wednesdays 11 am – 12 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Join in conversations that challenge your knowledge of celebrities, music, television, and sports. Challenges and fun for everyone.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Mary

Cliches and Proverbs

Wednesdays 1 – 2 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 06)

Listen and respond to fun, popular cliches used in conversations, movies, books and more.

Held by San Diego Center
Instructor: Mary

Thursdays

Let’s Go to the Movies

Thursdays 9:30 – 11 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Hooray for Hollywood! A class for film lovers. Watch and discuss audio described films and learn more about the art and history of cinema and its makers.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: John

Games & Tips for a Healthy Brain

Thursdays 10 – 11:30 am
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Have fun interacting with classmates, while learning fun, interactive games and activities for a sharp mind.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Debbie & Beth

Sports Talk

Thursdays 11 am – 12 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

A look at teams and individuals who are competing in the fields of athleticism. Come join the lively discussion.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: John

Current Events

Thursdays 11 am – 12:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Join in on conversations about the latest happenings in the news. We will discuss current events in local, national and global news and the impact of these events on our communities.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Helen

Media Club

Thursdays 1 – 2 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Each week students will be assigned interesting and informative media to listen to. The following week we’ll share our opinions, feelings, likes and dislikes.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Dave

Conversational Spanish

Thursdays 1 – 2:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Have fun interacting with classmates, while learning basic words and phrases in Spanish.

Held by Anaheim Center
Instructor: Carmen

Genealogy Research

Thursdays 2 – 3 pm
(7 wks, starts Sept 07)

Learn how to do family history research online. We will be focusing on the free website FamilySearch.org, which is screen-reader accessible.

Held by Santa Barbara Center
Instructor: Elena

Current Events

Thursdays 2 – 3:30 pm
(15 wks, starts Sept 07)

Join in on conversations about the latest happenings in the news. We will discuss current events in local, national, and global news and the impact of these events on our communities.

Held by Los Angeles Center
Instructor: Ken