Invitation

The American Council of the Blind is proud to introduce STEP (Strengthen Teens, Elevate Potential) - a new youth program launching at the 2026 ACB Conference and Convention in St. Louis, Missouri.

STEP is designed for blind and low vision high school students and their families who are ready to explore identity, independence, advocacy, and life beyond high school. This inaugural year focuses on Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: A Journey to Self-Reflection and Discovery, inviting students to better understand who they are, what they want, and how to move forward with confidence.

This first-year pilot program is intentionally limited to 20 students, creating a supportive, interactive experience where meaningful connections and learning can take place.

Program Overview

STEP 2026 is a two-and-a-half-day immersive experience held July 26-29, 2026, alongside the ACB Conference and Convention. The program brings together students, parents or guardians, blind mentors, professionals, and ACB leaders for learning, exploration, and connection.

Youth Program

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures through Self-Reflection and Discovery

The STEP Youth Program is designed to help students explore who they are, strengthen their voice, and begin shaping their future with confidence.

Throughout the program, students will:

• Explore blind identity and what it means to navigate the world authentically
• Build self-advocacy skills, including speaking up in school, social, and community settings
• Engage in career exploration, hearing directly from blind professionals across a wide range of fields
• Learn about post-secondary pathways, including college, trade school, and employment options
• Explore assistive and smart technology that supports independence and access
• Participate in guided exhibit hall experiences, learning how to ask questions and evaluate tools
• Engage in team challenges and creative projects that encourage collaboration, problem-solving, and reflection
• Build social confidence and peer relationships with other blind and low vision teens
• Reflect on personal goals and identify at least one meaningful next step to take after the program

The youth experience emphasizes self-exploration, growing independence, and personal confidence and autonomy within a supportive and encouraging environment.

Parent / Guardian Program

Supporting Growth, Independence, and Transition

The STEP Parent Program runs concurrently with the youth experience and is designed to support families as their teens move toward adulthood.

Parents and guardians will:

• Connect with other families raising blind or low vision teens, building peer relationships and shared understanding
• Explore strategies for supporting independence while gradually letting go
• Learn about self-advocacy, transition planning, and navigating systems, including education and community resources
• Gain insight into assistive technology and tools that support learning, employment, and daily life
• Hear directly from blind adults and professionals about successful pathways and lived experiences
• Participate in joint sessions with students that encourage shared learning and communication

The parent program recognizes families as essential partners and provides space for learning, reflection, and connection.

Joint Experiences

Students and parents will come together throughout STEP 2026 for:

• Shared learning sessions focused on technology, career exploration, and future planning
• Social events and community-building activities
• Exposure to blind mentors, role models, and ACB leaders
• A group outing designed to encourage exploration in an accessible, inclusive environment

Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) Alignment

STEP 2026 is intentionally aligned with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and qualifies as Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).

The program integrates the three core Pre-ETS components throughout the experience:

• Self-Advocacy and Leadership — identity development, advocacy skills, and confidence-building
• Workforce Preparation and Career Exploration — exposure to careers, technology, and workplace readiness
• Instruction on Post-Secondary Education Opportunities — exploration of college, trade school, and employment pathways

These components are woven across youth sessions, parent sessions, and joint activities rather than delivered as stand-alone workshops.

Benefits & Impact

STEP 2026 is designed to create lasting, meaningful impact for both students and families.

Program Status & Availability

STEP 2026 is a pilot program. While the overall structure, goals, and Pre-ETS alignment are firmly established, session details and schedules are works in progress and subject to refinement. Any adjustments will remain consistent with the program's focus and objectives.

Participation is limited to 20 students for this first year.

Supporting a Student

Support for a student's participation may come from:

• State vocational rehabilitation agencies using Pre-ETS funds
• ACB affiliates
• Other organizations or community partners
• Families who choose to self-pay

ACB is prepared to work with agencies and organizations on documentation, reporting, and vendor authorization if needed.

Next Steps

Participation in STEP 2026 is limited. To be among the first to receive formal registration information and next steps as they become available, we encourage interested families, agencies, affiliates, and organizations to complete the STEP 2026 Interest Form.