LIFTT
Overview
LIFTT - Learning Independence For Today and Tomorrow – is a 10 month, residential program for young adults (generally 18-23 years old) who are blind/low vision and want to learn skills of adult independence. These skills to promote adult independence include personal care, organization and time management, household care, financial management, as well as actively working on their vocational goals.
LIFTT Team
Corey Grandstaff
Associate Director of Transition & Residential
I am a certified school administrator, Teacher of Blind and Low Vision Learners and Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist. My journey in education has taken me from Indiana to Vancouver, Washington. I’ve worked at WSSB since 2012, and my primary purpose in entering education is to empower blind/low vision individuals to be as independent as possible and contribute to society. As a blind person myself, I am passionate about blind/low vision individuals going beyond their comfort zone, learning skills of independence, taking charge of their own lives, and embracing a positive mindset about blindness.
Steve Lowry
LIFTT Teacher
I am a Teacher of Blind and Low Vision Learners and Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist. My journey in education has taken me across Washington State, from Spokane to Yakima and eventually Vancouver. I’ve worked at WSSB since 2010, and I consider the community to be my classroom. I am passionate about creating a space where young adults feel heard and respected, welcome getting out of their comfort zone, take charge of their own lives, and embrace a positive mindset about blindness and their place in the world.
Tina Powell
LIFTT graveyard staff
I am a Residential Life Counselor at Washington State School for the Blind. I began working with WSSB in January of 2015. I currently work as the Graveyard Residential Life Counselor in the LIFTT program where young adult blind and low vision residents can obtain advanced independent living skills. Prior to working in the LIFTT program, I worked with our blind and low vision middle and high school age students in our residential program. I strive to provide a safe, stable, home away from home environment that supports the diverse, individual learning and advanced life skills needs of our students and residents. I am passionate about the work I do and support a team of other Residential Life Counselors with training, on-call support, and enjoy working with our students during summer programs too.
Nov Gnik
LIFTT Weekend Staff
Tarshene Pinney
LIFTT Swing Shift