ONETOUCH PROJECT

Mission Statement

1Touch Project’s mission is to provide ongoing self-development and rehabilitation courses specifically for people who are visually impaired and those considered to be vulnerable members of society. The 1Touch served over 3,000 people with disabilities across the United States in 2017 and has been adopted by major institutions for the blind and disabled communities. Core Values Minimizing risk, maximizing independence, increasing life chances. What Is the 1Touch™? The 1Touch™ is the first comprehensive descriptive self-defense program designed specifically for people who are blind. The program is a hands-on self-defense technique for dealing with assaults, aggressive behavior and bullying. 1Touch explores participant’s hidden assumptions regarding their own disability -- their personal perception of their blindness and insecurities built upon that perception. As such it is primarily a method of personal development using conflict management as platform for understanding social preconceptions. “I don’t think I’m overstating the truly life changing effect that the 1touch workshop had on my sense of empowerment when traveling alone as a blind person. I’ve already noticed since I participated in the day long workshop that I feel like I have tools to use if engaged by others , well meaning or not. It’s sometimes very scary out in the world and it’s also tempting to stay home where it feels safe. Steven was an excellent instructor who used humor and real life examples to keep the material he taught relevant to all kinds of possible situations. The information I received was just the boost I needed to navigate with more confidence. I also want to thank David Emanuel for arranging this workshop for the Vista clients in Santa Cruz. I hope there will be another one soon. I will beat my drum loudly to encourage other clients and volunteers to take this workshop. Thank you again” - Patrice Maginnis -- Access Technology Specialist -- Vista Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired “This was a tremendous opportunity for me personally at this time in my life. I had just experienced eighteen months of devastating betrayal, loss, grief and an emotional roll a coaster. This training helped me to regain focus on the fact that I have value, that I am really in control and through the information, education and 1Touch™ techniques, I no longer experience the feeling of insignificance and of being out of control in my environment. I am truly grateful to the Instructors and the privilege to meet other great people in the class. I am excited to become certified as a 1Touch™ Coach and to share this information and techniques with others. The Instructors are excellent and the program is awesome! My deepest gratitude to all who made this opportunity possible for me. My goal is to become the best 1Touch™ Coach and pay it forward” - Pam Glisson How Does It Work? 1Touch™ addresses the physical and psychological causes of insecurity and vulnerability through the empowering practice of hands-on, active, self-defense methods, self-defense theory, and discussions examining what makes one insecure and why. Who Will Benefit From 1Touch™? The self-defense system is fully accessible to all, and designed for practicality. There are no age restrictions, no physical strength requirements, and no prior experience in martial arts necessary to participate. Class curriculum is adapted to the appropriate audiences. Everyone is welcome to participate: Deaf Seniors Sighted Children Veterans Deaf/Blind Multi-disabled Male or Female Blind/Visually Impaired Professionals in Blindness Education Hidden Disabilities Benefits of 1Touch™? Learning these techniques has proven highly effective in the development of: Independence Self-Confidence Tactile Sensitivity Social Interaction Spatial Orientation Mobility & Dexterity Communication Skills Enthusiasm/self-worth Adapting to Vision Loss Greater Health Physically, Psychological The 1Touch has been scientifically proven an effective tool for self development (Dr. Tessa McCarthy,Pittsburgh University, 2018) Benefits to the Community Challenges perceptions of personal/social capabilities provides employment opportunity (teaching/coaching) confidence for yourself, family and friends proactive police and community relations increased awareness of your rights and the law. “What does 1Touch™ mean to me? It means leveling the playing field for the most vulnerable among us, and giving them the skills they need to walk freely; comfortably and safely anywhere they want. I am passionate about this program because it allows me to give back to a community I can relate to. And If I can stop one child from feeling the paralyzing fear I once felt then it would have all been worth it. If I were to sum up 1Touch™ in one word, it's FREEDOM!” - OT Orozco