Youth Transition Program
About
At The Chicago Lighthouse, we create a nurturing environment that supports people who are blind and vision impaired in all areas of life. Our Youth Transition Program provide teens and young adults (ages 15 – 24) with the tools they need for independence. We host a variety of experiences designed for youth who intend to live independently, seek competitive employment, and/or attend a vocational training program or college upon graduation from high school. We’ll work with each participant to address his or her individual needs and challenges.
First Jobs Program
June 19 – August 4, 2023
7 week paid internship
- Combines virtual learning, on-site orientation and paid work experience
- Participants will learn about topics including resume writing, interview skills, career planning, disability disclosure, nonverbal communication skills, self-advocacy and conflict resolutions
- Following training, students will complete a 6-week paid internship (25 hours/week) with the possibility for competitive employment with reputable companies
Deadline to apply is April 7th, 2023
Photography for All (Chicago Residents only)
June 26 – August 4, 2023
6 week in-person and remote paid instruction
An opportunity for youth with vision impairments to explore their creative passions while gaining vocational skills
- Participants will travel throughout Chicago to take photographs with iPads (provided)
- Apple engineers will provide in-depth training on using iPad accessibility features
- Virtual training session covers topics including resume writing, career planning, disability disclosure, nonverbal communication skills, self-advocacy, conflict resolution, and interview skills
- Youth will also participate in One Summer Chicago, providing the opportunity to build relationships, leadership, and life skills
Deadline to apply is April 7th, 2023
ABSF Ski Trip
Let the American Blind Skiing Foundation take you on an experience like no other, as qualified instructors coach participants to downhill ski! Open to all experience levels of skiiers who are blind/vision impaired, the ABSF aims to provide skiiers with “both physical and psychological therapeutic value.”
Lift tickets, skis, boots, and helmet rentals will be provided FREE of charge.
Summer in the City (SitCity)
Summer in the City is currently on a hiatus.
For more information, please contact:
Marla Garstka
(312) 405-2699
marla.garstka@chicagolighthouse.org