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  • Introducing AmeriCorps Next Step Skills Program, Presented by the Overbrook School for the Blind.

    Introducing AmeriCorps Next Step Skills Program, Presented by the Overbrook School for the Blind.
    2024/11/18
    As all blind and visually impaired people know, some of our most enriching experiences come from interactions with like-minded peers. Overbrook School for the Blind, a renowned school for the blind and visually impaired in the Philadelphia region, recognize just how important these opportunities are for blind and visually impaired youth. To fulfill this need, they created the AmeriCorps mentorship program, which connects youth mentors in higher education, or those succeeding in the workplace, to students exploring their path of possibilities ahead of them. Join White Canes Connect contributor Simon Bonenfant, as he sits down with Bethany Johnson, Program Director, as well as Dauad Yasar, student mentor, as they discuss how the program was formed, benefits to both mentors and mentees, and more. From the AmeriCorps Website: “The OSB AmeriCorps Program improves the work-readiness of visually impaired Pennsylvanians ages 16-28. OSB AmeriCorps will enroll 16 visually impaired Pennsylvanians as AmeriCorps members who will deliver a work readiness curriculum and serve as mentors to 60 visually impaired Pennsylvanians per year. This AmeriCorps program is unique in its design. AmeriCorps members and the students they serve are close in age and share the experience of living with visual impairments. This creates especially powerful near-peer mentoring relationships and develops work-readiness of 60 young Pennsylvanians and the AmeriCorps members. In each session, lessons and virtual mentoring will be delivered during afterschool and evening hours to be most accessible to students. Lessons will be conducted in group settings, maintaining the small student to instructor ratio. To meet student needs, AmeriCorps members may offer lessons multiple times per week to allow students to attend the lessons that fit their schedule. Lessons will be 60- to 90- minutes each, and be a combination of presentation, discussion and reflection activities.” Interested in applying for the AmeriCorps next step skills program? Applications for the winter session close on Friday November 22nd. Students can apply using this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1fiw1Za7wVPt4dzulL_Ee6G1hiaAOwzOx5BVRzG4nVRY/viewform?pli=1&pli=1&edit_requested=true Listening after November 22nd? Check back on the AmeriCorps webpage, as they have several application enrollment periods: https://www.obs.org/what-we-do/osb-americorps.cfm . You can contact the program by emailing osbamericorps@obs.org Find them on Facebook and Instagram, or give Bethany a call at: +1(802)363-0296. Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/116 An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect. Donate to the NFB of PA If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/. Contact White Canes Connect Have you benefited from a mentorship experience that’s helped you grow to the person you are today?? We’d love to hear from you! Send us an email at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com or give us a call at: 267-338-4495 Follow White Canes Connect Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast
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    24 分
  • Accessible Dosing with See-Rynge

    Accessible Dosing with See-Rynge
    2024/11/06

    In episode 115 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein are joined by bioengineers Chiadika Eleh and Joey Wei, who share the journey of creating See-Rynge, a groundbreaking liquid measuring device designed specifically for the blind and low-vision community. Originally developed as a senior design project at the University of Pennsylvania, See-Rynge was inspired by the need for blind parents to independently administer liquid medications accurately, a need brought to light during a meeting with Lynn Heitz, President of the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania.

    Chiadika and Joey describe how See-Rynge works: utilizing audio and tactile feedback, the device ensures precise liquid measurement without the need for sight. It’s paired with a companion app that tracks usage and provides dosage reminders, potentially aiding users beyond the blind community, including those with limited motor skills.

    Despite balancing full-time jobs, Chiadika and Joey remain committed to perfecting See-Rynge, sharing their hope to make it widely accessible and affordable. Listeners are encouraged to reach out with feedback or support, and to test See-Rynge at the upcoming state convention.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/115

    Contact Chiadika and Joey About See-Rynge

    Reach out and give feedback to the See-Rynge team via email at SeeRynge@gmail.com. Learn more at https://www.seerynge.com. If you are interested in See-Rynge, let them know at https://forms.gle/p8JSUxHzvm7wjsjm8 .

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    29 分
  • Turning the Page on Accessibility with Krystle Boateng

    Turning the Page on Accessibility with Krystle Boateng
    2024/10/24

    In Episode 114 of White Canes Connect, Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein sit down with Krystle Boateng, the creative force behind Inside Ability Books, a publisher of accessible, large-print children's books. Krystle, who lost her central vision due to uveitis at 19, shares how her personal journey led her to create books that prioritize accessibility through high-contrast text and large fonts.

    The interview explores the profound impact her books have on visually impaired parents and children, with a touching story from Federationist Simone Cooper, who met Krystle at the NFB Convention. Simone describes the joy of finally being able to read to her nieces, thanks to the thoughtful design of Inside Ability's books.

    Krystle also reflects on the challenges and joys of self-publishing, including working with illustrators, navigating the print industry, and building her brand without a large marketing machine. She emphasizes how accessibility benefits everyone, not just those with vision impairments, as teachers, neurodiverse individuals, and librarians have also embraced her work.

    Tune in to hear how Krystle’s mission to break down barriers is just getting started, and how her journey exemplifies the power of inclusive innovation. Discover how a personal challenge evolved into a meaningful business, inspiring a broader conversation about the value of accessible content for all.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/114

    Reach Out to Krystle Boating

    Learn more about Krystle and order her books at https://www.iabilitybooks.com/. Check out her other site Keys to Thy Castle at https://www.kttcdecor.com/. Connect with Krystle on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/inside_ability_books/.

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    48 分
  • Cast Your Vote, Use your Voice: Introducing Vote That Jawn.

    Cast Your Vote, Use your Voice: Introducing Vote That Jawn.
    2024/10/14
    As we move through the fall, it’s time to prepare for election day on November 5, 2024. Join White Canes Connect contributor Simon Bonenfant, as he speaks with Carson Eckhard, Youth Director of Vote That Jawn. They discuss the importance of voting, resources for involving youth in the voting process, and introduce their community voting event happening on October 16th. Vote That Jawn was created to amplify youth voices about issues that matter to them when they submit their ballot. Through community events, featured youth writings, and educational college classes, Vote That Jawn aims to excite youth about voting and issues that matter to them. Carson also announces Trend that Jawn, an event promoting the importance of voting. The event will occur on Wednesday October 16th, 2024, from 4:00 to 6:45 PM, at the Mayor’s Reception room in City Hall. From the Vote That Jawn Website: “Join us Wednesday, October 16 from 4 - 6:45 for Trend That Jawn at Philadelphia City Hall - 1400 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19107. Enjoy food, music and swag as you connect with other young voters, city officials and local journalists as we make voting trendy!” Visit their Website to learn how you can get involved, Register to Vote, read their youth led Blog, or sign up to Become a Member. You can also follow them on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, or TikTok. The team at White Canes Connect encourages everyone to make a plan to vote on November 5th! Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/113 Accessible Voting Episode 108 Diane Gordian from the Pennsylvania Department of State joins the podcast to discuss the importance of ensuring voting accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Key fact: EVERY polling place must have at least one accessible voting machine. Get the direct download at https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_108_post.mp3 or listen on YouTube at https://youtu.be/y9RvhfATNOY?si=dX33jFC0ZYc2NOy5 2024 NFB of PA State Convention Registration is open for this year’s State Convention in Erie from 11/7 to 11/10. Learn more at https://www.NFBofPA.org/2024/. Links are there to register as an attendee, exhibitor, and sponsor. Other links include meal option descriptions, Senior Possibilities Fair registration, and phone numbers to make your hotel reservations. An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect. Donate to the NFB of PA If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/. We Want to Hear Your Story Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com. Follow White Canes Connect Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast Facebook/LinkedIn TwitterX/Threads
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    26 分
  • VisionWalk Philadelphia

    VisionWalk Philadelphia
    2024/09/30

    In Episode 112 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein welcome Bailey Bostelman, Regional Field Director for the Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB). The episode highlights the upcoming VisionWalk in Philadelphia on October 5th, where Lisa will be participating. Bailey shares insights into the mission of FFB, which has raised over $915 million to fund research for inherited retinal diseases like retinitis pigmentosa and Stargardt disease. She emphasizes the importance of community education, connecting those with low vision to resources, and the organization's no-cost genetic testing program. This initiative helps individuals with inherited retinal diseases better understand their diagnosis and access potential treatments.

    Bailey also discusses FFB’s VisionWalk, which began in 2006 and has since raised over $64 million. The Philadelphia walk, part of FFB's annual fundraiser, aims to raise $150,000 to support research and public health education. The episode also highlights FFB’s professional outreach to medical professionals to bridge the gap between diagnosis and available resources. Listeners are encouraged to participate in the walk, donate, or get involved in other fundraising and volunteer efforts.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/112

    Learn More & Connect with the Foundation Fighting Blindness

    Find other VisionWalks at https://www.fightingblindness.org/visionwalk. Contact the FFB at chapters@fightingblindness.org. Listen to episode 057 that featured the Foundation Fighting Blindness at https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_057_post.mp3. Support Lisa’s VisionWalk at https://give.fightingblindness.org/fundraiser/5713819.

    2024 NFB of PA State Convention

    Registration is open for this year’s State Convention in Erie from 11/7 to 11/10. Learn more at https://www.NFBofPA.org/2024/. Links are there to register as an attendee, exhibitor, and sponsor. Other links include meal option descriptions, Senior Possibilities Fair registration, and phone numbers to make your hotel reservations.

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    39 分
  • What to Expect in Erie

    What to Expect in Erie
    2024/09/18

    In Episode 111 of White Canes Connect, co-hosts David Goldstein and Emily Gindlesperger, both Vice Presidents of the NFB of Pennsylvania, discuss the exciting details surrounding the upcoming state convention in Erie. This year marks a return to Erie after over two decades, and the event will take place at the Ambassador Banquet and Conference Center. The venue promises accessibility and convenience, with two hotels connected directly to the center.

    Emily and David provide a rundown of the convention highlights, including a Veterans Celebration, talent show, and the highly anticipated auction and bingo night. There’s also plenty of focus on the food, from a pasta bar on Thursday to a taco and street corn bar on Friday, concluding with a banquet featuring local Lake Erie perch. Emily shares her excitement about the facility's accessibility and cleanliness, addressing last year’s venue challenges.

    They also delve into exhibit hall details, tech demonstrations, and a “Teching Care of Business" session covering both business and assistive technology. The convention promises valuable networking, learning opportunities, and a fun atmosphere for all attendees. For more information and registration, visit https://www.nfbofpa.org/2024.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/111

    2024 NFB of PA State Convention

    Registration is open for this year’s State Convention in Erie from 11/7 to 11/10. Learn more at https://www.NFBofPA.org/2024/. Links are there to register as an attendee, exhibitor, and sponsor. Other links include meal option descriptions, Senior Possibilities Fair registration, and phone numbers to make your hotel reservations.

    Teching Care of Business Session

    Chef Debra Erickson from The Blind Kitchen (https://www.theblindkitchen.com) will join David for a segment of the business and technology Thursday afternoon session to talk about becoming a chef, setting up her store on the web, and teaching other blind individuals how to prepare delicious meals without sight. Listen to episode 081 via direct download at https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_081_post.mp3 to learn more about Debra and her business.

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    1 時間 1 分
  • Erie 2024: Tracy Soforenko’s Path to Leadership and Advocacy

    Erie 2024: Tracy Soforenko’s Path to Leadership and Advocacy
    2024/09/09

    In Episode 110 of White Canes Connect, co-hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein gear up for the upcoming National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania State Convention, which will be held from November 7–10, 2024, in Erie, PA. The episode features an insightful conversation with Lynn Heitz, NFB of Pennsylvania’s president, and Tracy Soforenko, NFB of Virginia president and national representative for the event.

    The discussion covers the significance of hosting the convention in Erie for the first time since 1992, aiming to reach a broader audience of blind individuals across Pennsylvania. Tracy shares his personal journey with the NFB, from initially feeling reluctant to accept his vision loss to becoming an advocate and leader in the community.

    Excitement builds around this year’s convention, with a focus on inclusivity, community outreach, and engaging programming, including the Thursday pasta dinner, Friday’s bingo night, and live auction. Tracy emphasizes the importance of fostering connections and supporting new attendees, while Lynn highlights Erie’s unique charm and delicious banquet options, such as the locally famous Lake Erie perch. Attendees are encouraged to register early and experience the Federation’s positive impact firsthand.

    Contact Tracy via email at tracy.soforenko@gmail.com and via phone at 202-285-4595.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/110

    2024 NFB of PA State Convention

    Registration is open for this year’s State Convention in Erie from 11/7 to 11/10. Learn more at https://www.NFBofPA.org/2024/. Links are there to register as an attendee, exhibitor, and sponsor. Other links include meal option descriptions, Senior Possibilities Fair registration, and phone numbers to make your hotel reservations.

    Teching Care of Business Session

    Chef Debra Erickson from The Blind Kitchen (https://www.theblindkitchen.com) will join David for a segment of the business and technology Thursday afternoon session to talk about becoming a chef, setting up her store on the web, and teaching other blind individuals how to prepare delicious meals without sight. Listen to episode 081 via direct download at https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_081_post.mp3 to learn more about Debra and her business.

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    47 分
  • Blind Social Club Receives $5000 Award for Social Initiatives

    Blind Social Club Receives $5000 Award for Social Initiatives
    2024/08/27

    In episode 109 of White Canes Connect, co-hosts David Goldstein and Lisa Bryant engage in an enlightening conversation with Simone Cooper, founder of the Blind Social Club, and Katie Sampson, an advisor for the Sowing Excellence Awards. Simone shares her journey from starting the International Cuisine Club for the Blind and Visually Impaired in 2017 to changing the name to a more-fitting Blind Social Club, which has since evolved into a vibrant community initiative aimed at fostering social connections among blind and visually impaired individuals.

    Simone discusses the inspiration behind the club, which began as a simple desire to explore diverse cuisines and quickly grew into a broader social platform. The club now hosts various activities, including dining experiences and sensory-based outings, such as an upcoming visit to an apple orchard and winery.

    Katie highlights the significance of the Sowing Excellence Award, which Simone recently won. This award, backed by the U.S. Botanic Gardens and the IDEA Center for Public Gardens, recognizes plant-centered projects that engage underserved communities. Katie emphasizes the importance of connecting people through nature and the potential for such initiatives to create lasting impacts.

    The episode underscores the vital role of community and socialization in overcoming isolation within the blind community, celebrating Simone’s dedication and the broader implications of her work.

    Get more information about the Blind Social Club. Email Simone at BlindSocialClub@gmail.com.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/109

    2024 NFB of PA State Convention

    Registration is now open for this year’s State Convention in Erie from 11/7 to 11/10. Learn more at https://www.NFBofPA.org/2024/. The affiliate has chartered a bus to go from Philadelphia to Erie, making two stops along the way. Cost is $120 and is due by 9/1.

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    51 分