News for Teens
The Spectacle newsletter, and Blind Abilities podcasts.
The Spectacle Newsletter
2025
2024
2023
Podcasts
Welcome to SSB Podcast
In this episode, Peer Ambassadors, Amy and Maddy, introduce themselves and share their personal journeys, detailing how they became connected with State Services for the Blind (SSB). They discuss the support and guidance they received from SSB counselors, including the benefits of having counselors attend IEP meetings. The episode explores various programs and activities offered by SSB that empower students with vision loss, such as Orientation and Mobility training, Assistive Technology education, Career Exploration, and engaging summer camps. Amy and Maddy highlight the strong sense of community found while participating in the events and the positive impact it has on participants. They conclude with an inspiring message, encouraging listeners to connect with SSB and embrace a fulfilling life despite vision loss. Tune in to discover how SSB can help you achieve your goals and live the life you want.
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 shane.desantis@state.mn.us or 651-385-5205.
Peer Perspectives: How SSB Helps Students Build Independence and Explore Careers
This episode features peer ambassadors Amy and Maddy, who share how Minnesota’s State Services for the Blind (SSB) has supported their educational and vocational journeys. From summer camps to career exploration and technology training, SSB has played a vital role in helping them develop independence, self-advocacy, and professional readiness. Transition Coordinator Shane DeSantis explains how SSB collaborates with students, schools, and families starting at age 14, providing individualized services like job shadowing, orientation and mobility training, and Braille instruction. The episode highlights real-world experiences, resources, and the long-term impact of SSB on the lives of blind and low vision students.
More Podcasts from Blind Abilities
Check out podcasts from Blind Abilities featuring topics from transition, employment, self-advocacy, and more!
- Cooking Up Confidence: Ready, Set, Prep
- Embracing Resources and Building Your Dream Career
- Advocacy in Action: Stories of Persistence and Change
- SSB's October 2024 Career Networking Event with Jeff Thompson of Blind Abilities
- Internships are Making a Difference for These Four College Students, Joshua, Qi, Jackson, and Josh, During Their Transition from High School to College and the Workplace
- Unlocking Potential: The Summer Transition Program Tours State Services for the Blind
- Peer to Peer with Maddy and Amy: An Introduction to the Peer Ambassadors for Transition Age Students
- Job Insights: Job Interview Follow-Up and Disclosing a Disability – If, Why, When and How
- Taking Charge of your Goals, Destination and Education: Meet Hannah Harriman and Her Journey of Transitioning from High School to College to the Workplace