Sightless Self-Defense

Event description

The Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) invites Blind, Deaf-Blind, or Low Vision students to an afternoon of “Introduction to Self-Defense with Anacortes Soo Bahk Do®”.

Self-defense enhances self-advocacy and safety while increasing individual awareness and self-confidence through the practice of basic self-defense techniques and shared experience. While a single class cannot ensure safety in all situations, it can provide a better understanding of how to avoid unnecessary danger and unsafe situations and reduce susceptibility to attack.

About the Contractor

Certified Master Instructors Andy and Colette Arvidson teach this workshop. The Arvidsons are 5th Degree Black Belts in the traditional Korean martial art of Soo Bahk Do. They have more than 20 years of martial arts experience each and provide instruction for students ages 4 to 90 with a variety of abilities. Legally blind for more than 35 years, Andy Arvidson provides a personal understanding of how to share his expertise in self-defense - and life - with students.

The day concludes with a youth-led shared meal and conversation about self-advocacy and college or work readiness.

Students will come away from this workshop with a deeper understanding of advocacy, self-determination, and how to navigate their community with confidence.

Registration Information

Please register online by March 28, 2025.

This event is free for DSB Vocational Rehabilitation and Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) participants. Students interested in becoming DSB participants can email Ryan Scott or call 509-818-1010 to learn how to register or to get the answer to any questions.