The AIU Blind and Visually Impaired Support Program (BVISP) recently hosted a day of activities to challenge and celebrate students who are blind and visually impaired. The event was in coordination with Cane Quest from the Braille Institute and gave students the opportunity to practice orientation and mobility.
The students used their white canes to navigate their surroundings and move safely from one location to another without the use of sight. They climbed stairs and simulated entering and exiting an elevator. They listened to directions from their teachers and peers while completing tasks like picking up objects from the floor and pouring water from a pitcher into a glass.
“We want you to be as independent as possible,” said Jeanine Esch, director of BVISP. “We want you to feel confident about moving safely around your schools and your community.”
The final activity of the day was an outdoor walk along the river from the AIU building to Starbucks. When they returned, each student was acknowledged with a celebratory walk beneath the white canes raised by their teachers.
