YAGA Workshops
Community Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired presents quarterly workshops for young adults aged 14 to 24. Each workshop focuses on specific aspects of today's youth to assist them with their educational and career pursuits throughout the year.
The transition from high school to college to a career can be daunting. Participation in YAGA workshops facilitates a smooth transition, reducing stress for both students and guardians alike. Given the tools for financial aid and college applications, education in self-advocacy, and career building skills activities, each step in this curriculum is geared towards success.
High school students gain knowledge on coursework requirements needed for entry into the college of their choice, best practices for taking and organizing physical and digital notes, accessing textbook information, and communicating effectively with instructors and administration within their own schools.
While entering college, YAGA workshop participants have the opportunity to speak with entrance counselors, employees within disability services in the college system, as well as instruction on when and how to apply for financial aid and college entry itself.
YAGA workshops also include tours of workplaces eager to hire persons with special needs, opportunities to intern at local businesses as well as real-world interview practice. CCBVI staff shares tips and tricks for proper business attire depending on situations.
Please direct any questions to Elsie Hirata, Executive Director, by e-mail at ElsieH@communitycenterfortheblind.org or by phone at 209.466.3836, extension 215.
Spring Workshop
Exploring internships, careers, and interviews.
Join the CCBVI’s quarterly YAGA workshop focusing on the experience of blind and low vision pre, current, and post collegiate students. You will have the opportunity to speak with business leaders eager to hire individuals with disabilities, develop self-advocacy skills, practice your mobility all while connecting with blind and low vision peers. Throughout the weekend, you will be working with blind and low vision mentors who can assist with employment skills and techniques to increase your access to potential careers.
This quarter’s workshop will equip you with the knowledge of reasonable accommodations while speaking with hiring agents and how to request accommodations for yourself. This workshop will discuss the application process for future careers. The weekend is spent learning from blind and low vision mentors and allies wile engaging in activities which further support young adults in their quest for independence.
Workshop Learning Objectives:
- Participants will examine their own career goals and take a personal career evaluation to identify strengths and areas which can be enhanced with additional training.
- While speaking with low vision and blind professionals, learn how to request reasonable accommodations from Human Resources.
- Students will participate in role playing scenarios to help identify and overcome discrimination in the workplace.
- Learn appropriate social media presence and proper attire for interviews.
Things to Bring:
Your prefered notetaking device(s)
Lunch will be provided
How to Attend:
If you are interested in participating in the YAGA Spring Weekend Workshop, please:
- Contact your counselor at the Department of Rehabilitation to obtain authorization to attend the workshop.
- Schedule attendance with Elsie Hirata, Director of Client Services, by e-mail at ElsieH@communitycenterfortheblind.org or by phone at (209) 466-3836, extension 215.
Please contact Elsie Hirata, Executive Director, for additional information.