Welcome to ASB’s Participant Newsletter
Welcome to Connections, ASB’s participant newsletter! This newsletter is a monthly resource for all things ASB. Read on for upcoming events, program schedules and other opportunities to explore. Feel free to forward this email along to anyone who may be interested in our programs and resources.
Check out some of the new programming opportunities for ASB participants this October!
As we close out September, we are excited to share our October programming opportunities with you! While some programs have already begun, there are plenty of chances to get involved with ASB this fall.
To kick off the season, ASB began our Movement with the PA Ballet series last week on Wednesday from 11 – 12 p.m. These remote sessions focus on the physical technique and artistry of ballet. Every week attendees are encouraged to tell their stories through movement, promoting the idea that communication need not be verbal or visual. Participants also learn about the physical health benefits that consistent movement has on the body and mind.
This week, ASB also began our Yoga For All, a series of sessions running now through Thanksgiving. These classes welcome participants every Monday morning from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m to get up and get their blood flowing. No previous experience is required, and all levels of experience are welcome.
There is still time to sign up and join both of these programs for anyone who may be interested! Contact our Director of Participant Engagement and Outreach, Lexi Jones, at ajones@asb.org for more information and sign up today!
OCTOBER 6: Family, Friends and Professionals Training
Do you have a family member or friend interested in learning about how they can better support those experiencing vision loss? Do you know a professional who wants to learn more about working with individuals experiencing vision loss?
ASB is excited to offer an eight-week series of workshops beginning on Wednesday, October 6 at 11 a.m. available to health care providers, employers, social service workers and anyone who would like to learn more about the social and emotional effects of blindness and vision loss. These workshops are designed to provide information, support and encouragement for those living or working with individuals who are blind or experiencing low vision.
If you know anyone interested in participating, they can email the Community Training Specialist Lynn Heitz at LHeitz@asb.org or leave a message at 215-627-0600 Extension 824.
OCTOBER 7: Women’s Peer Support Group
Join us on Thursdays from 10 – 11 a.m. starting October 7 for our Women’s Peer Support Group where we will discuss issues facing women who are blind or living with vision loss.
If this sounds like a group that might interest you, contact Linda Gaffney at LGaffney@asb.org to join!
OCTOBER 11: New Participant Orientation Group
Tom Barbella and Lynn Heitz are leading a new group designed for individuals who have recently completed an ASB Intake Appointment. The group will discuss personal safety, alternative techniques for accomplishing tasks and home management skills. Staff will provide participants with an overview of ASB’s services and discuss commonly accessed community resources.
This group aims to provide new participants with an opportunity to ask questions, get to know other new participants and ASB staff, and feel welcomed into the organization.
If you or any new participants you know would like to sign up for this group, contact ASB’s Director of Participant Engagement and Outreach, Lexi Jones, at ajones@asb.org or 267-551-0561.
OCTOBER 20: Comcast Internet Essentials Partnership Program Q&A Session
ASB is hosting a Q&A session on its Comcast Internet Essentials Partnership Program, which offers free internet access for individuals who are living with vision loss. This Q&A session will be held on Wednesday, October 20 at 10:30 a.m. and will answer all questions individuals have about the program and eligibility. If you are interested in signing up for this session, register for FREE on ASB’s Eventbrite page.
You can get more information about the program and determine your eligibility by contacting ASB’s Director of Participant Engagement and Outreach, Lexi Jones, at ajones@asb.org or 267-551-0561.
OCTOBER 26: Audio Tour of the Native American Exhibit at Penn Museum
Join ASB on Tuesday, October 26, from 1 – 2 p.m. for an audio tour of the Native American Exhibit at Penn Museum! This virtual tour led by Kevin Schott will shares stories, language and music from different Native American tribes.
If you are interested in this program, contact Linda Gaffney at LGaffney@asb.org or 215-627-0600 x 824.
OCTOBER 30: Philadelphia Ballet
On October 30, the Philadelphia Ballet is offering an opportunity to enjoy live arts again with a program of contemporary works by Choreographer Juliano Nunes, Artistic Director Angel Corella and the Philadelphia Ballet’s Choreographer in Residence, Matthew Neenan. Click here to learn about Nunes’ work “Connection.” Corella and Neenan’s new work will be premiering along with “Connection” on October 30 at Performance Garage.
If you are interested in attending, please contact Beth Deering at bdeering@asb.org.
ASB’s Speaker Series – New October Dates
ASB welcomes professionals from health care and other fields to speak about topics such as health and welfare, insurance and finances, legal assistance and much more!Review the upcoming October schedule below, and contact ASB’s Director of Participant Engagement and Outreach, Lexi Jones, at ajones@asb.org if you are interested in attending any of these sessions.
Topic: Legal Clinic for the Disabled
Date: October 1, 2021
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Topic: Oak Street Health
Date: October 8, 2021
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Topic: Hadley
Date: October 29, 2021
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Topic: Feinbloom Low Vision Center
Date: November 5, 2021
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Stay in Touch
Have questions about ASB’s programs and resources? Looking to get more involved? Please contact ASB’s Director of Participant Engagement and Outreach, Lexi Jones, at ajones@asb.org.