MP3 file at http://www.skilonline.com/images/stories/audio/resource-central-07-29-11-daren.mp3

Transcript at http://www.skilonline.com/images/stories/2011/ikan Pre caucus conference.pdf

Daren Sorrick works with the ikan project. ikan is a low vision and blindness program developed to teach individuals with low vision and blindness key independent living skills and assist them in remaining in their own home and community.

ikan is preparing for a statewide pre-caucus conference in Topeka. The event is planned for August 9-10, 2011. The group works with individuals in 76 counties. All of southeast Kansas is included in the service area.

The two day conference will include independent living skills training for the more than 100 pre-registered attendees and those that register at the event.

Day two will consist of blind simulation of wide array of daily living skills.

Independent living (IL) skills training and life skills training may include instruction to develop skills in areas such as personal care, coping, financial management, social skills, and household management. This may also include education and training necessary for living in the community and participating in community activities.

The goal of IL skills training is to assist consumers in their goals to attain their IL style. IL is based on the philosophy that a person with a disability should be in control of the services that allow him/her to live independently.