Leveling Up Confidence: Envision’s Youth Program as a Launchpad to College and Careers

Confidence. Advocacy. Opportunity. That’s what Level Up is built to spark in blind or visually impaired students. More than a summer experience, the program is designed to help teens explore careers, challenge limits and see themselves as future leaders—equipped, empowered and ready. 

Each year, Envision’s Level Up program brings together high school students from across the country for a one-of-a-kind experience focused on college and career readiness. This year, 45 students representing seven states traveled to participate in a weeklong immersion that blended education, independence and community. From their first steps on campus, it was clear: this wasn’t just a camp. It was a turning point. 

Students engaged in courses tailored to real-world professions—health science, engineering, culinary arts, and more—using accessible tools and technology designed to help them succeed. Exploring health professionals is a new course that has offered a deeper dive into medical careers, with students visiting alumni-run clinics and participating in interactive sessions with working clinicians. 

Level Up’s impact reflects its evolution. Beginning in 2006 as a small assistive technology training program designed to close classroom gaps has since grown into a nationally recognized workforce readiness initiative. In 2016, it transitioned to immersive learning. By 2018, it welcomed students from across the country. Every step forward has been grounded in Envision’s mission to meet real needs with real solutions. 

Level Up redefines what a summer camp is. It’s a launchpad for growth and opportunity. As it continues to grow, Envision remains committed to investing in education, confidence and the future of BVI youth nationwide. 

“Our goal is to help them understand how to advocate for themselves and introduce areas that they are often steered away from because of their vision,” said Hannah Christenson, Director of Community Services. “If a student has an interest in engineering, well-meaning people may discourage them from pursuing that path because they misunderstand and think it might be too difficult to make accessible.”

“Our full goal is to show them what’s possible,” Christenson added. “With the right accessible equipment, the right mindset and hard work, you can do anything.”

Because when young people are given the chance to lead, they don’t just level up—they rise.