Connecting, Learning, and Thriving: Highlights from the ACB Minnesota Convention

The ACB Minnesota State Convention: Zooming into 2025 was an exciting gathering of Minnesota’s blindness community, offering insights, connections, and resources. Highlights included updates from State Services for the Blind, discussions on assistive technology like the NLS e-Reader, and opportunities in employment, including pharmacy technician training for those with low vision. The convention also featured a Metro Mobility Q&A, a goalball team headed to nationals, and an inspiring keynote from Scott Thornhill on embracing blindness. Attendees engaged with exhibitors, workshops, and a film screening of “Possibilities”—making this a must-attend event for Minnesotans with vision impairments.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript:  

In this 2nd  episode of the Two Journeys to Employment,  Gabby Gingras shares her inspiring journey from student to professional, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy, resilience, and using available resources. As a visually impaired environmental Studies graduate, Gabby describes her role at Rainbow Tree Care, advocating for herself at work, and overcoming challenges in education and employment. She reflects on her experiences as a Peer Educator, where she helped younger students prepare for college and careers by teaching advocacy and assistive technology skills. Gabby’s advice to high schoolers: don’t be afraid to ask for help, try new things, and never give up on your dreams.   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript:  

In episode 1 of the Two Journeys to Employment series, Kat Wilke shares her inspiring journey from high school to becoming a speech-language pathologist. Diagnosed with Stargardt’s disease in eighth grade, Kat overcame challenges with vision loss by connecting with Minnesota’s State Services for the Blind (SSB), which helped her develop self-advocacy skills and provided vital resources like assistive technology. As a peer educator, Kat shared college tips with other students, fostering a sense of community. She encourages high school students to embrace their unique paths, explore resources, and take pride in their differences. Kat’s story shows how persistence, support, and passion can lead to fulfilling careers and personal growth.   Full Transcript  

Beth and Robin revisit their most awkward, cringe-worthy, or downright baffling moments—the ones that weren’t funny at all back then. But hindsight (and a good sense of humor) turn those memories into laughable lessons. Discover how finding the funny side of life’s little mishaps can boost your well-being and lighten your load. Because let’s face it, laughter really is the best therapy (and cheaper than weekly sessions)! :)   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!

In this Something to Think About episode, Jeff brings a bit of awareness to the data usage while updating apps. Updating apps can significantly impact your data usage, especially if you’re on a limited plan. Regular updates, sometimes over 500MB per app, can quickly add up. While updates can improve security and features, it’s worth considering whether automatic updates are right for you. Adjusting iPhone settings to manually update apps or restricting updates to Wi-Fi can save data and storage. Keep an eye on your app sizes and decide what’s best for your needs. Something to think about! ” Full Transcript:  

Hold onto your canes, because the Tech Abilities crew is back! Jeff and Serina round up Leslie Dickson, Cheryl Macintosh, and Katy Todd for the first New Year  episode spanning the rains of Washington to the heights of Colorado. Cheryl’s ditching the guide dog for some hardcore O&M cane skills, while Katy’s testing out a hoverboard for the blind. Meanwhile, someone finally ordered the Glide navigation device (no more hypotheticals, folks). And just when you thought it was safe to listen, they dive into positivity versus negativity—with math, because why not? Warning: your ears may roll their eyes! Here are some more links mentioned in this episode: Voice Dream on the iPhone Go Anywhere with Glide - A New Navigational Device Leader Dogs O&M program

This episode of Blind Abilities highlights the inspiring journeys of three individuals—Judy Sanders, Janet Dickelman, and Ben Zheng—who exemplify advocacy in action. Judy recounts her pioneering efforts to challenge discriminatory policies in education and airline seating. Janet reflects on self-advocacy from her school days and her leadership within the American Council of the Blind, emphasizing the power of persistence. Ben shares his transformative journey from sudden blindness to becoming a leader in the Minnesota Association of Blind Students, focusing on self-determination and collective advocacy. Together, they showcase the strength of grassroots advocacy and its role in building a more inclusive world.   Here are some links from this episode:   American Council of the Blind of Minnesota Call:          612) 223-5543 National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota                Call: 612-872-9363 Minnesota Association of Blind Students                         email   To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.   Full Transcript

This special holiday episode of the Wellness Wednesday series on the Blind Abilities Podcast is a heartfelt, lighthearted reflection on the holiday season and the approaching new year. Hosts Beth Gustin and Robin Ennis explore the joys and challenges of the festive season, sharing personal stories, traditions, and self-care tips. Beth’s enthusiasm shines as she discusses her love for holiday music and baking, while Robin fondly recalls family memories, including humorous moments with Santa’s cookies. They also acknowledge the importance of honoring loved ones who are no longer present, offering creative suggestions to celebrate their memory.   The conversation transitions into thoughts about the new year, with Robin sharing her milestone of being halfway through her doctoral program and encouraging listeners to set meaningful resolutions or themes for the year ahead.   The episode encapsulates the spirit of togetherness, celebration, and reflection, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and inspiration for the holidays and beyond.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you! Read More

Jesse Anderson, Assistive Technology Specialist at State Services for the Blind of Minnesota, discusses the latest advancements in assistive technology for high school and college students. He highlights tools like Aira's AccessAI, BeMyAI, JAWS, and smart glasses, emphasizing the importance of learning both mobile and computer-based solutions to improve independence and efficiency. Jesse also explores emerging technologies, such as multi-line Braille displays and AI-powered apps, while stressing the value of early adoption and flexibility in using various tools. His advice encourages students to embrace technology as a way to overcome challenges and succeed in academics, work, and everyday life. Full Transcript: To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205. Read More

In Episode 46 of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin, LPC, and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, explore the delicate balance between being alone, not being alone, and the subtle spaces where loneliness might linger—especially during the holiday season. While the holidays often evoke joy and celebration, they can also bring feelings of isolation and introspection. Beth and Robin unpack the differences between solitude and loneliness, offering heartfelt perspectives and practical strategies to help navigate this emotional landscape. This episode serves as a gentle reminder that understanding our emotions can be the first step toward finding peace and meaning, no matter where we find ourselves this holiday season.   Check out all the Wellness Wednesday episodes.   Show Hosts:             Robin Ennis on the web at www.robinennislcsw.com             Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS             Www.transitioningthroughchange.com   You can message Beth and Robin by calling 612-367-6093 or by email. They are looking forward to hearing from you!   Read More