Real World Skill-Building Series (Transition-Aged Youth 12-24)

Our Real World Skill-Building Series offers three sessions annually for youth ages 12-24 who are blind and visually impaired. Each session has its own theme and includes an in-person workshop (which takes places in February, May or November) plus two virtual “Empower Hour” gatherings leading up to each in-person workshop.

Participants in this series enhance their independence, social skills, and practical knowledge in a supportive and inclusive environment while preparing for real-world challenges and opportunities to reach their fullest potential!

Upcoming Session Theme: Café Confidence

During the in-person workshop, participants will practice dining skills through a simulated experience in our Activity Center including navigating to the appropriate table, when and how to order, dining etiquette, and payment. From start to finish and whatever might happen along the way, our staff will prepare participants for their next level of dining independence.

The workshop will culminate with participants putting their skills to use at our “real world” luncheon. Participants will leave with the social interaction, assistive technology, and independent living skills to have more positive dining experiences in the future.

During the virtual “Empower Hour” gatherings, the youth will participate in guided conversations around dining independence.

The Real World Skill-Building Series is designed to support the following Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) skills —

• Orientation & Mobility: Navigating to the appropriate table and exiting the restaurant
• Social Interaction Skills: Dining etiquette and interacting in a social setting
• Independent Living Skills: Arrival at a restaurant and when and how to order
• Recreation and Leisure Skills: Participating in a “real world” luncheon
• Assistive Technology Skills: Accessing a menu and making a payment
• Self-Determination Skills: Demonstrating readiness and gaining dining independence