Established in 1990, the Experience Youth Program at the Sight Center supplements the school curriculum by teaching visually impaired kids certain skills of daily living that sighted children may learn more routinely. The philosophy of the Experience Youth Program is clear. A blind child, like any other child, can become an independent adult. It just takes the right support. We provide that support by teaching visually impaired children to function independently in a sighted world through a well-rounded and professionally administered set of activities.
Program Highlights
There are 3 components to the Experience Youth Program:
- After School Enrichment includes instruction in personal care, safety, mobility, physical fitness, fine motor coordination, and adaptive computer training. We work closely with the county intermediate units and follow the Expanded Core Curriculum for the Education of Blind Children.
- Summer Experience Program provides activities that broaden kids’ exposure to their community, foster independence and enhance self-esteem. Past activities include visits to the Living Treasures Zoo, fishing with the Sons of Lake Erie, a kite flying picnic at Presque Isle, craft activities, a ride aboard the Titusville/Oilcreek Railroad, and a Day Sail on Brig Niagara.
- Envision Blind Sports: founded in 1999 by Wendy Fagon
Costs and Eligibility
Our program is offered free of charge to qualified blind or severely visually impaired children between the ages of 5 and 21.
