Formerly San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind and Vision Impaired

When Rudy Fontana tried eSight Go for the first time, he immediately recognized how the wearable digital low-vision device could support activities made more difficult by macular degeneration.

“I watch a lot of television, and I really struggle to see people’s faces,” Fontana said. “The distance magnification would really benefit me, and it could also help with reading and looking at my phone.”

Fontana explored the device during a training session at the Vibrant Works Low Vision Tools and Training Center on June 24. Led by Assistive Technology Specialist Christian Sanchez, the session gave participants an opportunity to experience eSight Go’s digital magnification, automatic focus, contrast adjustments and basic text-to-speech features firsthand.

“I was surprised by how automatic it was,” Fontana said. “When I looked up or down, it adjusted to what I needed. I really liked it.”

Vibrant Works hosts monthly training sessions that give people experiencing vision loss, their families and professionals an opportunity to try assistive technology, ask questions and learn how different tools may support everyday life.

The next session will feature the Ruby 10 with Speech on July 29 at 10 a.m. To learn more or register, call 210-531-1547.

Camp Vibrant Adventures recently wrapped up an unforgettable week at Camp Aranzazu, where children and teens who are blind or visually impaired enjoyed accessible outdoor activities, creative experiences and time together in a supportive environment.

Campers spent the week fishing, swimming, kayaking, practicing archery and roasting marshmallows. They also experienced the thrill of the zip line and screamer swing, sang karaoke, created arts and crafts, attended a nighttime pool party and celebrated with a dance.

“It was truly inspiring to see their confidence grow as they built friendships, explored new environments and took on exciting challenges,” said Beverly Broom, senior manager of Independent Living Programs at Vibrant Works.

Throughout the week, campers encouraged one another, stepped outside their comfort zones and discovered what they could accomplish.

Thank you to our donors, volunteers, families, staff and the Camp Aranzazu team for helping create a week filled with adventure, connection and lasting memories.

Experience “& Juliet” with live audio description at the Majestic Theatre on July 12 at 1 p.m.

This fresh, high-energy musical flips the script on one of the greatest love stories ever told, imagining what might happen if Juliet chose a new beginning instead of ending her story with Romeo. Filled with humor, heart and familiar pop anthems, “& Juliet” brings a fun and empowering twist to the stage, while live audio description provides real-time narration to help make the performance more accessible for guests who are blind or visually impaired.

To access the service, stop by Guest Services, located to the left as you enter the theater lobby, to check out a receiver and over-the-ear hook earphones. A valid ID is required.

Don't miss this exciting performance!

What inspired you to join the Vibrant Works board?

I have worked in various careers that are very difficult for certain groups of people. I really like Vibrant Works’ empowerment mission to enable people who are visually impaired to enter and succeed in the careers that interest them. Gaining a clearer understanding of the challenges people who are blind encounter has been both important and meaningful to me.

What do you love most about Vibrant Works?

I like how the organization is focused on enabling people to achieve their full potential and independence. Training in adaptive technology and independent living is important. Providing job opportunities through manufacturing enables people to be independent and have pride in their accomplishments. I really love how the job training and opportunities have expanded beyond assembly workers to include management and IT roles. Moving toward opportunities for people of all talent and skill levels is great work!