Date and Time
–
03/16/2024
Length
1 hour
Description
A Message from Penny Forward Founder and CEO, Chris Peterson, AFC®
Hey everyone!
This past week has been nothing short of a whirlwind of emotions, challenges, and triumphs. I’ve had the incredible opportunity to dive into Guide Dogs for the Blind’s Orientation and Mobility Immersion program, and let me tell you, it has been a humbling journey of self-discovery, learning, and unparalleled growth.
As I sit here, reflecting on the experiences that have shaped my week so far, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. This program has been a pivotal step in taking my travel skills to the next level, pushing boundaries I didn’t know I could, and fostering a deep sense of independence and confidence in my abilities.
The Orientation and Mobility Immersion program, for those who may not be familiar, is a comprehensive, hands-on training designed for individuals like myself who are visually impaired. It’s tailored to equip us with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the world more freely and confidently. And trust me, it delivers on that promise in spades!
From mastering the use of a long white cane to understanding the intricacies of urban navigation, each day is bringing its own set of challenges and learnings. My instructor at Guide Dogs for the Blind is simply phenomenal—patient, knowledgeable, and incredibly supportive. He has made this experience not just educational, but truly life-changing.
And now, as I approach the culmination of this incredible journey, I’m filled with a mixture of excitement and a tinge of sadness. Graduation day is just around the corner—Saturday, March 16th, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM Pacific Time, to be precise. It marks the end of this chapter and the beginning of a new one, where I take the skills I’ve honed into the world.
The best part? You can be a part of this momentous occasion! My graduation will be live-streamed on the Guide Dogs for the Blind YouTube Channel. It’s a chance for you to witness the culmination of hard work, dedication, and the incredible bond formed between guide dogs and their handlers. And, since the inception of the Orientation and Mobility program, it’s a celebration of those of us who have seized the opportunity to hone our travel skills whether we do, or don’t, plan to partner with a guide dog.
If you’re interested in learning more about the program that is profoundly impacting my life, I encourage you to visit the Guide Dogs for the Blind website and the Orientation and Mobility Immersion Program page. These resources offer a wealth of information about the programs available and the incredible work being done to support individuals like me.
As I prepare to take this next step, I feel a profound sense of gratitude towards everyone who has supported me on this journey. From my family and friends to the incredible team at Guide Dogs for the Blind, thank you for believing in me and helping me unleash new horizons.
I hope you’ll join me in celebrating this milestone by tuning into the live stream. It promises to be a heartwarming celebration of achievement, partnership, and the beginning of many more adventures to come.
Here’s to new beginnings and the endless possibilities that lie ahead!
– Your soon-to-be Guide Dogs for the Blind graduate