EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT!
Please remember, if you wish to include your events in future releases, to use the revised form and send your requests to SCOOP at scoop@viadvocates.org no later than Wednesday prior to weekend. SCOOP will be published on Sunday. This will ensure that your events will be announced on Sight into Sound radio. Remember to include the name and telephone number of the primary contact for each event or your announcement won’t be included on the broadcast. Any items received in any other form will be returned to you for proper formatting. Please share this information with other relevant individuals in your group.
Everyone is encouraged to access the weekly newsletter, Scoop from the Group, via www.viadvocates.org to remain apprised of all official information from the VIA Board. If you have questions, feel free to contact any of the Board members listed below for clarification and/or updates.
BOARD & COMMITTEE CHAIRS:
President, Hospitality, and Communication Chairs
Talana Townsend talana.townsend@gmail.com
1st Vice President and Public Relations Chair
Gayle Metoyer, metoyer903@comcast.net
2nd Vice President and Fundraising Chair
Paul Williams, Sr., pmwilliamssr@gmail.com
Secretary, Leona Jeffery, bichon989@yahoo.com
Treasurer, Rodney Broussard, rbroussard@bffinances.com
Advocacy, Ava Carruth, avacarruth3@outlook.com
Membership, Kenetia Williams, ladyk61210@gmail.com
Thank you for your patience and cooperation
SAVE THE DATE EVENTS
SIGN UP: ADOPT A GRANDPARENT Sponsored by Collaboratory for Aging Resources and Education (CARE) and the University of Houston-Downtown Center for Public Service and Community Research
Date: Immediately
Time:
Details: The Next Generation Needs You!!! Help college students see your generation in a whole new light. Adopt a Grandparent will match you with a college student who wants to learn about life as you see it.
Participating Programs: Americorps Seniors – Foster Grandparents & Americorps – Senior Companions;
Houston Council of the Blind (HCB); Lone Star Living; Montrose Center SPRY Program; Visually Impaired Advocates (VIA); YMCA of Greater Houston Senior Program; YWCA Houston Centers for Seniors Life; Meals on Wheels
Call CARE 346-704-4233 to sign up or talk with Gayle Metoyer at 281-794-2012 for more information. Thank you WellMed Foundation and the University of Houston–Downtown for making Adopt-a-Grandparent possible!
Host Organization: Collaboratory for Aging Resources and Education (CARE) and the University of Houston-Downtown Center for Public Service and Community Research
Location:
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Phone Number: 281-794-2012
Contact Email: metoyer903@comcast.net
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: Bayou City Heat Beep Baseball T-shirt Fundraiser
Date: On going–2026
Time:
Details: Hey Team, Friends, and Supporters! Please help get the word out!
Bayou City Heat Beep Ball are taking orders for the sale of their t-shirts as a fundraiser. All sizes are $25. Below is the order form link. Thanks for your support!
WEBSITE ADDRESS: www.bayoucityheat.com
Spirit Shirt Order Form Link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSde0Yxl0T9MmJc5iA39Gcs6H9oyzjCzlK6slOON2YP2kP87_g/viewform?usp=sharing To purchase a Bayou City Heat Spirit Shirt, call Coach Lee Rodriguec at 832 418 7994. Thank you and we look forward to receiving your order!!!
Host Organization: Bayou City Heat Beep Baseball
Location: N/A
Address: N/A
Cost: $25 all sizes
Contact Name: TBD
Contact Phone Number: TBD
Contact Email: bayoucityheatbeepball@gmail.com
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: HCIL’s VIBE 2026 Kick-Off Meeting & Upcoming Events
Date of Event: Beginning Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Time: Not given
Details: We are excited to invite you to our VIBE Kick-Off Meeting, next Tuesday, January 20th, 2026, at HCIL, where we will come together to discuss our monthly meetings and social trips planned for 2026. This will be a great opportunity to hear what’s ahead, share ideas, and start the year connected and informed.
We will also be sharing details about our first social event of the year happening February 10th— the “Will You Be Mine?” Valentine’s Social Mixer at Bitty & Beau’s Coffee. Transportation will be provided from the Center, and we’ll review pick-up times and logistics during the meeting.
Please call HCIL at 713-974-4621 to confirm your attendance, and to notify if you will need transportation so we can plan accordingly.
Join us in great spirits as we kick off an exciting year of connection, community, and fun with VIBE. We Make Independence Possible!
Host Organization: HCIL’s VIBE
Location: HCIL
Address:
Deadline: Not given
Cost: Not given
Contact Name: HCIL
Contact Number:
Contact Email: 713-974-4621
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: iBUG $500 Tech Shopping Spree
Date of Event: Sunday, March 1 to Saturday, May 23, 2026
Time: N/A
Details: How would you like to go on a $500 shopping spree to get the popular Ray-Ban Meta glasses, new smart speaker, headphones, or other tech device?
For a donation of only $10, you will be entered into iBUG Today’s drawing for a $500 Gift Card to your choice of the Apple, Google, or Amazon Stores to use any way you like. Increase your chances by purchasing 6 tickets for $50!
The drawing will be held at our 15th Anniversary iBUG Apple Workshop on Saturday, May 23, 2026, 2:00 to 4:00 PM Central Time. Winner need not be present.
Purchase tickets via the following methods. Be sure to include your phone number, email, and the words “iBUG Shopping Spree” in the notes section of your payment. Deadline to enter the drawing is Friday, May 22, 2026.
Credit card, debit card or PayPal® account
1. Zelle (ibugtoday@gmail.com)
2. Square Cash App on your smartphone ($iBUG Today)
3. Send check or money order to: iBUG Today, 4719 Caroline St, Houston, TX, 77004
Donation: $10 for 1 ticket or $50 for 6 tickets
Deadline: To enter the drawing is Friday, May 22, 2026
Contact Name: The iBUG Today Team
Contact Email: ibugtoday@gmail.com
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: Launch for Personal Trainer
Date of Event: Friday, April 24, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Details: Life changing fitness launch party! Food, drinks, and door prizes! Haleema Joseph is a blind personal trainer and would like for us to support her in this event. If you have questions, you can call or text her at 832-430-9436.
Deadline: RSVP by April 17 to Lifechangingfitl218@gmail.com
Host: Haleema Joseph
Location: The Lighthouse of Houston
Address: 3602 West Dallas, Houston, TX 77019
Cost: None given
Contact Name: Haleema Joseph
Contact Number: 832-430-9436
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston: Annual Crawfish Boil
Date of Event: Thursday, April 30, 2026
Time: 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Details: Join us at The Lighthouse of Houston for our Annual Crawfish Boil on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 4–7 PM for an evening of great food and sweet treats, music, games, and community fun—all in support of our mission!
For $40, your ticket includes 3 lbs. of delicious crawfish (corn, potatoes, and sausage included) and 2 drink vouchers. Come hungry, bring your friends, and enjoy a laid‑back evening while helping make a meaningful impact.
🎟️ Please RSVP here: https://www.classy.org/event/annual-crawfish-boil/e778854
Host: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: The Lighthouse of Houston
Address: 3602 West Dallas, Houston, TX 77019
Cost: $40
Contact Name: Amajzhane Taylor, Executive Assistant to the President
Contact Number: 713-284-8438 (Direct)
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: Houston Office for People with Disabilities, Houston METRO, Harris Center for Mental Health & IDD, and Southwest ADA Center: 2026 Disabilities Celebration
Date of Event: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Time: TBD
Details: You’re invited! Mark, your calendar!
The Department of Neighborhoods, in collaboration with our partners Houston METRO, The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, and the Southwest ADA Center, extends a heartfelt invitation to the entire Houston disability community.
We invite you to “Save the Date” for a very special event! We are coming together to champion accessibility and well-being for all in our vibrant city.
More details, including location, time, and full vendor list, will be announced closer to the event! For now, please reserve that Saturday, July 25, 2026, for us.
This event is Proudly Presented by the Office for People with Disabilities. We are excited to collaborate to make this a truly memorable and impactful day for everyone.
Stay tuned for updates, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Host Organization: Office for People with Disabilities
Location: TBD
Address: TBD
Cost: None given
Contact Name: Houston Office for People with Disabilities
Contact Number: 832-394-0814
Contact Email:
SAVE THE DATE EVENT (Reserve la fecha): 2026 Houston Community White Cane Safety Day (Día de la Seguridad del Bastón Blanco de la Comunidad de Houston 2026)
Date of Event: Saturday, October 10, 2026 (Sábado, 10 de octubre de 2026)
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (De 9:00 a. m. a 12:00 p.m.)
Details: Mark your calendars and save the date! (¡Marque sus calendarios y reserve la fecha!)
5th Annual Houston Community White Cane Safety Day ( 5.º Día Anual de la Seguridad del Bastón Blanco de la Comunidad)
Organized by the Blind for the Blind (Organizado por personas ciegas, para personas ciegas)
“Creating Awareness Promoting Independence” (“Creando conciencia, promoviendo la independencia”)
More information coming soon (Más información próximamente!)!
Host Organization: 2026 Houston Community White Cane Safety Day Committee
Location: City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center
Cost: None given
Contact Name: 2026 Houston Community White Cane Safety Day Committee
Contact Number: Not given
Contact Email: Not given
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: LIGHTHOUSE OF HOUSTON (LOH): Events, Programs and Activities
Date of Event & Time: SEE INDIVIDUAL EVENT, PROGRAM & ACTIVITY BELOW
Details: Wishing you a Happy New Year from The Lighthouse of Houston!
A. Tandem Bike Riding with Achilles International – Saturday, 8-10 AM
B. SINGO BINGO – Friday, 6-8 PM
C. Baking and Cooking Class – Saturday, 10 AM-12 PM
D. Creating With Blind Abandon All Ages Art Class – Saturday, 1-3 PM
E. The Lighthouse Peer Support Group, Tuesday, 10-11:30 AM
F. Adult Gardening Class – Monday, 10 AM – 12 PM
G. Book Club – last Thursday of each month, 4:00-5:00 pm in the Activity Center in Building 2
H. Diabetes Support Group – Every Wednesday, 11 AM to 12 PM, Click to Contact Serena or Serena Valentine at 713-204-1106
1. Licensed Adult Day Program – The Lighthouse of Houston’s Licensed Adult Day Program is for people who are blind, low vision, or have multiple conditions. A health assessment and physician orders are required (blind or low vision, health condition, multiple disabilities.) Participants must be Medicaid Eligible. Limited space is available – reserve your spot today! When: Monday-Friday from 7:30 AM to 4 PM (no holidays). There is a program cost of $33/day. Click to Contact Youth and Adult Services
2. Online Workshop: Understanding Low Vision Join us for an informative workshop that sheds light on the topic of low vision, clarifies the differences between being blind and legally blind, and highlights the supportive services provided by The Lighthouse of Houston’s Low Vision Clinic. This session aims to educate and inform about the spectrum of vision impairment and how our clinic can offer meaningful assistance. It’s an opportunity for individuals, caregivers, and community members to learn more about low vision and the resources available to enhance quality of life. Where: Watch live on Facebook Watch live on YouTube
3. All Ages Art Class:
We are so excited to partner with Creating With Blind Abandon to bring art classes to The Lighthouse of Houston. Unleash your creativity, explore new ways to express yourself, and join us in a fun, supportive environment to bring your ideas to life.
Where: The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
4.Technology and Employment Training–Learning and knowledge are power, and our focus is providing people who are blind and/or low vision with access to the right technology and trainings that best fit your needs and goals.
Talkback Training: Comprehensive training for Android device accessibility, teaching essential phone functions, app navigation, and smartphone usability.
Customer Service Certification: Training program focusing on computer skills, assistive technology, and customer service skills for entry-level positions.
Job Skills & Pre-Employment Programs: Job Readiness program Pre-ETS program for students ages 14-22
Microsoft Office Training: Learn essential functions of Word, Excel, Outlook, and other Microsoft apps using JAWS screen reader. NOTE: Basic JAWS knowledge is required for Microsoft Office and Google Suite classes.
Google Suite Workshop: Comprehensive training on using Google Docs, Sheets, Drive, Calendar, and Forms with JAWS screen reader. NOTE: Basic JAWS knowledge is required for Microsoft Office and Google Suite classes.
Community Computer Lab: There is now a community computer lab at The Lighthouse of Houston, where blind and low vision individuals can practice essential computer skills, connect with community and explore endless accessible opportunities. The computer lab is free and open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM. For more information contact our Education and Training Department at 713-527-9561 Option 5 or click the button below to send them an email. Visit our website to register. Click to Contact our Education and Training Department
5. Learn Braille Skills
Schedule an appointment today to learn the fundamentals of basic braille, basic computer operating skills and fundamentals of typing. Services are scheduled by appointment only and are provided by volunteer services at The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019 by Appointment Monday-Thursday. To register, contact Monique Mason at 281-891-3602.
6. Resource Information Sessions at LOH
Join us every 3rd Friday for the News You Can Use! information session featuring guest speakers, focusing on visually impaired blind and low vision community support and resources tailored to your needs. Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to connect and learn! In-person from 12PM to 2PM at The Lighthouse of Houston. Provided By V.I.E.O.L. Visually Impaired Equality Of Life.
Where: The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
When: The next meeting is Friday, August 16th from 12PM to 2PM
Contact Monique Mason for more details, please text: 281-891-3602 or click the button below to send her an email. Click to Contact Monique
7. Employment Opportunities: The Lighthouse of Houston is an inclusive organization that employs people of all backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, education levels and disabilities. About 58% of our employees are blind or visually impaired, and many have participated in our vocational training programs. Click the button below to view our current job openings. View Job Openings
8. Honor the Memory of a Loved One by Donating a Brick: Honor the memory of a loved one and make a lasting difference in the lives of people who are blind or low vision. For just $100, you can donate a personalized brick at The Lighthouse of Houston. Contact Daryan Jones for more information.
Click to Contact Daryan
9. Free Goalball Clinic for all ages. We would like to invite you to participate in a free introductory Goalball Clinic with “Big Mike” Tanguma, with Metro Blaze Blind Athletes! He will be hosting the event on Saturday, January 24th, from 11:00am – 1:00pm in the Activity Center at The Lighthouse of Houston. The address is 3602 W. Dallas St., Houston, TX 77019. The Lighthouse of Houston will serve as one of the locations for the Goalball team that Metro Blaze is beginning.
This is one of the sports in which athletes compete in for the Paralympics! Please respond to this email if you or your child plans to attend. Please list the names and ages of all participants.
Come out and meet some new friends while learning a new adapted activity for people who are blind or have low vision!
Host Organization: LIGHTHOUSE OF HOUSTON
Location: LIGHTHOUSE OF HOUSTON
Address: 3602 W. Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Katherine Trimm | Adult and Youth Program Manager
Contact Number: 713-284-8424 W; 832-630-5125 C; 346-781-8036 Fax
Contact Email: ktrimm@houstonlighthouse.org
WEEKLY EVENTS
EVENT: SIGHT INTO SOUND (SIS): APRIL MOVIES & BOOK READINGS
Date of Event: Month of APRIL
Time: Movies times are Saturday night at 10 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. Book readings are 10 PM and 11 PM
Details: The movies for APRIL are:
4/19 Sunday Afternoon @ 2pm Zootopia (1hr 48mn)
4/25 Saturday Night @ 10pm Anaconda (1hr 39mn)
4/26 Sunday Afternoon @ 2pm Zootopia 2 (1hr 48mn)
BOOK READINGS FOR APRIL
10 p.m. – Nighttime Book Hour
The Charm School by Nelson DeMille(4/3-5/7)
11 p.m. – Nighttime Book Hour
The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie (4/2 – 4/20)
The Moving Finger by Agatha Christie (4/21-5/18)
PROGRAM GUIDE: https://mail.yahoo.com/d/folders/1/messages/107831#:~:text=PROGRAM_GUIDE_2024,951.5kB
For additional information, please contact Kari Musgrove, Executive Director, Sight Into Sound (SIS).
Host Organization: SIGHT INTO SOUND
Location:
Address:
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/G
Contact Name: Kari Musgrove, Executive Director
Contact Number: 713-622-2767
Contact Email: kari.musgrove@sightintosound.org
Website: Sightintosound.org
EVENT: VISUALLY IMPAIRED ADVOCATES (VIA) – HOUSTON: SUPPORT GROUP MEETING–NO MEETING
Date of Event: Thursday, April 23, 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Central Standard
Details: It is April 23, 2026 and it’s our 4th Thursday–no meeting!!! The VIA weekly support group for Thursday, April 30, 2026, will feature a Transportation Roundtable with Metro & Link Houston from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. Don’t forget to set your METRO rides accordingly.
Protocol for VIA-Houston In-Person Support Group meetings is as follows:
1. Must wear mask upon entering meeting room and throughout meeting
2. Will meet in-person on the first through third Thursdays of each month. Fourth Thursday will be an off day. NOTE: If a month has five Thursdays, meeting will be held on the fifth Thursday at West Gray.
Meetings will also be held on ZOOM for those uncomfortable with returning to in-person meetings. Looking forward to seeing you!
Join ZOOM Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4138244331
Host Organization: VISUALLY IMPAIRED ADVOCATES (VIA) – Houston
Location: City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC)
Address: 1475 West Gray, Houston, TX 77019 and ZOOM Conference Platform
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Number:
Contact Email: metoyer903@gmail.com
EVENT: YOGA FOR THE BLIND–MEETINGS SUSPENDED
Date of Event: Thursday, April 23, 2026
Time: 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Detail: Due to the unavailability of our Yoga instructor, Yoga will be suspended beginning this Thursday, February 19. Please stay tuned for the notice to resume the class. Thank you for understanding.
Host Organization: Houston Council of the Blind (HCB)
Location: City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC)
Address: 1475 West Gray, Houston, TX 77019
Deadline: N/A
Cost: No charge
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Number:
Contact Email: metoyer903@comcast.net
EVENT: LIGHTHOUSE OF HOUSTON CHOIR
Date of Event: Thursday, April 23, 2026
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Details: Rehearsals are held every Thursday evening from 5:30 pm to 7 pm in Building 2’s Activity Center. If you plan to join the Lighthouse Choir, please bring a three-ring binder or folder to store your music. We will have music in both Braille and large print. For any questions, please call 713-527-9561.
Host: Lighthouse of Houston
Location: Activity Center, Building 2
Address: 3602 West Dallas, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Dr. Daniel Kramlich, Director
Contact Number: 713-527-9561
EVENT: iBUG Mac Buzz
Date: Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Time: 5:00 to 6:00 PM
Details: Mac Buzz is a free Q&A help session for anyone with MacOS and Mac hardware accessibility questions or issues. Mac Buzz is facilitated by advanced iBUG member, Herbie Allen.
Facilitator and Contact: Herbie Allen, herbie.allen@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Homeland Hangout, S1E7, S1E8
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 PM
Details: You are invited to iBUG’s next Homeland Hangout, a watch party of the Primetime Emmy Award-winning series, Homeland, which originally aired on Showtime in 2011 to 2019. Homeland is a political espionage thriller that follows Carrie Mathison, a brilliant but deeply troubled CIA officer whose instincts often place her ahead of the intelligence community—though at great personal cost. We watch two episodes each on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. A short group discussion follows each episode. Note that the episodes are the audio track (no video) with audio description. Rated R for violence, language and sexual content. iBUG Homeland Hangout is facilitated by Michael McCulloch.
Facilitator and Contact: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Night at the Virtual Movies
Date of Event: Friday, April 24, 2026
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Details: Join us for Virtual Movie with the iBUG family. Facilitated by Michael McCulloch and Sandhya Rao. You may join in starting at 7:15 PM for the pre-movie social time with song games, jokes, and plenty of argle-bargle. Discussion and trivia will follow immediately after the movie. The iBUG Virtual Movie is the audio track (no video) with audio description. Please share with others that may be interested.
Feature: Something The Lord Made (2004)
Rated: PG; 1hr 50min; medical drama, biography
Storyline: Alfred Blalock (1899-1964), a cardiologist (therefore, self-confident to the point of arrogance), leaves Vanderbilt for Johns Hopkins taking with him his lab technician, Vivien Thomas (1910-1985). Thomas, an African-American without a college degree, is a gifted mechanic and tool-maker with hands splendidly adept at surgery. In 1941, Blalock and Thomas take on the challenge of blue babies and invent bypass surgery. After trials on dogs, their first patient is baby Eileen, sure to die without the surgery. In defiance of custom and Jim Crow, Blalock brings Thomas into the surgery to advise him, but when Life Magazine and kudos come, Thomas is excluded. Will he receive his due?
Director(s): Joseph Sargent
Writer(s): Peter Silverman, Robert Caswell
Star(s): Cliff McMullen, Yasiin Bey, Luray Cooper, Alan Rickman
Award(s): Won 3 Primetime Emmys, 17 wins & 32 nominations total
Review: https://variety.com/2004/scene/markets-festivals/something-the-lord-made-1200533165/
Join the Zoom meeting: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/marty-supreme-movie-review-2025
One tap mobile from a smartphone: +13462487799,,7428486329#,,,,*369978# US
Dial from a landline: +1 346 248 7799 US
Meeting ID: 742 848 6329, Password: 369978
Contact Name: Sandhya Rao
Contact Email: sraotexas@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Apple Workshop
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Time: 2:00 to 4:00 PM
Details: You are invited to the upcoming iBUG Apple Workshop which explores all things from the Apple-verse. This free fun-filled training session will review the latest news/rumors, conduct app demos, and learn more about the accessibility features of Apple products.
Facilitator(s): Michael McCulloch and Sandhya Rao.
Contact: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Mini-Buzz
Date: Tuesday, April 28, 2026
Time: 5:00 to 6:00 PM
Details: This free Q&A help session is for anyone with questions or issues about hardware and accessories that connect to iOS devices such as smart glasses and other wearables, smart things in the home, external chargers, speakers, etc.
Facilitator(s): Sandhya Rao and Michael McCulloch
Contact: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Mac-N-Talk
Date: Tuesday, April 28, 2026
Time: 7:00 to 8:30 PM
Details: Are you thinking about getting a Mac? Are you wondering if you will be able to learn the MacOS on your own? Do you have issues or questions about the accessibility features of your Mac? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, then please join us for this free iBUG Mac-N-Talk training session.
Facilitator(s): Advanced iBUG members, Chanelle and Herbie Allen
Contact: Chanelle Allen
Contact Email: chanellem.allen@gmail.com
EVENT: It’s iBUG’s Life – No Meeting
Date: Thursday, , 2026
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 PM
Details: Join iBUG facilitator, George Battiste, as he hosts another conversation on independent living and life skills issues, adaptations, and tips for the blind.
This month’s free interactive and engaging training session will focus on TBD.
Facilitator: George Battiste
Contact: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG VILA Book Club–MAY
Date: Thursday, May ?, 2026
Time: 7:00 to 8:30 PM
Details: Join us to discuss and critique MAY’s featured reading: TBD
Facilitator:
Contact: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS)–MAY MEETING CANCELLED
Date of Event: Saturday, May 16, 2026–CANCELLED
Time: 10:00 a.m. -11:30 a.m.
Details: I had mentioned at our last Touch Tour that the next program would be on Saturday, May ?. Unfortunately, I’ve just found out that a big Guinness World Record/ FIFA event is happening right across the street in Hermann Park at the same time as our scheduled Touch Tour. I fear that the area will be too congested for MetroLift/ cars to easily access the Museum and for everyone to have a good experience. For this reason, I am cancelling the Touch Tour that was scheduled for May ?. I will do my best to find a make-up date and let you all know as soon as possible! Please reach out if you have any questions.
Please RSVP to me via email or phone so we know how many people to expect. Attendance may be limited. My email is mwallin@hmns.org or accessprogramming@hmns.org. My phone number is 713-639-4620. If I am away from my desk, please leave me a message with your name, email, and phone number and let me know you will be attending the Touch Tour. This event is free to attend, but parking in the Museum garage and entrance to special exhibits are not included. If you plan to park in the garage, you can make payment at the Box Office or as you exit the garage.
We hope you can attend, and please reach out to me with any questions!
Host Organization: Houston Museum of Natural Science
Location: Houston Museum of Natural Science
Address: 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77004
Deadline: RSVP via email (accessprogramming@hmns.org)
Cost: Admission is free to attend. Parking and special exhibits are not included; make payment at the Box Office or as you exit the garage.
Contact Name: Matti Hammett Wallin
Contact Number: 713-639-4620
Contact Email: mwallin@hmns.org or accessprogramming@hmns.org
Website: hmns.org/access
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HoustonMuseumOfNaturalScience
EVENT: Houston Council of the Blind (HCB): Monthly Meeting
Date of Event: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Details: Greetings HCB members!!! Regular business meeting.
Host Organization: Houston Council of the Blind (HCB)
Location: City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC)
Address: 1475 West Gray, Houston, TX 77019
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Number:
Contact Email: metoyer903@comcast.net
EVENT: True Vision Baptist Church: Women’s Bible Study
Date of Event: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Details: True Vision Women’s Bible Study will be the Gospel of John, chapter 4, verses one through 42.
Conference call number: 425-535-9221, no code is needed
Host Organization: True Vision Baptist Church
Location: True Vision Baptist Church
Address: 5700 Maple Hill Drive, Houston, TX 77088
Deadline: None
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Number: 281-794-2012
Contact Email: metoyer903@comcast.net
EVENT: Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH): Art Beyond Sight–MAY MEETING
Date of Event: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Details: Hello everyone, and happy new year! We hope you will kick off 2026 with us at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston this Saturday, May ?, at 11 am. Al Mock will lead the discussion.
SPECIAL NOTES for MAY:
Meet us in the lobby of the Kinder Building, located at 5500 Main Street. There is a drop-off spot for Uber and MetroLift.
See this link for a photo: tps://maps.app.goo.gl/iURVnZok6fYxXztD7 .
Café Leonelli is located in the Kinder Building. Their menu is here: https://www.cafeleonelli.com/ if you would like to make a day of it!
Host Organization: Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH): Art Beyond Sight
Location: Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH)
Address: Audrey Jones Beck Building, 5601 Main Street, Houston, TX 77004
Deadline: Please RSVP to me sniemeyer@mfah.org if you would like to attend!
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Stephanie Piefer Niemeyer, Learning and Interpretation Department, Senior Specialist for Docent Programs
Contact Number: 713-830-5237
Contact Email: sniemeyer@mfah.org
EVENT: Memorial Lutheran Church: Blind Bible Study
Date of Event: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Details: Come join us for Blind Bible Study at Memorial Lutheran Church. Lunch is also provided. For more information, please call Arun Gaalla at 832-687-2840.
Host Organization: Memorial Lutheran Church
Location: Memorial Lutheran Church
Address: 5800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77057
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Arun Gaalla
Contact Number: 832-687-2840
Contact Email: arun.gaalla@gmail.com
RESOURCES
CITY OF HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Contact Name: Public Affairs Department
Contact Phone Number: 832-394-6633
Contact Email:
DIGNITY MEMORIAL
Date of Event: Call for details
Details: For information regarding end of life needs.
Host Organization: Dignity Memorial
Contact Name: Carla Baker
Contact Phone Number: 954-347-0071
Contact Email: carla.baker@dignitymemorial.com
GGC GROUP CORPORATION
Details: Who will take care for us when we can’t care for ourselves. What’s Your Plan????
Schedule a meeting
Host Organization: GGC Group Corporation
Contact Name: Deborah Crumbley
Contact Phone Number: Office 832-263-8314; cell 832-419-1416
Contact Email: deborah@ggcgroupcorp.com
MAYOR’S OFFICE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Date of Event: Call for details
Details: For housing or food needs
Host Organization: Mayor’s Office for People With Disabilities (MOPD)
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 832-394-0814
Contact Email: mopdmail@houstontx.gov
Website: https://www.houstontx.gov/disabilities/
SPECIALIZED TELECOMMUNICATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (STAP)
Date of Event: Call for details
Details: Helps people who have a disability that interferes with their access to telephone networks purchase basic specialized assistive equipment or services. STAP typically covers the cost of most phones included in our voucher categories.
Host Organization:
Contact Name: Henry Brennan
Contact Phone Number: 409-904-2368
Contact Email:
HOUSTON CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING (HCIL)
Host Organization: Houston Council Independent Living (HCIL)
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 713-974-4621 or 1-877-877-7082
Contact Email:
Website: hcil.cc
BAKER-RIPLEY UTILITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Date of Event:
Details: Our Baker-Ripley Utility Assistance Program has funding available to assist eligible Harris County residents with the following:
—Up to $1,600 of assistance for electricity or gas bill paid directly to the utility provider
—Up to $1,600 of assistance with disconnection notices
—Up to $5,000 of assistance for service and repair of heating and cooling systems.
Applicants must meet the following Program Eligibility criteria:
—Reside in Harris County
—Meet Income Guidelines at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
Applications may also be requested by contacting our Utility Assistance Hotline at 713-590-2327, through United Way Helpline 2-1-1, and by going to our website https://www.bakerripley.org/services/utility-assistance-program
Host Organization: Baker-Ripley Utility Assistance Program
Contact Name: Kamila Javanshir, 281-771-9366
Contact Phone Number: 713-590-2327 or United Way Helpline 2-1-1
Contact Email: kjavanshir@bakerripley.org
Website: https://www.bakerripley.org/services/utility-assistance-program
EVENT: ANGEL EYES VIRTUAL FITNESS PROGRAM
Date of Event: Contact for day and date
Time: Contact for time
Details: Angel Eyes Fitness and Nutrition, Inc. located in Covington, GA is a 501(c)(3) established to empower and equip the Blind and Visually Impaired with specially targeted and tailored fitness and nutrition counselling programs. Several types of classes are offered to meet your needs three days out of the week. Tai chi has been added on first and third Tuesdays of every month.
Each month classes will rotate on Thursday at 11 a.m. and Saturday, 11 a.m. The Monday night class is the only class remaining the same at 5:30 p.m. (CT). Classes included are Gutt and Butt Boost, Kickboxing with Toning, Boxing (Boxlates Barre–Boxing, Ballet style, Standing Pilates), Pilates with Chair Option, Werk It! Walking Fitness, Dance Fitness, Flex and Stretch, as well as Chair Fitness with Fitness Tools.
For more information, click on angeleyesfitnessandnutrition.com and register as classes are on ZOOM. If you need help registering or additional assistance, email Dawn Wells, program founder, at angeleyesfitnessandnutrition@gmail.com .
Host Organization: Angel Eyes Fitness Program
Location: VIRTUAL–ZOOM platform
Address: VIRTUAL–ZOOM platform
Deadline: Not given
Cost: Not given
Contact Name: Dawn Wells, Program Founder
Contact Number:
Contact Email: angeleyesfitnessandnutrition@gmail.com
EVENT: Visually Impaired But Empowered (VIBE)–Social Support Group
Date of Event: Wednesdays
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Central Time
Details: Join VIBE, a dynamic, new support group hosted by Houston Council for Independent Living (HCIL). We are not just about coping, but thriving!!!
Click link below for more information: https://mail.yahoo.com/d/folders/1/messages/107792#:~:text=%3CVIBE%20General%20Flyer%20(2).mp4%3E
Host Organization: VISUALLY IMPAIRED BUT EMPOWERED (VIBE)
Contact Name: Jason Jones
Contact Number: 713-974-4621
Contact Email: jjones@hcil.cc
FOR EDUCATION
National Homework Hotline for Blind and/or Visually Impaired Students
Date of Event:
Details: This ’Hotline’ is actually a ’Google Form’ but other than that the NHH-BVI reports that it is a free service for K-12 and college students in the United States. NHH-BVI responders are experienced TVIs, tutors, mentors, STEM professionals, and college students who are eager to assist blind/visually impaired. Areas of support include: JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver for MacOS and iOS devices, Nemeth and literary braille, Cranmer abacus, Refreshable braille displays, Braille notetakers, Core subject, tutoring (Math, ELA, Science, Social Studies), and Talking Scientific Calculators.
To request assistance, complete this Help Request Form, and a Hotline Responder will contact you:
National Homework Hotline-BVI Help Request Form (google.com)
Host Organization:
Contact Name: Ron Graham, President, Visually Impaired People of South East Texas (VIPSET)
Contact Phone Number:
Contact Email: rgraham@cebridge.net
Website: http://www.havintx.org/our-groups/vipset/
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Details: The Social Security Administration (SSA) wants to let you know that during the current coronavirus pandemic it continues to provide help to you and others in your community.
While offices are not providing service to walk-in visitors due to COVID-19, SSA remains committed to providing ongoing benefits and vital services. SSA remains ready and able to help you by phone with most Social Security matters and must make appointments. You can speak with a representative by calling your local Social Security office or their National 800 Number. They provide local office phone numbers conveniently online with their Social Security Office Locator.
Lastly, SSA also understands that getting medical and other documentation can be difficult due to the pandemic. So, SSA is continuing to extend certain deadlines wherever possible. Reach out now and get the help you need!
Website: https://www.ssa.gov/
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
Contact Email:
Helpline for Blind, Older Individuals
Details: We have an exciting announcement with a new Helpline for our Older Individuals who are Blind program–anyone 55 and older and may need assistance with services due to vision loss. We are in the process of getting flyers, posters, and new brochures printed with our new information.
Host Organization: Texas Workforce Commission
Contact Name: Juanita Barker, Director, Office of Blind Services Support
Contact Phone Number: 512-936-3388
Contact Email: juanita.barker@twc.state.tx.us
Website: oibinfo@twc.texas.gov.
The Lighthouse of Houston: Diabetes Education and Support Group
Date: Every Wednesday
Time: 11 AM to 12 PM
Details: Are you looking to connect with others who are blind or low vision and living with diabetes? Join our diabetes support group and make those meaningful connections. Learn about educational resources and meet new friends who will understand the challenges of managing diabetes, and will provide companionship and emotional support in a caring environment.
Sign up today! Click to Contact Serena
For more information and to register, contact Serena Valentine at 713-204-1106 or email COREIitiative@peoplenomix.org.
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Contact Name: Serena Valentine
Contact Phone Number: 713-204-1106
Contact Email: Click to Contact Serena
EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston: Learn Braille Skills
Date: By Appointment–Monday through Thursday
Time: By Appointment
Details: Schedule an appointment today to learn the fundamentals of basic braille, basic computer operating skills and fundamentals of typing. Services are scheduled by appointment only and are provided by volunteer services. To register, contact Monique Mason at 281-891-3602 or click the button below to send her an email.
Click to Contact Monique
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Monique Mason
Contact Phone Number: 281-891-3602
Contact Email:
EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston–All Ages Art Class
Date: SEE BELOW
Time: 1 PM to 3 PM.
Details: All Ages Art Class: We are so excited to partner with Creating With Blind Abandon to bring art classes to The Lighthouse of Houston. Unleash your creativity, explore new ways to express yourself, and join us in a fun, supportive environment to bring your ideas to life. Where: The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019 When: The next art class is Saturday, August 17th from 1 PM to 3 PM.
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Monique Mason
Contact Phone Number: 281-891-3602
Contact Email:
EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston–Tandem Bike Rides
Date: Call to confirm which Saturday monthly
Time: By Appointment
Details: Don’t miss out on the fun of our upcoming tandem bike ride days! We are teaming up with Achilles International and hope you can join us for tandem bicycle riding and a breakfast social afterwards.
Where: Stude Park – 1031 Stude Street, Houston, TX 77007
Schedule: September 7th from 8AM to 9:30AM
October 5th from 8AM to 9:30AM
November 2nd from 8AM to 9:30AM
December 14th from 8AM to 9:30AM
Click to register on our website.
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 713-284-8424
Contact Email: https://houstonlighthouse.org/event/tandem-bike-riding-with-achilles-international-2/2024-08-10/#:~:text=youthadultservices%40houstonlighthouse.org.
EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston: Education, Technology, and Vocational Training
Date: By Appointment
Time: By Appointment
Details: Employment Opportunities: The Lighthouse of Houston is an inclusive organization that employs people of all backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, education levels and disabilities. About 58% of our employees are blind or visually impaired, and many have participated in our vocational training programs. Click the button below to view our current job openings. View Job Openings
Resource Information Sessions at LOH
Join us every 3rd Friday for the News You Can Use! information session featuring guest speakers, focusing on visually impaired blind and low vision community support and resources tailored to your needs. Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to connect and learn! In-person from 12PM to 2PM at The Lighthouse of Houston. Provided By V.I.E.O.L. Visually Impaired Equality Of Life.
Where: The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
When: The next meeting is Friday, August 16th from 12PM to 2PM
Contact Monique Mason for more details, please text: 281-891-3602 or click the button below to send her an email. Click to Contact Monique
Click to Contact our Education and Training Department
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Monique Mason
Contact Phone Number: 281-891-3602
Contact Email:
FOR JOB OPPORTUNITIES
EVENT: Blind Professional Network
Date of Event: Call for details
Details: There are job opportunities available during the COVID-19 pandemic. If interested, please contact Victoria Hillard, info@blindpro.net.
Host Organization:
Contact Name: Victoria Hillard
Contact Phone Number: 281-794-2012
Contact Email: Victoria Hillard at info@blindpro.net
TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION (TWC)
Website: www.twc.texas.gov
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 713-692-7755
Contact Email: customers@twc.state.tx.us
The Lighthouse of Houston
Details: Greetings! The Lighthouse of Houston has several positions open. I’d love your help in passing this information along to qualified candidates. The link to apply is below:
Job Opportunities (paycomonline.net) We look forward to seeing!
Website:www.houstonlighthouse.org
Location: 3602 W. Dallas, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Jenna Dhayer | President
Contact Phone Number: 713-284-8490 W; 281-226-3681 C
Contact Email: www.lighthouseofhouston.org
FOR ORGANIZATIONS
Visually Impaired Advocates (VIA)
Website: www.viadvocates.org
Contact Name: Talana Townsend, President
Contact Number: 832-867-0140
Contact Email: info@viadvocates.org
Houston Council of the Blind (HCB)
Website: www.acbt-houston.org
Contact Name: Peggy Garrett, President
Contact Number: 281-438-9665
Contact Email: info@acbt-houston.org
Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC) Adaptive Sports & Recreation
Website:
Contact Name: Charles French
Contact Number: 832-395-7333
Contact Email: Charles.French@houstontx.org
National Federation of the Blind of Texas – Houston (NFBT-Hou)
Website:
Contact Name: Stacy Gallegos, President
Contact Number: 346-704-0190
Contact Email: shardy@nfbtx.org
iBug Today Team
Website: www.ibugtoday.com
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Number: 832-453-7139
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
Blind Professional Network
Facebook: www.facebook.com/blindpronet
Contact Name: Victoria Hilliard
Contact Number: 1-800-699-8238
Contact Email: info@BlindProNet.org
Visually Impaired People of South East Texas (VIPSET)
Request a digital copy of HAVIN trifold.
Website: http://www.havintx.org
Contact Name: Ron Graham, President
Contact Number: 713-825-9108
Contact Email: rgraham@cebridge.net
Foundation Fighting Blindness–Houston Chapter
Website: http://www.blindness.org/local-chapters/houston-tx
Contact Name, Number, & Email: Ashley Manolakis; Manager, Events; 985-246-9434; AManolakis@FightingBlindness.org
Kimi Huang; Sr. Events Assistant; 424-343-2539; KHuang@FightingBlindness.org
Houston Area Visually Impaired Network (HAVIN)
Details: If you haven’t already heard, there is breaking news from the Houston Area Visually Impaired Network (HAVIN)! We are now listed as one of the blindness organizations on the Be My Eyes app! If you want to know more about what we do, or wish to contact one of our agents, just look us up in the app you already know. Under Specialized Help, go to Blindness Organizations and there we are! We are available to Be My Eyes users in the US and Canada and open Monday through Friday, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m Central Time. We can share information about Houston, our organizations, and many of the general resources available for the blind.
Website: http://www.havintx.org
Contact Name: Ron Graham, President
Contact Phone Number: 713-825-9108
Contact Email: rgraham@cebridge.net
Lighthouse Of Houston
Website: www.houstonlighthouse.org
Contact Name: Jenna Dhayer, President
Contact Phone Number: 713-284-8451
Contact Email:
To sign up for “Illuminations,” The Lighthouse of Houston’s quarterly newsletter, please send an email to socialmedia@houstonlighthouse.org with the subject line – Newsletter.
Sight Into Sound
Website: sightintosound.org
Contact Name: Kari Musgrove, Executive Director
Contact Phone Number: 713-622-2767
Contact Email: info@sightintosound.org
FOR TRANSPORTATION
EVENT: Introducing 1-833-USE-UBER
Date of Event: IMMEDIATELY
Time: 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
Details: Introducing a new way to ride with Uber: 1-833-USE-UBER. We understand that some people would prefer to talk to someone on the phone, so we created the option to call us to request your ride.
1-833-USE-UBER is currently only available in Florida, California, Arizona, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas where Uber is available; but we’re hoping to expand the service nationwide soon. You can request your ride 7 days a week, from 4am – 10pm EST by phone. You can request a ride anytime via the mobile app or online at m.uber.com, available in over 50 cities. Do not use any phone number other than 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237) to request a ride. 1-833-USE-UBER is not a customer service line. If you need assistance, visit us at help.uber.com.
HOW IT WORKS:
Call us, toll-free. Dial 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237) from your cell phone to talk to an Uber team member who will help you create an Uber account and request a ride. You can choose between English and Spanish when requesting a trip.
You will need to call from a cell phone that can receive text messages. Don’t worry, you won’t be charged just for calling us—we’ll charge your credit card on file after a successful trip is completed. To help keep your personal information safe and secure, make sure to only use this phone number when calling to request a ride.
Get trip details. After your phone call, we’ll send you the information on your ride via a text message, including your driver’s name and picture, car type, license plate number, and their estimated time of arrival.
Ride. We’ll send you a text message when your driver arrives. All drivers receive an annual background check.
Host Organization: UBER
Location: N/A
Address: N/A
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/A
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237)
Contact Email: m.uber.com
Company: Same Day Services (formerly MSP)
Contact Phone Number: 713-223-0303
Contact Email:
Company: Go Go Grandparents Concierge Service
Website: https://gogograndparent.com/
Contact Phone Number: 1-855-464-6872
Contact Email: support@gogograndparent.com
Company: Harris County R.I.D.E.S.
Website:
Contact Phone Number: 713-368-7433
Contact Email:
Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO)
Department: METRO Customer Service–Rail, Fixed Routes, Complaints, & Accommodations
Website: www.ridemetro.org/
Contact Phone Number: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.–713-635-4000
Contact Email:
Department: METROLift Customer Service
Website: www.ridemetro.org/
Contact Phone Number: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.–713-225-0119
Contact Email:
Department: Reservations
Website: www.ridemetro.org/
Contact Phone Number: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.–713-225-6716
Contact Email:
Department: Dispatch
Website: www.ridemetro.org/
Contact Phone Number: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.–713-225-0410 or 1-877-214-RIDE (7433) from a pay phone
Contact Email:
ACCESSIBILITY SUPPORT PHONE LINES
Company: Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSM) Launches Accessible Alert System
Details: This new alert system is providing access to alerts, warnings, and preparedness information to persons who are Deaf, Blind, Hard-of-Hearing, Deaf-Blind, or have low-vision through a new one-stop-website. To sign up, visit our site at https://hct.ahasalerts.com/. Community members can also text AHAS to (281) 609-9093 to sign up. There are instructions in ASL on the site that can guide community members on the sign up process.
The system will send our Ready Harris Alerts with sign language interpreting along with voice and closed captioning in English and Spanish before, during and after an emergency. The alerts are compatible with video capable devices such as computers, tablets, cell phones and wireless Braille readers. With this new resource, HCOHSEM will also be able to reach individuals with low literacy in English and Spanish. This is HCOHSEM’s latest effort to reach the whole community.
If you would like this information in another format, please reach out to us at oemjic@oem.hctx.net. To sign up for ReadyHarris Alerts visit ReadyHarris.org .
Contact Number: (281) 609-9093
Company: Amazon’s Accessibility Customer Service
Details: Call to speak with an accessibility specialist who can help you buy books and other products, or get you directly to tech support for Amazon devices and services including Alexa, Kindle & Fire Tablet. Hands raised triumphantly for accessible and inclusive smartphones. Audible Support: 888-283-5051.
Contact Number: 888-283-1678
Company: American Airlines Special Assistance
Details: Arrange the assistance you need for navigating the airport, security screening, location of gate, seat number, connecting flights, baggage claim and ground transportation.
Contact Number: 800-237-7976
Company: Apple Accessibility Support Line
Details: For users of Apple’s iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch, or Mac – this is a gift. It is a special support line reserved for customers with vision, hearing, motor, and learning impairments. Senior AppleCare specialists are available 24/7 to help you get your Accessibility Settings right, answer your questions, and resolve your technical issues. They’ll even teach you a thing or two.
Contact Number: 877-204-3930
Company: ATT National Center for Citizens with Disabilities (NCCD)
Details: This is where wireless customers with vision loss get answers to questions about accessibility features and services available from AT&T.
Contact Number: 866-241-6568
Company: Comcast Accessibility
Details: Direct line to a dedicated team, specially trained to support customers who rely on accessibility services including voice guidance and video description.
Contact Number: 866-668-6703
Company: Google
Details: To request a call back, from a Google Disability support specialist, complete this online form.
Call an accessibility specialist at Google through the BeMyEyes app on a smartphone or tablet. Click the ‘Service Directory tab on the app’s home page, select Google in the Technical tab.
Google Technical Support: 855-971-9121 may (or may not) be able to help with accessibility questions, depends on the specialist you connect with.
Contact Number: 855-971-9121
Company: HP Accessibility Support
Details: Technical support for customers with accessibility needs, pertaining to HP (Hewlett Packard) products, available from 6am to 9pm Mountain Time.
Contact Number: 888-259-5707
Company: LinkedIn Disability Answer Desk
Details: Contact an accessibility specialist at the LinkedIn Disability Answer Desk through the Be My Eyes app, on a smartphone or tablet; click the Specialized Help button on the apps home page, then select Technical to get to LinkedIn.
Contact Number: Call on Be My Eyes app
Company: Microsoft Disability Answer Desk
Details: The features you need to make your PC ‘vision friendly’ are built right into Windows – unfortunately, many people don’t know that. Microsoft recognized this as a significant problem and put in place a support team specialized in accessibility. So dial them up and get your computer set up to work for you (not against you). And, to make it even easier on yourself — allow them remote access to your PC and they can make the adjustments.
Contact Number: 800-936-5900 or the Be My Eyes app
Company: Peloton
Details: The Accessibility Team at Peloton will answer your questions and give you a call, if you request it by email to: accessibility@onepeloton.com.
Contact Email: accessibility@onepeloton.com
Company: Samsung Accessibility
Details: Contact the Accessibility Team at Samsung for answers to questions, large and small, about all Samsung products. Reach out by phone or email: [email protected] to request a call back.
For general support in the U.S. contact Samsung at: 800-726-7864 by text or voice.
Contact Number: 800-726-7864 by text or voice
Company: Spectrum Accessibility Support
Details: Call this support line to learn about and take advantage of Spectrum cable accessibility accommodations.
Contact Number: 844-762-1301
Contact Email: https://www.spectrum.net/disability
Company: Spotify
Details: Get help from your smartphone or tablet with any questions you may have about Spotify, the world’s largest music streaming service. Speak to a trained customer service specialist on BME; go to Specialized Help, Technical, then Spotify.
Contact Number: Call on Be My Eyes app
Company: T-Mobile Accessibility
Details: T-Mobile has an Accessibility Support web page. It says, “T-Mobile will provide accessible support for wireless network service and billing inquiries. Please contact our Accessibility Customer Care at 1-833-428-1785 if you have any questions or need special assistance. For additional support, please contact Customer Care.”
Contact Number: 1-833-428-1785
Company: United Airlines Accessibility Desk
Details: Arrange the assistance you need for navigating the airport, security screening, location of gate, seat number, connecting flights, baggage claim and ground transportation.
Contact Number: 800-228-2744
Company: Verizon Center for Customers with Disabilities
Details: Free 411 for your home phone and for your mobile phone. Get your bills in the format of your choice…large print or digital. They can help you with anything else pertaining to your home phone service.
Contact Number: 800-974-6006
Contact Email: verizon.com/disabilities
Company: Verizon Wireless National Accessibility Center
Details: It can sometimes be challenging to get information about accessibility features that make your mobile phone, or tablet, work for you. Questions about enlarging text, using voice commands effectively, or using the screen reader, often remain unanswered when posed to your store representative. That should be the case no more – now there is a customer service and technical support center dedicated to helping people maximize the accessibility features built into all of Verizon’s mobile devices. Let them help you get your device set just right for you, from 8am – 9pm EST, Monday – Friday.
Contact Number: 888-262-1999
Company: vote.org
Details: Get help, on a smartphone or tablet, registering to vote, checking your registration status, and requesting a mail-in ballot. On BME, go to Specialized Help on the home page, then Civic Engagement, then select vote.org.
Contact Number: Call on Be My Eyes app
FOR CHATLINES & WEBINARS
EVENT: iBUG Buzz
Date of Event: Weekly – Mondays
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Details: This free weekly Q&A help session is for anyone with iOS and iDevice (iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV) accessibility questions or issues. The first 45 minutes are dedicated to the beginner or novice user. The iBUG Buzz training sessions are facilitated by Maria Kristic, Brad Snyder, Sandhya Rao, Pete Lane, Ned Vanders, Stephen Kerr, and Michael McCulloch.
Host: iBUG Today, http://ibugtoday.com
Location: Virtual– Zoom Conference: To join a meeting, you may click on the following link: https://zoom.us/j/7428486329 . Dial by city closest to your location: +1 720 707 2699 US (Denver)
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 742 848 6329
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Sandhya Rao
Contact Phone Number:
Contact Email: sraotexas@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG After Buzz
Date of Event: Weekly – Mondays
Time: 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (NOTE: It is recommend that you connect to the meeting at least 5 minutes prior to the start time to ensure admission.)
Details: This forum is intended to be a relaxed, casual and safe space to share events in our daily lives. Topics may range from simple ways to accomplish daily tasks to taking exotic or adventurous trips. Topics that are off limits include, but are not limited to those related to politics, religion and technology involving iBUG training. The meeting is open to everyone, however only those who are logged in prior to the start time will be admitted. The iBUG After Buzz sessions are facilitated by Jody Ianuzzi, Terry-Ann Saurmann, Mary-Alice Middleton and Ed Rhynold.
Host: iBUG Today, http://ibugtoday.com
Location: Virtual– Zoom Conference: To join a meeting, you may click on the following link:
https://zoom.us/j/7428486329?pwd=M003RmZaa3pTbWRlZ00xbSs4YTlmUT09
One tap mobile from a smartphone: +13462487799,,7428486329#,,,,*369978# US
Dial from a phone: +1 346 248 7799 US
Meeting ID: 742 848 6329, Password: 369978
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Sandhya Rao
Contact Phone Number:
Contact Email: sraotexas@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Buzz Radio Program
Date of Event: Weekly
Time: Thursdays, 9:30 AM, rebroadcast the following Tuesdays, 5:00 PM, or On Demand (see link below)
Details: A weekly half-hour condensed highlights version of the Monday night iBUG Buzz Q&A help session covering common accessibility questions and issues with iOS and iDevices (iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and Apple TV). Also, apps useful to the blind and visually impaired are demonstrated. Listen via Sight into Sound Radio, using the special digital receivers from Sight into Sound, Sero app on your smart phone or via the internet by going to the Sight into Sound website at the following link and select the “Tune in Now” button at the times indicated above or On Demand by selecting the “Podcast” button: http://www.sightintosound.org
Host Organization: Sight into Sound, http://sightintosound.org and iBUG Today (iBlind Users Group), http://ibugtoday.com
Location: “Tune in Now” button at the times indicated above or On Demand by selecting the “Podcast” button: http://www.sightintosound.org
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Phone Number: 832-453-7139
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Night at the Virtual Movies
Date of Event: Weekly – Fridays
Time: 7:00 PM pre-movie social time, movie starts at 8:00 PM
Details: To bring old friends together and to meet new ones, we have created iBUG Night at the Virtual Movies on Friday evenings. We meet prior to the film for a pre-movie social with song games, jokes and plenty of argle-bargle. The movies are the audio track (no video) with audio description. Discussion and movie trivia will follow immediately after the movie. Visit our website each week to check out the movie feature: https://ibugtoday.org/movie-nights. This presentation by iBUG Today is for the blind and visually impaired and is produced and distributed exclusively for use by blind, visually impaired, or physically disabled individuals under the authority of Section 121 of Title 17 of the United States Code, or with permission of the copyright owner(s).
Host Organization: iBUG Today, http://ibugtoday.com
Location: Virtual Zoom conference call platform. To join a meeting, you may click on the following link:
https://zoom.us/j/7428486329?pwd=M003RmZaa3pTbWRlZ00xbSs4YTlmUT09
Meeting ID: 742 848 6329 Password: 369978
You may also dial in using the following methods (long distance charges may apply):
One tap mobile from a smartphone: +1 346 248 7799,,7428486329# US
Dial from a landline: +1 346 248 7799 US
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Sandhya Rao
Contact Phone Number:
Contact Email: sraotexas@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Buzz, iBUG Apple Workshop, iBUG Café, iBUG Mac-N-Talk, iBUG Android Insight, It’s iBUG’s Life, and special epsodes of iBUG Unplugged on YouTube
Date of Event: On Demand
Time: On Demand
Details: Did you miss the latest iBUG training session? Do you want to review a past training session? Are you looking for an alternative way to listen to the iBUG training sessions other than the iBUG Today website archives?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then you are in luck. iBUG Today’s training sessions are also available on YouTube. There are separate playlists on the iBUG Today YouTube channel for the iBUG Buzz, iBUG Apple Workshop, iBUG Café, iBUG Mac-N-Talk, iBUG Android Insight, and It’s iBUG’s Life sessions, and special episode of iBUG Unplugged. You may use the following link to access the iBUG Today YouTube channel. Please select the subscribe button and then select the notification bell to receive notifications when the latest training session has been uploaded.
Host Organization: The iBUG Today Team, http://ibugtoday.org
Location: On Demand
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Phone Number:
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: Be an Active Part of the iBUG Story
If you, a family member, or a business that you frequent would like to further our mission, please consider becoming a volunteer or making a tax-deductible donation at the following link: https://ibugtoday.org/get-involved#donate.
EVENT: How to Become an Accessible Pharmacy Patient
Date of Event:
Time:
Details: We are often asked how someone becomes a patient of Accessible Pharmacy Services: The best way to become a patient is by giving us a call at 1-888-633-7007. After your conversation with our Care Coordinator, they will reach out to your insurance to confirm eligibility. They will also contact your current pharmacy and prescribing physicians to transfer your information. You can also connect with us through the Be My Eyes Specialized Help section or email us to initiate this process: info@AccessiblePharmacy.com
For answers to more frequently asked questions, please click the link below: CLICK HERE FOR MORE FAQ’S . If you are a provider and want to refer a patient to us, please have the patient give us a call at 1-888-633-7007. You can also call us with the patient.
Host Organization: Accessible Pharmacy Services, LLC
Location:
Address:
Costs: FREE
Deadline:
Contact Name: Accessible Pharmacy Services, LLC
Contact Phone Number: 1-888-633-7007
Contact Email:
EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston: Friday Support Group
Date of Event: Every Friday
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. online
Details: Losing one’s vision often makes a person more vulnerable to mental health issues like depression and anxiety, relationship changes with friends and family, and fear and isolation. The Behavioral Health Services at The Lighthouse of Houston offers help and support to people who have lost their vision develop strategies to adjust to this life-altering event. To register, contact Melinda Benjumea at 713-284-8440 or click the button below to send her an email.
Click to Contact Melinda
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: Virtual
Address: N/G
Costs: N/G
Deadline: N/G
Contact Name: Melinda Benjumea
Contact Phone Number: 713-284-8440
Contact Email:
FOR GENERAL INFORMATION
EVENT: WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY–CONFERENCE CALL ONLY
Date of Event: Third Saturday of each month
Time: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Details: This Bible Study is dedicated to women discussing scriptures. Hosted by True Vision Baptist Church. Access via Free Conference Call line.
Dial-in Number: 609-746-1082 Access Code: 372977
Host Organization: True Vision Baptist Church
Location: Conference call
Host Organization: True Vision Church
Location:
Address:
Cost: N/A
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Phone Number: 281-794-2012
Contact Email: metoyer903@comcast.net
EVENT: Scripture and Bible Study
Date of Event: Weekly every Monday
Time: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Details: This Bible Study is dedicated to discussing scriptures.
Contact Name: Gloria Hill
Contact Phone Number: 832-656-5609