Happy spring! Just as the season brings new growth and fresh starts, now is a great time to refresh your knowledge of the wide range of services available to you as a BSBP customer!

Our Pre-ETS team is here to support students who are legally blind or visually impaired in achieving independence, confidence and success in their educational and professional goals. Our services, including personalized counseling, career planning and hands-on training, help students build the skills and opportunities to live a more fulfilling life! BSBP services include:

1. Your BSBP Rehabilitation Counselor is regionally based and provides counseling and guidance on your career and educational goals. This includes:
   • Development of an Individualized Plan for Employment
   • Providing ongoing counseling to the adjustment of blindness, independent living, workplace readiness, and employment opportunities
   • Partnering with your school (i.e., attending IEP meetings) and/or workplace to support your needs
2. Pre-ETS Programs provide access to a variety of free programs each year that are advertised in the monthly newsletter, on the BSBP website and by your rehabilitation professional. Programs offer fun, meaningful and engaging experiences that include elements of self-advocacy, workplace readiness training, job exploration counseling, post-secondary readiness, and paid work-based learning experiences.
3. Students can travel to BSBP Training Center in Kalamazoo for a residential opportunity to take classes on independent living, orientation and mobility, technology training and job placement support.
4. Access to the Braille and Talking Book Library for free reading materials in accessible formats.
5. Business Enterprise Program offers opportunities to operate vending or food service businesses in government buildings. They also provide training in entrepreneurship and business management.

If you or someone you know would like to begin receiving services from BSBP, please complete the eligibility and referral form.

BSBP Training Center Director Juan Ortiz and Assistant Director Scott Lacey were recently invited by a local Intermediate School District to provide an interactive presentation to approximately 130 fourth grade students. The session focused on the human body, specifically the eye, helping to connect science learning to community expertise and real-world careers. A local eye doctor joined the presentation providing an overview of the different tests and services she provides.

In addition to learning how the eye works, students explored common diseases and conditions that can lead to vision loss. They also learned about adaptive devices and tools people may use when vision is reduced or lost, and discussed respectful, practical ways to engage with individuals who have no vision. The presentation highlighted the many types of careers people who are blind can do, reinforcing high expectations and inclusion.

“In order to build a more inclusive community where everyone is seen for their abilities, it is very important to provide information to the public to demonstrate that blindness does not limit a person’s potential,” shared Mike Pemble, BSBP Director. “Having had the opportunity to share that information with 130 fourth grade students was very special.”

The session included a hands-on learning experience, and students were highly engaged throughout, asking thoughtful, insightful questions and showing genuine curiosity and empathy.

So, I’ve earned my first paycheck. Where did all my money go?

On March 10, the BSBP East Region Macomb Pre-ETS teamed joined the MISD monthly Food, Fun and Friends event to sponsor financial literacy training for students participating in the event. Seven BSBP students had the opportunity to work through understanding how to calculate their gross earnings based on a given hourly rate and number of hours worked in a pay period. Once the earnings were determined, the students learned how to calculate some common deductions (federal and state taxes, social security and Medicare). After subtracting the deductions and determining their net pay, the students then developed a simple budget from which estimated transportation and grocery expenses were deducted.

All students had accessible learning materials provided by either the MISD teacher consultants and orientation and mobility staff or by the instructor from Selective Case Management. The students used their preferred assistive technology devices to help with the calculations, and all were assisted by MISD and BSBP staff members. Each student was engaged and worked at a pace best for them. The staff made sure to help the students whenever there were questions and with their assistive technology.

The students then participated in an exercise using a grocery store application to plan a family meal purchase for one week. Again, the MISD and BSBP staff worked with the students to help them better understand developing an affordable and balanced meal plan for them and their families. While there were occasions when sweets and treats got the better of the students, all were encouraged to consider food choices that were best for their and their family members’ health.

During the discussions about what was learned through the exercises, it was clear the students all participated and enjoyed working on understanding paychecks. The deductions were enlightening for the students, but all learned how taxes, social security and Medicare are used by the government to support the needs of their communities. Following the learning, the students and staff enjoyed a catered meal and discussed the event activities.

On a sunny Sunday morning, Pre-ETS students along with support staff from BSBP and Selective Case Management converged on Q’s Kitchen in Mid-town Detroit for part two of the hospitality career activity of the Community Engagement Series. In the first installment that was held earlier this year, students learned what a complete healthy meal should look like, how to grocery shop for a healthy lifestyle, how to properly store food to minimize waste, eating the rainbow of vegetables to prevent diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and the use of spices rather than salt to enhance the flavor of food.

On March 8, after a whole wheat pancake and sausage breakfast, students made spiral noodles from scratch using semolina flour and water. They learned about the added protein in the flour and experienced the coarse, sturdy texture of it as they kneaded, stretched and, after a brief rest period, cut the dough into bite-sized pieces. Using a kabob stick, students individually formed their dough into corkscrew shapes that were later boiled. Chef Q showed them how to prepare a non-tomato-based sauce utilizing olive oil, sundried tomatoes and spinach. Enough noodles were made so all were able to eat and to take some uncooked dough home to freeze for a future meal.

This program allowed students to feel pride in their abilities, increase their manual dexterity, ask questions about food preparations, overcome food biases (enough to eat portions that contained what they previously said they didn’t like!), and realize they could cook simple meals independently.

The Michigan Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired is offering a scholarship for blind and low vision students in Michigan in the following categories:

• Technical/Vocational career
• Undergraduate degree
• Graduate degree

This scholarship is offered to promote the education of the members of the blind and low vision community, and to decrease the barriers for a more diverse, equal and inclusive society. To apply, contact Dr. Joe Todd at jtodd1226@hotmail.com to ask for an application.

April Bridge Brigade Training Session

Join us for the April session of the Bridge Walk Brigade on Saturday, April 11 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Merdian Mall in Lansing! This session will focus on White Cane Education. 

Students (those currently enrolled and those interested in applying for comprehensive Vocational Rehabilitation services with BSBP), supporting service providers, BSBP staff, community volunteers, and education partners are welcome to join BSBP for a series of workplace readiness training sessions.

This series is dual focused and will prioritize the training and preparation of students for successfully transitioning from school to post school activities, with a secondary focus of training key stakeholders on how best to support and establish meaningful opportunities for students who are blind/low vision.

Please consider joining and supporting students who are Blind/Low Vision with accomplishing their goal of walking across the Mackinaw Bridge this Labor Day (September 7, 2026). We would love for EVERYONE to join us!

TRAINING DATES: 

• Bridge Brigade Walk April 11 Training Session will take place at the Meridian Mall in Lansing
• Bridge Brigade Walk May 9 Training Session will take place at the Michigan History Center and Library in Lansing
• Bridge Brigade Walk June 13 Training Session will take place at Playmakers in Okemos
• Bridge Brigade Walk July Training Session will be virtual 
• Bridge Brigade Walk August 22 Training Session will take place at Playmakers in Okemos

Registration is required for each monthly training session. 

Students who participate will be supported by BSBP staff and skilled Orientation & Mobility specialists throughout the program. Please reach out to Becca Flatt at flattr1@michigan.gov with questions!

Great Wolf Lodge: Hospitality Edition

Visit the Great Wolf Lodge to enjoy a weekend exploring hospitality and a little family fun. Students will observe the behind-the-scenes operation of a resort, learn about various jobs and gain a better understanding of the hospitality industry. Students will participate in a variety of activities to build skills necessary for employment success. Families will benefit from programming specifically catered to them including family engagement activities, benefits discussion and networking opportunities.

Who: High School Students (ages 14-26) with an interest in hospitality and their families.

Where: Great Wolf Lodge 3575 U.S. 31 North S, Traverse City, MI 49684

 When: May 29–31

Register by April 10 at https://bit.ly/BSBPGWL26. Questions? Contact Brittany Hamilton-Reed at HamiltonReedB@michigan.gov.

MBAA Sports Education Camp

Join the Michigan Blind Athletic Association (MBAA) and BSBP for Sports Camp on May 17-20 at Western Michigan University!

During this program, you will have the opportunity to play team and individual sports (examples in years past included wrestling, judo, gymnastics, swimming, goalball, tandem cycling, cross country, and more!) and develop personal health and fitness goals.

Furthermore, you will get to explore information and skill-building to enhance your future employability including access to community resources, personal hygiene, social and organizational skills, teamwork, proper diet and nutrition, and conflict resolution and communication! You will also learn how to advocate for yourself and your needs as a person with a vision impairment.

This camp is a great opportunity to stay in the dorms, make friends, work with certified trainers and Paralympians, and be active and get outside!

Register by April 17 on the Sports Camp 2026 page. Contact Leanne Ford via email at fordl1@michigan.gov or 231-340-3400 with any questions.

Stride Center – Spartan Works Program

Spartan Works is a seven-week work-based learning program on Michigan State University campus in partnership with Residential and Hospitality Services and Athletics. The program will include Vocational Discovery and Assessment, Pre-Employment Career Readiness Series and a paid Work-Based Learning Experience. You need to be a BSBP customer to participate!

The program runs Monday through Friday on June 8–July 31, from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. There will be no work/programming June 29–July 3 in observation of the July 4 holiday. Registration is open until April 17 or until the program reaches capacity.

Phase 1:

• Vocational Discovery & Assessment
• Pre-Employment Career Institute

Phase 2:

• Pre-ETS Work Based Learning Experience

Register for Spartan Works here.

Still have questions about this program or other Pre-ETS programs in Central Region? Contact Brittany Hamilton-Reed at 734-209-5855 or HamiltonReedB@michigan.gov.

Summer Youth Employment Training Program

Are you a student in Ingham, Shiawassee and Genesee Counties looking for PAID summer work experience? BSBP and Peckham bring you the Summer Youth Employment Training Program.

Phase One:

• Students will meet 1:1 with a Peckham specialist to identify their vocational interest, abilities and aptitudes
• Students will attend group classes designed to increase their knowledge and comfort level regarding entering the world of work

Phase Two:

• Students will participate in a four-week paid work experience at a local employer for up to 20 hours per week
  • Work Experience Timeline (choose one)
    • Session #1: June 15-July 10
    • Session #2: July 13- August 7
  • Peckham will schedule a wrap up meeting with students and BSBP to review outcomes and discuss next steps

Register for Summer Youth Employment by April 17.

Any questions? Contact Brittany Hamilton-Reed at 734-209-5855 or HamiltonReedB@michigan.gov.

GVSU Summer Success Program

The Grand Valley Student Success Program is an intensive seven-week initiative pre-college program aimed at helping students transition smoothly from high school to college. It equips participants with essential knowledge, skills and strategies for academic and personal success at the post-secondary level.

The program features college-level coursework, educational workshops and co-curricular activities that promote a strong sense of community by fostering meaningful connections with faculty, staff, and peers. In addition to building a solid foundation for college life, students will earn 7–8 academic credits (one math class, one English reading class, and one pre-college skills class), receive personalized advising and registration support, and get early access to their Fall 2026 semester housing assignment if they choose to enroll at GVSU.

The program runs June 28 through August 14. Don’t wait – registration closes on April 15. If interested, please contact your BSBP Counselor.

Pathways to Possibilities

When: May 2–3

As a high school student stepping into adulthood, having a sense of purpose, a clear goal and a solid plan is key to your success. The Bureau of Services for Blind Persons Training Center is here to help you create a roadmap for your future.

Through training in essential life skills, mobility, technology and career planning, we’ll help to prepare you for independence and success. Discover how our job-seeking strategies and interactive workshops can empower you to achieve your dreams.

Join us for a weekend of fun, engaging activities and valuable insights! Explore how BSBP can support you every step of the way on your journey toward adulthood. Don’t miss this opportunity to take charge of your future!

Eligibility: Current BSBP Pre-ETS participants (open cases), new to Training Center services and/or blindness, and motivated to learn and advance their independence!

Registration Deadline: Friday, April 3, 2026.

*Please note, only one hotel room will be provided per registered participant. Though participants and accompanying parents/guardians will be staying overnight at the Staybridge Suites Kalamazoo, all program activities will be taking place at the BSBP Training Center.

Post-Secondary Assessment

Summer Session 1: June 7-18
Summer Session 2: June 14-26

The Post-Secondary Assessment is a two-week program designed to have participants demonstrate the required skills for success in a post-secondary education environment. Participants demonstrate and further build skills in areas they will need to live independently while being assessed in classes and participate in a variety of auxiliary activities. Participants should bring any technology, computer or devices they possess.

Focus areas will include Orientation & Mobility, Assistive Technology, Independent Living, Workplace Readiness Training, Counseling for Post-Secondary Education, Job Exploration Counseling, and Work-based learning. Auxiliary areas will include navigating a college campus, accessing campus resources, utilizing accessible textbook resources, balancing classes & employment, and managing Social Security benefits.

Eligibility: Students 16 or older who are blind or low vision and who plan to pursue further education in a post-secondary education environment, such as college or trades certification. This program is required for participants interested in BSBP post-secondary education sponsorship.

Registration Deadline: Sunday, May 31, 2026.

Workplace Readiness Training

When: July 5 – August 13, 2026

Are you seeking customized training for workplace readiness skills and wanting to learn how to improve and refine your skills to be successful in your independence, post-secondary education or employment? Come join us for customized training to develop skills necessary to get job ready!

This is a customized training for Pre-ETS students to target areas that have been identified as needing improvement for success in a post-secondary environment or employment. Training is available for participants needing enhanced training throughout the summer.

Training can include computers, assistive technology, self-advocacy instruction, career exploration, Braille, adaptive living techniques, orientation and mobility, finance education, and leisure activities. Participants may register to attend a combination of programs while onsite at the Training Center and are encouraged to attend as many of the six available weeks of Work Readiness training as they are able.

Eligibility: Students 14-26 years old who are blind or low vision and who are interested in intensive residential training at the BSBP Training Center campus.

Registration Deadline: Sunday, May 31, 2026.

Practice Adulting!

When: August 2–14

This program is designed to help transition teenagers into adulthood. It will use real world situations to create a safe environment where teenagers can practice the financial aspects of being an adult.

• Paid Work Experience – Work a retail job at Goodwill in Kalamazoo.
• Appropriate interview clothing – Buy appropriate clothing for an interview with money provided by BSBP.
• Choosing and renting an apartment – Compare apartment amenities, learn about paperwork needed to rent an apartment and how to sign up for utilities.
• Budget – Learn how to budget work salary to pay for rent, utilities, other needs, wants and savings.
• Compare transportation options – Compare money and time costs for different transportation options.

Eligibility: Ideal candidates for this program should be 16-18 years old, planning on living independently as an adult and interested in getting more experience with financial independence. Background check, work permit and medical forms are required.

Registration Deadline: May 31, 2026.

Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) Camp

Date: June 26 – July 1

Thinking about planning your education and career journey? Would you like an opportunity to learn first aid basics? Check out the STEMM Camp to see where science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine might take you!

Through a series of fun, interactive activities, students will explore a variety of STEM-related areas, as well as relevancy for advanced education and employment. The STEM program will use 3D tactile models, sound, and hands-on lessons to teach students about 3D printing, chemistry and astronomy. Students will meet Dr. Hoby Wedler, a Ph.D. chemist, Dr. Carol Christian, an Affiliate Research Scientist and Emeritus Senior Scientist, and Dr. Thomas Madura, an Associate Professor of Physics and Astronomy.

Students will learn more about accessibility of STEMM classes, careers in STEMM fields, and how to use some of the latest 3D printing and assistive technology. The program helps reduce accessibility barriers so students are better prepared to pursue a STEMM education and career.

Eligibility: High School students 14-19 years old who are blind or low vision and who are interested in learning more about STEMM fields.

Registration Deadline: May 31, 2026.

For more information on any of these programs, please contact your local BSBP field counselor or the Training Center at LEO-BSBPTrainingCenter@michigan.gov or 269-337-3848.

BSBP Training Center Community Partner Days

The Training Center (BSBPTC) will be hosting the 2026 Community Partner Days on Wednesday, May 6 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Thursday, May 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  This two-day event is geared towards BSBP’s Community Rehabilitation Program partners and partners who work directly with the population BSBP serves.

Partners will learn about BSBP programs and receive an overview on O&M, assistive technology, work readiness training, and work experiences, as well as an overview in other pertinent areas. There will be opportunity to speak with Training Center management, counselors, and teachers regarding classes and career planning, learn sighted guide techniques, tour the campus, observe classes, and observe demonstrations of assistive technology, among other activities.

 The event will conclude with a Training Center participant panel to allow partners to hear the journey of Training Center participants and ask questions. Lunch and light refreshments will be provided on both days.

Lodging information for hotels close to the Training Center will be emailed to those answering “Yes” to needing a list of local hotels on the registration form below. The event will take place at the BSBP Training Center Campus (1541 Oakland Dr. Kalamazoo, MI 49008).

Register by April 21 at https://forms.gle/AiFhSNxWeBAGJDbF8. Questions? Contact the BSBP Training Center at LEO-BSBPTrainingCenter@michigan.gov or 269-337-3848.

Opportunities Unlimited for the Blind (OUB) of Michigan has several camps and fun opportunities coming up for low or no cost!

Winter 2026 Programming

• Tandem Bike Event – Island State Park – Saturday, April 18, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
  Come have fun on a bicycle built for two!
• Camp Clean Up Day – Saturday, April 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  Help us get ready for camp season! Lunch is included.
• Garden Day – Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  Plant our camp garden! Take home a planter filled with seeds to watch grow into food! Lunch is provided for this free event.

Summer 2026 Programming

• Cooking and Serving Camp – June 14 – 19
  Includes CPR for all campers and staff.
• Discovery Science: Your Senses Camp – June 21-26
  More inclusive look at how our other senses (besides vision) affect us and inform us – nature, architecture, discoveries to make!
• Family Day – June 26
  Stay after Discovery Camp or come al la cart! Family Day is a ton of fun – explore the garden, the greenhouse, play games, learn more cooking skills! Every age is invited!
• Mini O&M Camp – June 28 – July 1
  Bus travel, ride share, other options – city travel, O&M phone apps.
• Adventure Trip to Lake Itasca, Minnesota – July 5-16
  Kayak the headwaters of the Mighty Mississippi River! Discover Native American art and culture. Tubing in Lake Charlevoix on our way back to Grand Rapids!
• Bicycle Camp – July 20-24
  Two half-days of bike riding and one longer day. Includes Self-defense classes. Tons of fun!
• Arts Week – July 26-31
  Music, Theater, Movement, Art, Chopped Challenges! Veggie Bots! Accessible Arts of all kinds!!!

For more information or to register for any of these opportunities, visit oubmichigan.org or contact Gwen Botting, gwen@oubmichigan.org or 616-755-2221. Also, check out OUB’s feature on the Eyes on Success podcast!

Leader Dogs for the Blind invites you to two free summer opportunities designed specifically for teens who are blind or have low vision! Both programs are delivered by Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists and are provided at no cost to families (including travel, housing and meals).

Teen Orientation & Mobility (O&M)

One‑week of individualized instruction.

• 2026 Dates: June 7–13, July 12–18, August 2–8
• Format: One‑on‑one O&M instruction tailored to the teen’s goals.
• Supporter component: A parent/adult supporter travels with the teen; both stay on the Leader Dog campus and participate in select learning sessions to build skills for supporting independent travel at home.
• Who it’s for: Teens who have completed at least one year of high school.

Learn more about Teen Orientation & Mobility here.

Leader Dogs for the Blind Teen Summer Camp

One‑week of group experience.

• 2026 Dates: June 21–28
• Focus: Fun, confidence and independence, exploring mobility options, leadership development and peer connection. Campers meet guide dog mobility instructors, experience accessible GPS and participate in activities like rock wall and zip line. Bonus: Campers receive an accessible GPS device from HumanWare.
• Who it’s for: Individuals aged 16–17 (no intent to train with a guide dog required).

Learn more about Teen Summer Camp here.

Join the Foundation Fighting Blindness on Saturday, May 2 at 9 a.m. for their 19th Annual Michigan VisionWalk at Kensington MetroPark in Milford!

VisionWalk is a 5k-style fundraiser with all proceeds going to the mission of the Foundation Fighting Blindness. Sign up for a day filled with entertainment, family-friendly activities, refreshments and the opportunity to connect with others who share a commitment to the Foundation's mission!

For more information, see the Michigan VisionWalk 2026 page or contact Alex Fehr at afehr@fightngblindness.org.

Do you have an awesome BSBP counselor who goes above and beyond to help you (or your child) achieve your goals? Well now you can tell the world about them😊! 

We would love to feature your counselor in one of our upcoming monthly newsletters! Complete your quick and easy nomination at https://forms.gle/i2EkPg72Z6927xEd8.